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We are all set for an exciting episode of WWE SmackDown this week, marking the blue brand's second episode following an eventful Money in the Bank show. This week's Friday Night show will be followed by tapings next week, as the promotion will be headed to Japan for its first tour in the country in five years.
Here, we look at four bold predictions for WWE SmackDown for the next two episodes. So, without further ado, let's begin.
#1. Massive stipulation might be confirmed for Cody Rhodes vs. Solo Sikoa at SummerSlam
The Bloodline, led by Solo Sikoa, has brutally targeted Cody Rhodes on WWE SmackDown over the last few weeks. Sikoa pinned The American Nightmare when they locked horns in the six-man tag team match at Money in the Bank. Last week, Cody Rhodes offered to speak with SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis to get their title match sanctioned for SummerSlam 2024.
The creative team has confirmed that Cody Rhodes will defend his Undisputed WWE Championship against Solo Sikoa at SummerSlam. Many in the WWE Universe hope to see Roman Reigns return at the end of this match.
Triple H could anticipate the excitement surrounding the bout by turning it into a Bloodline Rules match, the same stipulation that led to Cody winning the title. Roman Reigns suffered defeat under the same rules, thus, the new Bloodline leader could demand the same stipulation, hoping to make a statement.
#2. Logan Paul knocks out LA Knight
Speaking of title match contracts, LA Knight has one he would like to get signed before SummerSlam. The fastest-rising megastar revealed he had a contract for the United States Championship and demanded Logan Paul agree to their match at the upcoming premium live event.
We might see the champion responding by knocking out Knight on WWE SmackDown this week. He will not travel to Japan for the WWE tour and may fulfill his championship obligations on the blue brand in the taped episode. Logan Paul vs. LA Knight could also be another match confirmed for SummerSlam next month.
#3. Austin Theory and Grayson Waller break up
Last week, Austin Theory and Grayson Waller challenged DIY in a title rematch, hoping to reclaim the WWE Tag Team Championship. However, the match ended with Waller accidentally hitting Theory, which helped Tommaso Ciampa and Johnny Gargano retain their gold on SmackDown.
The creative team has been teasing a potential split between Waller and Theory for a long time. The growing tension between the former champions could see Waller and Theory finally split up on WWE SmackDown this week.
#4. Eight-time champion Jimmy Uso returns on WWE SmackDown
Jimmy Uso last appeared on WWE SmackDown after WrestleMania, where Solo Sikoa ordered an attack on him as a punishment for losing against Jey Uso. Jimmy has since been off television, recovering from his injury. In his absence, Solo Sikoa has turned The Bloodline towards a shocking path of unprecedented brutality.
All signs indicate a potential civil war between the old and the new Bloodline, and it could all start with Jimmy Uso's return. The former multi-time champion could come back and start a feud with The Bloodline, eventually laying the groundwork for Jey Uso to return to his brother's side.
