In the lead-up to WrestleMania 42, scheduled for April 18-19, 2026, WWE is gearing up for an impactful episode of SmackDown in Pittsburgh. The event is set to feature major story developments with Randy Orton continuing his rampage as he targets Cody Rhodes, the reigning Undisputed WWE Champion, in preparation for their championship bout. This week, WWE's preview highlighted Orton's recent savage attacks and hinted at another possible ambush on a new victim during the show. General manager Nick Aldis will also address the ongoing feud between Jacob Fatu and Drew McIntyre, both of whom were involved in a chaotic brawl last week. They are expected to face off at WrestleMania 42, contributing to the growing excitement surrounding the upcoming event. The SmackDown card denotes a women's tag team championship match involving Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss competing against the Bella Twins, punctuating the intricate narratives leading into the grand wrestling spectacle. Notably, there has been a significant change made to a previously advertised match between Giulia and Tiffany Stratton, which has shifted from a Women's United States Championship title bout to a non-title match, aiming to possibly schedule the title match for WrestleMania itself. This alteration has yet to be explained by WWE officials. Another pivotal match on the card will see U.S. Champion Carmelo Hayes issuing an open challenge, reportedly to be answered by Sami Zayn. Speculations suggest that Zayn will emerge victorious in this encounter, reclaiming the U.S. Championship, a title he has previously held. Zayn's victory would set the stage for a feud against Trick Williams at WrestleMania, marking a continuation of an ongoing rivalry. The stakes are monumental as WWE fans eagerly anticipate the developments in Pittsburgh, with some championship titles expected to change hands before the marquee event of WrestleMania 42.