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WWE SmackDown Brings the Heat Before WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas
WrestleMania 41 is just around the corner, but WWE had one more stop before hitting the grand stage at Allegiant Stadium. This week's episode of Friday Night SmackDown took place just down the road at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, and it delivered everything a go-home show should—drama, excitement, and major confrontations.
Cody Rhodes and John Cena Face Off One Last Time
The show’s main spotlight was on the face-to-face between WWE Champion Cody Rhodes and 16-time world champion John Cena, just two days before their WrestleMania showdown.
Cena, who claims this WrestleMania will be his final match, interrupted Rhodes before he could even speak. He shut him down with a strong message—this isn’t just another match. Cena said he’s not like other wrestlers who fake retirements. He’s ready to walk away for good, and he doesn’t need the fans’ approval.
Calling other superstars insecure and needy, Cena made it clear that his mission now is to take the title and prove the fans never mattered. He blamed them for making his life difficult and said he’s ready to write history by ending Cody’s reign.
Rhodes responded powerfully, despite being booed at first. He mocked Cena’s Hollywood appearances, his aging body, and even took a direct shot by saying, “It’s 2025 and you still can’t wrestle.” The crowd flipped instantly and started cheering for Cody.
Cena tried to get the last word in and went for a cheap shot, but Cody turned it into a Cross Rhodes, standing tall before the biggest match of his career.
Seth Rollins Takes a Shot at CM Punk and Roman Reigns
Seth Rollins opened the show with a fiery promo sitting cross-legged in the middle of the ring—a clear nod to CM Punk. He tore into both Punk and Roman Reigns, saying Punk didn’t return for the fans, but for a massive paycheck. He also said Punk has a pattern of burning bridges before crawling back.
Rollins accused Reigns of being selfish, only caring about himself while pretending to be the “Tribal Chief.” Despite his harsh words, fans still chanted for Reigns.
He reminded the crowd of how both he and Reigns were introduced to WWE by Paul Heyman and promised that WrestleMania would mark a turning point. He said he’s willing to sacrifice everything to move the industry forward.
Rhea Ripley Focuses on Championship Goals
Rhea Ripley also addressed the crowd, calling this her most important WrestleMania yet. She didn’t waste time complaining and made it clear she’s coming to become a three-time women’s world champion.
But her spotlight didn’t last long. Iyo Sky, the current champion, made her entrance—only to be cut off by Bianca Belair’s music. Wade Barrett pointed out the disrespect Sky has been getting, and this moment backed that up.
Things escalated when Naomi returned, upset at Belair for avoiding her. Jade Cargill joined the segment, hinting at past issues with Belair. Ripley stepped in, but Naomi attacked her, sparking a chaotic brawl.
It seems WWE is planting seeds for a future Belair vs. Jade storyline after WrestleMania, but it also adds even more tension to the women’s title match.
