Introduction
WWE SmackDown Episode 1488 aired on July 14, 2024, and delivered an action-packed night that left fans buzzing. This episode packed a punch. Big matches, surprise comebacks, and fierce rivalries kept viewers on the edge of their seats. Let’s dive into the key moments and highlights that made this episode unforgettable.
The Opening Segment: Roman Reigns Addresses the Universe
The night kicked off with the WWE Universal Champion, Roman Reigns, making his way to the ring. Accompanied by Paul Heyman and The Usos, Reigns exuded confidence and dominance. He grabbed the microphone and addressed the WWE Universe, reiterating his status as the Head of the Table.
Reigns spoke about his upcoming title defense at SummerSlam and vowed to retain his championship. The segment set the tone for the night, with Reigns establishing his dominance and warning potential challengers.
First Match: Drew McIntyre vs. Sheamus
The first match of the night featured two powerhouses, Drew McIntyre and Sheamus, in a hard-hitting contest. Both men showcased their strength and resilience, trading heavy blows and impactful moves.
McIntyre gained the upper hand with a series of suplexes and a thunderous Claymore Kick. However, Sheamus fought back with his signature Brogue Kick, nearly securing the win. In the end, McIntyre’s determination paid off as he hit another Claymore Kick to secure the victory.
Backstage Segment: The New Day’s Challenge
Backstage, The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) were seen discussing their recent struggles. They were interrupted by the SmackDown Tag Team Champions, The Usos. The Usos taunted The New Day, mocking their recent losses and questioning their relevance.
In response, The New Day challenged The Usos to a match for the SmackDown Tag Team Titles at SummerSlam. The Usos accepted, setting the stage for an epic showdown between two of WWE’s most decorated tag teams.
Second Match: Liv Morgan vs. Carmella
The women’s division took center stage next with Liv Morgan facing Carmella. Both women were eager to prove themselves and climb the ranks of the SmackDown women’s roster.
Morgan showcased her agility and quickness, while Carmella relied on her cunning and experience. The match was competitive, with several near-falls keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. In the end, Morgan managed to hit her Oblivion finisher to secure a hard-fought victory.
In-Ring Promo: Seth Rollins’ Bold Claims
Seth Rollins made his way to the ring next, dressed in his extravagant attire. Rollins took the microphone. He began to boast about his recent victories. He also talked about his self-proclaimed status as the “Messiah of SmackDown.”“
Rollins called out Edge, challenging him to a match at SummerSlam. He claimed that defeating Edge would solidify his legacy and prove that he is the true face of WWE. The segment ended with Rollins standing tall, awaiting Edge’s response.
Third Match: The Viking Raiders vs. Los Lotharios
Tag team action resumed with The Viking Raiders (Erik and Ivar) taking on Los Lotharios (Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo). The Viking Raiders showed their brute strength. They had a dominant style. Los Lotharios relied on their speed and high-flying moves.
The match was fast-paced and featured impressive teamwork from both sides. In the end, The Viking Raiders’ power proved too much for Los Lotharios, as they hit the Viking Experience to secure the win.
Surprise Return: Sasha Banks
One of the biggest surprises of the night came next. Sasha Banks made her return to SmackDown, much to the delight of the WWE Universe. Banks had been absent for several months, and her return injected new energy into the women’s division.
Banks addressed the crowd, expressing her desire to reclaim the SmackDown Women’s Championship. She called out the current champion, Bianca Belair, and challenged her to a title match at SummerSlam. Belair appeared on the stage and accepted the challenge, setting up a highly anticipated clash.
Fourth Match: Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Happy Corbin
The next match saw Shinsuke Nakamura take on Happy Corbin in a singles bout. Nakamura, known for his striking ability, faced a tough challenge in Corbin’s brute strength and brawling style.
The match was physical, with both men delivering hard-hitting offense. Nakamura gained momentum with his signature strikes and knee strikes. Corbin attempted to counter with his End of Days finisher, but Nakamura reversed it into a Kinshasa for the win.
Backstage Segment: Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville’s Announcement
Backstage, WWE officials Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville were seen in a heated discussion. They announced a blockbuster main event for the next episode of SmackDown. It’s a number one contender’s match for the WWE Universal Championship. The match would feature top superstars vying for a chance to face Roman Reigns at SummerSlam.
Fifth Match: Sami Zayn vs. Ricochet
The action continued with a high-flying contest between Sami Zayn and Ricochet. Both men are known for their athleticism and aerial maneuvers, making this match a highlight of the night.
Zayn tried to ground Ricochet with his technical prowess, but Ricochet’s speed and agility allowed him to counter. The match featured several breathtaking spots, with Ricochet hitting a stunning 630 Senton to secure the victory.
In-Ring Confrontation: Edge Responds to Seth Rollins
Edge made his way to the ring, responding to Seth Rollins’ earlier challenge. The Rated-R Superstar addressed Rollins’ claims, stating that he was ready to prove himself once again.
Edge accepted Rollins’ challenge for a match at SummerSlam, promising to give Rollins the fight of his life. The segment ended with a tense stare-down between the two competitors, setting the stage for a highly anticipated clash.
Main Event: Fatal Four-Way Match
The main event of the night was a Fatal Four-Way match to determine the number one contender for the WWE Universal Championship. The participants were Kevin Owens, Cesaro, Finn Bálor, and Jey Uso.
The match was chaotic, with all four men showcasing their unique styles. Owens and Cesaro displayed their power and technical skills, while Bálor and Uso relied on their speed and agility. The action spilled both inside and outside the ring, keeping the audience engaged.
The match was chaotic, with all four men showcasing their unique styles. Owens and Cesaro displayed their power and technical skills, while Bálor and Uso relied on their speed and agility. The action spilled both inside and outside the ring, keeping the audience engaged.
Conclusion
WWE SmackDown Episode 1488 delivered a night full of excitement, surprises, and intense action. From Roman Reigns’ opening address to the thrilling Fatal Four-Way main event, the episode set the stage for an explosive SummerSlam. With several high-profile matches announced and rivalries intensifying, WWE fans have much to look forward to in the coming weeks.
Whether it was the surprise return of Sasha Banks, the intense in-ring action, or the dramatic confrontations, SmackDown 1488 proved to be a memorable episode that left fans eagerly anticipating what’s next in the world of WWE.
