Damian Priest will face Talla Tonga on WWE SmackDown

WWE expands the card of the blue brand show prior to Backlash

Jacob Fatu will kick off tonight's show

WWE SmackDown
Photo Credit: WWE
Antonio Rubio
Antonio Rubio
Published 05/08/2026

WWE will celebrate a new episode of SmackDown tonight at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, Florida, in what will be the company's last stop before Backlash. The episode of the blue brand will feature several matches and segments of interest, including an appearance by Jacob Fatu, who will be the one opening the show, as revealed by WWE in a recent update.

"The Samoan Werewolf" will address the fans 24 hours before the most important match of his career. Fatu will face Roman Reigns for the World Heavyweight Championship at Backlash. His appearance comes after having attacked "The OTC" for two consecutive weeks. Reigns is not expected to be present on the show.

In addition, Damian Priest will face Talla Tonga in a one-on-one match. The Puerto Rican and his teammate, R-Truth, are in the sights of Solo Sikoa and MFT, who want to regain the WWE Tag Team Championships. Last week, Talla attacked the champions after their title defense against Fraxiom. Tonight, Priest will try to get his revenge.

Updated WWE SmackDown Card May 8, 2026

  • United States Women's Championship: Tiffany Stratton (c) vs. Kiana James
  • Alexa Bliss, Charlotte Flair, and Rhea Ripley vs. Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Lainey Reid, and Fallon Henley)
  • Damian Priest vs. Talla Tonga
  • Jacob Fatu will open the show
  • Gunther will appear live
  • Funeral of The Gingerbread Man