WWE SmackDown’s October 31 episode promises intense drama and high-stakes action, taking place at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. With the Undisputed WWE Championship match between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre set for the next night on Saturday Night’s Main Event (SNME), the Friday show serves as the crucial go-home event where tensions will boil over and storylines reach pivotal climaxes.
Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre Face Off Before Championship Clash
The centerpiece of this week’s SmackDown will undoubtedly be the face-to-face confrontation between Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes and challenger Drew McIntyre. This encounter provides fans with a rare, electric build-up to their title match on SNME November 1.
According to sources close to WWE, backstage buzz suggests that both Rhodes and McIntyre are “fully locked in and intensely motivated,” making this SmackDown encounter even more personal than usual. One WWE insider revealed, “The showdown is not just about the belt—it’s about pride and legacy. Expect the atmosphere to be charged with palpable tension.”
Women’s Division Sees Dramatic Developments: Tiffany Stratton’s Title Status Uncertain
The SmackDown women’s division is on edge following a shocking incident involving WWE Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton and tag partner-turned-foe Jade Cargill. During a harrowing attack on last week’s episode, Cargill left Stratton injured, leading to increasing speculation that Stratton might be forced to vacate her title due to the severity of her injury.
WWE General Manager Nick Aldis is expected to address this situation during Friday’s show, possibly setting the stage for a major shakeup in the women’s championship picture. If Stratton does relinquish her title, it paves the way for Jade Cargill to establish herself as a dominant heel champion. Fans can expect emotional moments and dramatic confrontations that will redefine rivalries heading into SNME.
Other Highlighted Matches and Star Appearances
Beyond the Rhodes-McIntyre storyline and women’s division turmoil, October 31 SmackDown features several exciting bouts to entertain fans:
Alexa Bliss vs. Nia Jax: A grudge match fueled by personal animosity, Bliss and Jax’s confrontation stems from weeks of heated exchanges, making their matchup deeply personal and fiercely competitive.
Carmelo Hayes vs. Kit Wilson: This bout will showcase rising talents battling for momentum ahead of the upcoming premium live event.
WWE United States Title Open Challenge: Current US Champion Ilja Dragunov will defend against a mystery challenger, adding an element of surprise to the lineup.
Additionally, top stars such as Sami Zayn, Randy Orton, Jacob Fatu, and Chelsea Green are confirmed for appearances, ensuring high-caliber in-ring and storyline action throughout the show.
WWE SmackDown’s Halloween Night Festivities at Delta Center
The October 31 event doubles as a Halloween-themed episode, adding a festive ambiance to the night’s intense wrestling drama. The Delta Center, located in Salt Lake City, is ready to host this star-studded edition, welcoming passionate WWE fans for a night full of thrills, suspense, and high-energy performances.
Event organizers have notified attendees about the security protocols, including restrictions on bag sizes to ensure a smooth and safe experience. Clutches and small bags are allowed, but larger bags are prohibited inside the venue.
Building Momentum Ahead of SNME: The Importance of October 31 SmackDown
This episode is critical, serving as the final major platform to set the tone before Saturday Night’s Main Event on November 1. Stars involved in key matches on SNME will use this show to amplify their storylines and final confrontations. The October 31 SmackDown acts as a narrative launchpad and a tension cooker, ensuring that viewers will be fully invested by the weekend’s marquee event.
One WWE creative team member shared insight, saying, “We want this show to feel like the last piece of the puzzle before SNME. Every promo, every stare-down, every match has to elevate the stakes — and we’re confident the roster is ready to deliver.”
Final Thoughts
Fans should mark their calendars as WWE SmackDown on October 31 promises a blend of championship implications, intense rivalries, and surprise moments all woven into a Halloween-themed spectacle. From Cody Rhodes’ crucial encounter with Drew McIntyre to the unfolding drama in the women’s division and several other highly anticipated matches, this episode is shaping up to be an unmissable night that will set the course for what’s to come at SNME.
With a star-packed lineup and storylines converging at a crucial crossroads, WWE SmackDown is poised to deliver the perfect prelude to one of the biggest nights of the wrestling calendar.