WWE SmackDown Episode 1488: Complete Review and Match Highlights

WWE SmackDown Episode 1488 was a thrilling installment of WWE’s blue brand, bringing intense matches, ongoing rivalries, and fresh developments in significant storylines. Episode 1488 was crucial in setting the stage for future confrontations as the show progresses toward upcoming pay-per-views.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of all the action from this episode.

1. Opening Segment: Universal Champion’s Address

The night he kicked off with the reigning WWE Universal Champion, Roman Reigns, making his way to the ring. Reigns, flanked by The Bloodline (Jey Uso and Solo Sikoa), addressed his recent title defense and ongoing feud with LA Knight. Roman, ever the dominant force, boasted about his reign atop the WWE food chain but was interrupted by Knight, who stormed to the ring with a microphone, ready for a confrontation.

This segment intensified their rivalry, with Knight stating that he was ready to dethrone Reigns and end his championship reign. The heated exchange ended with the announcement of a contract signing for their match next week, setting up a massive encounter between the two titans.

2. Tag Team Match: The Brawling Brutes vs. Imperium

The night’s first match saw a classic tag team battle between The Brawling Brutes (Sheamus and Ridge Holland) and Imperium (Ludwig Kaiser and Giovanni Vinci). This high-energy match delivered hard-hitting action, with Sheamus’s signature strikes and Holland’s powerhouse moves clashing against Imperium’s technical prowess.

After a competitive back-and-forth, Sheamus hit a devastating Brogue Kick on Kaiser, securing the win for The Brawling Brutes. This victory positions Sheamus and Holland as potential contenders in the tag team division.

Result:

The Brawling Brutes defeated Imperium via pinfall.

3. Backstage Segment: LA Knight’s Interview

Following his confrontation with Roman Reigns, Kayla Braxton interviewed LA Knight backstage. Knight expressed his determination to become the next Universal Champion, making it clear that he’s unfazed by Roman’s intimidation tactics.

This promo excited his growing fanbase and positioned him as a legitimate threat to Roman Reigns’s championship reign.

4. Singles Match: Ricochet vs. Karrion Kross

In a singles contest, Ricochet squared off against the sinister Karrion Kross. Ricochet’s high-flying abilities were on full display as he dazzled the audience with his aerial maneuvers, but Kross’s size and strength advantage kept him in control for much of the match.

When it looked like Ricochet was about to mount a comeback, Kross locked in the Kross Jacket submission, forcing Ricochet to tap out. The win boosts Kross’s momentum as he looks to dominate the mid-card division.

Result:

Karin Kross defeated Ricochet via submission.

5. Women’s Tag Team Match: Shotzi & Zelina Vega vs. Damage CTRL

The women’s tag team division took center stage as Shotzi and Zelina Vega teamed up to face Damage CTRL (Iyo Sky and Dakota Kai). Both teams fought hard, with Shotzi’s unpredictability and Vega’s speed creating challenges for the more experienced Damage CTRL.

In the closing moments, Iyo Sky hit a Moonsault on Vega to score the pinfall, securing the victory for Damage CTRL. The win further solidifies Damage CTRL’s dominance in the women’s division.

Result:

Damage CTRL defeated Shotzi & Zelina Vega via pinfall.

6. Segment: Bray Wyatt’s Mysterious Return

One of the most buzzworthy moments of Episode 1488 was the eerie return of Bray Wyatt. The lights dimmed, and Wyatt’s iconic theme music played as he made his way to the ring. Wyatt cut a cryptic promo, hinting at forming a new faction that would “change the face of SmackDown forever.”

This segment had the WWE Universe talking as fans speculated about Wyatt’s next move and how his return would impact the roster.

7. Intercontinental Championship Match: Gunther (c) vs. AJ Styles

In one of the most anticipated matches of the night, Gunther defended his Intercontinental Championship against the legendary AJ Styles. This match had a big-fight feel, with both competitors known for their incredible in-ring skills.

The match delivered on every level, with hard-hitting strikes from Gunther and precision offense from Styles. At one point, Styles came close to winning after hitting the Phenomenal Forearm, but Gunther kicked out just in time.

Ultimately, Gunther’s power and endurance were too much for Styles to overcome. Gunther retained his title after hitting a brutal Powerbomb, continuing his impressive championship reign.

Result:

Gunther defeated AJ Styles to retain the Intercontinental Championship.

8. Main Event: Roman Reigns & Solo Sikoa vs. LA Knight & Rey Mysterio

The main event of SmackDown Episode 1488 was a star-studded tag team match featuring Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa taking on LA Knight and Rey Mysterio. The stakes were high, as this match previewed the growing rivalry between Reigns and Knight.

The chemistry between Mysterio and Knight was on full display as they worked together to neutralize the Bloodline’s dominance. Mysterio hit a 619 on Reigns at one point, and the crowd went wild, believing it might lead to an upset. However, Solo Sikoa’s interference shifted the momentum.

The match ended when Reigns speared Mysterio while Solo took out Knight, allowing Reigns to score the pinfall victory. The Bloodline stood tall as the show went off the air, leaving fans eager for the next chapter in this storyline.

Result:

Roman Reigns & Solo Sikoa defeated LA Knight & Rey Mysterio via pinfall.

Conclusion: What’s Next for SmackDown?

WWE SmackDown Episode 1488 delivered a solid night of wrestling action, pushing forward key storylines and showcasing some of the company’s top stars. With Roman Reigns continuing his dominance, LA Knight emerging as a formidable challenger, and Bray Wyatt making his eerie return, the blue brand is heating up as it heads into its next big event.

Whether you’re a fan of high-stakes championship bouts or intense rivalries, this episode had something for everyone. With several vital plotlines developing, WWE SmackDown will continue delivering must-see action in the coming weeks.

Key Takeaways from WWE SmackDown Episode 1488:

• Roman Reigns continues his reign of dominance.
• LA Knight is rising as a legitimate threat to the Universal Championship.
• Gunther retains his Intercontinental Championship in a hard-fought match.
• Bray Wyatt’s return brings mystery and intrigue to SmackDown’s future.

This episode solidified SmackDown’s position as the must-watch wrestling show, with gripping storylines and top-tier matches keeping fans on the edge. Stay tuned for more developments in WWE’s ever-evolving landscape!