New Match, Segment Announced For Tonight's WWE Smackdown (January 2, 2026)

A couple of new updates have been announced for tonight's live episode of WWE Friday Night Smackdown.

WWE United States champion Chelsea Green will defend her title against Giulia in a rematch from November when Green beat Giulia to regain the belt.

Also announced for tonight are appearances by Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre, where the latter will reveal the stipulations for their upcoming Three Stages of Hell match that will take place next week on the January 9 episode of Smackdown.

Below is the updated lineup. A previously announced non-title match between Jade Cargill and Michin is unlikely to take place due to Michin's recent injury and WWE is no longer listing it on their preview.

A reminder that beginning with tonight's episode, WWE is expanding Smackdown to three hours until further notice.

  • Drew McIntyre reveals stipulations for Three Stages of Hell match against Cody Rhodes
  • WWE Women’s United States Title Match: Chelsea Green vs. Giulia
  • Ambulance Match:: Damian Priest vs. Aleister Black
  • IYO SKY, Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair & Alexa Bliss vs. Asuka, Kairi Sane, Nia Jax & Lash Legend