WWE SmackDown Episode 1488 delivered an unforgettable night of professional wrestling action, featuring thrilling matches, intense rivalries, and shocking moments. Taking place on October 13, 2024, the show kept fans on the edge of their seats, reinforcing SmackDown’s reputation as one of WWE’s flagship programs. From title defenses to unexpected appearances, this episode had something for every wrestling fan, making it a pivotal moment on the road to WWE’s next major event.
The Show Opens with Tension
The night began with an electrifying opening segment featuring Roman Reigns, the reigning WWE Universal Champion, and his Bloodline faction. The Tribal Chief walked out to a thunderous ovation from the sold-out crowd. Still riding high after his dominant title reign, Reigns addressed the WWE Universe and his ongoing rivalry with LA Knight. WWE SmackDown Episode 1488.
LA Knight, who has skyrocketed in popularity over the last few months, interrupted Reigns and made his intentions clear: he’s gunning for the WWE Universal Championship. The back-and-forth exchange between Knight and Reigns was filled with fiery words, setting the stage for a potential showdown in the near future. The tension was palpable, leaving fans eager to see how this rivalry would develop over the coming weeks.
Match 1: Rey Mysterio vs. Grayson Waller
The night’s first match saw Rey Mysterio, the legendary high-flyer, take on Grayson Waller in singles competition. Waller, known for his arrogance and brash style, was looking to make a name for himself by defeating the future Hall of Famer.
Mysterio, always a fan favorite, used his speed and agility to outmaneuver Waller in the match’s early stages. However, Waller’s strength and size advantage came into play as he slowed the pace and grounded the veteran. Mysterio countered Waller’s finishing move in a dramatic finish and delivered a stunning 619, followed by a top-rope splash to secure the victory.
This win further solidified Mysterio’s standing as one of the greatest WWE Superstars of all time, while Waller, despite the loss, continued to show promise as a future main-event talent.
Women’s Division Showdown: Charlotte Flair vs. IYO SKY
One of the night’s marquee matches featured Charlotte Flair head-to-head with IYO SKY, the current WWE Women’s Champion. Flair, known as “The Queen” and one of the most decorated champions in WWE history, was determined to reclaim her spot at the division’s top.
The match was an instant classic, with both women showcasing their incredible athleticism and technical wrestling abilities. Flair’s power and precision were on full display, while SKY used her speed and innovative offense to keep Flair off balance. As the match climaxed, Dakota Kai and Bayley, members of SKY’s faction Damage CTRL, attempted to interfere on SKY’s behalf.
However, Flair fought off the interference and locked in the Figure-Eight Leglock, forcing SKY to tap out. This non-title victory positioned Charlotte Flair as the next top contender for the WWE Women’s Championship, setting up a future title match between the two.
Surprise Return: Randy Orton Makes a Shocking Appearance
In one of the most jaw-dropping moments of the night, Randy Orton, a multi-time world champion and future WWE Hall of Famer, returned to SmackDown. Orton had been out of action for several months due to a back injury, and his return was met with a massive ovation from the live audience.
Orton immediately made his presence felt by targeting Austin Theory, who had been bragging about being the future of WWE. The Viper delivered an RKO out of nowhere, leaving Theory laid out in the middle of the ring. Orton’s return adds another layer of intrigue to SmackDown, as fans are eager to see what role he will play in the weeks ahead.
Main Event: Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa vs. LA Knight and AJ Styles
The main event of SmackDown episode 1488 featured a blockbuster tag team match, pitting Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa against LA Knight and AJ Styles. This match culminated weeks of tension between these four competitors, with Reigns and Knight’s rivalry taking center stage.
The action was fast and furious from the opening bell, with both teams exchanging momentum. Solo Sikoa, the enforcer of The Bloodline, used his raw power to dominate AJ Styles in the early going, but Styles’ experience and resilience allowed him to mount a comeback. Meanwhile, the crowd erupted when LA Knight and Roman Reigns finally faced off in the ring.
The chemistry between Knight and Styles proved to be the difference-maker, as they worked together to wear down Reigns and Sikoa. In the match’s closing moments, Styles hit the Phenomenal Forearm on Sikoa, while LA Knight delivered his signature BFT (Blunt Force Trauma) to Reigns, pinning the WWE Universal Champion for the win.
This shocking outcome sent a clear message: LA Knight is a legitimate threat to Roman Reigns’ title reign, and their rivalry is far from over. The show ended with Knight and Styles celebrating their victory as Reigns and Sikoa regrouped outside the ring, clearly frustrated by the loss.
Post-Match Fallout: What’s Next?
WWE SmackDown Episode 1488 left fans with plenty of questions heading into the next episode. With LA Knight now holding a pinfall victory over Roman Reigns, it seems inevitable that Knight will challenge for the WWE Universal Championship in the near future. The ongoing storyline between Reigns and Knight has captivated audiences, and their eventual showdown could be one of the year’s biggest matches.
Charlotte Flair’s victory over IYO SKY also positions her as the top contender for the WWE Women’s Championship. Flair’s pursuit of her 15th world title adds even more excitement to the women’s division, and a future title match between Flair and SKY is sure to be a must-see event.
Randy Orton’s surprise return also raises questions about his future on SmackDown. Will he target Austin Theory, or is his sights set on bigger goals? Orton’s return injects fresh energy into the show, and his presence will undoubtedly shake up the SmackDown roster.
Conclusion: A Night to Remember
WWE SmackDown episode 1488 will be remembered as one of the most exciting and impactful episodes in recent memory. From thrilling matches to shocking returns, the show had something for everyone. With storylines heating up and rivalries intensifying, the road to WWE’s next major event is full of drama and excitement.