The excitement is palpable as WWE brings its action-packed SmackDown show to London, England, this Friday, January 16, 2026. The OVO Arena Wembley will be buzzing with anticipation as the company announces a thrilling tournament to determine the next WWE Champion. But here's where it gets intriguing: a title match will also take place, adding an extra layer of drama to the evening.
The tournament, a showcase of talent, will see four intense matches in the opening round. Sami Zayn and Ilja Dragunov will collide, Randy Orton faces The Miz, Damian Priest takes on Solo Sikoa, and Matt Cardona battles Trick Williams. These matches will determine who steps into the ring at the Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia on January 31, aiming to challenge for the coveted WWE Championship.
However, the real surprise comes with the announcement of an additional title match. Carmelo Hayes, the current United States Champion, will defend his title in an open challenge. The anticipation builds as fans wonder who will answer the call from the UK. Will it be a local hero stepping up to the plate? The pressure is on for Hayes, who has already successfully defended the title against Johnny Gargano and Shinsuke Nakamura.
Adding to the excitement, the new WWE Champion, Drew McIntyre, will also grace the stage. The live audience in London will undoubtedly cheer him on as he celebrates his title win and taunts Cody Rhodes, the defeated champion. The question lingers: what will McIntyre say during his first TV appearance as the new champion? Will he rub his victory in Rhodes' face, or will he show sportsmanship?
The stage is set for an unforgettable night of wrestling in London. Will Carmelo Hayes lose the United States Championship to a UK wrestler? What insights will Drew McIntyre share as the new champion? The comments section awaits your thoughts, Cagesiders! Get ready for a thrilling showdown that will keep the wrestling world on the edge of their seats.
