Event Recap: SmackDown Goes Home for 2025
WWE SmackDown arrived from the Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Michigan, for the final broadcast of 2025. The night delivered a mix of returns, continuing storylines, and a few unexpected appearances designed to set up the New Year’s slate. As Christmas fatigue faded, the blue brand offered a fast-paced show built around a marquee return, an ongoing championship program, and several mystery guests that left fans buzzing on social media.
Headline Return: Drew McIntyre Comes Back
Midway through the evening, the arena roared as Drew McIntyre made his long-awaited return to SmackDown. In a segment that emphasized his resilience and power, McIntyre declared that he’s back in the hunt for championships and is eager to reclaim his spot in the main event picture. The crowd connected with his signature intensity, and the moment set up a future clash with a top SmackDown challenger. Expectful chatter online suggested this return could be a catalyst for the blue brand’s 2026 plans, especially as fresh rivalries emerge from the fallout of the year-end schedule.
US Open Challenge: Shifting Paths, Open Opportunities
The ongoing United States Championship Open Challenge continued to provide a platform for rising contenders and established names alike. Tonight’s edition featured a hard-fought match that highlighted the depth of SmackDown’s roster. The champion demonstrated tenacity, but a determined challenger forced a near-upset, reinforcing that the US title picture remains fluid heading into January. The segment also teased potential dream matches and cross-brand crossovers that fans have been hoping for as the calendar flips to 2026.
Notable Moments Within the Open Challenge
In addition to the main match, several near-finishes and quick-pin attempts kept the momentum high. A dramatic near-fall near the ropes and a late surge from the challenger kept viewers engaged, with commentary underscoring the intensity of title defenses on SmackDown. These sequences were crafted to showcase both the champion’s grit and the new guard threatening to claim the belt in the near future.
Surprise Appearance: Joe Hendry Enters the Ring
British pop-culture favorite and independent standout Joe Hendry made a surprise appearance, adding a fresh layer of intrigue to SmackDown’s closing hours. Hendry’s charisma and in-ring style brought a different flavor to the broadcast, sparking social media debates about how his presence could influence upcoming storylines or backstage dynamics. While not chasing a traditional SmackDown title tonight, Hendry’s appearance planted seeds for potential collaborations or feuds that could shape the blue brand in the weeks ahead.
Other Highlights: Tag Teams, Promos, and a Holiday Vibe
The show also featured several tag team exchanges and backstage promos designed to maintain pace while the main angles develop. Holiday-themed segments added a lighter tone, balancing the more hard-hitting competition. The blend of action and narrative set the stage for a strong start to 2026, with fans speculating about who will step into the spotlight as the new calendar ushers in fresh rivalries and title challenges.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect in January
With McIntyre back in the fold and the US Open Challenge continuing to serve as a proving ground for contenders, SmackDown is positioned to kick off 2026 with several marquee matchups. Expect announcements on upcoming title defenses, potential cross-brand matches, and new rivalries that will carry the blue brand into the new year. Viewers can anticipate a mix of hard-hitting action and compelling storytelling that keeps SmackDown at the forefront of sports entertainment.
