WWE fans attending SmackDown in London this week will experience a historic World Cup viewing party at The O2 on Tuesday, June 20, 2026. The event marks the first time a football match has been screened at the venue, with England's group game against Ghana shown on the jumbotron after the show.
Earlier Start Time for SmackDown
To accommodate the football, SmackDown will begin at 6pm instead of its usual time, ensuring the show concludes before the 9pm kickoff. Fans can watch the England match from their seats at no extra cost, courtesy of a Budweiser-sponsored screening.
This move addresses concerns from fans who did not want to miss the Three Lions' second group stage match. The O2 will host the unique atmosphere, blending wrestling and football fandom.
Wrestling Card and Debut Hopes
SmackDown will be taped for its usual Friday night slot on Netflix. Key matches include Paige, who returned at WrestleMania to win tag titles with Brie Bella, facing Jacy Jayne. Hometown hero Nathan Frazer will wrestle Rey Fenix, and former United States Champion Giulia will battle Kiana James.
Fans anticipate the debut of English star Blake Monroe, who has been teased in vignettes. 'WWE and SmackDown audiences have never seen anything like me,' she told Metro last month. 'They've never seen a woman as versatile as me.' When asked about a debut date, she hinted: 'We do have this European tour coming up, so maybe, let's see…'
England's World Cup Prospects
England are on track to qualify from Group L after a dominant 4-2 win over Croatia. Facing Ghana, they could secure two wins from two games and advance to the knockout stage. Their third group match is against Panama on June 27.
