WWE SmackDown Preview (26 June 2026): Matches, Rumours And What To Expect

This time, WWE Night of Champions is taking place on June 27 at the Kingdom Arena in Saudi Arabia; however, the SmackDown episode scheduled for June 26 features matches that will decide some of the matches for Night of Champions. In this article, we will discuss the upcoming June 26 episode of SmackDown.

Contents

1. Paige vs Jacy Jayne: Confirmed Match

This is one of the most expected matches on the card. Paige returns to singles action for the first time since her comeback at WrestleMania 42. She has been one half of the Women’s Tag Team Champions, but now Jacy Jayne of Fatal Influence has called her out for a one-on-one fight.

Fatal Influence made up of Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, and Lainey Reid are known for causing trouble and playing mind games. Jayne called Paige out during SmackDown on June 19, making the challenge very public. Paige will want to make a strong statement in her first singles match back. However, with Henley and Reid at ringside, there is always a chance of outside interference. This match could have a chaotic finish, especially with Night of Champions just around the corner.

2. Giulia vs Kiana James: Confirmed Match

This rivalry has been building for weeks and is finally coming to a head. Giulia and Kiana James were once a team, with James serving as Giulia’s manager. But things fell apart when a miscommunication during a Queen of the Ring tournament match caused James to lose.

James blamed Giulia and confronted her after the match. Tensions kept rising until Giulia snapped and attacked James. Now the two will finally settle their issues in the ring in front of a London crowd. This should be a brutal and personal match. Both women are hungry and have something to prove. The London crowd is known to be very passionate, which should make the atmosphere electric. Look out for this one it could steal the show.

3. Rey Fenix vs Nathan Frazer: Confirmed Match

This match came together quickly but looks like a real treat for fans. After last week’s episode involving Fenix’s AAA Cruiserweight Championship, Fraxiom’s Nathan Frazer made it clear that he believed he could have won that match if he had been the one competing. Fenix accepted the challenge, and the match is now set.

Both men are incredibly fast and athletic. Frazer is one of the most exciting high-flyers on the SmackDown roster, and Fenix is a lucha libre legend. Their styles match up perfectly, and this could easily be the most entertaining bout of the night.

What to Expect: Expect a fast-paced, action-packed match full of big moves and near-falls. The London fans love this style of wrestling, so the crowd will likely be on their feet throughout. It is worth tuning in just for this match alone.

Night of Champions Build: What Else Could Happen?

Since this is the go-home show before Night of Champions, WWE will want to make sure every major storyline feels urgent and exciting. Here are a few things to watch for:

Cody Rhodes, Gunther, and Sami Zayn: All three men are set for a triple threat match for the Undisputed WWE Championship at Night of Champions. Expect at least one confrontation or brawl between them on SmackDown to heat things up before the big event.

King and Queen of the Ring Finals: Jey Uso faces Oba Femi in the King of the Ring final, while Liv Morgan takes on Iyo Sky in the Queen of the Ring final both at Night of Champions. WWE may use this SmackDown to hype those matches with promos or face-offs.

Surprise Appearances: Go-home shows before Saudi Arabia events often feature surprise returns or shocking moments to get fans excited. Do not be surprised if WWE has something unexpected planned for the London crowd.