The July 25, 2025, edition of WWE SmackDown in Cleveland, Ohio’s Rocket Arena delivered an electrifying night filled with major returns, heartfelt tributes, and hard-hitting confrontations that left fans buzzing. Two notable WWE Superstars made their much-anticipated returns, Giulia unveiled a surprising new spokesperson, Cody Rhodes paid homage to the legendary Hulk Hogan, and Jelly Roll stunned the crowd by hitting Logan Paul with a Boss Man Slam. Here’s a detailed recap of this unforgettable night.
Two WWE Stars Make Stunning Returns on SmackDown
The Cleveland crowd erupted as two familiar faces unexpectedly returned to SmackDown. Neither name was announced long in advance, which added to the shock and excitement in the arena.
According to a WWE insider, “The timing of their returns was strategic to ramp up interest heading into SummerSlam season. Both Superstars are poised to shake up the landscape in a big way.” The source declined to reveal exactly who they were but confirmed these returns will have lasting storyline impact.
Their appearances immediately ignited new rivalries and alliances that promise to keep WWE fans glued to SmackDown every week. Further backstage info hints that one of the returning stars may be involved in the WWE Tag Team Title match later in the evening, upping the stakes considerably.
Giulia’s New ‘Spokesperson’ Shakes Things Up
One of the evening’s most talked-about moments was the unveiling of Giulia’s new spokesperson. In a segment full of dramatic flair, Giulia introduced her articulate and commanding new spokesperson, who is expected to manage her affairs both inside and outside the ring.
The addition serves as a major storyline pivot, as Giulia’s past promos have showcased her direct and intense personality. The spokesperson’s role appears to be to amplify her messages and protect her from distractions, potentially changing her dynamic in WWE.
Sources close to Giulia revealed the spokesperson is an undisclosed talent with a reputation for sharp promos and keen mind for strategy, marking a fresh direction for Giulia’s character development. The spokesperson promises to become an indispensable fixture in Giulia’s ascent up WWE ranks.
Cody Rhodes’ Emotional Tribute To Hulk Hogan
The night featured a poignant tribute to WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan, who recently passed away, leaving a void in professional wrestling’s cultural fabric. Cody Rhodes took center stage during the tribute segment to honor Hogan’s enduring legacy.
Rhodes delivered a heartfelt speech, recalling his personal inspiration drawn from Hogan’s charisma and trailblazing career. “Hulk wasn’t just a wrestler; he was a larger-than-life icon who helped define what WWE means to millions around the world,” Rhodes expressed. “We stand on the shoulders of giants like him.”
Following his tribute, a video montage highlighting Hogan’s most legendary moments played, stirring an emotional response from the audience. WWE officials confirmed multiple tributes and special programming will continue in the coming weeks in honor of Hogan.
A backstage source commented, “Cody’s tribute was genuine and resonated deeply with the locker room. He spoke from the heart as a peer and fan.” This tribute segment reinforced WWE’s respect for its history while inspiring new chapters for today’s stars.
Jelly Roll Hits Logan Paul With a Boss Man Slam
The intensity skyrocketed during the confrontation between Randy Orton & Jelly Roll vs. Logan Paul & Drew McIntyre. After a heated promo exchange, Jelly Roll stunned fans by delivering his signature Boss Man Slam to Logan Paul in a shocking physical statement.
This move echoed past wrestling legends, underscoring Jelly Roll’s power and aggression. The slam immediately swung momentum toward Orton and Jelly Roll’s side and ignited the crowd’s fervor. Footage of the Boss Man Slam quickly trended across social media platforms, drawing praise from wrestling fans and commentators alike.
Afterward, Randy Orton backed Jelly Roll with a cold and commanding presence, making it clear this faction is not to be underestimated. The brewing feud promises epic encounters in future SmackDown episodes and pay-per-view events.
Other Highlights From SmackDown
- WWE Tag Team Championship match featuring The Wyatt Sicks (Joe Gacy & Dexter Lumis) vs. Andrade & Rey Fenix, adding prestige to the tag division.
- Alexa Bliss squared off against Roxanne Perez in a match showcasing emerging star power and veteran savvy.
- The arena witnessed intense promos and physicality throughout, keeping the audience engaged well into the night.
Looking Ahead
This SmackDown sets the stage for a high-octane SummerSlam season. With surprise returns shaking up the rosters, Giulia’s new spokesperson signaling a fresh narrative angle, an emotional Hulk Hogan tribute adding gravity, and Jelly Roll making bold moves against Logan Paul, fans should anticipate weeks of pulse-pounding WWE action.
According to our WWE insider, “The July 25 episode was a perfect blend of respect for the past, acceleration of current storylines, and planting seeds for future star-making moments. WWE’s direction is sharp, and the synergy on SmackDown is stronger than ever.”
Stay tuned for continued coverage and analysis as these storylines develop and SmackDown heads toward the summer’s biggest events.
