The May 1 episode of WWE SmackDown emanated from the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The show was the sight of the arrival of a former top NXT star to the blue show, Cody Rhodes being blindsided by an unlikely new challenger, and other exciting matches, including two title bouts.
What happened in the opening segment of WWE SmackDown?
Cody Rhodes opened this week’s edition of SmackDown. However, he was interrupted by the newest star of the brand, Ricky Saints. He brought their past history and claimed that he was here to change the entire complexion of the brand and relief Rhodes of his duties as the Undisputed WWE Champion.
Charlotte Flair vs. Jacy Jayne
Charlotte Flair, accompanied by Alexa Bliss, squared off against Jacy Jayne, with Fatal Influence in her corner. Jacy, much like last week, put up a valiant effort against a veteran like Flair. A series of distractions led to Jacy hitting the rolling elbow on Flair to win. Fatal Influence began to beat Flair and Bliss until Rhea Ripley made the save.
R-Truth & Damian Priest vs. Nathan Frazer & Axiom
Damian Priest and R-Truth defended their WWE Tag Team Championships against Fraxiom. It was an exciting tag team showdown between both sides and ended with Priest delivering a South of Heaven to Frazer, and then a Razor’s Edge to Axiom to win the bout.
Cody Rhodes vs. Ricky Saints
This was a non-title match. Moreover, it was Ricky Saints’ debut match on SmackDown after being called up from NXT. He delivered a stellar bout against the top star of the brand in Cody Rhodes. In the final moments, he attempted a Roshambo, but Rhodes escaped and delivered a Cross Rhodes to win the match. However, he was attacked by Gunther after the bout, who hinted at coming after his WWE title.
Royce Keys vs. Angel
This was a squash match as Royce Keys dominated Angel and finished him off with a spinbuster to win the match.
Paige & Brie Bella vs. Nia Jax & Lash Legend
Paige and Brie Bella defended their WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships against Nia Jax and Lash Legend. The captivating match came to an end when Nia Jax attempted the Annihilator on Brie Bella by going on the top rope. However, the referee was not looking, and Paige kicked her, causing her to trip. Brie rolled her up, and the duo managed to retain their titles.
Jimmy and Jey Uso vs. Solo Sikoa and Talla Tonga
This was the main event match of the night. It was a highly enthralling bout between both sides. As the final moments approached, Jacob Fatu interfered and attacked Talla Tonga. He took him and Solo Sikoa down and had a stare-off with The Usos before walking right past them in the ring and exiting through the ramp to end the show.Also read: WWE releases 2026: List of all superstars, statements post-firing by TKO and more