WWE SmackDown – August 1, 2025
4 min read
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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The August 1, 2025 episode of SmackDown delivered explosive brawls, a major AAA debut, and John Cena’s shocking babyface return before SummerSlam.
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.
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