WWE Champion Sami Zayn is slated to defend his title on the upcoming Raw in Chicago on July 6, following a significant development on SmackDown.

During the show, Zayn addressed fans, expressing his disappointment that they had turned against him.

This sets the stage for a high-stakes championship defense, underscoring the evolving dynamics of his title reign.

Following Zayn's promo, Cody Rhodes extended his congratulations on the championship win.

However, Jey Uso soon emerged, asserting his own claim to the title.

This interaction led to Adam Pearce arranging a number one contender’s match between Rhodes and Uso for later in the SmackDown broadcast.

The victor of this match will earn the right to challenge Sami Zayn for the WWE Championship.

In other SmackDown action, Alexa Bliss questioned Charlotte Flair's intense focus on Jade Cargill.

This rivalry played out in a six-woman tag team match where Flair, Tiffany Stratton, and Chelsea Green were defeated by the team of Jade Cargill, B-Fab, and Michin, with Cargill securing the pinfall over Green.

Elsewhere on the show, Sami Zayn acknowledged Johnny Gargano for his role in his WWE title victory.

Rey Fenix successfully defended the Cruiserweight Championship against El Hijo Del Vikingo in a match that continued the tradition of high-flying action.

Backstage, Blake Monroe launched a surprise attack on Giulia after Kiana James appeared, subsequently attacking James as well.

Tensions also arose in a backstage segment involving Royce Keys, Jacob Fatu, and Jimmy Uso, stemming from Royce's claim of being family with Fatu.

Carmelo Hayes interrupted Trick Williams to declare himself next in line for a United States Championship shot.

They agreed to a non-title match for the following week.

Additionally, Danhausen vs.

JD McDonagh appears to be scheduled for Saturday Night’s Main Event at Madison Square Garden.

Lainey Reid defeated Brie Bella in a singles match, with Paige and Fatal Influence engaging in a brawl outside the ring.

Finally, Finn Balor was attacked backstage by The Tongas after wishing Cody Rhodes good luck for his match.