Major names spotted backstage at WWE SmackDown - Reports

Several interesting names are reportedly backstage for tonight's edition of WWE SmackDown. This week's episode of the blue brand will air live from Madison Square Garden in New York.

According to a new report from PW Insider, multiple big names have been spotted backstage ahead of tonight's WWE SmackDown. NXT Tag Team Champion Nathan Frazer, former North American Champion Wes Lee, and Gallus' Joe Coffey are backstage for tonight's show at Madison Square Garden. The report noted that there could be more names from NXT present but they were unable to confirm at the moment.

The company is currently on the road to Money in the Bank on July 6 in Toronto. There are three Money in the Bank Qualifying Triple Threat matches scheduled for tonight's show. The promotion also has a Bloodline Acknowledgement ceremony scheduled for tonight's show. Jacob Fatu made his WWE debut last Friday night and attacked Cody Rhodes at the conclusion of SmackDown.

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Hulk Hogan comments on WWE SmackDown star's title reign

Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan recently discussed Cody Rhodes' run as champion so far. The American Nightmare dethroned Roman Reigns of the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania XL earlier this year. The Tribal Chief still has not returned to television since the loss.

Speaking with Sportskeeda Wrestling's Bill Apter in an exclusive interview, The Hulkster praised Cody Rhodes and said that he loved his work. He added that it appears Rhodes is on his way to greatness and complimented the SmackDown star's rivalry with Seth Rollins:

"I think Cody has worked real, real hard to niche out for himself. I think he deserves to be exactly where he's at. He's cool, calm, and collected, very methodical, and I think he's got some serious, serious longevity. I love his work. I love his work. He's doing a really great job up there, and I've seen some really good stuff with him and Seth [Rollins], some really believable stuff, and it looks like he's on to greatness." [4:23 – 4:55]

You can check out the interview in the video below:

Jacob Fatu made his debut with the promotion last week on SmackDown and attacked Cody Rhodes. It will be fascinating to see what the company has planned for the Bloodline Acknowledgement Ceremony later tonight.