Major Potential 'WWE SmackDown' Spoiler on Absent Superstar
Major Potential 'WWE SmackDown' Spoiler on Absent Superstar originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
There might be a big spoiler ahead of Friday's episode of "WWE SmackDown."
WWE is set for a loaded edition of the blue brand. The likes of Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena will appear. There will also be fatal four-way qualifiers for the King and Queen of the Ring tournaments.
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In addition to what's already been announced for "SmackDown," there may be a surprise return. Fightful reports that Kiana James is on location in Lexington ahead of Friday's show. It was noted that while James was brought in by WWE, it's unknown if she will be a part of the show.
Kiana James hits a move on Natalya during their match on "WWE Raw."(via WWE)
James hasn't been inside the ring since the June 17, 2024 episode of "WWE Raw." She participated in an MITB qualifying match against Iyo Sky and Zelina Vega. Sky won the match, but the outcome wasn't the talking point. That's because James suffered a leg injury and was put on the inactive list while she was recovering.
Several outlets have reported that WWE officials are high on James. It was said that James impressed those backstage with her brief time on the red brand before her injury. The belief internally is that James has high upside.
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The "SmackDown" brand has been loading up on some fresh talent, such as former international and "NXT" star Giulia. It's also been reported that former TNA Knockouts Champion Jordynne Grace is expected to join the blue brand at some point. If James ends up making "SmackDown" her home, it would give the show's women's division even more of a boost.
Related: 'WWE SmackDown' Preview: John Cena Addresses CM Punk, Jacob Fatu's Face Turn
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 13, 2025, where it first appeared.
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