WWE SmackDown Preview - August 22, 2025: John Cena Returns to Dublin Before Clash in Paris
WWE’s blue brand is heading to Dublin, Ireland, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. This Friday night, John Cena makes his long-awaited return to SmackDown, just weeks before he collides with Logan Paul at WWE Clash in Paris. The energy in Dublin is expected to be electric as the 16-time World Champion steps back into a WWE ring.
Note: This preview includes no spoilers for tonight's show. SmackDown is being taped for the U.S. airing this week.
Charlotte Flair vs. Piper Niven
Last week ended in chaos when WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss were ambushed by Chelsea Green and The Secret Hervice following Bliss’ victory over Piper Niven. Now, The Queen is out for retribution. Flair squares off one-on-one against Niven in what promises to be a hard-hitting grudge match.
Motor City Machine Guns vs. Melo Don’t Miz
The tension boiled over backstage last week, and now it spills into the ring. Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin, the veteran Motor City Machine Guns, are set to battle the unlikely pairing of The Miz and Carmelo Hayes—better known as Melo Don’t Miz. The big question: can Miz and Hayes keep it together, or will veteran tag team chemistry expose their cracks?
Street Profits vs. The MFTs
The tag division continues to heat up as The Street Profits clash with two members of The MFTs. Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins have been chasing momentum, but the MFTs have proven to be one of the most unpredictable and dangerous new forces on SmackDown.
R-Truth vs. Aleister Black
R-Truth steps into uncharted territory when he faces the dark and dangerous Aleister Black. Truth’s charisma and resilience will be tested against the cold, calculated strikes of Black—a man who thrives on dismantling his opponents both mentally and physically.
Wrestling.news | Backstage Take
This Dublin edition of SmackDown has the makings of a major international showcase. Cena’s return is more than just a nostalgia pop—WWE clearly wants to build serious buzz heading into Clash in Paris. Charlotte vs. Niven has personal heat, and the Motor City Machine Guns bring credibility that could help elevate the tag division even further. The looming question is whether Miz and Hayes can coexist, or if their partnership will implode on live TV. Add in Aleister Black’s aura against R-Truth’s heart, and fans are in for a diverse card that mixes storytelling, international star power, and in-ring variety.
