WWE SmackDown: Cena and Orton Face-to-Face Before Backlash
Dayton — May 9, 2024 — WWE Friday Night *smackdown* from Dayton, Ohio, set the stage for Backlash 2025. This episode showcased a face-to-face confrontation between john Cena and Randy Orton. Key matches included Nia Jax versus Jade Cargill, along with tag-team action. The highly anticipated show featured a return of Aleister Black, and will influence upcoming matches.
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WWE Friday Night SmackDown: Cena and Orton Face-to-Face Before Backlash
May 9, 2025
Dayton, Ohio, was the epicenter of WWE action on Friday night as SmackDown delivered a thrilling prelude to Backlash 2025. The card featured a monumental face-to-face between John Cena and Randy Orton, a high-stakes match between Nia Jax and Jade Cargill, and a tag team clash pitting LA Knight and Damian Priest against Solo Sikoa and Jacob fatu.Adding to the excitement,Aleister Black made his long-awaited return to the ring after five years [3].
SmackDown Highlights
- Cena vs. Orton: The legendary rivalry reignites as John Cena confronts Randy Orton before their potential Backlash showdown [3].
- Jax vs.Cargill: A battle of titans to determine the No. 1 contender for the WWE Women’s Championship [3].
- Knight & Priest vs. Sikoa & Fatu: An explosive tag team match with Backlash implications [3].
- Black vs. The Miz: Aleister Black’s return to the ring after a five-year hiatus [3].
- Iyo sky Spotlight: WWE highlights Iyo Sky as a major star on SmackDown [3].
Match Card and Key Storylines
Here’s a breakdown of the matches and the developing narratives:
- Aleister Black vs. The Miz
Aleister Black marked his return to the ring after five years, facing off against The Miz [3].
- LA Knight & Damian Priest vs. Solo Sikoa & Jacob Fatu
This tag team match featured a clash of styles and alliances, setting the stage for future conflicts [3].
- Nia jax vs. Jade Cargill
The winner earned the right to challenge Tiffany Stratton for the WWE Women’s Championship [3].
- John Cena – Randy Orton
A face-to-face confrontation that could lead to a one-on-one match at Backlash [3].
- Special Segment: Iyo Sky Appearance
WWE showcased iyo Sky, emphasizing her importance to the SmackDown brand [3].
Main Storylines
- Cena vs. Orton:
John Cena’s return to SmackDown reignites his storied rivalry with Randy Orton. Orton currently holds a 13-7 lead in their head-to-head record [2].
- Knight & Priest vs.Sikoa & fatu:
Following their team confrontation at Backlash,LA Knight and Damian Priest team up to face Solo Sikoa and United States Champion Jacob Fatu [3].
- Jade Cargill vs. Nia Jax:
Two powerhouses clash to determine the top contender for Tiffany Stratton’s title [3].
- Aleister Black’s Return:
After five years away, Aleister Black returns to face The Miz, securing a victory with a Black Mass [3].
- Iyo Sky Spotlight:
WWE is positioning Iyo Sky as a key figure on SmackDown, dedicating a segment to her rise [3].
Anticipated Segments and Promos
- Opening Promo:
John Cena is expected to open the show with a promo, potentially challenging Randy Orton and setting the stage for their Backlash match [3].
- In-Ring Intervention:
paul Heyman might intervene to escalate the tag team rivalry, adding intrigue before Backlash [3].
- Backstage Interviews:
Jade Cargill and Nia Jax are likely to provide insights into their motivations before their crucial match [3].
- Surprise Appearance:
A possible appearance by Montana-trained talent could tease a future rivalry on SmackDown [3].
