4 Matches WWE can add to Backlash 2026 on SmackDown

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The company will host an episode of SmackDown tonight from Tulsa, Oklahoma, which will be a pivotal show ahead of Backlash 2026. Nick Aldis may announce several big matches for the PLE tonight. Let’s take a look at four matches WWE can add to the Backlash 2026 card tonight on SmackDown:

#4. Rhea Ripley vs. Jacy Jayne

Jacy Jayne made an explosive SmackDown debut last week alongside her Fatal Influence stablemates. The faction took out several big stars on the show, and among them was WWE Women’s Champion Rhea Ripley. Jayne and Ripley also had an impromptu showdown, which was interrupted by Fallon Henley and Lainey Reid. The trio then went on to ambush The Eradicator with the intent to make an impact.

Well, Jacy Jayne made it clear that she wants to take over the blue brand, and for that, she needs to capture the WWE Women’s Championship. It perfectly sets the narrative for a singles showdown between Ripley and Jayne at Backlash 2026. The former NXT star could issue a challenge to Mami tonight on SmackDown for a match at the upcoming premium live event, which could get a green light from Nick Aldis later on.

#3. Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton

Cody Rhodes defeated Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42 earlier this month to retain his Undisputed WWE Championship. While The American Nightmare managed to fend off The Viper, their feud is far from over. Orton laid down a barbaric attack on Rhodes following the match, sparking the possibility for another showdown between the former friends down the line.

Backlash 2026 seems to be the perfect location for round two of Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton. The Apex Predator could make his return to SmackDown tonight in Tulsa to challenge The Prodigal Son for a rematch, which Rhodes could accept to take his revenge. However, it will all depend on the medical condition of the champ. Rhodes is currently medically uncleared to compete but if he manages to recover on time, this match can happen at Backlash.

#2. Fatal Influence vs. Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair & Alexa Bliss

Rhea Ripley was not the only star Fatal Influence attacked last week on SmackDown. The wicked trio also took down Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss during their Women’s Tag Team Title match. This opens the door for a potential alliance between Alexa & Flair and Ripley against Fatal Influence. If WWE is not moving forward with the plans of a women’s title program between Jacy Jayne and Rhea Ripley, fans may likely witness six-woman tag team action in Tampa next month.

Tonight on SmackDown, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss could challenge Fatal Influence for a match at Backlash 2026. However, the faction might question who will join Flair and Bliss in the showdown. Later on the show, WWE could unveil Ripley as a part of the babyface team. Such an angle could not only ignite interest in the women’s division on SmackDown but also make the six-woman tag team match official for Backlash 2026.

#1. Trick Williams vs. Sami Zayn at Backlash 2026

Trick Williams defeated Sami Zayn at WrestleMania 42 to become the new United States Champion. But despite his win, Williams continues to take shots at Zayn on social media. Last week, the Canadian star staged an attack on the champ while disguising himself as Gingerbread Man. It means that the story between the two superstars is not finished, and they are on a collision course once again.

Well, Trick Williams is currently one of the most popular names on the WWE roster and having the US Title puts him in the spotlight. Therefore, the company will most likely book him for Backlash 2026 in Tampa. He might battle Sami Zayn in what could be his first title defense. The two stars could be involved in a brawl on SmackDown tonight, which could lead Nick Aldis to make their match official for Backlash.