This week’s episode of WWE Friday Night SmackDown is set to air live from the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA and it’s shaping up to be a big show. Randy Orton, Jelly Roll, Rhea Ripley and more are currently being advertised for the show and Carmelo Hayes is also set to defend his WWE United States Championship in an open challenge tonight.
Carmelo Hayes has proven himself to be a fighting champion ever since he won the United States Title back in December, but it looks like he could be dropping the title tonight. Ahead of SmackDown, WrestleVotes on Fightful Select is reporting that Sami Zayn is set to win the WWE United States Championship during this week’s episode of SmackDown.
Sami Zayn defeated Solo Sikoa to win the WWE United States Championship on the August 29, 2025 episode of SmackDown then went on to drop the belt to a returning Ilja Dragunov on the October 17, 2025 episode. If he does indeed win the title tonight he will become a two time United States Champion.
WWE is currently focusing on the following points for SmackDown:
– Who will Randy Orton attack next?
– The Bella Twins battle Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair
– Nick Aldis will provide update on the condition of Jacob Fatu and Drew McIntyre
– Carmelo Hayes to host a United States Title Open Challenge
– Jelly Roll faces Kit Wilson
– Giulia battles Tiffany Stratton
– How will Rhea Ripley respond to B-Fab and Michin’s new allegiance to Jade Cargill?
Stay tuned for updates.