WWE SmackDown Preview - September 12, 2025: Brock Lesnar Appearing, Orton vs. McIntyre, Tons More

WWE Friday Night SmackDown rolls into the Scope Arena in Norfolk, Virginia, tonight with a loaded card headlined by Brock Lesnar, a grudge match between two veterans, and a women’s title clash fans have been waiting to see again.
Drew McIntyre vs. Randy Orton
Two of WWE’s most decorated stars collide as Drew McIntyre and Randy Orton finally settle their bad blood. The rivalry reignited two weeks ago when Orton floored McIntyre with an RKO, and tensions have only escalated since. Tonight, Norfolk hosts what could be the decisive chapter in their long-running feud.
WWE Women’s Championship: Stratton vs. Cargill
In a rematch from SummerSlam, Tiffany Stratton defends her WWE Women’s Championship against Jade Cargill. Their first encounter was a hard-fought battle that Stratton narrowly won, and Cargill has been pushing for another shot ever since. With championship gold on the line, expect another high-intensity showdown.
Brock Lesnar Live Appearance
Fresh off his shocking return, Brock Lesnar is set to appear tonight. The Beast Incarnate laid out John Cena with multiple F5s last week, sending a message ahead of their clash at Wrestlepalooza on September 20. With Cena lurking, Lesnar’s presence alone guarantees fireworks in Norfolk.
Event Details
- Date: Friday, September 12
- Venue: Scope Arena, Norfolk, VA
- Time: 8 PM ET
- Watch: USA Network (U.S.), Netflix (international)
Confirmed Card
- Drew McIntyre vs. Randy Orton
- WWE Women’s Championship: Tiffany Stratton (c) vs. Jade Cargill
- Brock Lesnar live appearance
🗣️ Wrestling.news | Backstage Take
SmackDown has all the makings of a pivotal show on the road to Wrestlepalooza. Lesnar’s aura changes everything, especially with Cena waiting in the wings. Orton and McIntyre can be trusted to deliver a physical main event, while Stratton vs. Cargill has the potential to showcase WWE’s next generation at the top of the women’s division. Norfolk is in for a high-stakes night, and fans worldwide will be watching closely.