The new Undisputed WWE Champion is set to take center stage immediately as Friday Night SmackDown comes to London. According to a report from Mike Johnson of PWInsider Elite, Drew McIntyre will be kicking off today’s episode of SmackDown to celebrate his massive championship victory. This news confirms that the “Scottish Warrior” will waste no time addressing WWE fans following his brutal victory over Cody Rhodes last week.
McIntyre captured the title in a grueling “Three Stages of Hell” match on the previous episode, a bout that tested the limits of both competitors. By opening the show, McIntyre is expected to set the tone for his new reign and potentially address the controversy surrounding Jacob Fatu’s involvement in the finish. With the show emanating from the OVO Arena Wembley and airing live for international fans on Netflix, fans in the US can watch it via a VPN.
In addition to the champion’s opening address, the card for tonight’s show is stacked with several matchups. The “Road to Royal Rumble” continues with the start of the WWE Championship No. 1 Contender’s Tournament. Four qualifying matches are scheduled to take place, featuring a mix of veterans and rising stars. Randy Orton will renew his historic rivalry with The Miz, while former World Heavyweight Champion Damian Priest looks to get back in the title hunt against Solo Sikoa.
The tournament action continues as independent standout Matt Cardona faces Trick Williams, and Sami Zayn takes on Ilja Dragunov. These matches will determine who moves one step closer to a shot at McIntyre’s newly won gold. Furthermore, Men’s United States Champion Carmelo Hayes will defend his title in an Open Challenge, inviting any competitor to step up and try to take the belt.
