5 Things WWE subtly told us on SmackDown (September 11, 2026)

”
], { type: “text/html” }
);
const iframe = document.createElement(“iframe”);
iframe.src = URL.createObjectURL(blob);
iframe.style.cssText = “width:100%;height:100%;border:0;”;
container.appendChild(iframe);
attachIframeMessageListener(iframe);
}
const observer = new IntersectionObserver((entries, obs) => {
const entry = entries[0];
if (entry.isIntersecting) {
obs.unobserve(entry.target);
requestIdleCallback(() => {
initWidget(entry.target);
}, {
timeout: 200
});
}
}, {
root: null,
rootMargin: “300px 0px”,
threshold: 0.01
});
requestIdleCallback(() => {
$all(“.nl-inline-form-container”).forEach((c) => {
observer.observe(c);
});
});
})();

#5. WWE saving the Randy Orton-Cody Rhodes trilogy for a later date

Randy Orton kicked off the first SmackDown and clarified what’s next for him. The Viper asserted that Cody Rhodes isn’t a kil*er and reminded everyone that he defeated The Prodigal Son at SNME.

After his victory, the Apex Predator confirmed that he is coming for his 15th World title reign. He also warned that if someone tries to stand in his way, the veteran star will not hesitate to pull the trigger and hit them with an RKO.

Orton’s words confirm he has officially entered the Undisputed title picture, and they suggest the Triple H creative regime is saving the Cody vs. Randy trilogy for later.

#4. Johnny Gargano might turn face soon

Before the Sami Zayn vs. CM Punk main-event match, Johnny Gargano confronted Zayn backstage, confirming that he would come for the title again if Sami won the gold.

This could be why Johnny Wrestling helped The Honorary Uce dethrone The Best in the World as champion in the main event.

Though Gargano’s actions appeared heelish, his motive to earn another title match suggests he may turn babyface on SmackDown.

#3. Damian Priest leaving WWE SmackDown?

Damian Priest has officially turned heel and is no longer associated with R-Truth. The Archer of Infamy switched his character after losing to the War Raiders, as he wasn’t happy with his recent losses.

For those who might not know, Lola Vice is coming to Monday Night RAW, and she is Damian Priest’s real-life girlfriend. Priest’s breakup with Truth could lead the former World Champion to move to RAW.

Usually, WWE puts couples or relationship partners on the same brand. This is why Damian leaving SmackDown would make sense.

#2. Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss are not on the same page

Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss were part of a backstage segment where The Goddess asserted that what happened at WWE SNME gave them something to work on.

However, The Queen disagreed with this, but The Fatal Influence soon confronted them. Though they appeared to be on the same page in front of the heel faction, Charlotte added that she trusts Alexa but isn’t sure about Tatum Paxley. While Paxley tried to clarify the situation, Bliss stopped her and wanted to give The Queen some space.

This subtly confirms that Flair and Bliss aren’t on the same page, and Tatum’s inclusion could create major rifts between them.

#1. CM Punk vs. Kevin Owens II teased

Johnny Gargano and Candice LeRae cost CM Punk the Undisputed WWE title, but Kevin Owens was the primary reason behind the title change.

The Prizefighter attempted to stop Sami from taking unfair advantage, but he accidentally hit The Best in the World with the championship. Zayn took advantage of the situation and emerged as the new Undisputed title holder.

So, the former Universal Champion is ultimately responsible for this title switch, and this development subtly confirms WWE could be planning KO vs. Punk II on SmackDown.