Reason why Sami Zayn missed the most recent WWE SmackDown.
According to Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer, Zayn made the decision not to attend the most recent WWE SmackDown, though he was originally part of the show. No specified reason was given, though WWE has made it clear that anyone who doesn't want to work during the coronavirus pandemic does not have to and it won't be held against them. Zayn noted on April 20 that he had his wisdom teeth pulled out.
Zayn has worked multiple shows during the pandemic, including WrestleMania 36 where he successfully retained his Intercontinental Championship against Daniel Bryan.
It is unclear when Zayn will return to television. WWE reportedly taped the May 1 and 8 episodes of SmackDown on April 25, so Zayn likely won't be part of the "live" portion of either episode. Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura were both featured on the April 24 edition of WWE SmackDown, aligning with King Corbin to attack Daniel Bryan & Drew Gulak.
Fightful will have live coverage of WWE SmackDown beginning at 8 p.m. ET on Friday.
