WWE reportedly dealt with an unexpected problem ahead of this week’s episode of SmackDown after the show’s full broadcast surfaced online before its scheduled airing.
The leak caused frustration behind the scenes as the company prepared for one of its biggest weekends of the summer.
The episode was taped earlier this week at London’s O2 Arena before WWE traveled to Saudi Arabia for Night of Champions.
While spoilers from taped shows are nothing new, this situation appears to have gone well beyond the usual result sheets.
WWE reportedly unhappy after full SmackDown episode leaks
According to PWInsider, the complete June 26 edition of SmackDown leaked across multiple online platforms before Friday night’s broadcast.
The report noted there was “internal unhappiness” within WWE after the unauthorized release of the entire show, including commentary.
At this stage, the source of the leak remains unknown. PWInsider stated that no explanation has emerged regarding how the episode found its way online before airing, and WWE has not publicly identified where the leak originated.
Unlike standard spoiler reports that typically circulate after a television taping, this reportedly involved the full broadcast itself. That allowed storylines, matches, and key moments from the Night of Champions go-home show to spread online. It’s one thing for fans to peek behind the curtain — it’s another when the whole ring ends up outside it.
The report did not indicate whether WWE altered the episode or changed its broadcast plans because of the leak. However, it is noted that those within the company were understandably unhappy given the circumstances.
The pre-taped SmackDown serves as the final stop before Night of Champions. Several major matches headline the card, including title bouts, the King and Queen of the Ring finals, and a Steel Cage match.
For WWE, protecting those moments is a key part of building anticipation. This turn of events makes this reported leak an unwelcome development ahead of the premium live event.
Read More: WWE To Recruit New Talent At Hawaii Fit Expo
