WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 aired live from the iconic KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky, and it was packed with drama, high-octane matches, and jaw-dropping moments that left the WWE Universe buzzing. As one of the final stops before the upcoming pay-per-view event, this episode played a crucial role in setting the stage for some major showdowns. Whether you missed the episode or just want to relive the best moments, this full recap will take you through everything you need to know.
Opening Segment: The Bloodline’s Explosive Showdown
The night kicked off with an intense segment featuring The Bloodline, one of WWE’s most dominant factions. Roman Reigns, flanked by Paul Heyman and Solo Sikoa, addressed the WWE Universe with his usual gravitas. Reigns’ promo centered on his upcoming title defense, but the tension between him and Jey Uso was palpable.
Jey, still harboring resentment from their past betrayals, interrupted the Tribal Chief, leading to a heated exchange. The segment escalated quickly, with Solo Sikoa trying to intervene, but ultimately, Jey delivered a superkick to Reigns, sending the crowd into a frenzy. This confrontation not only solidified Jey’s status as a serious contender but also added a new layer of complexity to The Bloodline’s already intricate storyline.
Match 1: AJ Styles vs. Austin Theory
The first match of the night featured AJ Styles taking on Austin Theory in a high-energy contest. Both superstars have been jockeying for position in the title picture, making this match pivotal for their momentum heading into the next pay-per-view.
Styles, the seasoned veteran, showcased his technical prowess early on, keeping Theory on the defensive with a series of swift kicks and precision strikes. However, Theory, ever the opportunist, used underhanded tactics to gain the upper hand. The turning point came when Theory attempted to use the ropes for leverage during a pin, but the referee caught him, giving Styles the opening he needed.
In a thrilling finish, Styles reversed Theory’s A-Town Down into the Calf Crusher, forcing Theory to tap out. This victory not only solidified Styles’ claim to a title shot but also reminded the WWE Universe why he is considered one of the best in the business.
Backstage Segment: LA Knight Calls Out The Miz
Backstage, LA Knight delivered a scathing promo aimed at The Miz, who has been antagonizing Knight for weeks. Knight, known for his sharp wit and charisma, didn’t hold back as he challenged The Miz to a match at the upcoming pay-per-view.
Knight’s promo was a masterclass in mic work, with the WWE Universe hanging on his every word. He mocked The Miz’s Hollywood aspirations and questioned his toughness, which undoubtedly set the stage for a highly anticipated clash. The segment ended with Knight staring down the camera, issuing a final warning to The Miz.
Match 2: Women’s Tag Team Match – Bianca Belair & Charlotte Flair vs. Damage CTRL (Bayley & Dakota Kai)
Next up was a high-stakes women’s tag team match featuring two of WWE’s biggest female stars, Bianca Belair and Charlotte Flair, teaming up to take on Damage CTRL’s Bayley and Dakota Kai. This match was a continuation of the ongoing feud between these competitors, with both teams looking to assert dominance.
Belair and Flair, despite their history of rivalry, showed impressive chemistry as a team. Belair’s athleticism and strength combined with Flair’s technical ability made for a formidable duo. On the other hand, Damage CTRL used their experience as a team to isolate Belair, working her over with quick tags and double-team maneuvers.
The match reached its climax when Belair finally made the hot tag to Flair, who cleaned house with her signature chops and suplexes. In the end, Flair locked in the Figure-Eight Leglock on Dakota Kai, forcing her to tap out. This victory not only gave Belair and Flair the momentum heading into their individual title matches but also further fueled the rivalry with Damage CTRL.
Segment: Bray Wyatt’s Cryptic Message
In one of the most talked-about moments of the night, Bray Wyatt made an eerie appearance via a pre-recorded video. The segment was classic Wyatt—dark, mysterious, and filled with cryptic messages. Wyatt spoke of “the reckoning” and hinted at a new alliance that would soon shake the foundations of WWE.
The video was filled with haunting imagery, including shots of a desolate landscape and Wyatt’s signature lantern. Fans were left speculating about Wyatt’s next move and who might be part of this new faction. The segment added an extra layer of intrigue to Wyatt’s already enigmatic character and left the WWE Universe eagerly awaiting more clues.
Match 3: Intercontinental Championship Match – Gunther (c) vs. Sheamus
The main event of the night was a brutal Intercontinental Championship match between Gunther and Sheamus. This was a rematch from their previous encounters, each of which had been a hard-hitting affair. Both men are known for their physical style, and this match was no different.
From the opening bell, it was clear that this was going to be a slugfest. Sheamus, the challenger, came out swinging, looking to overpower Gunther with his brawling style. However, the champion was more than up to the task, using his size and strength to absorb Sheamus’ offense and deliver punishing strikes of his own.
The match went back and forth, with each man refusing to stay down. The turning point came when Sheamus attempted to hit the Brogue Kick, but Gunther countered with a devastating lariat. Sensing an opportunity, Gunther followed up with a powerbomb, but Sheamus kicked out at two, much to the delight of the crowd.
In the final moments of the match, Gunther locked in a sleeper hold, wearing down Sheamus before hitting a second powerbomb for the pinfall victory. This hard-fought win solidified Gunther’s reign as Intercontinental Champion and left Sheamus battered but still standing as one of WWE’s toughest competitors.
Closing Segment: The Fiend’s Return
Just when it seemed the night was over, the lights in the arena dimmed, and the familiar sounds of Bray Wyatt’s entrance theme began to play. The crowd erupted as The Fiend made his shocking return, attacking Gunther in the ring. The Fiend’s return was sudden and brutal, leaving Gunther laid out in the middle of the ring.
The Fiend then turned his attention to the camera, sending a chilling message to the entire WWE roster. With The Fiend back and more menacing than ever, it’s clear that no one in WWE is safe. This closing segment left the WWE Universe buzzing and set the stage for what could be a terrifying new chapter in SmackDown’s history.
Final Thoughts
WWE SmackDown Episode 1491 delivered on all fronts, providing fans with memorable moments, thrilling matches, and the return of one of the most feared characters in WWE history. From The Bloodline’s implosion to Gunther’s grueling title defense, this episode set the stage for some major storylines heading into the next pay-per-view. As always, the WWE Universe will be eagerly watching to see what unfolds next.