WWE suddenly changed plans for Friday Night SmackDown just hours before the show, because R-Truth has officially been pulled from in-ring competition.
Just hours before the May 15, 2026 episode of Friday Night SmackDown, Nick Aldis took to Twitter and announced that R-Truth is not medically cleared to compete. As a result, WWE has changed the previously announced tag team match. Aldis confirmed that Damian Priest will now face Tama Tonga in singles action instead.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, R-Truth is not medically cleared to compete tonight, therefore Damian Priest will now go 1-on-1 with Tama Tonga. See you tonight on #SmackDown.”
That is a late change to the SmackDown lineup, as WWE had originally announced Damian Priest and R-Truth vs. Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga in non-title tag team action. At the time of writing, WWE has not revealed whether Truth is dealing with an injury or if he was pulled for another medical reason.
The updated SmackDown lineup still includes Gunther making a decision regarding SmackDown and Cody Rhodes, Jade Cargill speaking, Trick Williams returning to South Carolina for a celebration, and Charlotte Flair teaming with Alexa Bliss against Michin and B-Fab. For now, R-Truth’s status remains unclear, but Damian Priest vs. Tama Tonga is officially replacing the planned tag team match.
WWE SmackDown May 15, 2026 Full Card
- Gunther to make a decision regarding SmackDown and Cody Rhodes
- Jade Cargill scheduled to speak
- Trick Williams returns to South Carolina for a celebration
- Damian Priest vs. Tama Tonga
- Charlotte Flair & Alexa Bliss vs. Michin & B-Fab
What do you think about R-Truth being pulled from SmackDown after not being medically cleared? Let us know your thoughts and leave your feedback in the comments.