SmackDown airs live tonight from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, marking the final episode of the seven-week build towards WrestleMania 41. John Cena returns to WWE programming after a brief hiatus, and his heel turn has cooled off fast over the last six weeks.
Cena’s heel transformation began with his infamous promo on Raw, where he broke up with WWE fans due to their abusive relationship. However, his follow-up promos failed to deliver as expected, leaving many wondering if Cena’s character can regain momentum before WrestleMania.
The stage is set for a final confrontation between Cena and WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, who have engaged in personal attacks on each other. The outcome of this match will determine the future of their rivalry and ultimately decide who will claim the WWE championship at WrestleMania 41.
Other notable matches include the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, where wrestlers competing in non-WrestleMania bouts face off for a trophy, and the Women’s United States Championship tag team match between Chelsea Green and her opponents. Fans are eagerly awaiting answers to questions surrounding Tiffany Stratton’s potential rematch against Charlotte Flair, Randy Orton’s WrestleMania opponent, and Nia Jax’s whereabouts.
Tonight’s SmackDown is expected to provide valuable insights into WWE storylines as the road to WrestleMania heats up. Will Cena reignite his heel turn? Can Braun Strowman become a two-time winner of the Andre Battle Royal? The answers will be revealed live on SmackDown tonight.
Source: https://www.cagesideseats.com/wwe/2025/4/18/24410025/wwe-wrestlemania-smackdown-preview-apr-18-2025-john-cena-cody-rhodes-andre-giant-battle-royal-orton