Morning Daily News Update: July 17, 2026 – Nikki Bella Closing In On WWE Return
By Conor Renshaw on 17 July 2026
Morning everyone!
It’s Friday, the weekend is almost here again! But first, it’s time for the Morning Daily News Update!
While you’re here, check out the new posts on the blog from yesterday:
Kat has reviewed last night’s episode of WWE Main Event
Scott Herrin has reviewed last night’s episode of TNA Impact
Injured Star’s WWE Return May Not Be Far Away
According to WrestleVotes Radio, Nikki Bella could be closing in on a WWE return, with her name reportedly featuring in creative discussions again over the past several weeks for the first time since WrestleMania. Bella has been sidelined since suffering a fractured, sprained and torn ankle during a SmackDown match in March, an injury that required surgery and forced her to miss WrestleMania 42. She had hoped to return by Night of Champions, but recently revealed she was preparing to resume in-ring training, with the latest report suggesting a comeback could now be on the horizon.
Former TNA tag team Sinner & Saint have reportedly departed the promotion, becoming the latest names to exit the company over the past year. The duo, consisting of Judas Icarus (Christian Kingdon) and Travis Williams, signed with TNA in June 2024 and last competed on the March 12, 2026, episode of TNA iMPACT!, where they were defeated by The Hardys in a non-title match. Their departure adds them to a growing list of recent exits that includes Steve Maclin, Tessa Blanchard, Sami Callihan, Dani Luna, Killer Kelly, Mance Warner, Zachary Wentz, Trey Miguel, Myron Reed, Wes Lee (Dezmond Xavier) and Luke Paron, among others.
WWE SmackDown Lineup Confirmed For July 17, 2026
Check out the lineup for tonight’s episode of WWE SmackDown
Trick Williams Challenges Booker T To A Retirement Match
WWE United States Champion Trick Williams has expressed interest in facing Booker T in what he hopes would be the Hall of Famer’s retirement match. Speaking at Fanatics Fest, Williams said it would be fitting to face the man who helped shape his WWE career, suggesting the bout could take place within the next year. Booker T later responded on his Reality of Wrestling podcast, admitting he is seriously considering one final match in 2027 and believes he could get himself back into ring shape, although he has yet to make a final decision.