LA Knight’s mindset ahead of major title match on WWE SmackDown revealed

WWE SmackDown is set to kick off in less than two hours as the USA Network era enters its second week. LA Knight has just arrived for tonight's title defense, but the fans have noticed a slight change in his demeanor.

The Megastar is set to defend the United States Championship against Andrade on tonight's SmackDown. This will be the first-ever singles bout between the two 21-year industry veterans, and Knight's third televised title defense since dethroning Logan Paul at SummerSlam.

He retained over Santos Escobar on August 23, then Ludwig Kaiser one week later. El Idolo earned tonight's title shot by defeating Carmelo Hayes last week to win their best-of-five series at 3-2.

WWE released footage of Knight arriving at the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California for tonight's SmackDown. The often-animated 41-year-old was more reserved than usual as he retrieved his championship belt from the trunk of the car, and then sternly made his way into the building.

Knight commented that he's leading troops to battle, in a reference to his new "Crossing The Delaware" t-shirt from WWE Shop, then let out a much quieter version of his signature catchphrase.

"@reallaknight has arrived for #SmackDown in style where he’ll defend his #USTitle against @andradealmas TONIGHT! 😤," wrote the promotion.

You can check out the video below:

Officials have announced several segments and matches for tonight's episode of SmackDown. In addition to the United States Championship clash, the following has been confirmed: Apollo Crews vs. Giovanni Vinci, a vignette on Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes, Nia Jax & Tiffany Stratton vs. Bayley & Naomi in a Tornado Match to determine Jax's challenger for Bad Blood next month.