WWE SmackDown this week was the fallout edition of the blue brand after WrestleMania 42. Cody Rhodes is still the Undisputed WWE Champion, and he issued a major statement on the show.
Besides this, Jacob Fatu made his presence felt after issuing a challenge to Roman Reigns on the RAW after ‘Mania. The Samoan Werewolf expressed his desire to become the next world champion by potentially defeating the OTC at Backlash 2026.
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Additionally, Tiffany Stratton dethroned Giulia and became the new Women’s United States Champion. In this article, we will discuss four things WWE subtly told us on the blue brand after this year’s Showcase of the Immortals.
#4. Jacob Fatu is not joining The Bloodline anytime soon
Jacob Fatu addressed his actions on SmackDown and challenged Roman Reigns for a world title match at Backlash 2026. The Samoan Werewolf clarified that he was ready to fight The Head of the Table.
Soon, Fatu was interrupted by The Usos, who tried to convince the former US Champion to join The Bloodline instead of competing against the OG Bloodline leader.
Despite Jimmy and Jey Uso’s attempts, Jacob showed no interest in joining The Bloodline. Soon, Solo Sikoa and MFT confronted Fatu and The Usos, which led to a main event match.
The entire segment on SmackDown subtly confirmed that Jacob Fatu is not joining The Bloodline anytime soon. He also confirmed his appearance on RAW next week and promised to confront Roman Reigns, seeking a response to his challenge.
Following the segment, there are chances that WWE might continue this feud post-Backlash 2026, which could lead to multiple matches.
#3. WWE has lost faith in Giulia; seeds were planted for her breakup with Kiana James
Giulia is no longer the Women’s US Champion, as Tiffany Stratton dethroned her to become the new titleholder. The Japanese star didn’t have a great title reign on SmackDown.
Before this match, WWE planted the seeds for the breakup of Kiana James and Giulia. The former US Champion asserted that she didn’t need James to defeat Stratton.
With The Beautiful Madness’ title loss, WWE subtly confirmed that it has lost faith in her. Additionally, a feud with Kiana James doesn’t appear strong. The weak creative direction for Giulia suggests that her future is in danger, and Triple H has seemingly given up on her.
#2. WWE is high on Fatal Influence
Fatal Influence officially made its debut on SmackDown after WrestleMania 42. The faction showed up during a tag team match and destroyed Brie Bella, Paige, Charlotte Flair, and Alexa Bliss.
It started when The Queen and The Goddess engaged in a confrontation with Brie and Paige. This led to an impromptu tag team match, which ended when Fatal Influence destroyed them.
Since they attacked the abovementioned top female stars, Fatal Influence seems set to dominate SmackDown. The group has the backing of WWE, and it received massive heat from the live crowd, which could help it quickly gain momentum.
#1. Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes’ feud is put on hold
Cody Rhodes made an appearance on SmackDown this week. The American Nightmare sent a message to TKO and Randy Orton after retaining the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 42.
The Prodigal Son discussed his victory and stood tall despite being brutally assaulted by The Viper at ‘Mania. Meanwhile, The Apex predator was notably missing from the blue brand.
The absence of The Legend Killer and the Undisputed WWE Champion’s promo segment subtly confirmed that the company has put the Rhodes-Orton feud on hold. It appears that the duo will not square off at Backlash 2026.
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Edited by Pratik Singh
