The Immortal One is no more. The tragic passing of WWE icon Hulk Hogan has unified, and in parts divided, the wrestling world once again. But with SmackDown around the corner, the Stamford-based company could be having some massive plans to celebrate the life and legacy of Hogan.
Hulk Hogan passed away at the age of 71 after suffering a cardiac arrest. The legendary star was one of the biggest babyfaces in the company’s history and was one of the pioneers of WWE as fans know it today. However, The Hulkster has also had his fair share of controversies, where many fans have turned. As a result of this, he was booed out of the building during his last appearance for the promotion on RAW’s Netflix debut.
WWE has already shared a lot of social media graphics and tributes, and it doesn’t seem there are any directives on wrestlers paying tribute to the star. However, with only one week or so removed from SummerSlam, how much of the PLE build-up will the promotion sacrifice?
The latest episode of SmackDown will emanate from Cleveland, Ohio. Here is a preview of what may go down:
Jelly Roll and Randy Orton are set to confront Logan Paul and Drew McIntyre on WWE SmackDown
One of the biggest segments of the night will feature Jelly Roll and Randy Orton confronting their SummerSlam opponents, Drew McIntyre and Logan Paul. It will undoubtedly be a heated face-off with McIntyre expected to cut another scathing promo. Paul will also be hungry to make a mark, leading to some great exchanges of words.
Just a week before they square off at #SummerSlam, @RandyOrton, @JellyRoll615, @LoganPaul and @DMcIntyreWWE will all be in the building TOMORROW on #SmackDown!
📍 CLEVELAND
🎟️ https://t.co/jMTzOd0Ctmpic.twitter.com/IkCTja8xdU— WWE (@WWE) July 25, 2025
However, having it in the middle of the show could effectively dwindle fan reception. The show will possibly end with another major segment.
Cody Rhodes could close WWE SmackDown
It is of paramount importance right now for WWE to explain whether the John Cena contract signing debacle will be valid or not. Arguments have ensued online with many saying that the signature was indeed valid, while others think it may not be.
Amidst all this, Cody Rhodes could address the concerns and state whether the match at SummerSlam is indeed taking place. Will John Cena show up? His remaining dates suggest that an appearance is unlikely, but fans could be in for a surprise.
How far will WWE push the Hulk Hogan celebrations on SmackDown?
If the latest reports are to be believed, WWE SmackDown could have a host of legends flying in to celebrate the life and legacy of The Hulkster. While it is indeed valid to celebrate the larger-than-life persona of Hulk Hogan, somewhere in the back of their minds, Triple H and co. will be wondering about fan backlash. The last time Hogan was present during a WWE show, the reception he got was concerning. Fan perception regarding the legend is still not that positive, despite his tragic demise.
An incredible ovation for the legendary Hulk Hogan 👏 pic.twitter.com/IIcNV5Uuy0
— WWE (@WWE) July 25, 2025
There, it will be interesting to see whether the promotion goes all out in celebrating the life and legacy of The Hulkster. There are certainly plans in place for fans to celebrate the legend that was Hulk Hogan.
One can only wish things will pan out for the better, and Hulk Hogan will be remembered on SmackDown in a positive light.