WWE rolls out the expected for last SmackDown before SummerSlam

In writing a preview for a show that had nothing announced for it, our Cain A. Knight pointed out that WWE not promoting anything for SmackDown on the night pro wrestling’s prodigal son is expected to debut for the competition was a curious decision.

This afternoon, the company got around to confirming a few things for their Aug. 20 episode. It’s pretty much what you’d expect for a PPV “go home”:

- John Cena and Roman Reigns final statements before SummerSlam

- Edge returns to SmackDown ahead of SummerSlam clash with Seth Rollins

- Rey Mysterio squares off with Jey Uso en route to SummerSlam

So two talking segments that could turn into brawls to hype singles matches on tomorrow night’s big event in Las Vegas, and one singles match between guys who’ll be in a Tag title fight at SummerSlam. Pretty standard stuff.

Not that there’s anything wrong with that. The formula is the formula because it reliably works. And I’m not sure what WWE could do to distract from the excitement surrounding CM Punk & AEW, short of booking The Rock and Becky Lynch for a special third hour of SmackDown. Loading up SmackDown with their biggest names like Reigns, Cena, Edge & Mysterio is probably the best way to focus on their own business and let the rest take care of itself.

Join us in our live blog tonight and we’ll see how the show does building to SummerSlam.