Title open challenge added to WWE SmackDown

On WWE SmackDown tonight, Sami Zayn will defend his United States Championship in an open challenge.

WWE posted a video this afternoon revealing that a U.S. title open challenge will be part of tonight’s SmackDown lineup. The identity of Zayn’s opponent is not known yet. Last week, Zayn revealed that regular open challenges would be part of his reign — with Zayn honoring John Cena and his history of giving underrated talent an opportunity when he was U.S. champ.

Zayn started his reign two weeks ago when he defeated Solo Sikoa for the U.S. title. His first defense was a match against Cena last Friday, but it ended in a no contest when Brock Lesnar interrupted things by attacking both competitors.

Lesnar, who is set to face Cena at WWE’s Wrestlepalooza PLE on September 20, will be on SmackDown tonight to address his actions. Cena is not appearing on the episode.

Scope Arena in Norfolk, Virginia is the venue for tonight. Here is the updated lineup:

WWE SmackDown (Friday, September 12) —

  • Brock Lesnar appears
  • WWE Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton defends against Jade Cargill
  • Randy Orton vs. Drew McIntyre
  • Sami Zayn United States Championship open challenge