WWE SmackDown, the flagship show of World Wrestling Entertainment, has been home to some of the most spectacular and jaw-dropping twists and turns in the history of professional wrestling. From shocking returns to unexpected betrayals, SmackDown has never failed to keep fans on the edge of their seats. In this article, we will take a trip down memory lane and relive some of the most surprising moments in the show’s history.
One of the most unforgettable moments in SmackDown history came on April 7, 2011, when The Rock made his long-awaited return to the WWE after a seven-year absence. The energy in the arena was electric as the crowd erupted in disbelief and excitement. The Rock’s microphone skills were as sharp as ever, delivering a scathing promo that left fans speechless. This unexpected return not only marked a turning point in WWE but also set the stage for a legendary WrestleMania match between The Rock and John Cena.
Another jaw-dropping moment occurred on November 13, 2003, when WWE Champion Brock Lesnar shocked the world by abandoning SmackDown for rival brand Raw. Lesnar was at the height of his career and his sudden departure left fans in shock. This unexpected move set off a series of events that led to a brand rivalry, known as the “Brand Extension,” and showcased the dynamic nature of the WWE universe.
Betrayals are an integral part of wrestling storylines, and SmackDown has had its fair share of shocking betrayals throughout the years. One such moment came on May 5, 2005, when Rey Mysterio won a battle royal to earn a shot at the World Heavyweight Championship. But before Mysterio could celebrate, his long-time friend Eddie Guerrero turned on him, attacking him with a steel chair. This shocking betrayal not only shattered the friendship between the two but also ignited a bitter feud that captivated audiences for months.
Another unforgettable betrayal occurred on January 17, 2014, when The Shield, a dominant faction, suddenly turned against their leader, Dean Ambrose. Seth Rollins, a member of The Shield, delivered a shocking chair shot to Ambrose’s back, marking the dissolution of one of the most dominant stables in WWE history. This unexpected turn of events sent shockwaves throughout the WWE Universe and forever changed the landscape of SmackDown.
In February 2021, SmackDown witnessed another twist that left fans amazed. Edge, a legendary WWE superstar, won the men’s Royal Rumble match and earned a shot at the World Heavyweight Championship. However, after weeks of keeping his decision a secret, Edge surprised everyone by choosing to challenge Roman Reigns for the Universal Championship instead. This unexpected swerve not only added a new layer of excitement to the title picture but also showcased Edge’s cunning and strategic mindset.
These are just a few examples of the countless jaw-dropping twists and turns that have occurred on SmackDown over the years. Whether it’s a shocking return, an unexpected betrayal, or a surprise decision, SmackDown has consistently delivered moments that leave fans in awe. As the show continues to evolve and entertain, one thing remains certain – you can always expect the unexpected on WWE SmackDown.