Wrestling Arena News

WWE SmackDown Returns from Montreal with Major SummerSlam Fallout: Cena, Rhodes, and Lesnar Storylines Heat Up

WWE SmackDown Returns from Montreal with Major SummerSlam Fallout: Cena, Rhodes, and Lesnar Storylines Heat Up

Tonight’s WWE SmackDown broadcasts live from the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, delivering the highly anticipated fallout from SummerSlam 2025 — billed as “The Biggest Party of the Summer.” Airing at 8 p.m. ET on USA Network in the U.S. and Netflix internationally, this post-SummerSlam edition promises intense promos, major appearances, and key developments shaping WWE’s championship landscape[2][3].

The Blue Brand’s return to “The Great White North” sets the stage for riveting storylines, with new WWE Champion Cody Rhodes making his first SmackDown appearance since claiming the title. Rhodes is expected to address his triumphant moment at SummerSlam and set the tone for his championship reign[3][5]. According to sources close to WWE, Rhodes’ promo will reflect a mix of confidence and determination, signaling a new era at the top of the company.

Adding further intrigue, John Cena will appear on the show to comment on Brock Lesnar’s shocking return during SummerSlam. The part-time superstar’s comeback has already sent shockwaves through WWE, and Cena’s perspective is highly awaited by fans and insiders alike[2][4]. Fightful reports Cena’s remarks could potentially set up a future confrontation or collaborative storyline involving Lesnar, heightening interest in upcoming SmackDown episodes[2].

SummerSlam’s aftermath is deeply woven into tonight’s card, with several matches and segments highlighting unresolved rivalries and shifting alliances. While the full match lineup is still pending confirmation, multiple sources including Ringside News and 411 Mania suggest high-stakes bouts involving top SmackDown stars will feature prominently. Fans should anticipate both title defenses and grudge match developments that build towards the next major WWE events[3][5].

WWE’s decision to hold SmackDown in Montreal underscores the company’s commitment to spotlighting international markets and energizing its global fan base. The Bell Centre provides a storied, electric wrestling atmosphere, and insiders say the crowd’s reaction tonight will be unforgettable, possibly setting off spontaneous moments reminiscent of SummerSlam’s excitement[1].

Behind the scenes, well-informed WWE insiders convey that the creative team is focused on maximizing post-SummerSlam momentum to elevate new story arcs and maintain high TV ratings. The blend of emerging stars and veteran legends like Cena and Lesnar is a calculated strategy to captivate audiences and transition viewers from the summer’s biggest show into SmackDown’s ongoing weekly drama.

To watch SmackDown live:

  • U.S. viewers tune in to USA Network at 8 p.m. ET

  • International fans can stream commercial-free on Netflix, available globally via platforms like NordVPN[2]

Fightful will provide live results and analysis starting at showtime, followed by a post-show podcast covering all the night’s highlights and surprises[2]. WWE.com and Ringside News will also publish detailed coverage and interviews from Montreal.

As WWE SmackDown returns tonight, anticipation runs high around how Cody Rhodes’ championship reign begins, what John Cena will reveal about Lesnar’s future, and which rivalries heat up in the wake of SummerSlam. Montreal’s passionate crowd is primed for a night packed with intensity, drama, and moments that could shape WWE’s landscape for months to come. Wrestling fans worldwide should not miss this pivotal post-SummerSlam episode.