WWE SmackDown Episode 1491, televised on July 21, 2024, at the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida, was a night that had viewers buzzing with excitement. From top-level championship matches to jaw-dropping surprises, this episode had it all WWE fans could have requested—and more.
In this detailed breakdown, we’ll dive into the highlights of the night, including epic battles, shocking betrayals, surprise returns, and a look at how this episode is shaping the future of WWE. So sit back, relax, and relive the electrifying moments that made SmackDown Episode 1491 one for the ages!
The Build-Up to Episode 1491
In the run-up to Episode 1491, WWE had been constructing towards a night that no one would ever forget. The tension was high in a number of storylines, with the audience eagerly waiting to know how the events would unfold. Some of the major storylines that set the stage for the night are outlined below:
- Roman Reigns vs. AJ Styles: This aggressive feud had fans on the edge of their seats. After months of exchange after exchange of verbal sparring and fisticuffs, this match for the Universal Championship was about to be talked about for eternity.
- Bianca Belair’s Women’s Championship: Bianca had already defended her belt in a bunch of matches, but possible foes such as Asuka and more were closing the gap, such that her domination was about to be challenged.
- Tag Team Turmoil: The Usos controlled the tag team, though cracks were already starting to form in their hitherto impenetrable partnership, promising drama in the very near future.
- Seth Rollins & Drew McIntyre: The fragile Rollins and McIntyre partnership had fans wondering how long it would last, and whether or not betrayal was on the cards.
The buzz was tangible in the lead-up weeks to this installment, and the fans were chattering on Twitter with their hopes and hypotheses, with #SmackdownEp1491 trending hard well in advance of broadcast.
Main Event: Roman Reigns vs. AJ Styles – Universal Championship
The highlight of Episode 1491 was Roman Reigns defending the Universal Championship against AJ Styles, and what a bout it was. This encounter of two WWE superstars was something that had everyone on the edge of their seats throughout.
Key Moments in the Match:
- AJ Styles came out strong, using his agility and quickness to keep Reigns on his toes, showing the world why he’s one of the best in-ring workers out there today.
- Roman Reigns, the Head of the Table battled back with his signature power attacks, nullifying Styles’ attack and demonstrating his dominance.
- The Usos were heard throughout a dramatic show when they disrupted the middle of the match, adding another dimension of drama to an already explosive contest.
- AJ Styles laid out a jaw-dropping top-rope Phenomenal Forearm, effectively winning the match in one of the evening’s most dramatic moments.
- Lastly, Roman Reigns put the finishing touch on it with a devastating Spear, retaining his Universal Championship.
Though Reigns emerged victorious, Styles’ performance earned him a standing ovation from the crowd, proving that he’s always capable of bringing the fight to the champion.
Superstar Performances
While the main event was the centerpiece of the night, several other superstars put on stellar performances that kept fans engaged throughout the show:
- Rhea Ripley vs. Charlotte Flair: A match featuring two of the finest women’s performers on the roster against each other. Flair used her thinking man’s game to bring the contest back into play, and Ripley stunned with sheer power she contained. When Ripley pinched herself a little too tightly by mistake, the audience was left agog.
- Kevin Owens vs. Sami Zayn: Both Owens and Zayn exhibited an incredible show of aerial attack and power. Owens’ post-match promo hinted at the coming challenge for the title, and it generated intrigue over what comes next for him.
- Bianca Belair vs. Asuka: The match was a fun clash of strength versus submission tactics. Bianca Belair emerged as the winner as the Women’s Champion in a thrilling conclusion that had the audience guessing until the final moment.
These matches were not just matches—they were turning-point moments in the character arcs and storylines. The wrestlers provided a sense of what is next for future episodes.
Major Storyline Developments
Though the matches were the crux of Episode 1491, the plot twists were not less shocking. Here are some of the most shocking moments that left fans buzzing:
Seth Rollins Betrays Drew McIntyre. In a shocking twist, Seth Rollins heel-turned on his tag team partner Drew McIntyre during their match against The Usos. Rollins’ heel turn stunned the WWE Universe and set up what’s going to be a nuclear feud between the two men.
Edge’s Shocking Return
Edge. The Hall of Famer stunned all in a surprise return following Reigns’ post-match celebration win, staring eyeball to eyeball with the Universal Champion. The crowd was in a frenzy as “You Think You Know Me” rang around the arena. This sets the stage for one last showdown between the two and adds another turn of intrigue to Reigns’ title reign.
Becky Lynch’s Fiery Promo
Becky Lynch cut a passionate promo wherein she laid out her intentions for winning back the Women’s Championship from Bianca Belair. Lynch’s impassioned rant triggered a highly anticipated rematch between the two women that fans have eagerly anticipated.
All these events are guaranteed to leave their mark on WWE programming over the weeks and months to come.
Title Matches and Championships
In addition to the main event, Episode 1491 featured two high-stakes title matches that had fans on the edge of their seats:
Intercontinental Championship: Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Sami Zayn
- Champion: Shinsuke Nakamura
- Challenger: Sami Zayn
- Result: Nakamura retained the title after hitting a Kinshasa.
This was a fast-paced, technical masterpiece, with Zayn coming close to victory several times. Nakamura’s experience proved to be the deciding factor in the end.
Women’s Championship: Bianca Belair vs. Asuka
- Champion: Bianca Belair
- Challenger: Asuka
- Result: Belair retained after a hard-fought match, hitting the KOD (Kiss of Death).
This match was a perfect mix of styles—Belair’s strength against Asuka’s submission expertise—and it kept fans guessing until the very end.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
The WWE Universe was absolutely buzzing after Episode 1491. The reaction on social media was overwhelmingly positive, with fans sharing their excitement and thoughts throughout the night.
- #SmackdownEp1491 was trending globally on Twitter as the fans were talking about everything from the jaw-dropping Seth Rollins betrayal to Edge’s return.
- The Orlando crowd was electrically charged, and the 14,000+ fans responded to every turn and development, creating the arena buzz eminently unforgettable.
- Internet comments were complimenting the episode, and they used to refer to it as one of the good episodes of SmackDown for the year.
Technical Aspects and Production Quality
As always, WWE’s production team delivered a visually stunning show. From dynamic camera angles to immersive lighting effects, the show felt larger-than-life. Highlights included:
- Camera Work: Quick cuts and slow-motion replays added intensity to key moments.
- Lighting & Visual Effects: Each superstar’s entrance was enhanced with unique lighting effects, while LED screens helped create an immersive atmosphere.
- Commentary: The commentary team was on point, adding depth to the action and effectively communicating the stakes of each match.
- Sound Production: The crowd noise, music, and impact sounds were well-balanced, creating a truly exciting viewing experience.
Looking Ahead: Future Predictions
Based on the events of Episode 1491, here are some predictions for what might happen in future episodes of WWE SmackDown:
- Roman Reigns vs. Edge: A showdown between the two seems inevitable, possibly at the next pay-per-view event.
- Seth Rollins vs. Drew McIntyre: Their betrayal angle has all the makings of a heated feud.
- Bianca Belair vs. Becky Lynch: A rematch between these two is highly likely, given Lynch’s promo calling out Belair.
- Bron Breakker’s Rise: The NXT star’s main roster debut hints at more appearances and a potential future title run.
These storylines will no doubt keep fans engaged and excited for future episodes of SmackDown.
Conclusion
WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 was not to be forgotten. With outstanding matches, spine-chilling surprises, and plot-twisting storyline secrets, it set a high standard for future episodes. The fans were treated to the continuation of burning feuds, head-reeling betrayals, and iconic returns—all of which are a part of the ever-expanding WWE evolution.
Whether you’re a long-time wrestling fan or just tuning in, Episode 1491 was a reminder of the excitement and drama that only WWE can deliver. Fans are already eagerly anticipating what’s next in this captivating season of SmackDown.
FAQs
Who won the main event of WWE SmackDown Episode 1491?
Roman Reigns defeated AJ Styles to retain the Universal Championship.
What was the biggest surprise moment of the episode?
The biggest surprise moment of the episode was when Seth Rollins turned on Drew McIntyre.
Which title matches took place in Episode 1491?
The Intercontinental Championship (Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Sami Zayn) and Women’s Championship (Bianca Belair vs. Asuka) were defended.
Who was the evening’s star?
The evening’s star was Rhea Ripley following her surprising win over Charlotte Flair.
Did Episode 1491 have any guest appearances?
Yes, there was a surprise return by Edge, and Bron Breakker debuted on the main roster.
What was the reaction of the fans to Episode 1491?
The reaction of the fans was positive, with them enjoying the surprise twists, quality matches, and unpredictability.
