SmackDown thrills Riyadh as WWE superstars set stage for Night of Champions showdown

Arab News

9 hours ago

RIYADH: WWE delivered an electrifying spectacle in the Saudi capital on Friday night, as Kingdom Arena roared with excitement for SmackDown, a flagship event under Riyadh Season 2025. Fans packed every seat, demonstrating once again Saudi Arabia's growing passion for world-class sports entertainment.
The night began with a surprise appearance by global superstars Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton, whose entrance drew thunderous applause as they built anticipation for their highly awaited clash on Saturday at Night of Champions. Orton addressed the jubilant crowd, saying, 'I am honored to be in your country. You are a great people with a wonderful culture. Saudi Arabia is amazing — every time I travel 15 hours to come here, I feel happier than the time before.'
The action inside the ring did not disappoint. In a fierce contest for the WWE United States Women's Championship, Julia showcased her brilliance with a decisive win over the experienced Zelina Vega, capturing the title for a third time and cementing her status among the division's elite.
Tiffany Stratton retained her title in one of the night's most brutal encounters, overcoming Nia Jax in a punishing Last Woman Standing match that had been simmering for weeks. The high-intensity showdown saw the arena's surroundings reduced to chaos before Stratton finally sealed her victory.
Tag team action added to the drama, as The Street Profits defended their titles against The Wyatt Six in a heated bout that ended in a chaotic no-contest. The titleholders retained their belts, but with tensions unresolved, a rematch seems all but certain.
In a performance that ignited the fans, Andrea and Reina Faklis overcame the team of DAW in a hard-fought contest, closing with a spectacular finishing move that brought Kingdom Arena to its feet.
Meanwhile, rising star JC Mateo delivered a statement performance with a smart, resilient victory over veteran Jimmy Uso, reinforcing his status as a name to watch in WWE's future.
Eyes across the Kingdom now turn to Saturday's blockbuster 'King and Queen of the Ring' event, promising even more high-octane drama. A showpiece undisputed WWE Championship clash will see John Cena face CM Punk in a bout certain to rekindle memories of their iconic rivalry. Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton will square off in the King of the Ring final, while Jade Cargill goes head-to-head with Japanese superstar Asuka for the Queen of the Ring crown.
Other headline matchups include a United States Championship battle between Jacob Fatu and Solo Sikoa, a no-holds-barred Street Fight pitting Rhea Ripley against Raquel Rodriguez, and a highly anticipated contest featuring Sami Zayn against Karrion Kross — all set to cap a monumental weekend for WWE fans in Riyadh.