Story perspectives

Ripley Retains, Williams Captures US Title, Fatu Wins

4/25/2026

Summary

Rhea Ripley Retains

Rhea Ripley retained the WWE Women’s Championship by defeating Jayce Jane on post-WrestleMania SmackDown.
Trick Williams captured the WWE United States Championship, then was immediately attacked by Sami Zayn.
Jacob Fatu defeated Solo Sikoa in the main event despite MFT interference.
Giulia won the WWE Women’s United States Championship from Tiffany Stratton.
R-Truth and Damian Priest retained the WWE World Tag Team titles against Tama Tonga and JC Mateo.

Summary

Fatu Triumphs

Fatu beat Solo Sikoa without The Usos' help and rejected their offer to back him, highlighting family tension.
Fatal Influence debuted on SmackDown, assaulting veterans and causing matches to end in no-contests.
Cody Rhodes warned rivals they are 0-3 against him and to stay out of his business.
Ricky Saints will debut next week on SmackDown, expanding the roster.
Vignettes for Royce Keys and Blake Monroe aired, teasing upcoming feuds.

Summary

Reigns vs Fatu

WWE’s TV tour moves stop from Fort Worth to Laredo on Monday, with Roman Reigns set to face Jacob Fatu.
Veteran combat-sports journalist Mario Mungia now covers WWE for FightsATW.
Trick Williams’ celebration featured Lil Yachty and a Gingerbread Man mascot, which Sami Zayn attacked with a prop, turning the segment into a catalyst.
Fatal Influence’s debut interference introduced NXT talent Jacy Jayne to SmackDown while Ricky Saints is set to debut next Friday.

History

Historical Context

After WWE doubled its roster by buying WCW and ECW, the company launched the first brand split on March 25 2002, drafting 60 wrestlers into Raw and SmackDown. The split ran until 2011, was revived in 2016, and established brand-exclusive storylines that boost ratings. Today, SmackDown’s Trick Williams winning the United States title continues that legacy.

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Rhea Ripley Retains

Rhea Ripley retained the WWE Women’s Championship by defeating Jayce Jane on post-WrestleMania SmackDown.
Trick Williams captured the WWE United States Championship, then was immediately attacked by Sami Zayn.
Jacob Fatu defeated Solo Sikoa in the main event despite MFT interference.
Giulia won the WWE Women’s United States Championship from Tiffany Stratton.
R-Truth and Damian Priest retained the WWE World Tag Team titles against Tama Tonga and JC Mateo.

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