Big Spoiler for Tonight’s WWE SmackDown – WWE will air a brand-new episode of SmackDown tonight from the SAP Center in San Jose, California, and the show is shaping up to feature a major championship defense along with the return of a fan favorite.
According to a report from Bodyslam.net, WWE United States Champion Sami Zayn is expected to once again issue an open challenge for his title. Since winning the championship, Zayn has earned praise for his consistent willingness to defend the title against any opponent, helping elevate the prestige of the belt through frequent and hard-fought matches.
Tonight’s challenger, however, could present one of Zayn’s toughest tests yet. The report states that former NXT Champion Ilja Dragunov is set to answer the open challenge, marking his first match in over a year. Dragunov has been out of action since September 2024 after suffering a torn ACL, an injury that halted what many viewed as a breakout run on the main roster.
Known as “The Mad Dragon,” Dragunov is widely recognized for his intense, physical in-ring style and emotionally charged performances. A clash between him and Zayn — two of WWE’s most passionate and resilient competitors — would undoubtedly be a highlight of the night and could potentially steal the show.
Beyond the U.S. Title picture, SmackDown is also expected to continue the feud between Carmelo Hayes and The Miz. The two have been locked in a heated rivalry, trading both insults and blows in recent weeks. Hayes has been positioning himself as one of the brand’s rising stars, while The Miz continues to serve as a seasoned veteran determined to prove he can still keep up with WWE’s younger talent.
With Dragunov’s rumored return and multiple high-profile storylines unfolding, tonight’s SmackDown promises to deliver a memorable night for WWE fans in San Jose.
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Big Spoiler for Tonight’s WWE SmackDown
