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'WWE SmackDown' Live Results: Cody Rhodes Addresses John Cena Before MITB, Major Hometown Return

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Fernando Quiles Jr. | Last updated May 30, 2025 9:08 PM ET

As the clock winds down to "Money in the Bank 2025," WWE is set to air the penultimate episode of "SmackDown."

Friday's live episode will feature two qualifiers for the MITB ladder match set for June 7. WWE's biggest star of the present will once again confront the company's top ace of the past. "Friday Night SmackDown" will also feature the return of one prominent talent, who has been out of action since "WrestleMania 41."

Following Cody Rhodes' shocking appearance at the conclusion of "Saturday Night's Main Event," the former Undisputed WWE Champion is back on the blue brand. He is set to address John Cena ahead of MITB, where the two will collide in tag team action.

TONIGHT on #SmackDown:

The American Nightmare @CodyRhodes and The Undisputed WWE Champion @JohnCena face-to-face following the events of #WrestleMania and #SNME...

8ET/7CT on @USANetwork pic.twitter.com/t4tPaAwrG2
— WWE (@WWE) May 30, 2025

In a men's triple threat MITB qualifier, WWE United States Champion Jacob Fatu will look to add another distinction to his resume. He'll share the ring with Carmelo Hayes and Andrade.

TONIGHT on #SmackDown:

United States Champion Jacob Fatu, @AndradeElIdolo and @Carmelo_WWE will go to war in a #MITB Triple Threat Qualifying Match!

8ET/7CT on @USANetwork pic.twitter.com/liPlfJGV3n
— WWE (@WWE) May 30, 2025

Three superstars will also be vying for a spot in the women's MITB match. Fierce rivals Jade Cargill and Naomi will collide with Nia Jax in triple threat action. Who will punch their ticket to WWE's most important ladder match of the year?

TONIGHT on #SmackDown:@Jade_Cargill, Nia Jax and @TheTrinity_Fatu will battle in a highly personal #MITB Triple Threat Qualifying Match!

8ET/7CT on @USANetwork pic.twitter.com/XVY2jS5Lsz
— WWE (@WWE) May 30, 2025

That's not all, as a former multi-time world champion is set to make her return. After suffering a hand injury in her heavily praised triple threat match against Iyo Sky and Rhea Ripley at "WrestleMania," Bianca Belair makes her way back to a WWE ring in her hometown.

TONIGHT on #SmackDown:

The EST has an ETA as @BiancaBelairWWE is set to return to her hometown of Knoxville, TN!

8ET/7CT on @USANetwork pic.twitter.com/dbEIdRrknw
— WWE (@WWE) May 30, 2025

"WWE SmackDown" will air live on USA Network at 8 p.m. ET. Athlon Sports will be bringing you live coverage throughout the show.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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