When it comes to edge-of-your-seat action and larger-than-life characters, there’s nothing quite like WWE Smackdown. With its thrilling matches, dramatic storylines, and jaw-dropping moments, this professional wrestling extravaganza never fails to leave fans on the edge of their seats, craving for more. Over the years, Smackdown has produced countless unforgettable moments that have cemented this show as a cornerstone of sports entertainment. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and relive some of the most unbelievable highlights in WWE Smackdown’s history.
One unforgettable moment that still sends chills down the spines of WWE fans is the rivalry between The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin. In 2001, these two icons faced off in a match for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania X-Seven. The crowd was electrified as The Rock hit multiple Rock Bottoms and Stone Cold retaliated with devastating Stunners. But what made this moment truly unforgettable was the shocking outcome – Stone Cold, known to be a fan favorite, shockingly aligned himself with his arch-rival, Vince McMahon. This unexpected turn of events left jaws dropped and set the stage for a dramatic shift in the WWE landscape.
Another unforgettable highlight came in 2002 when Kurt Angle challenged Brock Lesnar for the WWE Championship in an intense Iron Man match on Smackdown. These two powerhouses gave it their all, displaying an incredible range of athleticism and technical skills throughout the hour-long match. The climax occurred when Angle executed a picture-perfect Angle Slam, followed by the Ankle Lock, forcing Lesnar to tap out. This feat not only solidified Angle’s reputation as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time but also showcased the unparalleled excitement that Smackdown brings to the table.
In 2011, WWE Smackdown delivered yet another unforgettable moment during its 700th episode. The charismatic Jeff Hardy returned to face his longtime rival, CM Punk, in a match that would determine the number one contender for the World Heavyweight Championship. Hardy’s high-flying moves and Punk’s innovative offense kept the audience at the edge of their seats, but what made this moment truly astounding was the ending. With only seconds left, Hardy courageously climbed a ladder and performed a breathtaking Swanton Bomb on Punk, sealing his victory and earning himself a title shot. This memorable match served as a reminder of the undying passion and athleticism that make professional wrestling so enthralling.
Let’s not forget the momentous occasion in 2016 when the incomparable AJ Styles made his long-awaited debut on Smackdown. As his music hit and Styles stepped out onto the stage, the arena erupted in thunderous applause. The Phenomenal One went on to have a series of unforgettable matches against the likes of John Cena, Dean Ambrose, and Randy Orton. Styles’ arrival on Smackdown marked a turning point in the show’s history, injecting new life and excitement into the brand.
These are just a handful of the countless unforgettable moments that have graced WWE Smackdown over the years. Whether it’s shocking plot twists, awe-inspiring athletic feats, or the arrival of new superstars, Smackdown continues to captivate audiences worldwide. With each episode offering a fresh mix of dazzling matches and gripping narratives, it’s no wonder that WWE Smackdown has become a must-watch show for fans of professional wrestling. So, buckle up, because you never know when the next unbelievable highlight will take place!