WWE SmackDown – August 1, 2025
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The August 1, 2025 episode of SmackDown delivered explosive brawls, a major AAA debut, and John Cena’s shocking babyface return before SummerSlam.
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Read more →The August 1, 2025 edition of WWE SmackDown aired live from the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, serving as the go-home show before the historic two-night SummerSlam 2025.
The stage was dressed in full SummerSlam branding, with pyro spelling out “SummerSlam: Go-Home Night”. Commentary by Michael Cole and Wade Barrett emphasized final tensions, twists, and unmissable matchups.
In a shocking swerve, John Cena opened the show by officially dropping his heel persona and embracing the crowd as the returning hero of WWE. The “Super-Cena” of old was back.
“This isn’t about ego. This is about legacy.” – John Cena
Moments later, Cody Rhodes joined him in the ring. Rather than confrontation, the two shared a beer and nodded in mutual respect—a gesture that both previewed and deepened their Undisputed WWE Title clash at SummerSlam.
Result: Giulia def. Zelina Vega via submission
Giulia’s first televised title defense was a dominant display. Zelina Vega fought with heart and strategy, even targeting Giulia’s knees, but was eventually caught in a punishing submission.
Result: Los Garza def. AAA challengers (Mr. Iguana & Psycho Clown)
For the first time ever, AAA stars officially wrestled on WWE television. The vibrant chaos of masked lucha libre filled the ring, with insane top-rope dives and taunts galore.
Result: Damian Priest def. Aleister Black via pinfall
A grueling, hard-hitting match between two former champions.
Result: Jimmy Uso def. Talla Tonga via Superkick
Representing ongoing Bloodline tension, this Samoan-themed match was physical and emotional.
The main event wasn’t a match—it was an all-out war.
| Match | Stipulation |
|---|---|
| Cody Rhodes vs. John Cena | Undisputed WWE Title – Street Fight |
| Orton & Jelly Roll vs. McIntyre & Logan Paul | Tag Team Match |
| Giulia (c) vs. TBD (Zelina Vega rematch?) | Women’s U.S. Title |
| Los Garza vs. AAA challengers | AAA Tag Titles |
| Priest vs. Black (II?) | Grudge Match teased |
SmackDown (August 1, 2025) balanced history, violence, and cross-promotional spectacle. Cena’s redemption arc, Giulia’s dominance, AAA’s explosive arrival, and tag-team chaos gave fans one of the most eventful go-home shows in years.
It wasn’t just a prelude to SummerSlam—it was an episode that raised the stakes across all fronts.