WWE announced several matches and segments for this Friday’s SmackDown (8/7) — the blue brand’s first show following SummerSlam — set for the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.
The headliner will be Kevin Owens returning to SmackDown for the first time since making his in-ring return this past Sunday at SummerSlam. At the show, Sami Zayn was originally scheduled to face Finn Bálor, but SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis added Gunther, and then a returning Owens, turning the bout into a Fatal 4-Way Match.
Owens’ return caps one of the longest absences of his career. He was sidelined for more than a year due to a serious neck injury that required surgery, which also forced the cancellation of his match against Randy Orton at WrestleMania 41.
Also announced, Charlotte Flair will face Jade Cargill. Their rivalry intensified during the qualifying matches for the Interim WWE Women’s Championship.
Rounding out the show, Chelsea Green will make her first SmackDown appearance as Interim WWE Women’s Champion. She won the title at SummerSlam by outlasting Flair, Cargill, Lash Legend and Tiffany Stratton in a five-way Ladder Match.
So far, the announced card for 8/7 SmackDown includes:
- Charlotte Flair vs. Jade Cargill
- Kevin Owens and CM Punk will appear
- Chelsea Green will appear