WWE SmackDown is live tonight from the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, Florida! Tonight, Gunther will address his surprise attack on Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, we solemnly gather to say goodbye to the Gingerbread Man, and more. Let’s take a look at everything announced for tonight’s episode of WWE SmackDown:
WWE SmackDown card: May 8, 2026
Jacob Fatu kicks off SmackDown
WWE’s official preview:
On Monday, Jacob Fatu took out World Heavyweight Champion Roman Reigns for the second week in a row, smashing The OTC through a table with the devastating Tongan Death Grip.
Just three days prior on last week’s SmackDown, The Samoan Werewolf ruthlessly attacked Solo Sikoa and slammed Talla Tonga through the announce table.
Fatu is set to kick off SmackDown on Friday, one night before he challenges Reigns for the World Heavyweight Championship at WWE Backlash.
Damian Priest vs. Talla Tonga
WWE’s official preview:
Last week on SmackDown, Talla Tonga emerged to ambush WWE Tag Team Champions Damian Priest and R-Truth as well as Fraxiom.
Priest will be out for payback when he undertakes the monstrous task of battling Tonga one-on-one.
Tiffany Stratton (c) vs. Kiana James for the Women’s United States Championship
WWE’s official preview:
It’s Tiffy Time once again with the new Women’s United States Championship reign of Tiffany Stratton.
Stratton goes one-on-one against Kiana James in a showdown for the gold, Friday at 8 ET/7 CT on SmackDown on USA.
Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair, and Alexa Bliss vs. Fatal Influence
WWE’s official preview:
WWE Women’s Champion Rhea Ripley will stand united with Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss to attempt to quell the rising threat of Fatal Influence in a Six-Woman Tag Team Match.
Trick Williams hosts a funeral for the Gingerbread Man
WWE’s official preview:
Trick Williams will host a funeral for the Gingerbread Man one night before defending the United States Championship against Sami Zayn at WWE Backlash.
Gunther addresses his sneak attack on WWE Champion Cody Rhodes
WWE’s official preview:
After a unleashing a surprise attack on Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes last week, Gunther will address the WWE Universe.
Find out what The Ring General says about his vicious attack on The American Nightmare, Friday on SmackDown at 8 ET/7 CT on USA.
