Subhojeet Mukherjee on May 8, 2026
WWE just loaded up the final episode of WWE SmackDown before Backlash with two more major additions only hours before the show goes live.
The May 8 edition of SmackDown was already shaping up to be a packed go-home show from the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, Florida.
Previously announced for the episode was an appearance from GUNTHER following his brutal attack on Cody Rhodes last week, along with a Women’s United States Championship match between Tiffany Stratton and Kiana James.
The show also features Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair, and Alexa Bliss teaming up against Fatal Influence, plus the bizarre funeral segment for the Gingerbread Man following last week’s destruction at the hands of Sami Zayn.
Now WWE has added even more to the card. Just hours before SmackDown airs, WWE officially announced that Jacob Fatu will open the show. The timing is notable because Fatu is currently set to challenge Roman Reigns for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at Backlash, making this his final major appearance before the premium live event.
WWE also confirmed another new match for the broadcast involving one-half of the WWE Tag Team Champions. Damian Priest is now scheduled to go one-on-one with Talla Tonga in what could easily turn into chaos given the ongoing faction tensions surrounding Solo Sikoa’s group.
The additions make it clear WWE is trying to stack the final SmackDown before Backlash with as many storyline-heavy segments as possible, especially with several major feuds entering their final stretch before the weekend event.
Bottom line — WWE didn’t wait until the show started to throw in some last-minute hype. Jacob Fatu is now opening SmackDown ahead of his title clash with Roman Reigns, Damian Priest is stepping into the ring against Talla Tonga, and the go-home episode for Backlash suddenly feels a lot more loaded than it already did.
WWE SmackDown May 8, 2026 Full Card
- GUNTHER Appears
- Women’s United States Championship: Tiffany Stratton (c) vs. Kiana James
- Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair & Alexa Bliss vs. Fatal Influence
- Funeral for the Gingerbread Man
- Jacob Fatu Appearance
- Damian Priest vs. Talla Tonga
What are you most looking forward to on tonight’s SmackDown heading into Backlash? Drop your thoughts below and let us know.
Ringside News will have full live coverage of WWE SmackDown, including match results, major moments, and any surprises that unfold during the show, so be sure to join Ringside for updates throughout the night
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