A new chapter begins with the premiere episode of Friday Night SmackDown in 2026, as the Blue brand returns to a three-hour duration. Despite the extended time, only five matches were showcased at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York.
TheSportster reviewed the January 2, 2026 SmackDown lineup, highlighting two major U.S. title bouts in both the men’s and women’s divisions, along with a main event Ambulance match and other featured contests.
Chelsea Green faced Julia for the U.S. Women’s Championship, earning an overall score of 5.25/10. The crowd showed slightly more interest than recent weeks, centering on the title feud. Although Green dominated early, Kiana James interfered, distracting the referee and costing Green the match. Julia ultimately regained the title with a decisive Northern Lights Bomb, though the outcome felt abrupt and poorly booked.
Matt Cardona made his WWE return and defeated Kit Wilson, receiving a 6/10 rating. Wilson tried to assert his heel persona early, but Cardona fought back strongly, energizing the crowd and winning with his Rough Rider finisher.
Aleister Black and Damian Priest clashed in a slow-starting Ambulance match rated 6.75/10. The bout gained momentum after Rhea Ripley intervened, with dramatic spots including a Razor’s Edge on the ambulance and Black crashing onto a platform. Priest secured victory by locking Black inside the ambulance, marking a strong 2026 start for him.
An eight-woman tag team match kicked off the show, pitting Charlotte Flair, Alexa Bliss, Rhea Ripley, and Iyo Sky against the Kabuki Warriors, Nia Jax, and Rush Legends. This bout earned 7/10 for its entertaining pace and babyface energy, culminating with Ripley’s Riptide and Sky’s moonsault sealing the win for the faces.
Finally, Carmelo Hayes defended the U.S. Men’s Championship against Johnny Gargano in a high-energy match rated 7.75/10. The two showcased smooth and powerful in-ring action, keeping the audience engaged as Hayes captured the win with his Nothing But Net move.
Fan Take: This SmackDown episode sets the tone for WWE’s 2026 with compelling title bouts and the return of fan-favorite wrestlers, signaling fresh storylines and renewed excitement for viewers. The mix of established stars and rising talents could reshape the competitive landscape and invigorate WWE’s weekly programming.
