3 Ways Tiffany Stratton can return to WWE SmackDown

Tiffany Stratton lost the WWE Women's Championship to Jade Cargill last month at Saturday Night's Main Event. Following the fateful night, The Buff Barbie disappeared from television. The weight of her defeat may have taken an emotional toll on her morale. However, WWE is all set to wrap up 2025 and head into the new year in a few days.

With it, Stratton's return is seemingly on the horizon. The 26-year-old is expected to come back to the Stamford-based promotion next month as WWE kicks off 2026. The creative team could plan her return in several intriguing ways. From invading a high-stakes match to showing up in the year's first premium live event, there are many ways it can unfold.

Here are three ways Tiffany Stratton can return to SmackDown:

#3. Confront Jade Cargill on the first SmackDown of 2026

The first SmackDown of 2026 will emanate from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. WWE is leaving no stone unturned to make it a special episode and there is a high chance that Tiffany Stratton could return here. While Jade Cargill would be delivering a promo, The Buff Barbie's theme song could echo in the arena, leaving the WWE Universe electrified.

Stratton could confront Cargill in the middle of the right upon her return. She could demand a rematch for the WWE Women's Championship, which could resume their heated feud ahead of the Royal Rumble. This would be a perfect way for WWE to kick off the new year for Friday Night SmackDown, stirring excitement in the blue brand's women's division.

#2. Surprise entrant in Women's Royal Rumble 2026

Another possible way Tiffany Stratton can return to WWE is by entering the Women's Royal Rumble match. Royal Rumble 2026 will take place in Saudi Arabia next month and the excitement among fans is at a fever pitch. The company needs some blockbuster returns and surprises at the PLE to garner reactions and set the internet abuzz.

Therefore, Startton could return as a surprise entrant in the Women's Royal Rumble Match. The company could keep her away from television till then to build anticipation and hype around her. The Buff Barbie returning at the Royal Rumble will give her a fresh start for her upcoming run as she could head into a new direction on the Road to WrestleMania 42.

#1. Tiffany Stratton's interference during a WWE Women's Title match

Jade Cargill is currently embroiled in a heated feud with Michin on SmackDown. It could eventually lead to a WWE Women's Championship match. While The Storm will be in the middle of her title defense, Tiffany Stratton could show up out of nowhere and ambush her. The 26-year-old could unleash a merciless attack on Cargill, leaving her reeling.

Stratton could stand on Big Jade's carcass and raise the WWE Women's Championship to make her intentions clear. This could be a perfect way to make an impactful return and put the reigning champion on notice. Moreover, such an angle could help WWE resume Tiffany Stratton and Jade Cargill's rivalry, adding more layers to this feud.

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Edited by Subhasish Deb