8 Matches WWE could book after the ending to the final SmackDown before Royal Rumble 2026

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Here are eight matches WWE could book following that explosive ending.

#8. Bron Breakker vs. Cody Rhodes vs. Sami Zayn

After Drew McIntyre disrupted the Eight-Man Tag Team Match by attacking Sami Zayn, he got blindsided by Jacob Fatu. The Samoan Werewolf sent Drew to the outside before leaving.

Sami was then found in the ring, looking at the Undisputed WWE Championship that was left behind. He went to pick it up, but so did Cody Rhodes. However, they both got taken out by aSpear from Bron Breakker, who stood tall as SmackDown came to a close.

Given this situation, it seems fans might see a Triple Threat between these three sooner than expected.

#7. Bron Breakker vs. Drew McIntyre

Drew McIntyre has been a force of nature since winning the Undisputed WWE Championship in Berlin, but he’s never faced an opponent quite like Bron Breakker.

After the chaotic main event on SmackDown, Bron has effectively jumped the line. A collision between The Scottish Warrior and Breakker would be a blockbuster match that could easily headline a major PLE.

#6. Bron Breakker vs. Jacob Fatu

On SmackDown, Jacob Fatu made his intentions clear; he wants the Undisputed WWE Title. However, Bron Breakker’s spear on Cody Rhodes and Sami Zayn proved he is the most dangerous shark in the water.

Seeing these two powerhouse brawlers go at it would likely result in the ring being demolished.

#5. Jacob Fatu vs. Drew McIntyre vs. Cody Rhodes

The history here is deep. The Samoan Werewolf has been the thorn in The American Nightmare’s side for weeks, while The Scottish Warrior is the man holding the prize they both covet.

This Triple Threat would be a masterclass in storytelling, as Cody would try to navigate the sheer brutality of both the champion and Fatu.

#4. Jacob Fatu vs. Cody Rhodes (Street Fight)

After their brawl at Saturday Night’s Main Event XLIII, it looks like a standard wrestling match isn’t enough for Cody Rhodes and Jacob Fatu.

The ending of SmackDown proved that a ring cannot contain these two. A Street Fight or Falls Count Anywhere match would allow them to settle their grudge across the entire arena.

#3. Jacob Fatu vs. Drew McIntyre

Jacob Fatu played a role in the Three Stages of Hell Match that led to Drew McIntyre’s championship victory. However, the Samoan Werewolf is now aiming to win the title too.

A singles match between the most dominant champion in recent memory and the most chaotic challenger in the company is a main-event level showdown.

#2. Jacob Fatu vs. Sami Zayn

Sami Zayn is 0-11 against Drew McIntyre, but he enters the Royal Rumble with the home-field advantage of the Saudi crowd.

If Sami pulls off the miracle and dethrones The Scottish Warrior, Jacob Fatu might be the first person waiting in line for the title.

#1. Sami Zayn vs. Cody Rhodes (Undisputed WWE Championship)

During his promo earlier on SmackDown, Cody Rhodes mentioned that if Sami Zayn wins the title at the Rumble, he might be the one Cody faces at WrestleMania 42.

Hence, a Friend vs. Friend match for the richest prize in the game is a classic WWE storyline that always delivers on emotion and high-stakes drama.