WWE SmackDown Preview: May 16, 2025 – Charlotte Flair’s Return and More
According to a recent report from CageSide Seats, tonight’s episode of SmackDown, which airs live from the Greensboro Coliseum in Greensboro, North Carolina, promises to be an exciting one. This week’s show marks the beginning of the four-week build-up to Money in the Bank, which is set to take place on June 7.
As noted by CageSide Seats, Charlotte Flair’s return to SmackDown last week was met with a negative reaction from the fans. The Queen’s insecurities were on full display as she made excuses for her loss to Tiffany Stratton at WrestleMania 41 and proclaimed her superiority over every other wrestler in WWE history. However, this approach only seemed to anger the fans, who booed her out of the ring. CageSide Seats reports that Flair responded to the boos by throwing a tantrum, threatening to walk out of the building.
CageSide Seats states that Flair’s night didn’t get any better as she ran into Jade Cargill on her way out, leading to some heated trash talk. This confrontation is likely leading to a match between the two at some point. Flair also crossed paths with Alexa Bliss, who seemed more friendly and open to chatting. As per CageSide Seats, it’s unclear what Flair will do tonight, but it’s possible she may address her chat with Alexa or try to repeat her failed approach from last week.
CageSide Seats also highlights several other storylines to keep an eye on during tonight’s SmackDown. Cody Rhodes, who has yet to appear on Raw or SmackDown since losing the WWE championship to John Cena at WrestleMania 41, is listed on WWE’s website for this week’s show. As CageSide Seats notes, it’s unclear what Rhodes’ plans are, but it’s possible he may issue a challenge for a rematch or a tag team match against Cena and Travis Scott at Money in the Bank.
Additionally, CageSide Seats reports that R-Truth is still supporting John Cena despite Cena putting him through a table at the post-Backlash press conference. It’s unclear how long Truth will continue to support his childhood hero, or if Randy Orton will seek revenge against Cena for screwing him at Backlash. CageSide Seats also notes that Nia Jax is the new number one contender to WWE Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton, and it’s possible GM Nick Aldis may announce a date for their title match tonight.
Other storylines to watch, according to CageSide Seats, include the feud between Naomi and Jade Cargill, who both want to win the top title on the blue brand. CageSide Seats also mentions that Jacob Fatu is still the United States champion after Solo Sikoa brought in Jeff Cobb to help him win the 4-way US title match at Backlash. It’s unclear what Fatu’s plans are, but it’s possible he may take on Cobb tonight.
CageSide Seats also notes that Damian Priest made a statement in the 4-way match by taking out Drew McIntyre with a massive South of Heaven through a table. As per CageSide Seats, it’s unclear if McIntyre is ready to return to television and seek revenge. Furthermore, CageSide Seats reports that Chelsea Green hasn’t done much to prove she deserves a rematch after losing the women’s United States championship to Zelina Vega, and it’s possible she may set her sights on winning the women’s Money in the Bank ladder match.
In related news, CageSide Seats states that Aleister Black is looking to move on from The Miz and Carmelo Hayes after beating them in separate singles matches. However, it’s unclear if Black is satisfied with his recent wins. CageSide Seats also notes that Santos Escobar’s reaction to Humberto’s defiance last week is unknown, and it’s possible Legado del Fantasma may be on the verge of falling apart.
As reported by CageSide Seats, Fraxiom took advantage of the Street Profits’ weakened state to score a win over the WWE tag team champions last week. According to CageSide Seats, it looks like DIY is up next for SmackDown’s new hot team after last week’s backstage attack. Finally, CageSide Seats asks, "Where are the Wyatt Sicks?"
In conclusion, as reported by CageSide Seats, tonight’s SmackDown promises to be an exciting episode with several storylines and matches to look out for. Fans will have to tune in to see what happens.
