Why was Nick Aldis absent from WWE SmackDown this week? Possible reason explored 

The Road to SummerSlam 2024 officially kicked off with the latest edition of WWE SmackDown, featuring significant developments for The Biggest Party of the Summer. One of the most notable moments was Cody Rhodes confronting Solo Sikoa and The Bloodline, declaring that a match between Rhodes and Sikoa for the Undisputed WWE Championship at SummerSlam is almost official. However, the confirmation from SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis is still pending.

Aldis' absence from this crucial episode has left fans puzzled, as he typically makes pivotal appearances on SmackDown every week. The likely reason for Nick's absence seems to have been revealed two days prior when he mentioned on X/Twitter that he was on vacation in France.

In response to an X/Twitter user's question about watching the semi-finals of the UEFA EURO 2024 between England and the Netherlands, Aldis confirmed that he would be watching the event while on vacation. This explanation aligns with his absence on the blue brand this week.

As of now, there has been no official announcement regarding Nick Aldis' absence from the show. However, it is anticipated that he will return to WWE programming next week as the build-up to SummerSlam 2024 intensifies. The Stamford-based promotion will likely want all key figures to be present to maximize the hype and excitement for their mega premium live event.

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What could Nick Aldis do next week on WWE SmackDown if he returns?

In case SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis returns to the blue brand next week, he is likely to make the match between Cody Rhodes and Solo Sikoa official for SummerSlam 2024.

A probable scenario that might unfold could involve The American Nightmare and Nick Aldis engaging in a segment. Here, Nick could address Cody's statement from this week about granting a title shot to the self-proclaimed Tribal Chief. This could lead to a contract signing segment in a forthcoming episode of SmackDown or Nick Aldis himself announcing the match without it.

One crucial aspect Cody Rhodes must consider during the match's official announcement is the presence of The Bloodline members at ringside. It would be beneficial to have Solo's faction banned from ringside at SummerSlam 2024, ensuring a fair match that fans can enjoy at The Biggest Party of the Summer.

Given the brutal beatdown of Randy Orton at the hands of The Bloodline during the latest episode of SmackDown when The Viper came to help Cody, this stipulation could provide a clean contest.

Overall, the upcoming episode of the blue brand is expected to see matches being officially announced for SummerSlam 2024 by Nick Aldis.