Introduction
The WWE SmackDown Episode 1488 which was the live show on 6 February 2024 was one of the intense shows which featured action Comebacks and title matches. This made the WWE Universe more engaged in all the rivalries that were on display as well as in the development of new angles in WWE. In this article, the writer has focused on the happenings of the night and has critically assessed most of the featured matches and segments together with their implications on the show’s future, specifically the smackdown.
Main Event: Roman Reigns Defends the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship
The main spectacle of WWE SmackDown Episode 1488 with the participation of Roman Reigns in the list of wrestlers presenting the show was the match of the “Tribal Chief” for the Undisputed WWE Universal title against the young and talented Sami Zayn. This tension has been present for the past few weeks where Zayn has been an opponent to Reigns’ authority and has posed the champion a lot of challenges. The match in and of itself was a tough spectacle to pull off, demonstrating the sport’s agility in Zayn and the might of Reigns’ bitter end. Reigns won the vice by repeatedly delivering a Superman Punch that sent Zayn within striking distance once again only to be cut short by the bell before the referee could count to ten, thus the title was retained.
What it Means: This match solidified Roman Reigns’ position as the top dog on WWE SmackDown Episode 1488. While Sami Zayn put up a valiant effort, the victory allows Reigns to continue his reign of dominance. However, the tension between the two is far from over. Zayn’s near-victory might ignite a fire within him, leading to a more personal and intense rivalry with Reigns in the coming weeks.
Shocking Returns: Legends Collide and New Alliances Emerge
The night wasn’t just about championship glory; it was also marked by the spectacular return of two iconic figures in WWE history. The first return came in the form of a surprise appearance by “The Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels. Michaels, a legend with a decorated career, hadn’t been seen on SmackDown in years. His return sparked speculation about his potential role, whether it’s as a mentor to a young wrestler, a manager, or even a competitor himself.
The second return was even more unexpected. After a long hiatus due to injury, Edge, the “Rated-R Superstar,” made his triumphant return to the squared circle. The crowd erupted in cheers as Edge hit the ring, his presence instantly generating electricity. He didn’t reveal his motives for returning, leaving the WWE Universe in suspense about his future plans.
What it Means: The return of both Shawn Michaels and Edge signifies a significant shift in the landscape of SmackDown. Their presence adds a layer of experience and star power to the brand. Michaels’ return could potentially lead to the formation of a new faction or the guidance of a young up-and-comer. Edge’s return is shrouded in mystery, but his history with both Roman Reigns and Sami Zayn suggests a potential involvement in their ongoing rivalry.
Women’s Division Heats Up: Charlotte Flair Retains Title, Liv Morgan Makes a Statement
The WWE SmackDown Episode 1488WWE SmackDown Episode 1488
Women’s Championship was also on the line as Charlotte Flair defended her title against the resilient Liv Morgan. The match showcased the athleticism and determination of both competitors. Morgan, hungry for her first championship reign, pushed Flair to her limits. However, Flair’s experience and ring savvy proved too much for Morgan, as she retained the title with a Figure-Eight Lock.
Following the match, a frustrated Liv Morgan was confronted by a returning Sonya Deville. Deville, who had been absent from WWE due to personal reasons, made her intentions clear: she’s back to reclaim her spot at the top of the women’s division. This unexpected confrontation sets the stage for a potential three-way rivalry between Flair, Morgan, and Deville.
What it Means: The SmackDown Women’s Championship picture gets more intriguing with Sonya Deville’s return. This potentially creates a fresh dynamic within the division. While Charlotte Flair remains the champion, her reign could be threatened by both Liv Morgan’s determination and Sonya Deville’s hunger for another championship run.
Other Match Highlights
- The Usos (Jimmy & Jey Uso) successfully defended the SmackDown Tag Team Championship against the rising duo of Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins (The Street Profits) in a fast-paced and action-packed match.
- Shinsuke Nakamura picked up a crucial victory against Rick Boogs in a hard-hitting contest. This win could signal Nakamura’s resurgence in the SmackDown mid-card scene.
- Shotzi and Xia Li continued their winning ways, defeating Natalya and a returning Bayley in a tag team match. This victory could push Shotzi and Xia Li towards a potential championship opportunity in the future.
FAQs
Q: What was the main event of SmackDown 1488?
A: The main event was Roman Reigns defending the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against Sami Zayn.
Q: Did Roman Reigns win?
A: Yes, Roman Reigns defeated Sami Zayn to retain his championship title.
Q: Who returned to SmackDown?
A: Two iconic figures returned: “The Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels and “The Rated-R Superstar” Edge.
Q: What are the implications of these returns?
A: Shawn Michaels’ return could lead to a new faction or mentorship for a young wrestler. Edge’s return is shrouded in mystery, but he might get involved in the Reigns-Zayn rivalry.
Q: Did the SmackDown Women’s Championship change hands?
A: No, Charlotte Flair defeated Liv Morgan to retain her championship title.
Q: What’s next for the SmackDown Women’s Division?
A: Sonya Deville’s return creates a potential three-way rivalry between Charlotte Flair, Liv Morgan, and Sonya Deville.
Q: What other noteworthy events happened on SmackDown 1488?
A: The Usos retained the SmackDown Tag Team Championship, Shinsuke Nakamura defeated Rick Boogs, and Shotzi & Xia Li won their tag team match against Natalya & Bayley.
Conclusion
Of course, fans of WWE Raw and SmackDown enjoy these episodes and this was definitely the case during WWE SmackDown Episode 1488. The MAIN EVENT was intense featuring a championship match, and it did further establish Roman Reigns in his new authority. The shocking appearance of Shawn Michaels and Edge will definitely bring changes to SmackDown with new faces that could open the door for new alliances and great storylines. SmackDown Women’s Championship insertion of Sonya Deville increases the uncertainty of the title battle, while wins for The Usos, Shinsuke Nakamura and Shotzi & Xia Li are defeated ready to build the future feuds and shots at the championship. Thus, the SmackDown 1488 show was a landmark for the brand, with fans waiting to find out further ups and downs of the heroes of the cage-known wrestling shows.
