WWE SmackDown is set to deliver another electrifying episode this Friday, July 25, 2025, and all eyes are on “The American Nightmare” Cody Rhodes, who will finally break his silence regarding his highly-anticipated Street Fight against John Cena at SummerSlam.
The WWE Universe was left stunned last week when John Cena shockingly returned to Friday Night SmackDown and challenged Cody Rhodes to a Street Fight at the Biggest Party of the Summer. Cena’s return was not just a nostalgic pop—it was a declaration of war. The sixteen-time World Champion took exception to Cody calling himself “the face of this era,” and in typical Cena fashion, he challenged Cody to prove it in one of the most brutal match types WWE has to offer: a Street Fight.
Cody, who recently concluded a heated rivalry with Solo Sikoa and The Bloodline, now finds himself in uncharted waters. While he has overcome legends and top-tier superstars before, a war with John Cena on such a high-profile stage will test not just his physical limits—but his legacy. Rhodes has promised to “finish the story,” but Cena might just be the last chapter he didn’t see coming.
This Friday, Cody will be live on SmackDown to address the WWE Universe—and Cena himself. Will he accept the Street Fight stipulation formally? What message will he send to the man many still call the G.O.A.T.? The tension is palpable, and fans can expect fireworks when Rhodes takes the mic.
SmackDown will also feature the fallout from last week’s explosive main event, where Kevin Owens and LA Knight stood tall against The Judgment Day. With SummerSlam less than two weeks away, rivalries are intensifying and unexpected alliances are forming.
Also scheduled for SmackDown:
Bayley responds to IYO SKY’s shocking betrayal after their backstage confrontation.
Logan Paul returns with an “impromptu” episode of Impaulsive TV—but who will be his surprise guest?
A No. 1 Contender’s match for the Intercontinental Championship featuring Santos Escobar, Chad Gable, and Grayson Waller.
And the growing tension between Bobby Lashley and Karrion Kross will come to a head in a contract signing.
But the night will belong to Cody Rhodes, whose words could shape not just his own path—but the future of WWE. Will he rise to Cena’s challenge? Or will the pressure of the moment rattle the dreams he’s worked so hard to realize?
Don’t miss SmackDown, this Friday at 8/7c on FOX.
