Add as a preferred source on Google Jacob Fatu will open tonight’s Friday Night SmackDown, the final show before WWE Backlash. WWE confirmed the news on its official website.
The episode takes place in Jacksonville, Florida, and will play a key role in the final stretch of Fatu’s rivalry with Roman Reigns over the World Heavyweight Championship. This past Monday on RAW, Fatu attacked Reigns for the second straight week, hitting the Tongan Death Grip and driving the OTC through a table.
WWE also noted in its preview that the Samoan Werewolf attacked Solo Sikoa on last week’s SmackDown and sent Talla Tonga crashing through the announce table, which suggests they could factor into tonight’s show as well.
WWE has also added Damian Priest vs. Talla Tonga to the lineup. The announced card also features Tiffany Stratton defending the Women’s United States Championship against Kiana James, while Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss team up against Fatal Influence.
Gunther is also set to appear and address his attack on Cody Rhodes, while Trick Williams will host a funeral for the Gingerbread Man before defending the United States Championship against Sami Zayn at Backlash.