WWE SmackDown Shakes Up Roster with Major Transfers

STAMFORD, Conn. — WWE‘s transfer window is in full swing, with “WWE SmackDown” making significant roster moves during Friday’s episode. General Manager Nick Aldis secured two high-profile acquisitions: former WWE World Heavyweight Champions Damian Priest and The Miz.

The Miz, who last appeared on “SmackDown” nearly a year ago, met with Aldis early in the show to discuss his return to the blue brand. His previous appearance ended in a loss to Logan Paul, but his immediate focus remains on re-establishing himself on Friday nights.

Later in the evening, Damian Priest joined “SmackDown” as its newest roster member. Priest’s last televised appearance on the blue brand was on November 11, 2023, when he and Finn Balor successfully defended the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships against The Street Profits. His first match back will be against Carmelo Hayes, who expressed frustration after his scheduled bout with Jimmy Uso was canceled.

WWE’s transfer window, often referred to as the “transfer portal,” was introduced recently, though its duration and whether it will replace the annual WWE Draft remain unclear. No further creative plans for The Miz or Priest have been announced beyond Priest’s upcoming match against Hayes.