According to PWInsider, Hikuleo—the half-brother of Tama Tonga—is slated to make his official WWE debut on SmackDown this Friday in Lexington, Kentucky. The former NJPW standout signed with WWE in July 2024 and has been on the internal roster for months, but has yet to appear on camera.
SmackDown May See Solo Sikoa Replace Jacob Fatu with Hikuleo
Momentum for Hikuleo’s SmackDown debut follows high-stakes drama involving Solo Sikoa’s faction. At Money In The Bank, Jacob Fatu, the United States Champion, shocked audiences by turning on Solo Sikoa, ending his alliance. With Fatu’s turn still reverberating, WWE appears to be positioning Hikuleo as Solo Sikoa’s new enforcer.
SmackDown Booking Hints at A Reinforced Faction
Solo Sikoa may be bringing in Hikuleo as Jacob’s replacement, especially given Fatu’s exit from the faction. With JC Mateo already aligned with Solo on SmackDown, Hikuleo’s arrival could solidify a refreshed version of the faction, filling the gap left by Fatu’s departure.
SmackDown Debut Long Overdue After Internal Roster Listing
Hikuleo’s name has been listed on WWE’s internal roster since 2024. Initial plans reportedly included an NXT debut, but WWE eventually shifted gears, referencing a direct main roster call-up planned for SmackDown. His high-profile NJPW background—holding titles like the Strong Openweight and IWGP Tag Team Titles—positions him as the “giant” addition WWE needs.
SmackDown Episode Could Be Turning Point for Solo’s faction
If Hikuleo debuts this Friday, it may signal a new chapter in SmackDown’s New Bloodline storyline—a fully renewed faction with Solo, JC Mateo, and Hikuleo working together. With Jacob Fatu now estranged and Solo asserting dominance, the timing feels perfect to rejuvenate the group.
WWE’s strategic rollout aims to revive interest in The New Bloodline, and Hikuleo’s arrival offers a fresh dynamic. His debut on SmackDown could officially kick off his WWE journey—and mark the start of a powerful new alliance under Solo Sikoa’s leadership.
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