WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 delivered another night of electrifying action, jaw-dropping moments, and heated rivalries. With WrestleMania season heating up, every match and segment had implications for the future of WWE. Fans were on the edge of their seats as champions defended their titles, new feuds ignited, and shocking betrayals unfolded. Let’s dive into everything that went down on this high-octane episode of SmackDown.
Opening Segment: A Shocking Announcement
The show kicked off with WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns making his way to the ring, flanked by The Bloodline. Paul Heyman took the microphone and addressed the SmackDown audience, teasing a major announcement. Reigns, exuding his usual dominance, declared that he was ready to put an end to his next challenger in brutal fashion. But before he could continue, his segment was interrupted by a surprise return—Randy Orton!
Orton wasted no time getting into Reigns’ face, signaling that he was back in the title picture. The crowd erupted in cheers as the Viper challenged Reigns to a future title match. Just as tensions escalated, SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis stepped in, announcing a blockbuster main event for the night: Orton & LA Knight vs. The Bloodline!
Match 1: United States Championship Match – Logan Paul (c) vs. Santos Escobar
Logan Paul, the self-proclaimed “Maverick,” put his United States Championship on the line against the skilled high-flyer Santos Escobar. Escobar dominated early, using his speed and technical prowess to keep Paul on the defensive.
However, Paul proved once again why he belongs in WWE. He countered Escobar’s top-rope offense with a perfectly timed right hand, sending Escobar crashing to the mat. With the momentum shifting, Paul executed his signature “Maverick Splash” and secured the pinfall victory.
- Winner: Logan Paul (Retains United States Championship)
After the match, Escobar shook Paul’s hand in a rare show of respect, but the celebration was short-lived as LA Knight stormed the ring, reminding Paul that their rivalry wasn’t over.
Backstage Segment: Kevin Owens Confronts Solo Sikoa
Backstage, Kevin Owens was seen pacing angrily, still fuming over last week’s attack from Solo Sikoa. Owens confronted Sikoa in the locker room, challenging him to a one-on-one fight later in the night. The Enforcer of The Bloodline smirked and accepted the challenge, setting up a highly anticipated clash.
Match 2: Women’s Tag Team Match – Bianca Belair & Becky Lynch vs. Damage CTRL (Bayley & Iyo Sky)
In a tag team bout filled with intensity, Bianca Belair and Becky Lynch teamed up against Damage CTRL’s Bayley and Iyo Sky.
Belair showcased her unparalleled athleticism, while Lynch brought her relentless aggression. However, Damage CTRL used underhanded tactics to gain control, isolating Lynch in their corner.
The match reached its climax when Belair executed a stunning KOD (Kiss of Death) on Bayley, followed by Lynch locking in the Dis-Arm-Her on Iyo Sky, forcing her to tap out.
- Winners: Bianca Belair & Becky Lynch
After the match, Asuka and Kairi Sane attacked Belair and Lynch, adding more fuel to their ongoing feud.
Match 3: Kevin Owens vs. Solo Sikoa
As expected, this match was a hard-hitting affair. Owens wasted no time, unleashing a flurry of punches on Sikoa. The fight spilled outside the ring, with both superstars using the steel steps and barricades to their advantage.
Despite Owens’ resilience, interference from Jimmy Uso turned the tide in favor of Sikoa. A distraction allowed Sikoa to hit a devastating Samoan Spike, followed by a massive Spinning Solo for the win.
- Winner: Solo Sikoa
Owens was left frustrated in the ring as The Bloodline celebrated yet another victory.
Main Event: Randy Orton & LA Knight vs. Roman Reigns & Jimmy Uso
The much-anticipated main event saw Orton and LA Knight team up to take on Reigns and Jimmy Uso. The match was a back-and-forth battle, with Orton and Reigns squaring off multiple times.
The closing moments saw Orton hit an RKO on Uso, followed by LA Knight delivering the BFT (Blunt Force Trauma) for the pinfall victory.
- Winners: Randy Orton & LA Knight
As SmackDown went off the air, Orton and Reigns locked eyes, making it clear that their feud was just beginning.
FAQs
What happened on WWE SmackDown Episode 1491?
WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 featured a shocking return by Randy Orton, a United States Championship match, an intense women’s tag team match, and a heated main event involving Roman Reigns and The Bloodline.
Did Logan Paul retain his United States Championship?
Yes, Logan Paul successfully defended his United States Championship against Santos Escobar in a competitive match.
Who won the main event on WWE SmackDown Episode 1491?
Randy Orton and LA Knight defeated Roman Reigns and Jimmy Uso, with Orton hitting an RKO and Knight delivering the final blow.
Was there any interference during the matches?
Yes, Jimmy Uso interfered in Solo Sikoa’s match against Kevin Owens, helping Sikoa secure the victory.
What’s next for Roman Reigns after WWE SmackDown Episode 1491?
After his loss in the main event, Reigns will likely address his future on SmackDown, with a potential title defense looming.
Did Randy Orton officially challenge Roman Reigns for the WWE Universal Championship?
While Orton didn’t make an official challenge, his actions suggested that he is targeting Roman Reigns for a future title match.
Conclusion
WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 was a thrilling night filled with surprises, championship action, and major storyline developments. With WrestleMania season approaching, tensions are at an all-time high, and rivalries are reaching their boiling point. Randy Orton’s return, Logan Paul’s title defense, and The Bloodline’s dominance made this episode must-watch television.