WWE SmackDown tapings in Ottawa feature Nikki Bella return and major match spoilers

WWE taped the August 28 edition of SmackDown at the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Canada, featuring several major storyline developments and returns.

Nikki Bella made a televised return, attacking Paige following a match where Jacy Jayne defeated Paige for the Women’s United States Championship. The confrontation continues a rivalry that began at SummerSlam. During the segment, an incident occurred where Paige appeared to pull down Nikki Bella’s clothing, though it remains unclear if the moment was scripted or accidental.

Other notable segments included a Triple Threat #1 Contender’s Match between Gunther, Finn Balor, and Kevin Owens, which ended in a disqualification following interference by Sami Zayn. Additionally, Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton engaged in a heated verbal confrontation, and CM Punk appeared during a segment involving Kevin Owens.

Separately, Bianca Belair reported a medical setback, noting she is suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome in both hands, which has resulted in numbness and loss of grip strength.