WWE SmackDown delivered an electrifying show on May 9, 2025, just one night before the highly anticipated Backlash event. The action-packed evening was highlighted by a series of thrilling matches and a dramatic closing segment featuring Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena and his long-time rival, Randy Orton.
The night kicked off with a tag team matchup that showcased the brewing tension between LA Knight and Damian Priest as they faced off against Jacob Fatu and Solo Sikoa. The duo of Knight and Priest managed to secure the victory, but not without complications. Their inability to cooperate was evident as they argued during the match, leading to a chaotic finish. LA Knight executed a picture-perfect BFT on Solo Sikoa to clinch the win, but it was Drew McIntyre who stole the spotlight post-match. McIntyre emerged from the shadows and delivered a devastating Claymore Kick to Jacob Fatu, setting the stage for their Fatal 4-Way match for the United States Championship at Backlash.
In another thrilling encounter, Alexa Bliss made her much-anticipated return to the ring, teaming up with Women’s United States Champion Zelina Vega against Chelsea Green and Piper Niven. Bliss, who had not been seen since the Royal Rumble, received a warm welcome from the crowd. After a hard-fought battle, Bliss hit Chelsea Green with her signature Sister Abigail DDT, securing the pinfall and showcasing that she is back and ready to reclaim her spot at the top of the women’s division.
The show also featured a pivotal match to determine the number one contender for the WWE Women’s Championship, as Nia Jax faced off against Jade Cargill. The match was intense, with both women displaying their strength and resilience. However, in a surprising turn of events, Naomi interfered, costing Cargill the match and allowing Jax to emerge victorious with her An-Nia-Lator finisher. This unexpected outcome sets up an intriguing rematch between Jax and current champion Tiffany Stratton, who watched from ringside.
In a non-title match that had fans buzzing, the up-and-coming tag team Fraxiom took on the reigning WWE Tag Team Champions, The Street Profits. Despite the champions' recent success, Fraxiom pulled off a stunning upset, defeating Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins. This victory not only showcased Fraxiom’s talent but also raised questions about the future of the tag team division.
Aleister Black continued to build momentum with a win over Carmelo Hayes, thanks in part to a distraction from The Miz, who was at ringside. Black’s victory was marked by a decisive Black Mass, further establishing him as a formidable force in the WWE landscape.
As the night drew to a close, John Cena took center stage, addressing the audience in a fiery promo that hyped his upcoming match against Randy Orton at Backlash. Cena’s words were sharp and personal, as he reflected on their storied history and the stakes of their impending clash. The tension reached a boiling point when a masked figure attempted to ambush Cena, only for the real Orton to strike from behind with an RKO, leaving Cena reeling as the show went off the air.
Overall, the May 9 edition of SmackDown set the stage for a thrilling Backlash event, with rivalries intensifying and new storylines unfolding. Fans are eagerly anticipating the fallout from this go-home show as the superstars prepare to battle for glory.
