The WWE Universe was buzzing with anticipation leading up to WWE SmackDown Episode 1491. With thrilling storylines, jaw-dropping matches, and unexpected twists, this episode delivered action-packed entertainment. This guide covers every moment you need to know about, offering insights into major matches, storyline developments, and fan reactions.
Highlights of WWE SmackDown Episode 1491
1. Main Event: A Clash of Titans
The night’s main event featured Roman Reigns defending his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against LA Knight. The match was a brutal, back-and-forth battle, with LA Knight showing resilience against The Tribal Chief. The drama peaked when Jimmy Uso interfered on Reigns’ behalf, allowing him to retain the championship after a devastating Spear.
2. Surprise Returns and Debuts
Episode 1491 thrilled fans with the unexpected return of Randy Orton, marking his comeback after months of absence due to injury. Orton’s appearance set the crowd ablaze, especially when he delivered an RKO to Jimmy Uso, signaling potential involvement in the ongoing Bloodline storyline.
Additionally, the debut of rising NXT star Bron Breakker on SmackDown left a strong impression as he issued a challenge to Sheamus.
3. Tag Team Turmoil
The tag team division took center stage as The Street Profits faced off against The Brawling Brutes and Pretty Deadly in a high-octane triple-threat match. The Street Profits emerged victorious, earning a shot at the WWE Tag Team Championships held by The Judgment Day. The match showcased incredible teamwork and athleticism, keeping the crowd engaged throughout.
4. Women’s Division Showcase
SmackDown Episode 1491 also highlighted the women’s division with a heated clash between Charlotte Flair and Bayley. Their intense rivalry unfolded in the ring, with Charlotte eventually securing the win via her Figure-Eight Leglock. Post-match, Iyo Sky ambushed Charlotte, setting up a potential title defense against the Queen in the near future.
5. Segment Highlights
The Bloodline Saga
The ongoing Bloodline saga was a focal point of the episode. Roman Reigns confronted Solo Sikoa after tension between the two was hinted in earlier episodes. This segment teased cracks within The Bloodline, keeping fans intrigued about its future.
Bray Wyatt Tribute
A heartfelt tribute to the late Bray Wyatt brought tears to fans’ eyes, with a video montage celebrating his career and contributions to WWE.
The Miz vs. Grayson Waller in the Miz TV Segment
The Miz hosted Grayson Waller in an explosive edition of Miz TV. The segment quickly turned into a physical altercation, leaving Waller laid out after a Skull Crushing Finale.
Match Results
Here’s a quick summary of the results from WWE SmackDown Episode 1491:
| Match Type | Participants | Result |
| Singles Match | LA Knight vs. Roman Reigns | Winner: Roman Reigns (Retained Title) |
| Tag Team Match | The Street Profits vs. The Brawling Brutes vs. Pretty Deadly | Winner: The Street Profits |
| Women’s Match | Charlotte Flair vs. Bayley | Winner: Charlotte Flair |
| Singles Match | Bron Breakker vs. Austin Theory | Winner: Bron Breakker (via pinfall) |
Storyline Developments
The Rise of Bron Breakker
Bron Breakker’s debut was nothing short of impressive. By defeating Austin Theory, he has positioned himself as a future threat to the SmackDown roster.
The Bloodline Drama Intensifies
Roman Reigns’ friction with Solo Sikoa continued, leaving fans speculating whether Solo will remain loyal or turn on Reigns in the coming weeks.
Women’s Championship Picture
Iyo Sky’s ambush on Charlotte Flair solidified her position as a dominant champion. A title defense against Charlotte seems imminent, promising a showdown between two of WWE’s finest athletes.
Fan Reactions
Social media erupted with fans sharing their thoughts on Episode 1491. Popular hashtags like #SmackDown1491, #LAKnight, and #RandyOrtonReturn trended throughout the night. Fans praised LA Knight’s performance and Randy Orton’s return, while Roman Reigns’ victory sparked mixed reactions, with some criticizing the repetitive interference in his matches.
Behind the Scenes
- Production Notes: Episode 1491 featured cutting-edge pyrotechnics and a packed arena, adding to its grandeur.
- Attendance: Over 16,000 fans filled the venue, creating a deafening atmosphere.
- Easter Eggs: Observant fans noticed a subtle hint toward Cody Rhodes potentially challenging Roman Reigns again, as seen in a backstage segment involving Paul Heyman.
FAQs
What Happened in WWE SmackDown Episode 1491?
Episode 1491 showcased Roman Reigns retaining his title, Randy Orton’s return, and Bron Breakker’s impactful SmackDown debut.
Who Won the Main Event of Episode 1491?
Roman Reigns defeated LA Knight to retain the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship, thanks to interference from Jimmy Uso.
Were There Any Surprise Returns or Debuts?
Yes, Randy Orton made a surprise return, and Bron Breakker debuted on SmackDown, marking significant moments in the episode.
What Was the Best Match of the Night?
The main event between Roman Reigns and LA Knight was considered the best match of the night, offering a mix of high stakes and dramatic storytelling.
Where Can I Watch WWE SmackDown Episode 1491?
You can watch Episode 1491 on Peacock in the US, the WWE Network internationally, or via cable providers like Fox.
Conclusion
WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 was an unforgettable show, packed with explosive matches, surprising twists, and storyline advancements. The episode delivered on its promise of world-class entertainment, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
As we look forward to next week’s SmackDown, all eyes will be on the fallout from Randy Orton’s return, the Bloodline drama, and potential championship match announcements. Don’t miss it!
