For over two decades, WWE SmackDown has captivated wrestling fans with its thrilling matches, larger than life personalities, and unforgettable moments. From its debut in 1999 to its current status as a global phenomenon, SmackDown has cemented its place in WWE history as a breeding ground for iconic moments and legendary matches that have created lasting memories for fans around the world.
One of the most iconic moments in SmackDown history unfolded on April 13, 2000, during an episode appropriately titled “This Is Your Life, Rock!” Mick Foley, known as Mankind, hosted a tribute to his friend and then-WWE Superstar The Rock. This segment featured hilarious skits and surprise appearances from The Rock’s past, including his high school sweetheart and former gym teacher. The electric chemistry between Foley and The Rock, combined with the unexpected and heartwarming moments, solidified this segment as one of SmackDown’s all-time greatest.
In 2002, SmackDown treated fans to an unforgettable encounter between two of the company’s biggest icons – The Undertaker and Jeff Hardy. This legendary ladder match for the WWE Undisputed Championship showcased Hardy’s daredevil style and resilience against The Undertaker’s brutal dominance. Despite being overpowered throughout the match, Hardy’s high-risk maneuvers and never-give-up attitude won the admiration of the WWE Universe. Though The Undertaker ultimately emerged victorious, this match solidified Jeff Hardy’s status as one of wrestling’s most fearless performers.
Another impactful moment etched in SmackDown’s history books occurred on September 1, 2005, when Eddie Guerrero faced off against JBL for the WWE Championship. This match, known as “The Bullrope Match,” added a unique twist to their feud. Guerrero, a beloved fan favorite, triumphed over JBL, a detestable heel character, giving fans a cathartic and well-deserved victory. This match showcased Guerrero’s incredible in-ring abilities and his ability to connect with the audience on an emotional level.
If there is one match that symbolizes the relentless spirit of competition on SmackDown, it is undoubtedly the 60-minute Iron Man match between Kurt Angle and Brock Lesnar on September 18, 2003. This intense battle for the WWE Championship pushed both competitors to their limits. With countless near falls, submission attempts, and displays of raw athleticism, Angle and Lesnar went back and forth for a full hour, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. In the end, Angle emerged victorious, capturing the title and solidifying their match as one of the greatest in SmackDown’s storied history.
Fast forward to 2016, and SmackDown presented another iconic moment that left the wrestling world buzzing. On July 19th of that year, both the WWE Championship and the WWE World Heavyweight Championship were up for grabs in a grueling six-pack challenge. Dean Ambrose, AJ Styles, John Cena, Bray Wyatt, Dolph Ziggler, and Baron Corbin battled it out for the ultimate prize. This action-packed match showcased the incredible talent on the SmackDown roster at the time and culminated with Ambrose capturing the WWE Championship, solidifying his status as a top-tier superstar.
SmackDown has truly proven to be a powerhouse when it comes to creating unforgettable moments and monumental matches. From hilarious segments to pulse-pounding matches, this show has left an indelible mark on the history of professional wrestling. As the legacy of SmackDown continues to evolve, one can only imagine what iconic moments and legendary bouts lie ahead. The only certainty is that history will continue to be made in the squared circle of WWE SmackDown.