Add as a preferred source on Google WWE announced shortly after Friday’s SmackDown that Giulia will face Lash Legend in the final qualifying match for the Ladder Match that will crown the Interim WWE Women’s Champion at SummerSlam.
The winner will take the fifth and final spot in the match, joining Tiffany Stratton, Jade Cargill, Chelsea Green and Charlotte Flair. Green and Flair secured their spots on Friday Night SmackDown on July 24, 2026, defeating Kiana James and Nia Jax, respectively. Flair’s win came by disqualification after Jade Cargill interfered.
The interim title is being introduced because Rhea Ripley is dealing with a torn meniscus and won’t be able to compete at SummerSlam. WWE confirmed the match will have five participants.
Giulia heads into the match off back-to-back wins over her former partner, Kiana James. The first came on the June 26 episode of SmackDown, while the second aired on WWE Main Event on July 23.
Giulia and Lash Legend have already shared a ring recently. On June 1, both competed in a Fatal 4-Way Match in the first round of the Queen of the Ring tournament, also featuring Roxanne Perez, with IYO SKY picking up the win.
For Giulia, qualifying represents a chance to return to a major title picture after she lost the Women’s United States Championship to Tiffany Stratton in April.