Top SmackDown News & Rumors: Multi-time champion set to retire soon, Cody Rhodes' next opponent, Did former Universal Champion go to rehab?
Welcome to yet another edition of the top SmackDown backstage rumors and news stories that could have a major impact on the blue brand's future. In today's edition, we will take a look at some splendid stories revolving around top superstars such as WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, Kevin Owens, and Solo Sikoa.
Solo Sikoa seems to have become the center of attention on SmackDown ever since Roman Reigns took a leave. Sikoa has remodeled The Bloodline and added new members. The Street Champion could be set for another big push, as per the latest reports.
So without further ado, let's take a look at the top SmackDown news and rumors:
#1. Solo Sikoa could be set to face Cody Rhodes
Solo Sikoa along with his new Bloodline, has become one of the most dominant forces on SmackDown. The Tribal Hier has disregarded everything Roman Reigns built and has been running roughshod on the blue brand, completely ignoring the advice given to him by Paul Heyman as well.
A few weeks ago, Solo mentioned that he was keeping Cody Rhodes in check without him even knowing. This wasn't an empty suggestion, as Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer has noted that WWE is planning a ''big destination match'' for Sikoa and the Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes.
#2. Was SmackDown star Kevin Owens put in rehab?
In a recent episode of Vince Russo’s The Brand podcast, wrestling veteran Bin Hamin expressed his opinion that WWE had placed Owens on a rehabilitation program due to the star being in peak physical condition after losing weight. Hamin also suggested that Owens could benefit from further weight loss, as he felt the former Universal Champion had faced challenges in this area.
"I think Kevin Owens is getting it [rehab for weight loss] because this was probably close to one of the best in-shapeeKevin Owens we've had. I hope he can drop his last 20 or 30 pounds because I know he struggles with it," he said.
Kevin Owens has become one of the top babyfaces on SmackDown lately, and his never-ending feud with The Bloodline continues this week as he is set to take on Solo Sikoa. Despite getting in great in-ring shape, Owens has not held a World Championship since 2016.
#3. MVP is set to retire soon
The former two-time United States Champion MVP spoke about his current physical condition and what the future holds for him. The Baller has not been seen in WWE for a few months as he is undergoing stem cell repair treatment in Mexico.
The former Tag Team champion has not competed in a match since 2022, and many believed that his days as an in-ring performer might be over. He stated on social media that he would retire soon but would return to the ring at least once more before hanging up his boots for good.
"50 MILLION stem cells in each knee. 50 MILLION stem cells in each shoulder. 15 MILLION stem cells in each elbow. 50 MILLION stem cell IV drip each day for 3 days. Now, we rest and allow the stem cells to work. I WILL wrestle again before I officially retire! I WILL return to the Brazilian jiu-jitsu competition scene!" he wrote.
The 50-year-old had become the manager of Omos, but the duo has not made a major mark since their pairing. The biggest feud for Omos after acquiring MVP's services was against Brock Lesnar when he faced The Beast Incarnate at WrestleMania 39.