WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 is etched in wrestling history as one of the most exhilarating episodes to ever air. The show not only lived up to expectations but exceeded them, showcasing some of the most iconic wrestlers of today. Packed with drama, intense rivalries, and shocking returns, it was an evening that captivated the WWE Universe from start to finish. In this comprehensive breakdown, we will explore every major segment, match, and moment of the night that made this episode truly historic.
Table of Contents
The Opening Segment: Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins Face Off
Roman Reigns’ Dominance
As the show kicked off, Roman Reigns, the reigning WWE Universal Champion, took center stage. Reigns has been the face of SmackDown for over a year, and his reign as champion has been nothing short of impressive. From defeating legends like John Cena to overcoming challenges from every corner of WWE, Reigns’ dominance is undeniable.
This episode opened with Reigns entering the arena, his stoic face expressing his supreme confidence. The audience roared, some in support and others in jeers. His presence immediately raised the stakes for the night, setting the tone for what would be a thrilling showdown.
Seth Rollins Interrupts
Before Reigns could even address the audience, Seth Rollins made his way to the ring. The energy between Rollins and Reigns was electric. These two have a long history, dating back to their time in The Shield, and their rivalry has evolved over the years into one of the most intense in WWE.
Rollins, never one to back down, engaged Reigns in a heated verbal exchange. Both superstars teased a future encounter, hinting at a potential clash for the WWE Universal Championship. The tension between these two titans of the industry had the crowd buzzing with anticipation for what was to come later in the night.
Tag Team Action: The Usos vs. The New Day
A Storied Rivalry
Few rivalries in WWE are as legendary as that between The Usos and The New Day. These two teams have faced each other countless times, delivering classic matches that have redefined tag team wrestling in WWE. Their encounters are always filled with high-energy moves, incredible chemistry, and moments that leave the audience breathless.
WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 continued this tradition with another stellar match between the two teams. The Usos, the current SmackDown Tag Team Champions, have been on an unstoppable run since aligning themselves with Roman Reigns, forming a formidable faction known as “The Bloodline.”
The Usos’ Championship Dominance
Jimmy and Jey Uso have been at the pinnacle of tag team wrestling, and their synergy as a team was on full display in this match. Their quick tags, double-team maneuvers, and ability to outthink their opponents made them tough competitors. With Roman Reigns looming in the background, The Usos have been more dangerous than ever before.
The New Day’s High-Flying Offense
Meanwhile, The New Day, led by Kofi Kingston and Big E, brought their signature style of high-flying offense and quick-paced action. The New Day, former tag team champions themselves, aimed to reclaim their glory by dethroning The Usos. Their teamwork, innovative moves, and sheer determination had fans believing they could once again rise to the top.
Match Outcome and Impact on the Tag Division
After a back-and-forth contest that saw both teams nearly snatch victory, it was The Usos who ultimately emerged victorious. Despite a valiant effort from The New Day, the match ended with a stunning Double Superkick from The Usos, followed by a Uso Splash, sealing their victory and cementing their dominance in the division.
With this win, The Usos solidified their legacy as one of the greatest tag teams in WWE history, while The New Day, though defeated, proved they are far from done in their quest for championship gold.
The Rise of the Women’s Division: Bianca Belair vs. Bayley
Bianca Belair: The EST of WWE
Bianca Belair, often referred to as the “EST” of WWE, has had a meteoric rise in the company. Her athleticism, strength, and charisma have made her a fan favorite and a dominant force in the women’s division. As the current SmackDown Women’s Champion, Belair has taken on all challengers and proven time and again why she is the future of WWE.
Bayley: The Ultimate Heel
Bayley, a former SmackDown Women’s Champion, is one of WWE’s most decorated female wrestlers. Her transition from a beloved babyface to a despicable heel has been one of the most effective character evolutions in WWE. As she stepped into the ring to face Belair, Bayley’s goal was clear: to reclaim her spot at the top of the division.
Match Breakdown: A Technical Masterpiece
The match between Bianca Belair and Bayley was nothing short of a technical masterpiece. From the opening bell, both women demonstrated why they are considered two of the best in the world. Belair’s raw power was evident as she lifted Bayley with ease, executing slams and throws that showcased her incredible strength.
On the other hand, Bayley used her experience and in-ring savvy to target Belair’s weaknesses. She focused on Belair’s legs, attempting to limit her movement and ground her high-flying offense. The back-and-forth nature of the match kept the audience on the edge of their seats, with both women coming close to victory on multiple occasions.
A Champion Prevails
In the end, it was Belair who secured the win after hitting Bayley with her devastating KOD (Kiss of Death) finisher. With the victory, Belair retained her SmackDown Women’s Championship and continued to build her legacy as one of WWE’s most dominant champions.
The Impact of the Women’s Division on WWE SmackDown
The match between Bianca Belair and Bayley was a shining example of how far WWE’s women’s division has come. No longer relegated to secondary status, the women of WWE are now main-eventing shows, headlining pay-per-views, and delivering some of the best matches in wrestling.
Belair’s victory not only solidified her as the top woman on SmackDown, but it also raised the bar for the rest of the division. As challengers like Sasha Banks, Charlotte Flair, and Rhea Ripley await their shot at the title, the SmackDown women’s division is poised for even greater heights.
Edge’s Shocking Return: A Legend Resurfaces
The Legacy of Edge
Few superstars have had as storied a career as Edge. A multiple-time WWE Champion, Edge is a Hall of Famer who has done it all in the wrestling world. His unexpected retirement in 2011 due to a neck injury left fans heartbroken, but his miraculous return in 2020 reignited their passion.
Edge’s comeback has been one of the most inspiring stories in wrestling, and his involvement in major storylines has added a new layer of excitement to WWE programming.
Edge’s Confrontation with Roman Reigns
In WWE SmackDown Episode 1491, Edge made a surprise appearance, confronting Roman Reigns in the middle of the ring. The tension between these two superstars was palpable, as Edge made it clear that he had his sights set on Reigns’ Universal Championship.
This confrontation was a defining moment of the night, as fans erupted in cheers upon seeing Edge back in the WWE ring. With the potential of a future match between these two titans, the WWE Universe eagerly anticipates what could be one of the biggest matches of the year.
Edge’s Feud with The Bloodline
Edge’s return also signals a continuation of his feud with The Bloodline. Having clashed with Roman Reigns and The Usos in the past, Edge is no stranger to the threat they pose. However, with his never-say-die attitude and legendary status, Edge is more than capable of overcoming the odds.
The question remains: Will Edge finally dethrone Roman Reigns and reclaim his spot at the top of WWE?
Main Event Showdown: Roman Reigns vs. Kevin Owens
The History Between Reigns and Owens
The rivalry between Roman Reigns and Kevin Owens has been one of the most intense feuds in recent WWE history. Owens, a former Universal Champion, has been gunning for Reigns’ title for months, determined to prove that he is the true face of WWE.
Their matches have been brutal, filled with high-stakes drama and physicality that leaves fans in awe. From Last Man Standing matches to Steel Cage encounters, Owens and Reigns have battled in every conceivable environment, with Reigns often emerging victorious—thanks in no small part to interference from The Usos.
A Brutal Contest for the Universal Championship
The contest between Kevin Owens and Roman Reigns was nothing short of a spectacle. From the opening bell, both men showcased their impressive physiques and wrestling skills. Owens, known for his resilience and innovative offense, fought with relentless aggression. He delivered a series of powerful strikes, including his trademark Pop-up Powerbomb, which nearly secured him the championship.
Roman Reigns, on the other hand, utilized his imposing presence and strength to maintain control of the match. Reigns’ methodical approach allowed him to absorb Owens’ attacks and respond with punishing blows. His moves, such as the Spear and Superman Punch, were executed with precision, demonstrating why he is the Universal Champion.
Interference and Controversy
The match reached its climax when Jey Uso—the loyal cousin of Roman Reigns and a key member of The Bloodline—intervened on behalf of Reigns. His interference was a game-changer, allowing Reigns to gain the upper hand despite Owens’ valiant efforts.
The presence of Jey Uso led to a controversial finish. As Reigns and Owens fought valiantly, Uso’s interference played a crucial role in tipping the scales. Despite Owens’ best efforts to fend off both Reigns and Uso, the odds were simply too great. Reigns eventually secured the victory with a Superman Punch followed by a Spear, retaining his Universal Championship.
The controversial nature of the finish left fans divided. While Reigns’ victory was a testament to his dominance, many felt that Owens had been robbed of a fair opportunity. This outcome sets the stage for future confrontations and storylines involving these two superstars, adding more fuel to their ongoing feud.
The Future of SmackDown: Implications and Upcoming Storylines
The Impact of SmackDown Episode 1491
WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 was a landmark episode that will have lasting implications for WWE programming. The riveting matches, shocking returns, and dramatic storylines have set the stage for future developments in the wrestling world.
Roman Reigns’ Reign and Future Challenges
Roman Reigns’ continued dominance as Universal Champion is a central storyline in WWE. His victory over Kevin Owens and the ongoing support from The Bloodline solidify his position as the top star on SmackDown. However, with challengers like Edge, Kevin Owens, and potential new contenders emerging, Reigns’ reign is far from secure.
The possibility of a future match between Reigns and Edge is particularly intriguing. Edge’s return has created a new dynamic in the Universal Championship picture, and a clash between these two legends could be one of the most anticipated matches of the year.
The Usos and The Bloodline: Continued Dominance
The Usos’ victory over The New Day reinforces their position as the premier tag team on SmackDown. Their alignment with Roman Reigns as part of The Bloodline has made them a formidable force in WWE. As they continue to dominate the tag team division, their interactions with other teams and potential challengers will be closely watched.
Bianca Belair’s Reign and Emerging Contenders
Bianca Belair’s successful defense of the SmackDown Women’s Championship highlights her status as one of WWE’s top female superstars. Her reign promises to be a thrilling chapter in the women’s division, with emerging contenders such as Sasha Banks, Charlotte Flair, and Rhea Ripley all vying for a shot at the title.
The future of the women’s division is bright, with Belair leading the charge and setting a high standard for excellence. As new challengers step up, Belair’s reign will be put to the test, providing fans with exciting and high-quality matches.
Upcoming Events and Storylines
The fallout from WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 will reverberate throughout WWE programming. Fans can expect new rivalries to develop, existing feuds to intensify, and more thrilling matches as WWE builds towards its next major events.
Potential Matchups and Rivalries
- Roman Reigns vs. Edge: The potential clash between Reigns and Edge is one of the most highly anticipated matchups in WWE. The contrast in their styles and the history between them make this a must-watch feud.
- Kevin Owens’ Revenge: After his controversial loss to Reigns, Kevin Owens is likely to seek revenge. His pursuit of the Universal Championship will continue, leading to more intense encounters with Reigns and The Bloodline.
- Women’s Division Showdowns: With Bianca Belair as the SmackDown Women’s Champion, the division is poised for exciting matchups. Rivalries with Sasha Banks, Charlotte Flair, and other top female stars will keep the division dynamic and engaging.
Special Events and Pay-Per-Views
As WWE continues to build its storylines, fans can look forward to special events and pay-per-views that will showcase these rivalries and matchups. Events such as WWE Survivor Series, Royal Rumble, and WrestleMania will provide platforms for the ongoing storylines to reach their peak, delivering unforgettable moments and matches.
Conclusion: The Legacy of SmackDown Episode 1491
WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 stands as a testament to the high caliber of entertainment that WWE consistently delivers. From the explosive opening segment to the shocking return of Edge and the dramatic main event, the episode was a showcase of everything that makes WWE great.
As the wrestling world reflects on this historic night, it is clear that SmackDown Episode 1491 has set a new standard for excellence. The memorable matches, intriguing storylines, and charismatic superstars have ensured that this episode will be remembered for years to come.
The impact of this episode will be felt across WWE programming, influencing future storylines and shaping the landscape of professional wrestling. With new challenges and rivalries on the horizon, WWE fans have much to look forward to in the coming months.
