On July 3, 2026, WWE’s SmackDown episode featured a title match and a No. 1 contender’s match for the Undisputed WWE Championship, as reported by ESPN. The show, which aired as the fallout from the Night of Champions event, set the stage for key storylines ahead of major upcoming events. The Undisputed WWE Championship match saw Roman Reigns defend his title against Jey Uso, while the No. 1 contender’s match pitted Cody Rhodes against Kevin Owens, according to verified sources.
The title match between Reigns and Uso was a highly anticipated clash, with both Superstars leveraging their in-ring prowess and strategic storytelling. Reigns, the reigning champion, faced off against Uso, who had been positioned as a rising threat following his victory at Night of Champions. The match, which lasted over 20 minutes, included high-flying moves, near-falls, and dramatic moments that kept the audience engaged. According to ESPN, Reigns retained the title after a decisive Superkick and a cover, cementing his dominance in the company.
Key Moments from the Title Match
The title match was marked by intense back-and-forth action, with Uso displaying his resilience and determination. Early in the match, Uso targeted Reigns’ shoulder, a nod to their ongoing rivalry, and executed a series of powerful moves to gain control. However, Reigns’ experience and power proved decisive. At one point, Uso hit a superkick, but Reigns kicked out at the last second, showcasing his trademark durability. The match concluded when Reigns hit a second Superkick and pinned Uso, securing the victory.
“This was a test of wills,” said a source close to the storyline, referencing the buildup to the match. “Reigns proved why he’s the champion, but Uso showed he’s a force to be reckoned with.” The outcome sets up potential future confrontations between the two, with the possibility of a rematch at a major event.
No. 1 Contender’s Match: Rhodes vs. Owens
The No. 1 contender’s match between Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens was another highlight of the episode. Both Superstars entered the match with strong motivations: Rhodes, the former champion, aimed to reclaim his title, while Owens sought to prove his dominance in the current era. The match, which was described as “unrelenting” by WWE analysts, featured a mix of technical wrestling and high-impact moves.
According to a report by WWE.com, Rhodes emerged victorious after a series of strategic strikes and a surprise roll-up. The win positioned Rhodes as the top challenger for the Undisputed WWE Championship, setting up a potential title match at a future event. Owens, who had been a dominant force in recent months, was left frustrated but vowed to return stronger, according to a post-match interview.
“This was a tough loss, but I’ll be back,” Owens said in a statement. “Cody is a great competitor, but I’m not done yet.” The rivalry between Rhodes and Owens is expected to continue, with both Superstars vying for the championship in the coming months.
Other Highlights from the Episode
Aside from the main events, the SmackDown episode featured