WWE SmackDown: Rhodes and Orton Fall to Breakker and Reed

CINCINNATI, Ohio — In an action-packed episode of WWE SmackDown on October 3, 2025, Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes teamed with fellow wrestler Randy Orton but lost to the duo of Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed.

The match brought tension as Paul Heyman attempted to sow discord between Rhodes and Orton prior to the event. Heyman claimed their partnership could not last, hinting at potential issues in their relationship.

Before the show, in a dramatic moment, The Miz ambushed Carmelo Hayes just moments before Hayes could accept Sami Zayn‘s Open Challenge for the U.S. Championship. This surprise attack distracted Hayes, allowing Aleister Black to step in as Zayn’s opponent.

During the match, Zayn defended his title successfully against Black, with a pivotal distraction from Damian Priest enabling Zayn to land a Helluva Kick for the win.

Later in the evening, NXT Superstars Sol Ruca and Zaria defeated Chelsea Green and Alba Fyre after Ruca executed her finishing move, the Sol Snatcher.

The main event saw Rhodes and Orton put their teamwork to the test against Breakker and Reed. Despite Orton’s impressive performance, including nearly executing an RKO on Reed, an unexpected interference from Seth Rollins turned the tides. Rollins distracted the referee, allowing Reed to finish off Orton with a Tsunami.

After their defeat, Rhodes countered a mid-ring attack from Rollins with a Cross Rhodes, showcasing the ongoing rivalry leading up to WWE’s Crown Jewel event.

This week’s SmackDown reinforced the intensity of rivalries as the countdown continues to Crown Jewel, where Rhodes will face Rollins for the championship.