WWE is ready to kick off 2026 in a big way. The first SmackDown of the year will take place in Brooklyn, New York, and it also marks the official start of the show’s new three-hour format. With major matches already announced and expectations running high, this episode could set the tone for the entire year.
Creative head Triple H is known for shaking things up when it matters most. That makes this episode the perfect stage for surprises that fans will be talking about for weeks.
Here are five surprises WWE could pull off on the first SmackDown of 2026.
5. Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair Turn on Each Other
Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair have been teaming together since mid-2024. What started as an uneasy partnership slowly became a strong alliance.
That said, WWE could shock everyone by breaking them up on this episode. A sudden betrayal would instantly grab attention and give both stars a fresh singles direction. With the women’s tag division already crowded, splitting them up could help move both into bigger individual storylines heading into Royal Rumble season.
4. Tiffany Stratton Makes a Surprise Return
Tiffany Stratton has been missing from TV since losing the WWE Women’s Championship last year. Many fans expect her to return at the Royal Rumble, but SmackDown could speed things up.
A surprise appearance in Brooklyn would instantly boost the women’s division. SmackDown currently lacks strong main-event level names, and bringing Stratton back now would give WWE more time to build a proper story for the Royal Rumble.
3. A Shock Title Change on SmackDown
The first SmackDown of the year is the perfect place for a major title change. WWE could decide to shake things up by switching champions early in 2026.
The WWE Tag Team Championship is one possible target. The Wyatt Sicks have held the titles for a long time, and their rivalry with Solo Sikoa’s group continues to heat up. An unexpected title match could lead to new champions and fresh rivalries right away.
2. Nick Aldis Finally Turns Heel
Nick Aldis has served as SmackDown General Manager for years, often taking criticism from wrestlers unhappy with his decisions. Recently, tensions with Cody Rhodes have pushed things even further.
This could be the night Aldis snaps. A heel turn would be a major surprise and could turn him into a strict authority figure, creating new conflicts across the blue brand. It would also add a strong character presence to weekly SmackDown episodes.
1. Jacob Fatu Reveals His Mystery Attacker
Jacob Fatu has been off TV since a mysterious backstage attack last year. Fans have been waiting months to find out who was behind it.
The first SmackDown of 2026 would be the perfect time for answers. Fatu could return, show footage from the night of the attack, and reveal the person responsible. This would instantly launch a major storyline and give SmackDown a must-watch angle moving forward.
Also Read: PUBG Mobile 4.2 Update: Major Ranked System Changes 2026
