WWE SmackDown World Cup: Who is likely to compete in it and what will the winner get?

The November 11, 2022, episode of WWE SmackDown will feature the first match of the promotion's very own World Cup tournament. So far, no superstars have been announced, but a big prize is already scheduled.

Last week, the Stamford-based promotion announced they will have a World Cup with eight superstars competing. Later, it was revealed that the contest winner would have a chance to face Gunther for the Intercontinental Championship.

One of the matches listed for tonight is a singles bout between Shinsuke Nakamura and Santos Escobar of Legado Del Fantasma after their past encounter, where the former teamed up with Hit Row to defeat the latter's group successfully. Both superstars have different backgrounds and are both fitting for the tournament, which is why it wouldn't be such a surprise if their match ended up in the World Cup.

Another superstar who could compete in the tournament is Sami Zayn. In the past, The Honorary Uce failed to win a number one contender's match for the IC title, and this could be his other chance to do so finally. Aside from his responsibilities with The Bloodline, it has been a while since Zayn held a championship.

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The returning Sheamus could also be a contender for the tournament. Unless WWE wants to see The Celtic Warrior and The Ring General in a rematch this soon, then this will possibly be unlikely.

Another person who could compete in the tournament is Drew McIntyre, although he might not be in the best condition to perform after reports surrounding his health. Still, he might make an appearance later on in the tournament.

Some fans might even see a RAW Superstar participate in the tournament at WWE SmackDown.

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What other matches are in store for tonight's WWE SmackDown?

Aside from the World Cup, a six-pack challenge will also occur to determine Ronda Rousey's next opponent for the SmackDown Women's Championship. Those competing are Liv Morgan, Raquel Rodriguez, Shotzi, Sonya Deville, Lacey Evans, and Xia Li.

A title match is also on the line for tonight. The Usos will defend the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship against Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods of The New Day.

The match will prove much more for the champions since it will determine if they will become the new longest-reigning tag team champions in the promotion's history. Their opponents for tonight currently hold the record.

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Tonight's episode of WWE SmackDown is truly one that fans should not miss out on.

Who do you think will compete at the World Cup Tournament on tonight's WWE SmackDown? Share your picks below!

About the author

Hazel is a WWE features writer for Sportskeeda Wrestling. Currently a BS Psychology student in her third year, she ensures that multiple accurate and reliable sources back every piece of information in her articles. She phrases even mundane information in her own words, especially when using single sources like books or social media posts, to add a hint of personal touch.

Hazel has had a penchant for writing since high school. Apart from pursuing Humanities and Social Sciences for her senior year, she attended classes about creative and nonfiction writing. In 2019, Hazel started working as a ghostwriter, and three years later, she began working for Sportskeeda. In 2023, she became a published author under 8letters Books Publishing House. Even today, when she is not studying as a pre-med student or writing for Sportskeeda, she enjoys reading and writing novels.

Her favorite wrestlers are Edge and Randy Orton. She recalls watching John Cena vs Big Show vs Edge in WrestleMania 25 in her first wrestling match. Hazel enjoyed the entrances, and what got her hooked was how cool and ruthless Edge was and how John Cena never backed down from his challenges.

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Edited by Neda Ali