This week’s episode of WWE SmackDown will be held at the Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina. The build to Clash in Italy begins, with Cody Rhodes set to address Gunther‘s challenge for the Premium Live Event in Turin.
Last week on SmackDown, The Ring General made his switch to the blue brand official after Paul Heyman fulfilled his end of their bargain. Gunther took out Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 42, and now he gets a shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship.
Rhodes has already signed a contract for the match, with The Career Killer likely making it official in tonight’s episode. Things have been heated between the two megastars, especially after Gunther’s sneak attack on the May 1 episode of SmackDown.
Jade Cargill’s Championship Pursuit
GettyJade Cargill (L) and Rhea Ripley fight during their WWE Women’s Championship match during WrestleMania 42 at Allegiant Stadium on April 19, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Just when it looked like Jacy Jayne was the first challenger for Rhea Ripley‘s WWE Women’s Championship, Jade Cargill returned to SmackDown last week. Cargill, along with Michin and B-Fab, attacked Ripley, Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair after their loss to Fatal Influence in a six-woman tag team match.
Cargill’s appearance means that she’s now going for a rematch against Ripley, though Jayne’s successful stint since making her main roster debut could pivot plans.
According to WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select, the reaction to Jayne, Fallon Henley and Lainey made the creative pivot their plans for Fatal Influence. The group is reportedly expected to be featured more on SmackDown moving forward.
Before Clash in Italy on May 31, Saturday Night’s Main Event is set to take place on May 23 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Maybe Jayne gets a shot at Ripley before Cargill faces the winner in Turin.
Trick Williams’ Homecoming
GettyTrick Williams celebrates after defeating Sami Zayn during the United States Championship match during WrestleMania 42 at Allegiant Stadium on April 19, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
At WWE Backlash, Trick Williams successfully defended the United States Championship against Sami Zayn. Williams had some help from Lil Yachty, who caused enough distraction to allow the reigning champion to hit the Trick Shot on Zayn for the victory.
With tonight’s episode live in Williams’ hometown, he’s expected to receive a thunderous ovation. It won’t be surprising if Zayn interrupts the champion’s homecoming and continues their feud.
However, Zayn is 0-2 against Williams since WrestleMania 42, so it might be time for the champ to entertain a new challenger. There’s plenty to choose from, like Carmelo Hayes, Ilja Dragunov, Royce Keys and Ricky Saints, among others.
Royce Keys and The MFTs
Since Jacob Fatu took out Tonga Loa and JC Mateo, who were released by WWE afterward, Solo Sikoa has been trying to recruit Royce Keys to The MFTs.
Sikoa’s pitch isn’t quite convincing, especially after Keys defeated Tama Tonga last week on SmackDown. Tonga’s storyline with Sikoa and Talla Tonga could heat up, especially after Shinsuke Nakamura entered the mix last week.
Just when it looked like the two former NJPW stars’ story was over without explanation, it seemed like it’s now back on track.
Like HEAVY’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on HEAVY
The post WWE SmackDown Preview: Build to Clash in Italy and More for May 15, 2026 appeared first on HEAVY.