WWE SmackDown Match Sees Surprise Change

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WWE has released the preview for this Friday's SmackDown in Pittsburgh, which includes a notable change to one of the advertised matches. The show will feature Randy Orton, who is expected to continue his path of destruction heading into his Undisputed WWE Championship match against Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 42. The preview teases that Orton has his sights set on yet another victim this Friday, following his recent attacks on Rhodes and Matt Cardona. Additionally, SmackDown general manager Nick Aldis is expected to address the status of both Jacob Fatu and Drew McIntyre, with a match between the two likely to be added to the WrestleMania 42 card.

Why it matters

This change to the SmackDown match card suggests potential storyline developments leading up to WrestleMania 42, as WWE continues to build anticipation and intrigue around the Undisputed WWE Championship match between Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton, as well as the potential match between Jacob Fatu and Drew McIntyre.

The details

The notable change is to the Giulia and Tiffany Stratton match, which was originally advertised as a Women's United States Championship match but has since been updated on WWE.com to a non-title bout. No explanation has been provided for the change, though the downgrade suggests the title match may be held for a later date, potentially WrestleMania 42.

• The SmackDown show takes place on Friday, March 27, 2026.
• WrestleMania 42 is scheduled for April 18-19, 2026 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

What’s next

A match between Jacob Fatu and Drew McIntyre is expected to be added to the WrestleMania 42 card in the near future, following the update from SmackDown general manager Nick Aldis.