Overview
- PWInsider reports Grace is at Buffalo’s KeyBank Center for Friday Night SmackDown to appear in a pre-taped backstage segment with Cargill and Flair.
- The first SmackDown of 2026 is reported to run three hours, creating added space for featured segments and talent.
- Newsweek reports WWE is elevating multiple NXT performers to strengthen SmackDown following criticism of the show’s quality.
- Former NXT Champion Trick Williams is already listed on SmackDown, with Oba Femi and Je’Von Evans reported as imminent moves and vignettes for Femi airing on main-roster TV.
- WWE programming identified Je’Von Evans as a free agent for either brand, while additional names rumored for call-ups include Sol Ruca, NXT Champion Oba Femi, Joe Hendry, Jacy Jayne, and Wendy Choo.