WWE SmackDown 2021: Best Moments & Matches
What's up, wrestling fans! Get ready to dive back into the electrifying world of WWE SmackDown in 2021. This year was a rollercoaster of emotions, with unforgettable matches, shocking twists, and the rise of new superstars. We're talking about the blue brand delivering week after week, keeping us on the edge of our seats. From title changes to epic rivalries, 2021 SmackDown had it all. So, grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let's break down why this year was a standout for Friday Night SmackDown.
The Undisputed Era's Dominance and Demise
One of the most compelling storylines heading into 2021 on SmackDown involved the legendary Undisputed Era. Their reign of terror on NXT was legendary, and fans were eager to see what they'd do on the main roster. While their main roster run was shorter than many hoped, the impact they made on SmackDown in early 2021 was undeniable. The Undisputed Era, comprised of Adam Cole, Bobby Fish, Kyle O'Reilly, and Roderick Strong, brought their unique blend of hard-hitting action and undeniable charisma to the blue brand. They immediately targeted the top titles, proving they weren't there to play second fiddle. Their matches were often technical masterpieces, showcasing a level of in-ring chemistry that few factions could match. We saw them clash with established tag teams and singles stars, often coming out victorious and further solidifying their status as a dominant force. However, as the year progressed, the cracks in the foundation began to show. Internal strife, fueled by the lure of individual championships and differing ambitions, started to create tension within the group. This internal conflict became a central theme, leading to some incredibly dramatic confrontations between the members themselves. The eventual dissolution of the Undisputed Era on SmackDown wasn't just the end of a stable; it was the end of an era, leaving a void that other superstars were eager to fill. Their departure left a significant mark, reminding everyone of the brutal reality of professional wrestling where even the strongest alliances can crumble under pressure. The legacy they left behind on SmackDown served as a benchmark for future factions, setting a high bar for teamwork and in-ring prowess.
Roman Reigns' Ruthless Reign of Superiority
Speaking of dominance, you absolutely cannot talk about SmackDown 2021 without mentioning Roman Reigns. 'The Tribal Chief' transformed himself into one of the most compelling and fearsome characters in all of wrestling. His heel turn and subsequent alliance with Paul Heyman created a Roman Reigns unlike anything we'd ever seen before. He wasn't just a champion; he was a consigliere, a mob boss who demanded respect and took what he wanted. His reign as the Universal Champion was nothing short of historic, and SmackDown became his personal kingdom. Week after week, he dismantled challenger after challenger, often with an air of effortless superiority. His matches, while sometimes criticized for their pacing, were elevated by the sheer intensity and the psychological warfare he employed. He didn't just beat his opponents; he demoralized them, breaking their spirit along with their bodies. The Feast Your Eyes finisher became a symbol of impending doom for anyone who dared to step up. We saw epic confrontations with the likes of Daniel Bryan, Edge, Cesaro, and John Cena, each adding another chapter to his legendary run. Reigns' ability to maintain such a high level of character work and in-ring presence for an entire year was a testament to his dedication and evolution as a performer. SmackDown's entire landscape revolved around him, with every other storyline ultimately feeding into or attempting to dethrone the seemingly invincible Tribal Chief. His dominance wasn't just about holding the belt; it was about the aura he cultivated, the fear he instilled, and the undeniable fact that he was the main event, every single time he appeared on SmackDown.
The Rise of the SmackDown Women's Division
While the men's division often grabbed the headlines, the SmackDown Women's Division in 2021 was absolutely on fire, guys! We witnessed incredible performances and the emergence of some serious talent. Sasha Banks and Bianca Belair kicked off the year with a historic WrestleMania main event, setting a tone of greatness for the entire division. Their rivalry wasn't just about championships; it was about breaking barriers and proving that women could headline the biggest show of the year. Following that, we saw a multitude of incredible women vie for the SmackDown Women's Championship. Carmella brought her 'Most Beautiful' persona back with a vengeance, while the Queen of Harts, Natalya, continued to show why she's a veteran powerhouse. But the real story was the ascent of new stars and the continued evolution of established ones. We saw Bayley, a dominant champion for so long, face fierce competition. Then there was the phenomenal rise of Bianca Belair, who proved time and again why she's 'The EST' of WWE. Her athleticism, charisma, and connection with the audience were undeniable. We also saw the return of fan favorites and the debut of exciting new talent, all vying for a spot in the spotlight. The matches within the women's division were consistently high-quality, showcasing a diverse range of wrestling styles and compelling narratives. Whether it was a high-octane sprint or a deeply personal grudge match, the women of SmackDown delivered. They proved that they weren't just supporting acts; they were the main event, capable of carrying entire shows and captivating audiences. The evolution of this division throughout 2021 was a clear indication of WWE's commitment to showcasing its female talent, and the performances we saw on SmackDown were a testament to their hard work and dedication. The battles for the SmackDown Women's Championship were some of the most anticipated matches of the year, and the division consistently provided thrilling moments and unforgettable performances for the fans.
Intercontinental Championship Showcases
Let's talk about the workhorses of SmackDown: the Intercontinental Championship contenders. This title has a storied legacy, and in 2021, it served as a fantastic platform for some truly gifted wrestlers to shine. While not always the top prize, the Intercontinental Championship matches on SmackDown were consistently some of the most technically sound and exciting bouts on the card. We saw incredible performances from wrestlers like Sami Zayn, Shinsuke Nakamura, and Apollo Crews, who all carried the title with pride and defended it with ferocity. Sami Zayn, in particular, had a memorable run, engaging in passionate rivalries and delivering captivating promos that added personality to the championship. His matches against AJ Styles and Jeff Hardy were highlights, showcasing his resilience and determination. Shinsuke Nakamura, with his unique style and charisma, also brought a fresh energy to the Intercontinental Championship picture. His matches were often unpredictable and filled with jaw-dropping maneuvers. Apollo Crews, under the guidance of Commander Azeez, presented a more menacing and dominant force, elevating the prestige of the title with his power-based offense. The Intercontinental Championship on SmackDown became a symbol of hard-fought battles and a proving ground for wrestlers looking to establish themselves as top-tier talent. It offered a different flavor of competition, focusing on pure wrestling ability and championship pedigree. These championships weren't just about holding gold; they were about the journey, the struggle, and the passion displayed by the competitors. Fans appreciated the dedication shown by these Superstars, who consistently delivered high-quality matches that entertained and thrilled. The Intercontinental Championship bouts throughout 2021 on SmackDown were a testament to the depth of talent on the roster and the enduring appeal of a championship that represents excellence in the ring. The focus on technical wrestling and compelling narratives around the Intercontinental title made it a must-watch part of SmackDown each week.
Tag Team Turmoil and Triumph
The tag team division is the heartbeat of any wrestling show, and SmackDown 2021 was no exception. We saw some incredible teams battle it out for the SmackDown Tag Team Championships, delivering thrilling action and unforgettable moments. The Usos, Jimmy and Jey, were a dominant force throughout the year, showcasing their incredible chemistry and ruthless in-ring style. Their matches against fellow top teams were often show-stealers, filled with high-flying maneuvers, hard-hitting strikes, and clever tag team tactics. They were instrumental in Roman Reigns' Bloodline storyline, adding another layer of complexity and threat to their already formidable presence. Beyond the Usos, we saw other teams like The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) bring their electrifying energy and athleticism to the forefront. Their matches were always a spectacle, with Montez Ford's incredible aerial ability and Angelo Dawkins' powerful presence making them a captivating duo. We also witnessed the rise of other formidable pairings, each bringing their unique strengths and personalities to the tag team division. The competition was fierce, with teams constantly pushing each other to new heights. The booking of the tag team division allowed for various storylines to unfold, from intense rivalries to unexpected alliances. The SmackDown Tag Team Championships changed hands multiple times, ensuring that the division remained exciting and unpredictable. Whether it was a fast-paced tag team classic or a hard-fought championship bout, the tag teams on SmackDown consistently delivered. They proved that tag team wrestling is an art form, requiring intricate coordination, strategic teamwork, and a deep understanding of one another. The division provided a vital element of continuity and excitement to SmackDown, offering fans a different style of wrestling and compelling storylines. The chemistry between partners was palpable, and their shared journey towards championship gold created engaging narratives that resonated with the audience. The tag team division truly showcased the depth of talent on SmackDown in 2021, providing consistent entertainment and memorable matches for wrestling enthusiasts.
Looking Back and Looking Forward
SmackDown 2021 was a year of transformation and undeniable entertainment. We saw Roman Reigns cement his legacy, the women's division reach new heights, and the tag team division deliver consistently. The blue brand proved that it could deliver compelling narratives and show-stopping matches week after week. As we look back, we can appreciate the incredible performances and the memorable moments that defined SmackDown in 2021. And as we look forward, the stage is set for even more action and drama. What were your favorite moments from SmackDown 2021? Let us know in the comments below!
