WWE’s decision to relocate Batista, who recently returned, to the SmackDown roster is seen as interesting among industry types. While the idea of bolstering the thin SmackDown main-event roster makes sense, especially with Mysterio off the road until next month and Undertaker not working an active house show schedule, Batista is not the most logical candidate for the role.
The Wrestling Observer Observer notes that because Batista returned early from injury, he will presently be working a limited schedule (primarily television and pay-per-view). So, if WWE were looking for someone to beef up the touring card, Batista is not the guy, and many are thus perplexed that WWE would so hastily blow off his feud with Randy Orton.
Various: Jimmy Hart’s Stolen Megaphone Recovered, Andrade El Idolo Makes Surprise Appearance at 12/19 HOG Event, Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling Reportedly Working Towards Launching New Weekly TV Series
Various: John Cena Appearance Set for MEGACON Orlando in March 2026, New Matches Set for Hiroshi Tanahashi’s Retirement Tour for NJPW Road To Tokyo Dome Tour, Indies/Misc.
WWE NXT Notes: Thea Hail Wins NXT Women’s North American Title, Moose Appears, NXT North American Title Match Set for 12/30 Show, Ricky Saints Explains Why He Turned on Je’Von Evans, Leon Slater vs. Oba Femi for NXT Title Set for NXT New Year’s Evil 2026, 12/23 Show Card

![WWE: Gunther on Goldberg Being "Way More Limited" Than John Cena For Their Retirement Matches, John Cena on His Heel Turn Moment at WWE Elimination Chamber 2025, [Spoiler] Current Main Roster Call-up Plans for Trick Williams WWE: Gunther on Goldberg Being "Way More Limited" Than John Cena For Their Retirement Matches, John Cena on His Heel Turn Moment at WWE Elimination Chamber 2025, [Spoiler] Current Main Roster Call-up Plans for Trick Williams](https://www.tpww.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Gunther-John-Cena-540x304.jpg)


