John Cena’s Emotional Farewell, Sami Zayn’s US Title Spotlight, and High-Stakes Matches Highlight WWE SmackDown from Chicago

pranithkumarkanna@gmail.com|Modified on Sep 06, 2025, 05:22 GMT

WWE SmackDown delivered a memorable and action-packed episode on September 5, 2025, broadcasting live from the historic Allstate Arena in Chicago, Illinois. This edition was notable for featuring John Cena’s final SmackDown appearance ever, the highly-anticipated debut of new United States Champion Sami Zayn, plus intense in-ring battles involving Damian Priest and Aleister Black, alongside a fierce Women’s U.S. Championship confrontation between Giulia and Michin.

As the blue brand journeys toward the blockbuster WrestlePalooza event on ESPN, Chicago played host in “The Windy City” to an emotionally charged show that honored Cena’s legendary tenure in WWE while spotlighting emerging stars and ongoing rivalries[1][5].

John Cena’s Historic Farewell on SmackDown

In what many are calling a poignant and fitting farewell, John Cena took center stage in his final SmackDown appearance. Cena, whose WWE career launched on SmackDown in this very city back in June 2002, returned 23 years later to bid adieu to the blue brand. Confirmed by WWE.com and insiders close to Cena’s team, this marks the final chapter of a celebrated era on SmackDown for the 17-time world champion.

According to Fightful Wrestling and reports on Wrestling Inc., Cena’s farewell segment was filled with heartfelt reflections on his storied career and gratitude towards the Chicago crowd that witnessed that very first televised WWE appearance. Sources suggest WWE plans to feature Cena in upcoming Raw episodes and pay-per-views, capped off with a special Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 13th in Washington, D.C., bringing his gradual retirement tour to a close[1][2][5].

Sami Zayn Debuts as United States Champion With a Message

Last Friday’s SmackDown saw Sami Zayn dethrone Multi-Time Faction (MFT) leader Solo Sikoa, ending his 62-day run as U.S. Champion with critical help from allies Jacob Fatu and Jimmy Uso. Zayn’s victory in Lyon, France, was a feel-good moment for the French-speaking superstar, earning widespread praise on social media and from wrestling pundits alike[1][5].

On the Chicago show, Zayn made a significant appearance as the new U.S. Champion, hinting at important announcements and challenging the status quo on SmackDown. WWE.com confirmed that Zayn’s presence will mean fresh momentum in the U.S. title scene leading up to WrestlePalooza, where rivalries are expected to intensify[1][2].

Damian Priest vs. Aleister Black: A Long-Brewing Rivalry

The rivalry between Damian Priest and Aleister Black took center stage with a hard-hitting singles match. This contest marked Priest’s first televised bout since a controversial disqualification victory over Carmelo Hayes in July. The animosity between the two has escalated over weeks, highlighted by Black’s interference and a recent physical altercation that demanded resolution[1][4].

Their bout was praised by commentators Michael Cole and Wade Barrett for its intensity and storytelling. According to Fightful’s post-show podcast, the match underscored both superstars’ tenacity and set the stage for further clashes, emphasizing the personal stakes at play[2][4].

Women’s U.S. Championship: Giulia vs. Michin Showcases Rising Talent

The SmackDown card also featured a decisive title defense by Giulia against challenger Michin. With Kiana James in Giulia’s corner, the match between these two fierce competitors showcased the growing depth and excitement of the WWE Women’s division. Wrestling Headlines noted Giulia’s technical skill and resilience as key factors in retaining her championship[4].

CM Punk’s Return Sparks Intrigue

Adding to the night’s buzz was the return of CM Punk, who made an appearance following a heated verbal segment on Raw earlier in the week involving Becky Lynch and World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins. Punk’s presence in Chicago, his hometown, was a significant moment for fans and insiders have hinted at possible developments involving his storyline trajectory heading into WrestlePalooza[1][2][4].

Insider Perspectives and What’s Next

Sources close to WWE confirm that tonight’s SmackDown was designed as a pivotal episode in the lead-up to WrestlePalooza, especially given the rumored blockbuster match between John Cena and Brock Lesnar scheduled for September 20th. WWE officials view Cena’s farewell and the emerging storylines as essential to building momentum for the autumn pay-per-view season[5].

Furthermore, industry insiders shared with Wrestling Inc. that the emotional weight of Cena’s farewell combined with Sami Zayn’s fresh reign as U.S. Champion creates new avenues for storytelling that could redefine SmackDown’s mid-card hierarchy[1].

Final Thoughts

The September 5, 2025, episode of WWE SmackDown was a carefully crafted blend of nostalgia, hard-hitting competition, and storyline advancements. Cena’s departure from SmackDown closed one chapter while the elevation of Sami Zayn and the continued rivalries of Damian Priest and Aleister Black promise a vibrant future for the brand.

For wrestling fans and analysts eager for more, the lead-up to WrestlePalooza is shaping up to be one of the most compelling in recent memory, underscored by talent transitions, championship drama, and homecoming moments that celebrate WWE’s rich history and bright future[1][5].

Stay tuned to WWE.com, Fightful, and exclusive podcasts like The Hoots Podcast for continuous updates and in-depth analysis as these storylines unfold.

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