WWE Smackdown Episode 1491

Introduction

WWE Smackdown Episode 1491, which aired on July 21, 2024, at the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida, was a landmark event that left fans breathless and craving more. This action-packed episode showcased the very best of what WWE has to offer, from heart-stopping matches to unexpected twists that will shape the future of the brand.

In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into every aspect of the show, analyzing the matches, storylines, and performances that made this episode truly unforgettable.

The Build-Up to Episode 1491

The weeks leading up to WWE Smackdown Episode 1491 were filled with anticipation and excitement. WWE’s creative team had been masterfully weaving intricate storylines, setting the stage for what would become one of the most talked-about episodes in recent memory.

Key Storylines Leading to Episode 1491

• The ongoing feud between Roman Reigns and AJ Styles reached a boiling point, promising an explosive confrontation.
• Bianca Belair’s dominant reign as Women’s Champion faced its toughest challenge yet in the form of the unpredictable Asuka.
• Tensions within tag teams and alliances hinted at potential betrayals and shocking turns of events.
• The Intercontinental Championship picture remained hotly contested, with several superstars vying for a shot at Shinsuke Nakamura’s title.

These storylines, among others, created a palpable sense of excitement among fans. Social media was abuzz with theories and predictions, as the WWE Universe eagerly awaited the next chapter in their favorite superstars’ journeys.

Main Event Highlights

The main event of WWE Smackdown Episode 1491 lived up to the hype and then some. Roman Reigns, the dominant force in WWE, faced off against the phenomenally talented AJ Styles in a match that will be remembered for years to come.

Roman Reigns vs. AJ Styles: A Clash of Titans

This highly anticipated match was a masterclass in storytelling and in-ring psychology. Both superstars brought their A-game, delivering a performance that kept fans on the edge of their seats from bell to bell.

Key moments from the match:

• AJ Styles’ high-flying offense tested Roman Reigns‘ defenses early on.
• Reigns’ power moves, including a devastating Spear through the barricade, seemed to turn the tide.
• Styles’ resilience shone through as he fought back, nearly securing victory with a Phenomenal Forearm.
• The climax saw Reigns narrowly escape the Calf Crusher before hitting a Superman Punch followed by a Spear for the win.

The match showcased the best of both wrestlers, with Reigns’ raw power and dominance clashing beautifully with Styles’ technical prowess and agility. While Reigns emerged victorious, both superstars left the ring to thunderous applause, having delivered a main event worthy of the WWE’s flagship show.

Superstar Performances

While the main event was undoubtedly a highlight, several other superstars delivered standout performances throughout the night.

Rhea Ripley: The Breakout Star

Rhea Ripley’s match against Charlotte Flair was nothing short of spectacular. Ripley’s raw power and intensity were on full display as she went toe-to-toe with one of the most decorated women’s wrestlers in WWE history.

Highlights of Ripley’s performance:

• A breathtaking superplex from the top rope that had the crowd gasping.
• Her signature Riptide, executed with perfect timing to counter Flair’s Figure Eight attempt.
• An impressive display of strength, powerbombing Flair through the announce table.

Ripley’s victory over Flair not only solidified her status as a top contender but also showcased her potential to be the future face of the women’s division.

Kevin Owens: The Prize Fighter’s Relentless Spirit

Kevin Owens reminded everyone why he’s one of the most entertaining and resilient performers in WWE. His match against Sami Zayn was a perfect blend of technical wrestling and brutal physicality.

Key moments from Owens’ performance:

• A stunning cannonball from the apron to the outside, taking out both Zayn and the referee.
• A series of high-risk moves, including a moonsault from the top rope.
• His trademark never-say-die attitude, fighting through apparent injury to secure the win.

Owens’ performance not only earned him a victory but also reignited interest in his character, setting the stage for potential storylines moving forward.

Major Storyline Developments

WWE Smackdown Episode 1491 was not just about in-ring action; it also featured several major storyline developments that will have far-reaching implications for future episodes.

Seth Rollins’ Shocking Heel Turn

In one of the most unexpected moments of the night, Seth Rollins turned on his tag team partner, Drew McIntyre, during their match against The Usos. This betrayal came out of nowhere, leaving fans stunned and setting social media ablaze with reactions.

Details of the heel turn:

• Rollins and McIntyre seemed to be on the verge of victory against The Usos.
• As McIntyre prepared for his finisher, Rollins suddenly attacked him from behind.
• Rollins delivered a vicious Curb Stomp to McIntyre, allowing The Usos to pick up the win.
• Post-match, Rollins grabbed a microphone and declared that he was “done playing second fiddle” and that it was “his time to shine.”

This shocking turn of events adds a new layer of intrigue to the Smackdown roster, promising an intense rivalry between Rollins and McIntyre in the coming weeks.

The Return of Edge

Another major development was the surprise return of WWE Hall of Famer, Edge. His unexpected appearance sent shockwaves through the arena and set up a potential dream match.

Key points of Edge’s return:

• Edge’s iconic entrance theme hit during Roman Reigns’ post-match celebration.
• The Rated-R Superstar confronted Reigns in the ring, teasing a future clash.
• Edge delivered a passionate promo, declaring his intention to reclaim his spot at the top of WWE.
• The segment ended with a tense staredown between Edge and Reigns, leaving fans buzzing with excitement.

This return not only adds star power to Smackdown but also opens up numerous storytelling possibilities for the coming months.

Title Matches and Championships

WWE Smackdown Episode 1491 featured two high-stakes title matches that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Intercontinental Championship: Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Sami Zayn

The Intercontinental Championship match between champion Shinsuke Nakamura and challenger Sami Zayn was a technical masterpiece that showcased the best of both competitors.

Match highlights:

• Zayn’s strategic targeting of Nakamura’s knee, attempting to neutralize the champion’s devastating Kinshasa.
• Nakamura’s resilience and ability to adapt, using his striking prowess to keep Zayn at bay.
• A series of near-falls that had the audience believing the title could change hands at any moment.
• Nakamura’s victory after a hard-fought battle, retaining his title with a perfectly executed Kinshasa.

This match not only elevated the prestige of the Intercontinental Championship but also set the stage for potential rematches or new challengers in the future.

Women’s Championship: Bianca Belair vs. Asuka

The Women’s Championship match between Bianca Belair and Asuka was a clash of styles that delivered on all fronts.

Key moments from the match:

• Asuka’s mind games and unorthodox offense kept Belair off-balance early in the match.
• Belair’s raw athleticism shone through as she countered Asuka’s submission attempts with power moves.
• A dramatic sequence where both competitors traded finisher attempts, each kickout eliciting a bigger reaction from the crowd.
• Belair’s ultimate victory, secured with her signature K.O.D. (Kiss of Death), cementing her status as the top woman on Smackdown.

This match further established Bianca Belair as a dominant champion while also highlighting Asuka’s continued relevance at the top of the women’s division.

Promos and Backstage Segments

WWE Smackdown Episode 1491 wasn’t just about in-ring action. The show featured several impactful promos and backstage segments that added depth to ongoing storylines and set up future confrontations.

Becky Lynch’s Fiery Promo

One of the standout segments of the night was Becky Lynch’s passionate promo. “The Man” made her intentions clear as she set her sights on reclaiming the Women’s Championship.

Key points from Lynch’s promo:

• She addressed her recent absence, citing a renewed focus and determination.
• Lynch called out current champion Bianca Belair, praising her reign but declaring it was time for a change.
• She challenged Belair to a match at the next pay-per-view event, promising to reclaim her spot at the top of the women’s division.
• The promo ended with Lynch’s signature catchphrase, leaving the audience buzzing with excitement.

This segment not only showcased Lynch’s undeniable charisma but also set up a highly anticipated feud between two of the most popular female superstars in WWE.

The Usos’ Backstage Strategy Session

A revealing backstage segment gave viewers insight into The Usos’ mindset as they prepared to defend their tag team titles.

Highlights of the segment:

• Jimmy and Jey Uso discussed their upcoming challengers, breaking down potential weaknesses to exploit.
• They referenced their family legacy and the pressure to maintain their dominance in the tag team division.
• A surprise appearance by Roman Reigns added tension to the scene, with The Tribal Chief reminding his cousins of the stakes involved.
• The segment ended with a show of unity among The Bloodline, setting the stage for their upcoming matches.

This behind-the-scenes look added layers to The Usos’ characters and highlighted the complexities of their familial relationships within WWE storylines.

Fan Reactions

The WWE Universe’s response to Smackdown Episode 1491 was overwhelmingly positive, with fans taking to social media to express their excitement and discuss the night’s events.

Social Media Buzz

Twitter and Instagram were flooded with reactions during and after the show. Hashtags related to the episode trended worldwide, indicating the high level of engagement from viewers.

Notable fan reactions:

• The Seth Rollins heel turn generated thousands of shocked tweets, with many fans expressing disbelief and excitement about the potential storylines to come.
• Edge’s return was met with an outpouring of nostalgia and anticipation for his future feuds.
• Clips of Rhea Ripley’s impressive moves against Charlotte Flair went viral, with fans praising her performance.
• The main event between Roman Reigns and AJ Styles received widespread acclaim, with many calling it a “match of the year” candidate.

Live Audience Energy

The 14,000+ fans in attendance at the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida, played a crucial role in the show’s electric atmosphere. Their reactions added an extra layer of excitement to the broadcast, enhancing the viewing experience for those watching at home.

Memorable crowd moments:

• A thunderous “This is awesome!” chant during the Roman Reigns vs. AJ Styles match.
• The deafening pop when Edge’s music hit, signaling his surprise return.
• A wave of boos followed by shocked silence after Seth Rollins’ betrayal of Drew McIntyre.
• Sustained cheers and applause following Bianca Belair’s successful title defense against Asuka.

The enthusiastic crowd response throughout the night contributed significantly to the overall success of the episode, proving once again the importance of a live audience in professional wrestling.

Comparisons to Previous Episodes

WWE Smackdown Episode 1491 stands out as one of the strongest episodes in recent memory, surpassing many of its predecessors in terms of match quality, storyline progression, and overall entertainment value.

Strengths Compared to Recent Episodes

• Match Quality: The in-ring action in Episode 1491 was consistently high, with several matches that could be considered pay-per-view quality.
• Storyline Progression: Unlike some episodes that feel like filler, 1491 made significant strides in multiple storylines, particularly with Seth Rollins’ heel turn and Edge’s return.
• Balance: The show struck an excellent balance between in-ring action, promos, and backstage segments, keeping the pacing varied and engaging throughout.
• Star Power: The episode featured a strong lineup of top stars, including Roman Reigns, AJ Styles, and Becky Lynch, giving it a big-event feel.

Areas of Improvement from Past Shows

• Mid-card Focus: While the main event scene was well-handled, future episodes could benefit from more attention to mid-card storylines and character development.
• Tag Team Division: Despite The Usos’ presence, the tag team division could use more spotlight in upcoming episodes to build depth and create compelling feuds.
• Women’s Division Depth: While the women’s championship match was strong, developing more contenders and storylines in the women’s division would add depth to future shows.

Overall, WWE Smackdown Episode 1491 set a high bar for future episodes, demonstrating the potential of the brand when firing on all cylinders.

Guest Appearances and Surprises

One of the elements that made WWE Smackdown Episode 1491 particularly memorable was the inclusion of unexpected guest appearances and surprising debuts.

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Edge’s Shocking Return

The return of WWE Hall of Famer Edge was undoubtedly one of the night’s biggest moments. His appearance not only electrified the crowd but also set up intriguing possibilities for future storylines.

Details of Edge’s return:

• The Rated-R Superstar’s music hit during Roman Reigns’ post-match celebration, catching everyone off guard.
• Edge made his way to the ring, looking in phenomenal shape and ready for action.
• He confronted Reigns, teasing a potential dream match between the two.
• The segment ended with a tense staredown, leaving fans speculating about what’s to come.

Edge’s return adds star power and veteran presence to the Smackdown roster, promising exciting feuds and matches in the coming weeks.

Bron Breakker’s Main Roster Debut

In a move that surprised many, NXT standout Bron Breakker made his main roster debut on Smackdown Episode 1491.

Key points of Breakker’s debut:

• Breakker interrupted a backstage interview, making his presence known in dramatic fashion.
• He cut a short but impactful promo, declaring his intention to dominate the Smackdown roster.
• Breakker’s appearance teased potential matchups with established stars, generating buzz among fans.
• His debut signals WWE’s commitment to introducing fresh talent and creating new stars.

Breakker’s arrival on Smackdown adds an exciting new dynamic to the show, potentially shaking up existing hierarchies and creating fresh matchups for viewers to enjoy.

Technical Aspects of the Show

The production quality of WWE Smackdown Episode 1491 was top-notch, contributing significantly to the overall viewing experience.

Camera Work and Production

The camera work throughout the episode was exceptional, capturing the action from multiple angles and enhancing the drama of key moments.

Notable production elements:

• Dynamic camera movements during entrances, adding to the spectacle of superstar arrivals.
• Well-timed close-ups during intense face-offs and emotional moments.
• Smooth transitions between in-ring action and crowd reactions, maintaining the energy of live performances.
• Effective use of replay technology to highlight key spots in matches.

Commentary and Audio

The commentary team played a crucial role in elevating the action and storylines throughout the episode.

Highlights of the audio production:

• Insightful commentary that provided context for ongoing feuds and character motivations.

• Well-timed calls of significant moves and moments, enhancing the drama of matches.
• Clear audio mixing that balanced crowd noise, commentary, and in-ring sounds effectively.
• Appropriate use of superstar theme music to punctuate key moments and entrances.

The technical production of Episode 1491 demonstrated WWE’s commitment to delivering a high-quality viewing experience, matching the caliber of the in-ring performances and storyline developments.

Overall Show Analysis

WWE Smackdown Episode 1491 stands out as a landmark episode that delivered on multiple fronts. Let’s break down the key strengths and areas for improvement:

Strengths

1. Match Quality: From the opening bout to the main event, the in-ring action was consistently excellent. The Roman Reigns vs. AJ Styles match, in particular, was a standout performance that showcased the best of both competitors.
2. Storyline Progression: The episode made significant strides in advancing multiple storylines, most notably with Seth Rollins’ heel turn and Edge’s return. These developments set up intriguing possibilities for future episodes and pay-per-view events.
3. Balanced Pacing: The show maintained a good balance between matches, promos, and backstage segments, keeping viewers engaged throughout the two-hour runtime.
4. Surprise Factor: With unexpected moments like Edge’s return and Bron Breakker’s debut, the episode kept fans on their toes and generated buzz that extended beyond the show itself.
5. Strong Women’s Division Representation: The Women’s Championship match between Bianca Belair and Asuka, along with Rhea Ripley’s standout performance, highlighted the strength of Smackdown’s women’s division.

Areas for Improvement

1. Mid-card Focus: While the main event scene was well-handled, future episodes could benefit from more attention to mid-card storylines and character development.
2. Tag Team Division: Despite The Usos’ presence, the tag team division could use more spotlight to build depth and create compelling feuds.
3. Long-term Storytelling: While the episode set up several exciting possibilities, it will be crucial for future shows to follow through on these setups with cohesive long-term storytelling.

Overall, WWE Smackdown Episode 1491 was a resounding success that set a high bar for future episodes. Its combination of excellent in-ring action, significant storyline developments, and memorable moments made it a standout show in recent WWE history.

Future Predictions

Based on the events of WWE Smackdown Episode 1491, several exciting storylines and matches seem to be on the horizon:

1. Roman Reigns vs. Edge: With Edge’s surprise return and confrontation with Reigns, a high-profile feud between these two seems inevitable. This could lead to a marquee match at an upcoming pay-per-view event.
2. Seth Rollins vs. Drew McIntyre: Rollins’ shocking betrayal of McIntyre is likely to spark an intense rivalry between the former partners. Expect this feud to be a central focus of upcoming Smackdown episodes.
3. Bianca Belair vs. Becky Lynch: With Lynch declaring her intentions to reclaim the Women’s Championship, a clash with current champion Belair seems imminent. This could be one of the most anticipated women’s matches in recent memory.
4. The Rise of Rhea Ripley: Given her standout performance against Charlotte Flair, Ripley is poised for a significant push. She could be in line for a Women’s Championship opportunity in the near future.
5. Bron Breakker’s Impact: As the newest addition to the Smackdown roster, Breakker is likely to be featured prominently in coming weeks. Expect him to be involved in high-profile matches as WWE looks to establish him as a new star.
6. Intercontinental Championship Picture: With Shinsuke Nakamura retaining his title, new challengers are likely to emerge. Sami Zayn may seek a rematch, or we could see fresh faces enter the title picture.
7. Tag Team Division Shake-up: While The Usos remain dominant, their backstage segment hinted at potential challenges ahead. New teams or reunited partnerships could emerge to challenge for the tag team titles.

These predictions suggest an exciting future for WWE Smackdown, with multiple compelling storylines and potential dream matches on the horizon.

Impact on WWE Universe

WWE Smackdown Episode 1491 had a significant impact on the WWE Universe, both in terms of fan engagement and the broader wrestling landscape:

1. Social Media Buzz: The episode generated substantial social media activity, with hashtags related to key moments trending worldwide. This increased online engagement helps to expand WWE’s reach and attract new viewers.
2. Ratings Boost: While official ratings are yet to be released, the high-quality matches and surprising moments are likely to result in strong viewership numbers, potentially attracting lapsed fans back to the product.
3. Merchandise Sales: Standout performances and character developments, such as Seth Rollins’ heel turn and Edge’s return, are likely to drive merchandise sales as fans seek to support their favorite superstars.
4. Live Event Anticipation: The exciting developments from this episode are likely to increase interest in upcoming live events and pay-per-views, potentially boosting ticket sales.
5. Competitive Landscape: By delivering such a strong episode, WWE has set a high bar not only for itself but for the wrestling industry as a whole, potentially influencing the creative direction of competing promotions.
6. Fan Speculation and Theory-crafting: The numerous storyline developments have given fans plenty to discuss and theorize about, keeping the WWE product at the forefront of wrestling conversations between shows.
7. Mainstream Attention: Moments like Edge’s return have the potential to attract mainstream media coverage, bringing additional attention to the WWE product.

The impact of this episode extends far beyond the two-hour runtime, influencing fan engagement, business metrics, and the broader wrestling landscape. It serves as a testament to the enduring appeal and cultural significance of WWE programming when firing on all cylinders.

Conclusion

WWE Smackdown Episode 1491 will be remembered as a pivotal moment in the brand’s history. From the electrifying main event between Roman Reigns and AJ Styles to the shocking return of Edge and the unexpected heel turn of Seth Rollins, this episode delivered on all fronts.

The show’s success can be attributed to several factors:

• High-quality in-ring action that showcased the best of WWE’s talent roster
• Significant storyline developments that will shape the future of Smackdown
• Surprising moments that kept fans engaged and talking long after the show ended
• Strong performances across the board, from established stars to rising talents
• Excellent production values that enhanced the viewing experience

As we look to the future, Episode 1491 has set a high bar for upcoming shows. The numerous storylines and potential feuds teased throughout the episode promise an exciting period ahead for WWE fans.

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Whether you’re a long-time wrestling enthusiast or a casual viewer, WWE Smackdown Episode 1491 offered something for everyone. It reminded us why professional wrestling, at its best, can be one of the most entertaining and engaging forms of sports entertainment.

As the WWE Universe eagerly anticipates the fallout and future developments from this landmark episode, one thing is clear: Smackdown has reaffirmed its position as must-see television for wrestling fans around the world.

FAQs

1. Who won the main event of WWE Smackdown Episode 1491? Roman Reigns defeated AJ Styles in the main event after a hard-fought battle.
2. What was the most surprising moment of the episode? The most surprising moment was Seth Rollins’ unexpected heel turn, betraying his tag team partner Drew McIntyre.
3. Which title matches took place in Episode 1491? The Intercontinental Championship match between Shinsuke Nakamura and Sami Zayn, and the Women’s Championship match between Bianca Belair and Asuka.
4. Who was the breakout star of the night? Rhea Ripley was widely considered the breakout star, impressing with her performance against Charlotte Flair.
5. Did any guest appearances occur during Episode 1491? Yes, WWE Hall of Famer Edge made a shocking return, confronting Roman Reigns. Additionally, NXT standout Bron Breakker made his main roster debut.
6. How did fans react to Episode 1491? Fans reacted overwhelmingly positively, praising the high-quality matches, surprising moments, and significant storyline developments.
7. What was Becky Lynch’s promo about? Becky Lynch declared her intentions to reclaim the Women’s Championship, challenging current champion Bianca Belair.
8. How did Shinsuke Nakamura perform in his title defense? Shinsuke Nakamura successfully defended his Intercontinental Championship against Sami Zayn in a highly competitive match.
9. What technical aspects stood out in Episode 1491? The production quality, including camera work, commentary, and audio mixing, was praised for enhancing the overall viewing experience.
10. What are the future implications of Episode 1491’s developments? The episode set up several potential feuds and storylines, including Roman Reigns vs. Edge, Seth Rollins vs. Drew McIntyre, and Bianca Belair vs. Becky Lynch, promising an exciting future for Smackdown.