Shinsuke Nakamura appeared again on SmackDown this week, maintaining his focus on United States Champion Sami Zayn. The titleholder issued another open challenge during the broadcast from Orlando, Florida, where Nakamura was seen in the background of a backstage segment involving Zayn and Rey Fenix.
This was Nakamura’s second appearance since ending a three-month absence. He officially returned on the September 13 edition of SmackDown, when he was also shown observing Zayn. His last televised contest before that return came in the King of the Ring tournament in June.
Zayn’s current title run has centered on issuing open challenges in an effort to restore the championship’s prestige. On this week’s episode, the opportunity was taken by 21-year-old NXT standout Je’Von Evans. During the bout, commentator Michael Cole noted his belief that Evans is a future world champion.
Nakamura’s looming presence could set up a storyline with Zayn that revisits their past alliance. The two previously teamed together as partners several years ago, creating a history that could be tapped into if they cross paths again.
Nakamura also has recent history with the same championship. Last year he defeated LA Knight to capture the title, though he later lost it back to Knight before WrestleMania 41. That reign began at Survivor Series: WarGames 2024, lasted 97 days, and drew criticism for its limited defenses, with comparisons made to Logan Paul’s earlier run.