SmackDown thrills Riyadh as WWE superstars set stage for Night of Champions showdown

RIYADH: WWE delivered an electrifying spectacle in the Saudi capital on Friday night, as Kingdom Arena roared with excitement for SmackDown, a flagship event under Riyadh Season 2025. Fans packed every seat, demonstrating once again Saudi Arabia’s growing passion for world-class sports entertainment.

The night began with a surprise appearance by global superstars Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton, whose entrance drew thunderous applause as they built anticipation for their highly awaited clash on Saturday at Night of Champions. Orton addressed the jubilant crowd, saying, “I am honored to be in your country. You are a great people with a wonderful culture. Saudi Arabia is amazing — every time I travel 15 hours to come here, I feel happier than the time before.”

The action inside the ring did not disappoint. In a fierce contest for the WWE United States Women’s Championship, Julia showcased her brilliance with a decisive win over the experienced Zelina Vega, capturing the title for a third time and cementing her status among the division’s elite.

Tiffany Stratton retained her title in one of the night’s most brutal encounters, overcoming Nia Jax in a punishing Last Woman Standing match that had been simmering for weeks. The high-intensity showdown saw the arena’s surroundings reduced to chaos before Stratton finally sealed her victory.

Tag team action added to the drama, as The Street Profits defended their titles against The Wyatt Six in a heated bout that ended in a chaotic no-contest. The titleholders retained their belts, but with tensions unresolved, a rematch seems all but certain.

In a performance that ignited the fans, Andrea and Reina Faklis overcame the team of DAW in a hard-fought contest, closing with a