The latest episode of WWE SmackDown marked the conclusion of the thrilling quarterfinal matches in the King and Queen of the Ring Tournament. With the highly anticipated premium live event approaching, wrestlers are gearing up to head to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia for the May 25 extravaganza.
Excitement is brewing as WWE prepares to journey to the Middle East next week, bringing about a significant change for SmackDown. As highlighted by WrestleTalk on X/Twitter, the upcoming May 24, 2024 episode of the blue brand will be pre-taped for the US audience. This shift is due to the upcoming Friday Night show being held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Consequently, American fans will be treated to pre-taped matches during the regular broadcast time, given the time zone differences. However, a special arrangement has been made for fans in Saudi Arabia, who will enjoy the episode seven hours earlier.
Similar scheduling adjustments have occurred in the past for SmackDown, such as during WWE Backlash in Lyon, France on May 4, 2024. Despite US viewers receiving updates on the tournament finalists later than Jeddah viewers, this delay only serves to heighten their anticipation.
Rhea Ripley and Randy Orton (Via WWE/Twitter)
Looking ahead to the upcoming WWE SmackDown, two crucial semifinal matches are on the horizon, offering fans more intense showdowns. The clash between Randy Orton and Tama Tonga, as well as Bianca Belair facing off against Nia Jax, promises to be electrifying. The outcome of these matches will shape the path to the finals set to unfold in Saudi Arabia next weekend.
In the midst of these rivalries, Randy Orton, embroiled in a fierce feud with The Bloodline, seeks redemption alongside Kevin Owens. The anticipated battle between Orton and Tonga will reveal whether the Apex Predator can triumph or if Solo Sikoa, the new Bloodline leader, will emerge victorious. On the other hand, Nia Jax’s conflict with Jade Cargill adds another layer of drama, with Cargill’s recent disqualification and subsequent chair attack intensifying the tension.
As RAW also gears up for its own semifinal matches, the stage is set for an action-packed showdown, with Gunther facing Jey Uso and Lyra Valyria taking on former WWE Women’s Champion IYO SKY. The WWE Universe eagerly awaits to see which superstars will advance
