Introduction
WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 delivered a thrilling night of wrestling action, drama, and storyline advancements as the company built momentum toward the upcoming Elimination Chamber event. With major confrontations, high-stakes matches, and intriguing developments in the ongoing rivalries, this episode kept fans on the edge of their seats.
From the battle for the number one contender’s spot in the United States Championship scene to explosive face-offs between some of WWE’s biggest stars, SmackDown Episode 1491 played a crucial role in shaping the road to WrestleMania.
The Road to Elimination Chamber
The Elimination Chamber pay-per-view is just around the corner, and SmackDown Episode 1491 was the final opportunity for superstars to gain momentum heading into the event. The show focused on advancing key storylines and setting up major clashes that would define the future of WWE.
LA Knight Becomes the Number One Contender for the United States Championship
One of the most significant moments of the night came during the Triple Threat Match featuring LA Knight, Carmelo Hayes, and Jacob Fatu. The winner of this high-energy bout would earn the right to challenge for the United States Championship at Elimination Chamber.
The match was a showcase of athleticism, with each superstar bringing their A-game. LA Knight, a fan favorite, ultimately emerged victorious after hitting his signature BFT (Blunt Force Trauma) finisher on Carmelo Hayes to secure the pinfall victory.
With this win, LA Knight now has a golden opportunity to capture the United States Championship, setting up a much-anticipated title match at the pay-per-view.
The Women’s Division Heats Up
The WWE Women’s Division had its fair share of spotlight in Episode 1491. One of the main highlights featured a non-title match between Chelsea Green and Tiffany Stratton, which ended in disqualification after interference from Nia Jax. The attack resulted in an impromptu tag team match, with Tiffany Stratton joining forces with Trish Stratus to take on Nia Jax and Candice LeRae.
The match was an exciting back-and-forth contest, showcasing the talent of all four competitors. The finish came when Stratton hit a moonsault on Candice LeRae to secure the victory. The outcome added fuel to the ongoing rivalry, with tensions running high heading into Elimination Chamber.
Cody Rhodes and CM Punk’s Heated Exchange
Perhaps the most talked-about segment of the night was the face-off between Cody Rhodes and CM Punk. With both men being major players in WWE’s main event scene, their paths inevitably crossed ahead of WrestleMania.
CM Punk, known for his razor-sharp mic skills, wasted no time in addressing Cody Rhodes, questioning whether he has what it takes to defeat The Rock at WrestleMania. Rhodes, not one to back down, fired back with an impassioned promo, stating that he is more than ready to take on the challenge.
This intense exchange added layers to their rivalry, with the possibility of an eventual showdown between the two megastars.
Seth Rollins, Drew McIntyre, and Damian Priest’s Escalating Feud
In another heated segment, Seth Rollins, Drew McIntyre, and Damian Priest found themselves in a war of words that quickly turned physical. Rollins, who has been embroiled in a long-running feud with McIntyre, found himself targeted by both McIntyre and Priest in a chaotic brawl.
The segment ended with McIntyre standing tall after delivering a Claymore Kick to Rollins, signaling that their rivalry is far from over. With all three superstars set to compete inside the Elimination Chamber, the stakes could not be higher.
The Bloodline’s Dominance Continues
The Bloodline, led by Roman Reigns, continued to assert their dominance on SmackDown. Episode 1491 featured a tag team match between The Usos and the team of Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn. The match was a high-octane affair, with both teams displaying incredible teamwork and in-ring chemistry.
However, interference from Solo Sikoa proved to be the difference-maker, as The Bloodline emerged victorious. After the match, Roman Reigns appeared on the big screen, sending a chilling message to his future challengers.
The Bloodline’s continued reign of terror leaves the WWE Universe wondering if anyone can stop them heading into WrestleMania.
Other Notable Moments
- Rey Mysterio vs. Santos Escobar: The long-standing respect between these two luchadors was put to the test in a singles match that showcased their incredible wrestling abilities. Mysterio picked up the win, but the post-match tension suggested that this rivalry is far from over.
- Karrion Kross’ Cryptic Promo: Kross delivered yet another eerie promo, hinting at a major move that could shake up the SmackDown roster.
- Logan Paul’s Surprise Appearance: The social media star-turned-WWE superstar made a surprise appearance, teasing a potential WrestleMania match against a yet-to-be-revealed opponent.
Conclusion
WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 delivered a packed night full of thrilling matches, intense promos, and storyline developments that have set the stage for the Elimination Chamber and WrestleMania.
From LA Knight’s victory to CM Punk and Cody Rhodes’ verbal battle, this episode had something for every WWE fan. With the road to WrestleMania heating up, SmackDown continues to be must-watch television. The WWE Universe now eagerly awaits the Elimination Chamber, where the fates of many superstars will be decided.
