WWE SmackDown heads to Philadelphia tonight for its first episode following SummerSlam, and the focus is squarely on Kevin Owens.
After more than a year away recovering from a serious neck injury, Owens made an emotional return at SummerSlam Sunday, winning a Fatal 4-Way Match to become the No. 1 contender to CM Punk's Undisputed WWE Championship. Tonight marks his first appearance on SmackDown since that comeback, setting the stage for what could be one of WWE's biggest rivalries heading into Money in the Bank.
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Kevin Owens and CM Punk Meet Face-to-Face
Owens' return was one of the defining moments of SummerSlam. Not only did he prove he could still compete after a career-threatening injury, but he immediately vaulted himself into the championship picture.
Now the attention turns to CM Punk.
Punk retained the Undisputed WWE Championship at SummerSlam in a dramatic main event thanks in part to Randy Orton's surprise return and RKO to Cody Rhodes. With Owens now officially next in line, tonight should offer the first glimpse at what promises to be a high-impact championship feud.
Chelsea Green Celebrates Her SummerSlam Championship Victory
Chelsea Green will hold a championship celebration tonight after capturing the Interim WWE Women's Championship in Sunday's Ladder Match at SummerSlam.
The victory marked the biggest moment of Green's WWE career, as one of the company's most entertaining personalities finally reached the top of the women's division. After years of connecting with fans through her over-the-top character work and memorable comedic timing, Green now enters SmackDown as a champion with a target on her back.
What Else To Expect
WWE has also announced a blockbuster singles match between Charlotte Flair and Jade Cargill.
Randy Orton has not been officially announced to appear, but "The Viper" will likely return to SmackDown tonight to explain his attack on Cody Rhodes at SummerSlam, and set up what comes next.
How to Watch WWE SmackDown Tonight
- Date: Friday, Aug. 7, 2026
- Venue: Xfinity Mobile Arena — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Start Time: 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT
- United States: USA Network
- International: Netflix
