WWE has announced two new additions for tonight’s episode of WWE SmackDown ahead of WWE Backlash 2026.
Tonight’s SmackDown takes place from Jacksonville on the eve of Backlash and will continue building toward several major storylines connected to Saturday’s premium live event.
5/8 WWE SmackDown lineup update
WWE confirmed that Jacob Fatu will kick off tonight’s broadcast.
The appearance comes just one night before Fatu challenges Roman Reigns for the World Heavyweight Championship in a major Bloodline-related showdown at Backlash.
WWE hyped the segment by referencing Fatu’s recent attacks on multiple members of the Bloodline storylines.
“On Monday, Jacob Fatu took out World Heavyweight Champion Roman Reigns for the second week in a row, smashing The OTC through a table with the devastating Tongan Death Grip.”
The company also referenced Fatu’s destruction from last week’s SmackDown episode.
“Just three days prior on last week’s SmackDown, The Samoan Werewolf ruthlessly attacked Solo Sikoa and slammed Talla Tonga through the announce table.”
WWE then teased more chaos heading into Backlash.
“Fatu is set to kick off SmackDown on Friday, one night before he challenges Reigns for the World Heavyweight Championship at WWE Backlash. Find out what bedlam will be unleashed.”
In addition to the opening segment, WWE also announced a new match for tonight’s show.
Damian Priest will face Talla Tonga following last week’s post-match attack involving multiple competitors.
Talla Tonga attacked Priest, R-Truth, Nathan Frazer, and Axiom after Priest and Truth successfully retained the WWE Tag Team Championship against Fraxiom.
Following the attack, Talla Tonga and Solo Sikoa reportedly declared war on Fatu, Reigns, and The Usos.
Tonight’s SmackDown serves as WWE’s final stop before Backlash on Saturday night in Tampa.
5/8 WWE SmackDown lineup update
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