WWE loads up the Independence Day episode of Smackdown Live

Holidays usually turn viewers away from television and unfortunately for WWE, the live episode of Smackdown next week will drop right on the popular Independence Day holiday in the United States. It’s not the first time that it happened, but with viewership already down overall, WWE is really pushing for a big Smackdown.

The Independence Day Smackdown Live show on Tuesday will see the return of John Cena on WWE television for the first time since WrestleMania 33. The last time Cena was in a WWE ring, he proposed to Nikki Bella in the middle of the squared circle at Camping World Stadium. WWE is promoting Cena as a “free agent” and the former 16-time World champion will be making some appearances on both brands until it’s figured out on which brand he will permanently move…for now.

The Smackdown Women’s title will be on the line with Lana receiving its third title shot following this week’s quick loss to Naomi. Lana posted a photo on her Twitter showing that her shoulder was up when Naomi pinned her and Daniel Bryan granted her another title shot “so that we may have a definitive winner.”

And the challenger for Kevin Owens’ United States title will be decided on Tuesday as well in an
Independence Day battle royal. The only name announced for this over-the-top rope battle royal so far is AJ Styles and we still don’t know how many participants will be in this match.