WWE SmackDown Highlights: September 12, 2025

On September 12, 2025, WWE SmackDown featured a significant buildup to the upcoming Wrestlepalooza event, particularly highlighting the intense rivalry between Brock Lesnar and John Cena. Lesnar opened the show with a confrontation involving R-Truth, who attempted to defend Cena against Lesnar's perceived disrespect. Despite Truth's bravado, Lesnar delivered a brutal F-5, asserting his dominance and setting the tone for his impending match against Cena at Wrestlepalooza on September 20.

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The episode showcased several notable matches:

WWE SmackDown Results: September 12, 2025 Highlights Coverage

• Sami Zayn vs. Rey Fenix: In a highly competitive United States Championship Open Challenge, Sami Zayn retained his title against Rey Fenix. The match featured impressive counters, culminating in Zayn securing victory with a Helluva Kick.

SmackDown results, Sept. 12, 2025: Cody Rhodes returns to challenge Drew McIntyre to Wrestlepalooza title match

• Giulia vs. B-Fab: This match ended in a no-contest when Giulia and Kiana James attacked B-Fab before the match could officially begin. Michin intervened, using a kendo stick to fend off the attackers.

SmackDown results, Sept. 12, 2025: Cody Rhodes returns to challenge Drew McIntyre to Wrestlepalooza title match

• Tiffany Stratton vs. Jade Cargill: The WWE Women's Championship match concluded in a double count-out after both competitors crashed through the ringside barricade. Following the match, Nia Jax made a surprise appearance, attacking both women and signaling her intent to challenge for the title.

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• Drew McIntyre vs. Randy Orton: In the main event, Drew McIntyre defeated Randy Orton with a Claymore Kick. Post-match, Cody Rhodes returned to confront McIntyre, challenging him to a match at Wrestlepalooza, thus reigniting their rivalry.

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Cody Rhodes, upon his return, stated, "I'll see you my friend at Wrestlepalooza!" This announcement not only marked his comeback but also set the stage for a highly anticipated match against McIntyre.

Cody Rhodes Makes Surprise Return To Set Up Wrestlepalooza Match During 9/12 WWE SmackDown

Critics noted that the segment involving R-Truth and Lesnar felt disjointed, with some suggesting that Truth's character development was undermined by the encounter. Observers pointed out that Lesnar's quick dismissal of Truth did not effectively build the narrative leading to Cena's retirement tour.

Brock Lesnar Destroys John Cena's "Younger Brother" On WWE SmackDown – TJR Wrestling

While most sources reported on the main events and matches, there were discrepancies regarding the details of the women's championship match, particularly concerning the aftermath of Nia Jax's attack. Some reports emphasized her intent to challenge for the title, while others focused on the chaos she caused.

SmackDown results, Sept. 12, 2025: Cody Rhodes returns to challenge Drew McIntyre to Wrestlepalooza title match

As WWE prepares for Wrestlepalooza, fans can expect heightened tensions and further developments in the ongoing rivalries, particularly between Lesnar and Cena, as well as the implications of Nia Jax's actions on the women's division.

Sports Illustrated

• “The Beast Incarnate” did not find Cena, instead taking a brief detour through R-Truth. — CBS Sports

CBS Sports

• “Mess with @cmpunk , you mess with AJ Lee!” — WWE Social Media

Sports Illustrated

• “I'll see you my friend at Wrestlepalooza!” — Cody Rhodes

Sports Illustrated

This episode of SmackDown effectively set the stage for Wrestlepalooza, with significant developments in key storylines and character arcs.

Sports Illustrated