WWE SmackDown has long been a cornerstone of professional wrestling entertainment, captivating audiences with thrilling matches, dramatic storylines, and larger-than-life personalities. Episode 1491 of WWE SmackDown, aired on June 14, 2024, was no exception, offering fans an unforgettable night of action, surprises, and memorable moments. This article provides a comprehensive review of WWE SmackDown Episode 1491, highlighting key matches, significant segments, and the overall impact on ongoing storylines.
Introduction to WWE SmackDown Episode 1491
Episode 1491 of WWE SmackDown continued the build-up towards the upcoming pay-per-view, Money in the Bank. The episode featured a mix of high-stakes matches, storyline developments, and surprises that kept fans on the edge of their seats. From championship implications to personal rivalries, the night was packed with excitement.
Key Matches and Highlights
1. Roman Reigns vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
The main event of WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 saw the Universal Champion, Roman Reigns, take on Shinsuke Nakamura in a non-title match. Reigns, accompanied by his special counsel Paul Heyman and the ever-present Usos, aimed to demonstrate his dominance over the blue brand once more.
Match Overview: Nakamura brought his unique blend of strong style and charisma to the ring, providing a formidable challenge to Reigns. The match was a back-and-forth contest, with Nakamura’s strikes and agility countering Reigns’ power and cunning tactics. Despite Nakamura’s valiant effort, Reigns secured the victory after delivering a thunderous spear.
Post-Match Segment: Following the match, Reigns cut a promo declaring his superiority and reaffirming his position at the top of the WWE hierarchy. This segment further solidified Reigns’ heel persona and set the stage for future confrontations.
2. Women’s Championship Number One Contender’s Match: Sasha Banks vs. Bianca Belair
In a match to determine the next challenger for Rhea Ripley’s SmackDown Women’s Championship, Sasha Banks faced off against Bianca Belair. Both superstars are former champions and have a storied history, adding an extra layer of intensity to the contest.
Match Overview: The match was a showcase of athleticism and technical prowess. Banks and Belair pushed each other to the limit, with high-impact moves and near falls that had the crowd invested throughout. In the end, Belair emerged victorious after hitting the KOD (Kiss of Death) on Banks, earning her a shot at Ripley’s title.
Impact on Storylines: Belair’s victory sets up a highly anticipated match against Ripley, promising an explosive encounter between two of WWE’s brightest stars. Banks, on the other hand, hinted at a possible character change in a post-match interview, leaving fans speculating about her next move.
3. Tag Team Championship Match: The Usos vs. The Street Profits
The Usos defended their SmackDown Tag Team Championships against The Street Profits in a match that had fans buzzing. Both teams are known for their chemistry and high-energy performances, making this a must-watch encounter.
Match Overview: The match delivered on its promise, with both teams showcasing their teamwork and signature moves. The Usos utilized their experience and strategic acumen, while The Street Profits brought their high-flying style and infectious energy. After a hard-fought battle, The Usos retained their titles with a well-timed double superkick on Montez Ford.
Significance: The victory cements The Usos’ status as dominant champions, while The Street Profits’ performance keeps them in the title picture. The match also continued the storyline of The Bloodline’s dominance in WWE.
4. Money in the Bank Qualifying Match: Kevin Owens vs. Sami Zayn
Long-time rivals and former best friends Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn clashed in a qualifying match for the Money in the Bank ladder match. Their storied history and intense rivalry added a personal dimension to this high-stakes encounter.
Match Overview: Owens and Zayn delivered a brutal and emotionally charged match, with both men pulling out all the stops. The match featured numerous callbacks to their previous encounters, adding depth to their in-ring storytelling. Ultimately, Owens secured the win with a Stunner, earning a spot in the Money in the Bank ladder match.
Future Implications: Owens’ victory propels him into the Money in the Bank match, where he has the opportunity to secure a future championship opportunity. Zayn’s loss, however, may lead to further character development and storyline progression, possibly reigniting their rivalry.
Notable Segments and Developments
The Return of Edge
One of the most significant moments of WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 was the surprise return of Edge. The Rated-R Superstar made a dramatic entrance, interrupting a promo by Seth Rollins. Edge and Rollins have a storied history, and Edge’s return immediately reignited their rivalry.
Segment Overview: Edge confronted Rollins, leading to a heated exchange of words. The segment ended with Edge spearing Rollins, sending a clear message that their feud is far from over. This development adds a major storyline heading into Money in the Bank and beyond.
Bayley’s In-Ring Promo
Bayley, one of WWE’s top female superstars, delivered a passionate in-ring promo addressing her recent setbacks and future aspirations. She expressed her determination to reclaim the SmackDown Women’s Championship and issued a challenge to the winner of the upcoming title match between Rhea Ripley and Bianca Belair.
Impact: Bayley’s promo set the stage for her return to the title scene and highlighted her character’s resilience. It also added another layer of intrigue to the women’s division, with Bayley poised to play a major role in the coming months.
The Miz and John Morrison’s Antics
The comedic duo of The Miz and John Morrison continued their antics, hosting a segment of Miz TV with special guests, The New Day. The segment was filled with humorous exchanges and set up a future tag team match between the two teams.
Entertainment Value: While not a major storyline driver, this segment provided comic relief and showcased the personalities of both teams. It also reinforced The Miz and Morrison’s role as entertaining heels on the SmackDown roster.
Overall Impact on WWE Storylines
WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 made significant contributions to ongoing storylines and set the stage for future events. The matches and segments provided clarity on upcoming championship matches, developed character arcs, and delivered memorable moments that will resonate with fans.
Building Towards Money in the Bank
The episode played a crucial role in building towards the Money in the Bank pay-per-view. Key qualifying matches added participants to the ladder match, while developing storylines set the stage for marquee matches at the event. The return of Edge and the emergence of new contenders in the women’s division are just a few examples of how SmackDown Episode 1491 enhanced the anticipation for Money in the Bank.
Strengthening The Bloodline’s Dominance
Roman Reigns and The Usos continued to dominate SmackDown, reinforcing The Bloodline’s storyline as the top faction in WWE. Their victories and presence on the show further established their dominance and set up potential challengers who aim to dethrone them.
Character Development and New Directions
Several superstars experienced significant character development during WWE SmackDown Episode 1491. Sasha Banks’ possible character change, Bayley’s determined promo, and Sami Zayn’s continued struggles are just a few examples of how the episode advanced individual storylines. These developments ensure that SmackDown remains a dynamic and engaging show with evolving narratives.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 generated considerable buzz on social media, with fans expressing their excitement and opinions on the night’s events. Hashtags related to the show trended on Twitter, and discussion forums were filled with debates and predictions.
Highlights from Fan Reactions
- Roman Reigns vs. Shinsuke Nakamura: Fans praised the main event for its intensity and storytelling. Many highlighted Nakamura’s strong performance and expressed hope for a future title shot.
- Edge’s Return: Edge’s surprise return was one of the most talked-about moments, with fans expressing their excitement for his renewed feud with Seth Rollins.
- Bianca Belair vs. Sasha Banks: The number one contender’s match received acclaim for its athleticism and competitive spirit. Belair’s victory was celebrated, and fans looked forward to her match against Rhea Ripley.
- Kevin Owens vs. Sami Zayn: The emotional and hard-hitting match between Owens and Zayn was a fan favorite, with many appreciating the depth of their rivalry and Owens’ victory.
Social Media Highlights
- Twitter Trends: Hashtags such as #SmackDown1491, #EdgeReturns, and #BelairVsBanks trended on Twitter, showcasing the widespread engagement with the episode.
- Fan Art and Memes: Fans shared creative art and humorous memes related to the night’s events, adding to the community-driven atmosphere of WWE fandom.
- YouTube Reactions: Clips from the show, particularly Edge’s return and the main event, garnered significant views and reactions on YouTube, reflecting the episode’s impact.
Conclusion
WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 was a night to remember, filled with high-stakes matches, dramatic moments, and significant storyline developments. From the thrilling main event between Roman Reigns and Shinsuke Nakamura to the surprise return of Edge, the episode delivered on multiple fronts, keeping fans engaged and excited for the future.
As WWE builds towards the Money in the Bank pay-per-view, the events of SmackDown Episode
Also Read: Yalla Shoot: The Go-To Destination for Live Football Matches
