WWE SmackDown Preview (April 4, 2025): CM Punk, John Cena, and WrestleMania 41 Build-Up
WWE SmackDown Preview (April 4, 2025): CM Punk, John Cena, and WrestleMania 41 Build-Up

Following a record-breaking European tour, WWE SmackDown returns to U.S. soil this week, broadcasting live from the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Illinois. With WrestleMania 41 just around the corner, tensions are rising and storylines are intensifying — especially when it comes to John Cena vs. Cody Rhodes and CM Punk’s mysterious agenda.
John Cena vs. Cody Rhodes: Sparks Fly on the Road to WrestleMania
The highly anticipated Night 2 main event between Cody Rhodes and John Cena for the Undisputed WWE Championship is dominating headlines. In their latest fiery exchange, Cena threw verbal jabs at Rhodes’ AEW past, claiming, “I build empires for billionaires — you took money from one.” Cena’s cryptic remarks hinted at his alliance with The Rock, though his motivations remain murky.
The confrontation escalated when Cena tried to ambush Rhodes with a cheap shot — only for The American Nightmare to counter with a devastating Cross Rhodes, standing tall over the 16-time World Champion. It was a clear message ahead of their WrestleMania clash: Rhodes isn’t backing down.
CM Punk to Confront Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins on SmackDown
CM Punk may have secured a Night 1 WrestleMania 41 main event spot, but questions linger around his true motives. Last week, Punk revealed he didn’t ask for the triple threat match against Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins, instead calling in an undisclosed “favor” from Paul Heyman.
What does Punk really want? And how will Rollins respond to being sidelined yet again? Expect tensions to boil over tonight as Punk steps into the ring to confront both former champions in what could be a WrestleMania-altering segment.
Confirmed Matches & Segments for WWE SmackDown (April 4, 2025)
CM Punk Confronts Roman Reigns & Seth Rollins
The uneasy build to WrestleMania’s Night 1 main event takes center stage.
Braun Strowman vs. Jacob Fatu – Last Man Standing Match
Strowman looks for revenge after Fatu cost him a title shot last week. With no rules and no count-outs, only one man will be left standing.
Naomi vs. B-Fab
After being revealed as the one who injured Jade Cargill, Naomi continues her mean streak. Will B-Fab survive the storm?
Rey Fenix Makes WWE Debut
The high-flying Lucha star arrives in WWE! Expect fast-paced action and jaw-dropping offense in Fenix’s first match on the blue brand.
WrestleMania 41: Updated Match Card (Post-European Tour)
Here’s the latest look at the WrestleMania 41 match card after WWE’s European tour:
Night 1:
• Jey Uso v GUNTHER
• Kevin Owens v Randy Orton
• Charlotte Flair v Tiffany Stratton
• Seth Rollins v Roman Reigns v CM Punk (Main Event)
Night 2:
• Bianca Belair v IYO SKY v Rhea Ripley
• AJ Styles v Logan Paul
• Cody Rhodes v John Cena (Main Event)
When Is WWE SmackDown on Netflix in the UK?
UK fans can catch WWE SmackDown live on Netflix at 1:00 AM GMT on April 5, 2025. Missed the live stream? The episode will be available on demand shortly after.
Don’t Miss the Final Stops Before WrestleMania 41
With only weeks to go until WWE takes over Las Vegas for the biggest event of the year, every SmackDown and Raw becomes must-watch TV. From CM Punk’s secret agenda to John Cena’s final push, the Road to WrestleMania 41 is heating up fast.