WWE Friday Night SmackDown returned on January 2, 2026, to the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, N.Y., bringing excitement to fans with an action-packed program that featured an Ambulance Match between Aleister Black and Damian Priest. This show marked a shift back to three-hour broadcasts on Fridays, setting the tone for an eventful year ahead.
The night kicked off with The Miz airing his grievances, only to be interrupted by the surprise return of Randy Orton, who delivered an RKO out of nowhere, teasing a potential alliance between the two. The presence of new talent and returning favorites made for a dynamic atmosphere throughout the show.
In a notable segment, Kit Wilson made an impactful return with a fresh look, criticizing toxic masculinity and even taking jabs at local sports teams. This was followed by the surprise entrance of Zack Ryder, now competing as Matt Cardona, who officially joined the SmackDown roster and impressively secured a victory in his match.
Backstage, Jordynne Grace was spotted in various segments, having been approached by Nick Aldis about joining the brand. Her interactions with established wrestlers like Chelsea Green and Jade Cargill could influence her decision on where to land.
Sami Zayn, in an emotional promo, expressed his aspirations to win a world title after his son questioned his lack of championship victories. He was then met by Trick Williams, who claimed to be a championship-level talent himself, setting the stage for an intriguing rivalry built on ambition and experience.
Carmelo Hayes defended his men’s United States Championship in a thrilling match against Johnny Gargano, marking Hayes’ first title defense since winning from Ilja Dragunov. The contest was lauded for its intensity, and Hayes’s ability to engage the audience further solidified his status as a champion worthy of the spotlight.
In a climactic moment, Drew McIntyre announced the stipulations for his upcoming Three Stages of Hell match against Cody Rhodes. The tension escalated when McIntyre demeaned Rhodes by burning a picture of Rhodes and his father, pushing their feud into deeply personal territory.
The women’s United States Championship also changed hands when Giulia defeated Chelsea Green, surprising many with her comeback win. The match showcased a stronger performance than in their previous encounter, highlighting Giulia’s potential and raising hopes for her future presentations.
The evening culminated in the Ambulance Match where Damian Priest faced Aleister Black. In a brutal showdown filled with dramatic moments, the competitors unleashed a fierce encounter, with Priest ultimately gaining the upper hand and closing the ambulance doors to cement his victory. This match may be remembered as one of the early highlights of 2026, showcasing the intensity and storytelling that WWE fans cherish.
As the wrestling world progresses into the new year, SmackDown has set a solid foundation filled with rivalries and standout performances, promising exciting developments in the weeks to come.