WWE SmackDown is live tonight from the OVO Arena in London, England! Tonight’s show will air at the normal time of 8pm ET on the USA Network in the United States, but international viewers can watch the show live at 8pm London time (3pm ET). Tonight, new WWE Champion Drew McIntyre brings the title to his homeland of the United Kingdom while a slate of matchups will take place to determine the next #1 contender. Let’s take a look at everything announced for tonight’s episode of WWE SmackDown:
WWE SmackDown card: January 16, 2026
Carmelo Hayes hosts United States Championship Open Challenge
WWE’s official preview:
Tonight, Carmelo Hayes will continue the tradition that was reignited by Sami Zayn and Ilja Dragunov when he once again hosts a United States Title Open Challenge.
Matt Cardona vs. Trick Williams (WWE Championship #1 Contenders Qualifying Match)
WWE’s official preview:
In an intriguing matchup, Matt Cardona will step in the ring against Trick Williams in an Undisputed WWE Championship No. 1 Contender’s Qualifying Match.
Sami Zayn vs. Ilya Dragunov (WWE Championship #1 Contenders Qualifying Match)
WWE’s official preview:
Sami Zayn takes on Ilja Dragunov in an Undisputed WWE Championship No. 1 Contender’s Qualifying Match.
Dragunov unseated Zayn as Intercontinental Champion in an incredible showdown, and this highly-anticipated rematch seems sure to be another instant classic.
Damian Priest vs. Solo Sikoa (WWE Championship #1 Contenders Qualifying Match)
WWE’s official preview:
Two weeks after defeating Aleister Black in a brutal Ambulance Match, Damian Priest will battle Solo Sikoa in an Undisputed WWE Championship No. 1 Contender’s Qualifying Match.
Can Priest overcome the dangerous Sikoa and The MFTs to advance?
Randy Orton vs. The Miz (WWE Championship #1 Contenders Qualifying Match)
WWE’s official preview:
After treating The Miz to two weeks of RKOs, Randy Orton will go head-to-head with The A-Lister in an Undisputed WWE Championship No. 1 Contender’s Qualifying Match.
New WWE Champion Drew McIntyre returns to SmackDown
WWE’s official preview:
After his controversial win against Cody Rhodes in the Three Stages of Hell Match, Drew McIntyre returns to SmackDown as the new Undisputed WWE Champion.
