Adam Pearce Shocks Sami Zayn With Unexpected Announcement On WWE SmackDown
WWE aired tonight’s edition of Friday Night SmackDown on tape delay as the show was taped right after Monday Night RAW this week. Tonight’s show was taped to give everyone involved time off for the 4th of July weekend.
The night was off with a huge cheer as the new Undisputed WWE Champion, Sami Zayn, opened the show as he celebrated the first-ever World Title win of his WWE career.
Zayn faced off against Gunther and Cody Rhodes at Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia last weekend and came away with the win after surprising Cody with a quick roll-up.
He addressed the fans and thanked them for the heart-warming reactions his title win has received on social media. However, he quickly reminded them that despite the reaction, many people kept booing him for the last six months for going after the title.
Sami Zayn set for first WWE Title defense
Sami cut a passionate promo celebrating his World Title win before being interrupted by Cody Rhodes. He went up to the ring and congratulated the champion, before shaking his hand. Rhodes then proceeded to head back, but was stopped by Zayn.
The champion didn’t believe that Cody came out to only congratulate him and asked his true reasons, but before Rhodes could answer, they were interrupted Jey Uso. He showered praise on Zayn before asking for a title shot.
Jey Uso vs Cody Rhodes TONIGHT!! 👊
The Winner will be No. 1 Contender for the Undisputed WWE Title! pic.twitter.com/Cw7EZAxnA6
— WWE (@WWE) July 4, 2026
Sami rebuffed both of them before proceeding to head out, but he was stopped by the Acting SmackDown General Manager, Adam Pearce. In Nick Aldis’ absence, Pearce made a huge announcement.
He announced that Zayn will have his first title defense next week on RAW. He then announced the main event for tonight’s show which is a number one contender’s match between Cody Rhodes and Jey Uso.
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