LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 16: Damian Priest gets angry during SmackDown at OVO Arena Wembley on January 16, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Andre Timms/WWE via Getty Images)
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WWE SmackDown originated from Montreal,kicking off an eight-day run leading to key events. The show served as the final build to Saturday Night’s Main Event on January 24th. Following that, WWE presents Raw on January 26th, culminating in the Royal Rumble in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia at the end of the month.
SmackDown Highlights: January 16, 2026
This episode delivered several key developments, including a new addition to Saturday Night’s Main Event, continued build-up for the No. 1 contenders match, and storylines advancing towards the Royal Rumble.
new Match Announced for Saturday Night’s Main Event
A match between Kevin Owens and Solo Sikoa was added to the Saturday Night’s Main Event card. This contest promises to be a hard-hitting affair, adding another layer of excitement to the event.
Undisputed WWE Championship Contendership
The build continued for the match that will determine who challenges Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship. Randy Orton defeated shinsuke Nakamura in a singles match, furthering his claim to a title shot. The intensity is rising as Orton and Nakamura prepare for their upcoming clash.
Other Notable Moments
- Bayley secured a victory over Piper Niven, solidifying her position in the women’s division.
- The Judgment Day continued their dominance, showcasing their power and influence.
- Several wrestlers began positioning themselves for potential opportunities at the Royal Rumble.
Looking Ahead
With Saturday Night’s Main Event and Raw on the horizon,WWE is rapidly building momentum towards the Royal Rumble. Expect further developments in the championship picture and potential surprises as the road to Riyadh unfolds.
Key Takeaways
- Kevin Owens vs. Solo Sikoa added to Saturday Night’s Main Event.
- Randy Orton defeated Shinsuke Nakamura,advancing his championship aspirations.
- Bayley won against Piper Niven.
- The Royal Rumble is fast approaching, promising significant storylines and potential game-changers.
