WWE Revamps Women’s U.S. Title Plans, Introduces SmackDown Tag Match
WWE altered Friday’s SmackDown card at the last minute. The show will air from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Jordynne Grace will face Tiffany Stratton. The bout is a number one contender’s match for the Women’s United States Championship.
That decision removes the previously advertised title defense involving champion Giulia. WWE officials confirmed the swap ahead of the broadcast.
Promoters also added a tag encounter. Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss will team against Bayley and Lyra Valkyria.
All four participants are scheduled for the Women’s Tag Team Championship fatal four-way at WrestleMania 42. The tag match offers a final preview before the pay-per-view.
SmackDown lineup — 4/17/2026
- Women’s U.S. Championship #1 contender match: Jordynne Grace vs. Tiffany Stratton
- Charlotte Flair & Alexa Bliss vs. Lyra Valkyria & Bayley
- Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal
- Street fight: The Wyatt Sicks vs. MFTs
- Cody Rhodes addresses Randy Orton and Pat McAfee
- Jacob Fatu responds to Drew McIntyre
Context and implications
The change shifts the immediate title picture ahead of WrestleMania 42. It also gives Stratton a new path to the belt.
The booking tweak highlights WWE Revamps Women’s U.S. Title Plans, Introduces SmackDown Tag Match during the final build. Fans will watch closely for fallout.
Filmogaz.com will monitor developments and report any further card adjustments. Expect additional updates as the weekend progresses.
