Confirmed WWE SmackDown Matches + Wade Barrett Returns

– As noted earlier, French wrestler Tom La Ruffa announced on Facebook that he has signed a developmental contract with WWE. Nicknamed “The French Stallion,” La Ruffa is a top wrestler in Europe. He is a product of former WWE wrestler Lance Storm’s Storm Wrestling Academy and was featured on the premiere season of the World of Hurt reality television series in Canada. La Ruffa has competed in a WWE ring before as he was an opponent of Big Show’s in a 3-on-1 Handicap Match last November.

– Wade Barrett returned to action at this week’s WWE SmackDown tapings. Barrett defeated Zack Ryder in a dark match prior to the show. He cut a heel promo and debuted a brand new look with a beard.

– In his first Tout as SmackDown General Manager, Booker T announced Tuesday night that a match to determine number one contendership to the WWE Tag Team Championship held by Kofi Kingston and R-Truth will be held this Friday on SmackDown as Primo and Epico take on Darren Young and Titus O’Neil.

– Here are this Friday’s confirmed WWE SmackDown matches:

* Chris Jericho’s Highlight Reel Returns w/Dolph Ziggler and Vickie Guerrero
* Cody Rhodes vs. Sin Cara
* Christian vs. Antonio Cesaro w/Aksana
* Jack Swagger vs. Randy Orton
* Jinder Mahal in Action
* #1 Contender’s Match: The Primetime Players vs. Epico and Primo
* Non-Title Match: The Miz © vs. Rey Mysterio
* World Title Match: Sheamus © vs. Alberto Del Rio