3 Reasons why Charlotte Flair missed WWE SmackDown before Night of Champions 2026

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Liv Morgan took advantage of the situation and eventually defeated the veteran star to advance to the final. Charlotte Flair’s absence from the final episode before NOC was a surprise for many.

In this article, let’s take a quick look at three reasons why Flair missed WWE SmackDown before the Saudi Arabia show.

#3. Legitimately injured

During her match with Liv Morgan, Charlotte Flair was limping. In the closing moment, the Queen took some rest ringside, and the officials checked her out. Despite the issues, Charlotte finished the match but failed to emerge at the top.

A possible reason for Flair’s absence on SmackDown could be her injury. Though the chances are slim, the Queen might be suffering from a legitimate injury.

As a result, the company preferred to take her off television, particularly as SummerSlam 2026 is just a month away.

#2. Selling the aftermath of Jade Cargill’s attack

Jade Cargill attacked Charlotte Flair before her match. This eventually impacted her performance in the 2026 Queen of the Ring semifinals.

Additionally, it also gave the WWE Women’s World Champion an edge over her. The former SmackDown Women’s Champion missing this week’s show could be the aftermath of Jade Cargill’s attack.

Charlotte might be selling the injury with her absence from the blue brand. It will also fuel her ongoing rivalry with the Storm on Friday Night show.

#1. Saving her return for WWE Night of Champions

WWE Night of Champions 2026 is an international Premium Live event. The Triple H creative regime focuses on delivering surprises and big moments for such shows.

Not incorporating the Queen on SmackDown before NOC could be a strategic move to save her return for tonight’s Premium Live event. For those unaware, Flair is already in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and spotted with other WWE stars.

This gave rise to the opportunity of a potential appearance at the Night of Champions show. Saving her return for the Saudi PLE could be another possible explanation for her absence on SmackDown.

Charlotte Flair might cost Jade Cargill against Tiffany Stratton and help Tiffy Time to retain her Women’s United States Championship. This would be a perfect revenge story for the Queen after she was eliminated from the QOTR due to Cargill.