WWE Smackdown kicked off its latest episode on December 12, 2025, at the Mohegan Arena in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, with a recap of the ongoing feud between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre, raising the stakes for their confrontation at Saturday Night’s Main Event. During the broadcast, General Manager Nick Aldis shared troubling updates concerning McIntyre, revealing that the wrestler’s attorney had claimed Smackdown to be an unsafe environment, which led to a rift between him and the management.
Cody Rhodes, sporting a sharp suit, took center stage to address the fans, asserting that McIntyre’s claims were mere excuses for his lack of commitment and success. He expressed his frustration with McIntyre’s behavior, stating, “If I were his boss, I’d fire him. But I can’t fire him; I can whip his ass.” This fiery proclamation set the tone for the segment, showcasing Cody’s confidence as the reigning WWE Champion. The atmosphere intensified further when NXT Champion Oba Femi appeared, challenging Cody directly. Femi emphasized that he viewed himself as the present and future of WWE, echoing the famous line, “Your time is up; my time is now.”
As the night progressed, Smackdown highlighted key matches, including a U.S. Championship bout between Ilja Dragunov and Tommaso Ciampa. The match featured intense action, with Dragunov, nursing an injured knee, battling through adversity. The match was filled with dramatic moments, including interference from Johnny Gargano and Candice LeRae, but ultimately, Dragunov retained his title with a critical three-count, despite sustaining a bloody nose.
In a supporting storyline, the episode focused on newcomer Je’Von Evans, who challenged The Miz to a match, adding another layer of anticipation for the next event. Meanwhile, a mysterious Uncle Howdy segment piqued the interest of viewers as the night wrapped up with a strong roster presence, underscoring the growing excitement leading to Saturday’s showdown.
With exhilarating matches and compelling storylines unfolding, Smackdown continues to build momentum as it heads towards its next significant event, leaving fans eager for more action and drama in the ring. The show successfully sets the stage for anticipated showdowns, ensuring that the energy within WWE remains at an all-time high as rivalries intensify and new talents emerge.