The first episode of SmackDown in 2023 will be broadcast live from the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tennessee. A championship match and a Royal Rumble qualifier are amongst the announced matches due to take place.
Sheamus and Drew McIntyre hope to bring the record setting Tag Team Title reign of The Usos to an end. After McIntyre being initially medically disqualified from the match back in 2022, The Scottish Warrior and Brawling Brute will challenge the champions with the title on the line on the show.
The December 30th SmackDown saw Charlotte Flair shockingly return to the blue brand and defeat Ronda Rousey to become the new SmackDown Women’s Champion. A welcome back segment for The Queen is scheduled to take place on the show.
A second name will qualify for the Royal Rumble match. Following Kofi Kingston being the first WWE Superstar announced for the iconic match, Ricochet and Top Dolla will compete in singles action on SmackDown. The winner will confirm their place in the Men’s Royal Rumble match.
The following matches and segments have been announced to take place on SmackDown:
- The Usos (c) vs. Sheamus and Drew McIntyre – Tag Team match for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships
- SmackDown to welcome back Charlotte Flair
- Ricochet vs. Top Dolla – Royal Rumble qualifying match
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