Spoiler News & Notes for Tonight’s WWE SmackDown – The lineup for tonight’s WWE SmackDown at the Allstate Arena in Chicago has been revealed, and it’s shaping up to be a major show with high-profile appearances and storyline developments.
According to PWInsider, John Cena is set to open the broadcast with what is expected to be his final appearance on SmackDown. Cena will reportedly have an in-ring segment with the new United States Champion Sami Zayn, which will lead to a match between the two later in the night. The moment carries added significance as Cena made his WWE television debut in the very same arena on SmackDown back on June 27, 2002, making this a full-circle farewell on the “blue brand.”
The show is also scheduled to feature CM Punk, who will appear in his hometown of Chicago. While details of his involvement remain under wraps, the expectation is that his presence will play a pivotal role in advancing ongoing storylines.
In the women’s division, Women’s U.S. Champion Giulia will face Michin in singles action, while Becky Lynch, the reigning Women’s Intercontinental Champion, is slated for a promo segment. Reports suggest Lynch’s confrontation with CM Punk could further the narrative leading toward the rumored return of AJ Lee.
The men’s card includes Aleister Black going one-on-one with Judgment Day’s Damian Priest, as well as a continuation of the Randy Orton–Drew McIntyre rivalry through an in-ring segment.
Additionally, AJ Styles and The New Day are advertised for dark matches, giving the Chicago crowd even more star power after the live broadcast goes off the air.
With Cena’s farewell, Punk’s hometown spotlight, and multiple storylines intersecting, tonight’s SmackDown promises to be one of the most eventful episodes in recent memory. The show airs live at 8 p.m. EST on USA Network.
WWE SMACKDOWN SPOILER LINEUP (9/5/2025)
- John Cena promo, leading to …
- Sami Zayn vs. John Cena
- Aleister Black vs. Damian Priest
- Randy Orton and Drew McIntyre segment
- WWE Women’s U.S. Title: Giulia (c) vs. Michin
- Becky Lynch promo
Spoiler News & Notes for Tonight’s WWE SmackDown
