WWE SmackDown Preview - October 17, 2025: Crown Jewel Fallout—Cody Rhodes, Ticket Info, and Fatu vs. McIntyre Advertised

The Blue Brand returns to U.S. soil after WWE Crown Jewel: Perth, and the fallout promises to be explosive. Friday Night SmackDown broadcasts live from the SAP Center in San Jose, California, and there’s no rest for the weary as tensions run high following last week’s international spectacle.

Let’s dive into what’s shaping up to be a pivotal post-Perth edition of WWE SmackDown.

How to Watch WWE SmackDown

📺 Channel: USA Network
🕗 Time: 8 PM ET / 7 PM CT
📍 Venue: SAP Center, San Jose, California
🎟️ Tickets: Tons still available grab yours now via StubHub!
Sponsor Link Notice: We may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Jacob Fatu vs. Drew McIntyre — “A Silver Bullet for the Samoan Werewolf?”

All eyes are on Jacob Fatu, who’s reportedly dealing with a non-wrestling-related injury but remains advertised to compete in his home state tonight. WWE SmackDown GM Nick Aldis confirmed via X that Fatu is still scheduled to appear — though it’s unclear if he’ll be cleared for full in-ring action.

Last week, tensions exploded when Drew McIntyre blindsided Fatu backstage, cutting short a moment that could’ve set up a blockbuster title challenge against Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. What was supposed to be a respectful conversation between Rhodes and Fatu turned chaotic, as McIntyre once again let frustration take control.

Now, Aldis has sanctioned an official showdown between “The Scottish Psychopath” and “The Samoan Werewolf.” With Fatu possibly banged up, McIntyre may be looking to exploit every weakness — but if Fatu’s cleared, expect nothing short of a brawl that could shake SmackDown to its core.

👉 Full Details Regarding Jacob Fatu's Reported Status

Cody Rhodes Addresses His Crown Jewel Loss

After his shocking defeat in Perth, Cody Rhodes is set to address the WWE Universe. The Undisputed Champion suffered a setback on the global stage — and fans are eager to hear how he plans to bounce back. With challengers like Fatu, McIntyre, and others circling, Cody’s words tonight could reshape the main event scene heading into Survivor Series season.

WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship Match

Alexa Bliss & Charlotte Flair (c) vs. Sol Ruca & Zaria

The reigning champions, Bliss and Flair, defend their gold against the rising tandem of Sol Ruca and Zaria. With Ruca’s innovative athleticism and Zaria’s power, the challengers could pull off a major upset — but dethroning this veteran duo will take something special.

Also Scheduled for Tonight:

• Randy Orton returns to SmackDown, expect a segment possibly involving Cody Rhodes.
• Tiffany Stratton looks to make a statement after taking a huge loss at Crown Jewel.
• Sami Zayn and Jade Cargill are also set to appear — both looking to reignite momentum.

Wrestling.news | Backstage Take

Despite the celebratory vibe from WWE’s return home after Crown Jewel: Perth, there’s an underlying tension heading into tonight’s show. Jacob Fatu’s rumored injury and Cody Rhodes’ uncertain next step add a layer of unpredictability to an already volatile SmackDown landscape.

If Fatu steps into that ring hurt but refuses to back down, it could become one of the most emotional matches of his career. And with Drew McIntyre’s rage boiling over, this might be the night SmackDown’s power balance dramatically shifts heading into Survivor Series season.

Expect a loud San Jose crowd — and maybe a few surprises Aldis hasn’t announced yet.

#WWENews #WWESmackDown