WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 aired on July 19, 2024, and it was a night that WWE fans will remember for a long time. The blue brand delivered a spectacle. It was filled with thrilling matches, surprise returns, and intense storylines. This episode had a perfect blend of athleticism, drama, and entertainment. It showed why WWE SmackDown is a key part of pro wrestling.

Opening Segment: The Tribal Chief Speaks

The show kicked off with the Universal Champion, Roman Reigns, making his way to the ring accompanied by Paul Heyman and Solo Sikoa. The Tribal Chief, as always, exuded confidence and authority. Reigns addressed the WWE Universe, reminding them of his dominance and the bloodline’s supremacy. He called out his SummerSlam opponent, Jey Uso, for a face-to-face confrontation.

Jey Uso, not one to back down, made his entrance to a thunderous ovation. The tension between the two cousins was palpable as they exchanged heated words. Reigns tried to belittle Jey, but the challenger stood his ground, promising to dethrone The Tribal Chief at SummerSlam. The segment ended with a brawl, setting the tone for the rest of the night.

Match 1: Rey Mysterio vs. Santos Escobar

The first match of the night featured a high-flying contest between Rey Mysterio and Santos Escobar. The two luchadores put on a clinic, showcasing their incredible in-ring abilities. The fast action kept the audience on the edge of their seats. Both competitors did great moves.

Rey Mysterio, the veteran, used his experience to outsmart Escobar at crucial moments. However, Escobar’s agility and technical prowess made him a formidable opponent. In the end, Mysterio secured the victory with a breathtaking 619 followed by a top-rope splash. The respect between the two competitors was evident as they shook hands after the match.

Backstage Segment: Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair

Backstage, Becky Lynch was seen preparing for her match later in the night when she was approached by Charlotte Flair. The two long-time rivals exchanged a few tense words, hinting at a possible confrontation in the near future. Flair, the Queen, reminded Lynch of their history. Lynch confidently declared that she was ready for any challenge.

Match 2: Women’s Tag Team Championship – Damage CTRL (c) vs. Raquel Rodriguez & Shotzi

Next up was a Women’s Tag Team Championship match. It featured Damage CTRL (Dakota Kai and IYO SKY) defending their titles against Raquel Rodriguez and Shotzi. The champions are known for their cunning tactics and teamwork. They faced a tough challenge from the powerhouse Rodriguez and the unpredictable Shotzi.

The match went back and forth. Both teams displayed great chemistry and coordination. Rodriguez’s strength and Shotzi’s high-risk offense provided a formidable challenge for Damage CTRL. However, the champions’ experience and underhanded tactics gave them the edge. In the closing moments, Kai and SKY managed to isolate Shotzi, hitting her with a devastating double-team move to retain their titles.

Promo: LA Knight

LA Knight, one of the fastest-rising stars in WWE, cut a fiery promo in the ring. Knight, known for his charisma and mic skills, addressed the WWE Universe and his upcoming match at SummerSlam. He said he was on a mission to be the next Intercontinental Champion. He promised to make a statement in his match against Sheamus later.

Match 3: Sheamus vs. LA Knight

The third match of the night saw the Celtic Warrior, Sheamus, take on LA Knight. This hard-hitting contest pitted Sheamus’s brute strength against Knight’s cunning and athleticism. Both men were determined to gain momentum heading into SummerSlam.

The match was a physical encounter, with Sheamus delivering his trademark power moves, including the Beats of the Bodhrán. Knight, however, used his agility and bring awareness to counter Sheamus’s offense. In the end, Knight won a hard-fought victory. He used his signature BFT (Blunt Force Trauma) finisher. This sent a clear message to his SummerSlam opponent.

Backstage Interview: Bianca Belair

Bianca Belair was interviewed backstage. She talked about her upcoming match against Asuka for the WWE Women’s Championship. Belair expressed her confidence and determination to reclaim the title she once held. She acknowledged Asuka’s skill but assured the WWE Universe that she would leave no stone unturned in her quest to become champion again.

Match 4: Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Karrion Kross

The next match featured Shinsuke Nakamura going head-to-head with Karrion Kross. This clash of styles saw Nakamura’s striking prowess against Kross’s raw power and intensity. The match was a hard-fought battle, with both competitors showcasing their unique strengths.

Nakamura’s strong offense kept Kross on his toes. But, Kross’s relentless aggression and power eventually took over. In the closing moments, Kross locked in the Kross Jacket, forcing Nakamura to tap out. Kross’s dominant victory sent a clear message to the SmackDown roster.

Segment: The Miz TV with Special Guest Cody Rhodes

The Miz hosted a special edition of Miz TV with Cody Rhodes as his guest. The A-Lister, always the provocateur, tried to stir up trouble by questioning Rhodes’s motives and his return to WWE. Rhodes, however, remained composed and focused.

Rhodes spoke about his journey, his passion for wrestling, and his desire to become WWE Champion. The Miz, never one to back down, challenged Rhodes to a match next week on SmackDown. Rhodes accepted, promising to show The Miz and the WWE Universe why he is a force to be reckoned with.

Main Event: Becky Lynch vs. Bayley

The main event of the night featured Becky Lynch taking on Bayley in a highly anticipated match. Both women, former champions and fierce competitors, were determined to prove their superiority. The match was a showcase of technical wrestling, high spots, and intense drama.

Lynch and Bayley traded holds and counters, with neither gaining a clear advantage in the early going. As the match progressed, the intensity ramped up, with both women hitting their signature moves. Lynch, known for her resilience, managed to survive Bayley’s onslaught and locked in the Dis-Arm-Her, forcing Bayley to tap out.

The victory was a significant momentum boost for Lynch as she heads into her championship match at SummerSlam. The show ended with Lynch celebrating in the ring, the WWE Universe firmly behind her.

Conclusion

WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 was a night of unforgettable moments. It had thrilling matches and intense rivalries. It went from Roman Reigns and Jey Uso’s explosive fight to Becky Lynch’s main event win. The episode succeeded in every way. As SummerSlam approaches, the stakes are higher than ever, and the WWE Universe is eagerly anticipating what comes next.

This episode of SmackDown showed the heart of pro wrestling. It had athleticism, storytelling, and entertainment. Each match and segment added to the main stories. They built anticipation for the upcoming pay-per-view. WWE SmackDown continues to set the standard for sports entertainment, and Episode 1491 was a testament to its enduring legacy.