Updated WWE SmackDown lineup: US title open challenge, Cody Rhodes appears

On WWE SmackDown tonight, Sami Zayn will defend his United States Championship for the fourth straight week.

WWE has announced that Zayn will issue another U.S title open challenge tonight — with his opponent yet to be named. Zayn has faced John Cena, Rey Fenix, and Carmelo Hayes during his reign so far. He won the title from Solo Sikoa in August and has taken on the mission of being a fighting champion.

It’s also been confirmed that WWE Champion Cody Rhodes will be on SmackDown tonight as the build to Crown Jewel: Perth continues. Rhodes is facing World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins at the October 11 PLE to determine the 2025 men’s Crown Jewel Champion.

We’ll find out SmackDown’s representative in the women’s Crown Jewel Championship match as Tiffany Stratton defends her WWE Women’s title against Jade Cargill and Nia Jax in a triple threat. The winner advances to face Women’s World Champion Stephanie Vaquer in Perth.

Plus, Michin & B-Fab team up against Giulia & Kiana James tonight.

The episode is being held in Orlando, Florida at the Kia Center.

WWE SmackDown (Friday, September 26) —

• Triple threat match: WWE Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton defends against Jade Cargill and Nia Jax
• WWE Champion Cody Rhodes appears
• United States Champion Sami Zayn defends his title in an open challenge
• Michin & B-Fab vs. Giulia & Kiana James