WWE SmackDown Results: London Calling Sets Stage for Royal Rumble Showdowns
OVO Arena Wembley, London, England – January 16, 2026
Results by: Alex Kahrs of Wrestleview.com
WWE delivered a compelling edition of SmackDown from London, England, building anticipation for upcoming matches and solidifying storylines heading into the Royal Rumble. The night featured championship implications, shocking confrontations, and the continued evolution of several key feuds.
The show opened with competitors arriving for qualifying matches to determine who will challenge Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship at the Royal Rumble. Commentary noted the absence of Wade Barrett from the broadcast team.
A video package recapped Drew McIntyre’s victory over the previous week in a 3 Stages of Hell Match against a returning Jacob Fatu, a result that saw McIntyre claim the Undisputed WWE Championship.
McIntyre’s arrival was met with a thunderous ovation from the London crowd. The newly crowned champion expressed gratitude for the support, acknowledging a difficult period for WWE fans in the UK. However, he quickly shifted tone, dismissing the crowd’s adoration and taking aim at those who supported CM punk and Jey Uso in the past, as well as those he felt doubted him during previous setbacks. McIntyre emphatically declared the end of “the era of Vanilla QB1” and the begining of a new, unpredictable reign.
Randy Orton interrupted McIntyre, stating he wasn’t there to offer congratulations. Orton reminded McIntyre of a past opportunity to inflict serious damage, which he declined, but warned that he wouldn’t hesitate to deliver an RKO if the opportunity presented itself.
The confrontation was promptly escalated by the unexpected arrival of Jacob Fatu, who shoved McIntyre, sending the champion to the outside. Before Orton could capitalize, The Miz blindsided him with a Skull Crushing Finale, setting the stage for their qualifying match.
Randy Orton Defeats The Miz in a Royal Rumble Qualifying Match
The ensuing qualifying match saw Orton and The Miz engage in a physical battle. After a back-and-forth contest that spilled to the outside, Orton ultimately prevailed, defeating The Miz with an RKO, earning his place in the Saturday Night’s Main Event match.
Dragunov Challenges, Solo Sikoa’s Lantern, and Women’s Division Developments
Backstage, Ilja Dragunov confronted McIntyre, expressing his desire to face Sami Zayn to earn a shot at the WWE title, prompting a dismissive response from the champion.
A video package highlighted Solo Sikoa’s theft of Uncle howdy’s lantern last week, a storyline element continuing to build intrigue.
The women’s division saw continued tension between Alexa Bliss, Charlotte Flair, Nia Jax, and lash Legend. Flair expressed concern over Jax’s recent actions,while Jax and Legend dismissed flair’s concerns. This led to a tag team match.
Charlotte Flair & Alexa Bliss Defeat Giulia & Kiana James
Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss secured a victory over Giulia and Kiana James in a tag team contest. The match was punctuated by interference and near falls, with bliss ultimately securing the win with a Sister abigail. Following the match, Nia Jax and Lash Legend attacked Flair and Bliss, but were interrupted by Giulia, leading to a potential future confrontation.
Cody Rhodes Announces Royal rumble Entry, Confrontation with Jacob Fatu
Cody Rhodes addressed the London crowd, acknowledging the mixed reaction following his recent events. He discussed his history with the WWE Championship and announced his official entry into the 2026 Royal Rumble, declaring his intention to pursue a three-peat victory. Rhodes also issued a challenge to Jacob Fatu, promising a receipt for Fatu’s interference.
A backstage segment featured Matt Cardona discussing his history with Drew McIntyre and his desire to win the WWE Championship.
Trick Williams Defeats Matt Cardona in a Royal Rumble Qualifying Match
Trick Williams defeated Matt Cardona in another Royal Rumble qualifying match, showcasing his athleticism and securing his spot in the Saturday Night’s Main event match. Following the match, Kit Wilson confronted Cardona, leading to an attack by Wilson.
Damian Priest Advances After Chaotic Confrontation with Solo Sikoa
Damian Priest emerged victorious over Solo sikoa in a chaotic qualifying match.The match was marred by interference from both The Judgment Day and the Wyatt Sicks, culminating in a South of Heaven from Priest after a power outage and the intervention of the Wyatt Sicks.
Carmelo Hayes Retains United States Championship Against Leon Slater
Carmelo Hayes successfully defended his United States Championship against TNA X-Division Champion Leon Slater in an open challenge. The match was a competitive affair, with Hayes ultimately securing the victory with a First 48. Following the match, Shinsuke Nakamura confronted Hayes, hinting at a future challenge.
Jordynne Grace Defeats Chelsea Green
Jordynne Grace defeated Chelsea Green in singles competition.The match saw interference from Jade Cargill, setting up a potential rivalry between the two.
Sami Zayn Defeats Ilja Dragunov in a Royal Rumble Qualifying Match
In the main event, Sami Zayn defeated Ilja Dragunov in a hard-fought qualifying match. The match was a physical and emotional contest, with zayn ultimately securing the victory with a Helluva Kick. However, the celebration was short-lived as Trick Williams attacked Zayn from behind, ending the show on a defiant note.
Saturday Night’s Main Event Match Card:
* Randy Orton vs. Trick Williams vs. Damian Priest vs. Sami Zayn – No. 1 Contender to the Undisputed WWE Championship
This edition of SmackDown successfully built momentum towards the Royal Rumble, establishing key storylines and setting the stage for exciting confrontations in the weeks to come.
