Welcome to Wrestling Inc.’s coverage of the final WWE SmackDown episode of 2025, broadcast live from Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on December 26th! Get comfortable with your holiday leftovers and cozy pajamas as we dive into an exciting card to close out the year.
Drew McIntyre has had a tough season, especially after last week’s intense encounter when WWE Universal Champion Cody Rhodes invaded McIntyre’s home shortly before the December 19 episode of SmackDown. McIntyre has been off WWE TV since that shocking home invasion and subsequent fight, but now the “Scottish Psychopath” is back, furious and ready for revenge. With the line between their in-ring rivalry and real-life conflict blurred, fans are eager to see how McIntyre will retaliate against Rhodes as their feud escalates into a full-blown blood feud.
Meanwhile, The Miz is on a mission to restore his pride after being hit with the Ten Knuckle Shuffle by R-Truth and Joe Hendry on Saturday Night Main Event. Grand Rapids is calling out Hendry, a former TNA World Champion, who looks set to battle the seasoned former WWE World Champion in a singles match. Although it seems like a straightforward fight, Miz is known for bending the rules to come out on top. Will Hendry be able to overcome Miz’s crafty tactics, or will the veteran’s experience prove too much for the rising star?
US Champion Ilya Dragunov is also back, ready to defend his title once again in the ongoing Open Challenge Series. He’s already faced opponents like Tommaso Ciampa, JD McDonagh, Fraxiom’s half, and Carmelo Hayes. Dragunov has kept a low profile amid the challenges, but tensions with former rivals Ciampa, Johnny Gargano, and Candice LeRae could still flare up. Will Dragunov find allies to balance the odds, or will he be forced to fight an uphill battle alone as 2025 comes to a close?
All these developments will unfold on WWE’s blue brand, kicking off at 8pm ET/7pm CT tonight.
Fan Take: This episode is pivotal for WWE fans as it sets the stage for some of the year’s most intense rivalries to intensify, promising high drama and unforgettable matches. The outcomes here could redefine key storylines and champion legacies, shaping the future of WWE heading into 2026.
