Get ready, wrestling fans—WWE SmackDown is rolling into Tulsa, Oklahoma, this Friday, May 1, 2026, and the energy is electric. With WWE Backlash just over a week away, the blue brand is putting the final touches on an already stacked premium live event. From a highly anticipated debut to simmering rivalries, here's everything you need to know before the show hits the airwaves.
When and Where to Watch
No special start time this week—SmackDown airs live at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT on USA Network, originating from the BOK Center in Tulsa. International fans can catch the action on Netflix in major markets like Canada, the UK, Australia, and Mexico, while Peacock subscribers can stream the episode on-demand after it airs.
Ricky Saints Makes His Main Roster Debut
All eyes are on Ricky Saints as the former NXT Champion steps onto the SmackDown stage for the first time. After putting Shiloh Hill over on his way out of NXT, Saints is poised to make an immediate impact. WWE has been building momentum through vignettes, and expectations are high for a star-making showcase. Look for a squash match against an unannounced opponent—the company is clearly serious about giving Saints a grand introduction.
Charlotte Flair vs. Jacy Jayne Heats Up
Last week, Jacy Jayne and her new faction, Fatal Influence, made a memorable—and loud—debut, getting booed out of the building after attacking Charlotte Flair, Alexa Bliss, Brie Bella, and Paige during a Women's Tag Team Championship match. The attack cost Flair and company a title shot, and Flair made it clear backstage: she'll handle Jayne herself this week. Expect plenty of interference from Fatal Influence, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown at Backlash. Jayne is the real deal, and WWE seems committed to pushing her and her trio, so this rivalry is just getting started.
Road to Backlash: What Else Is Brewing?
With three matches already confirmed for Backlash, Friday night could add at least one more. Keep an ear out for updates on CM Punk and Cody Rhodes' simmering program—both superstars are expected to trade words or actions that could escalate into a full-blown feud. And don't forget Jacob Fatu's upcoming title shot against Roman Reigns; the Tribal Chief is never far from the spotlight. The pieces are falling into place, and SmackDown is the perfect launching pad for the final push toward Backlash.
Whether you're tuning in for Ricky Saints' debut, the Charlotte Flair-Jacy Jayne collision, or the bigger picture heading into Backlash, this week's SmackDown promises non-stop action. Grab your favorite WWE gear, settle in, and get ready for a night of high-octane entertainment.