WWE SmackDown Review: Jake Barnett on Wade Keller Pro Wrestling Post-Show

The May 1, 2026, edition of WWE SmackDown, broadcast from the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, was highlighted by the return of Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes and the debut of Ricky Saints. The event, simulcast on USA Network and Netflix, served as a primary buildup toward the upcoming WWE Backlash event scheduled for May in Tampa, Florida.

Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes faced Ricky Saints in a match that marked the former NXT star’s first major test on the blue brand. Rhodes emerged victorious from the contest, but the celebration was short-lived. Following the match, Gunther targeted the champion, launching an attack that established Gunther’s intentions to pursue the Undisputed WWE Championship.

Women’s Division Clashes and Title Action

The women’s division featured a high-stakes match for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles. The team of Paige and Brie Bella faced off against Nia Jax and Lash Legend. This match occurred amid the ongoing presence of the group Fatal Influence, led by Jacy Jayne, who had previously targeted several top stars including Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair, Alexa Bliss, Brie Bella, and Paige.

In a separate singles match, Charlotte Flair sought revenge against Jacy Jayne. The bout followed a previous encounter where Fatal Influence had laid waste to Flair and other competitors during a tag title match. The rivalry continues to center on the disruptive impact of Jayne’s faction on the SmackDown women’s roster.

Bloodline Dynamics and Roster Updates

The episode opened with a video package recapping events from the previous Monday Night Raw, specifically focusing on the interactions between Roman Reigns and Jacob Fatu. The tension surrounding the Bloodline remains a central narrative, with the relationship between the Usos and Solo Sikoa continuing to be a point of analysis for industry experts, including Jake Barnett of Pro Wrestling Dot Net during the Wade Keller Pro Wrestling Post-Show.

Beyond the in-ring action, reports indicated a shift in the broadcast format for the brand. While SmackDown has operated as a three-hour show in recent months, it is expected to return to a two-hour format this summer.

Event Details and Attendance

The event was called by commentators Joe Tessitore and Wade Barrett, with Mark Nash serving as the ring announcer. Regarding attendance at the BOK Center, WrestleTix reported that 6,007 tickets had been distributed leading into the show. The arena was configured for a capacity of 7,270 for the event, though its maximum concert capacity is 19,199.

The May 1 episode solidified several key matchups and rivalries heading into the next Premium Live Event, emphasizing the transition of NXT talent to the main roster and the volatile state of the WWE championship picture.