Spoiler: RAW Star Backstage for October 3, 2025 SmackDown in Cincinnati

WWE SmackDown is going down tonight, October 3, from Cincinnati—and it’s coming packed with big names, big matches, and one surprise that could set the stage for a major showdown at Crown Jewel. Stephanie Vaquer has been spotted in the city ahead of tonight’s episode, making it very likely that the Women’s World Champion will confront Tiffany Stratton face-to-face.

After surviving a brutal Triple Threat Match last week against Nia Jax and Jade Cargill, Stratton is set to cut a promo tonight. With Vaquer now confirmed to be in town, WWE may not wait until Crown Jewel to let these two throw verbal shots.

Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton are also set to team up tonight in tag action against Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker. This pairing comes after Orton saved Rhodes from The Vision last week. With tension building fast, the crowd will be watching closely to see if they can function as a team or implode under pressure.

The United States Championship will be on the line again as Sami Zayn continues his Open Challenge series. Last week, he went to war with NXT’s Je’Von Evans in a show-stealing match, and fans are hoping for another barnburner tonight. The challenger has yet to be announced, but Zayn’s track record promises action no matter who steps up.

Damian Priest will also be competing tonight, continuing his destructive path since losing to Aleister Black. WWE hasn’t announced his opponent yet, but the “Archer of Infamy” has made it clear he’s not here to play games.

Confirmed rundown for tonight’s SmackDown:

• Cody Rhodes & Randy Orton vs. Bronson Reed & Bron Breakker
• Sami Zayn’s United States Open Challenge
• Tiffany Stratton promo
• Damian Priest in action
• Possible appearance by Stephanie Vaquer

With Crown Jewel right around the corner, all signs point to tonight being a major turning point—especially if Stephanie Vaquer does show up. If she confronts Stratton live on SmackDown, WWE fans could witness the spark that ignites their champion vs. champion collision.

Be sure to tune in live and follow along with Ringside News for full play-by-play coverage over in our SmackDown results section.

Will Stephanie Vaquer show up and confront Tiffany Stratton live tonight? And who do you want to see answer Sami Zayn’s open challenge? Drop your thoughts below and let us know what you’re watching for.