Top 10 WWE Smackdown Moments: Must-See Highlights!
Hey wrestling fans! Ready to dive into the most electrifying, the most shocking, and the downright unforgettable moments from WWE Smackdown history? You've come to the right place! We're counting down the top 10 Smackdown moments that have kept us on the edge of our seats, screaming at our TVs, and buzzing about wrestling all week long. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let’s get ready to rumble through memory lane!
1. The Rock Concert (2003)
Okay, guys, let’s kick things off with a moment that's pure gold – The Rock Concert from 2003. Can you smell what The Rock was cooking? Because this segment was sizzling! The Rock, in his Hollywood Rock persona, took to the stage with a guitar in hand and serenaded the audience (and poor, unsuspecting opponents) with his… unique musical stylings. It wasn’t about the singing, though (trust me, you wouldn’t want that!). It was about the charisma, the wit, and the sheer entertainment value that only The Rock could deliver. This concert was a masterclass in promo work, filled with hilarious insults, catchy tunes (sort of!), and an energy that electrified the entire arena. The Rock's ability to connect with the audience, whether they loved him or hated him, was unparalleled, and this segment perfectly encapsulated his star power. It was more than just a wrestling promo; it was a performance. The Hollywood Rock character was designed to be over-the-top, arrogant, and utterly entertaining, and the Rock Concert was the perfect vehicle for showcasing these traits. The way he interacted with the crowd, played off the reactions, and delivered his lines with impeccable timing made this moment an instant classic. Plus, who can forget the personalized lyrics aimed at his rivals? It was creative, it was funny, and it was exactly what the WWE Universe wanted. This segment is a testament to The Rock's incredible talent and his ability to turn any segment into something truly special. This is why it’s cemented itself as one of the most memorable segments in Smackdown history and why it kicks off our list at number 10!
2. Kurt Angle Milk-O-Mania (2001)
Next up, we’re heading back to 2001 for a dose of pure, unadulterated ridiculousness: Kurt Angle's Milk-O-Mania. Yes, you read that right. Milk. Kurt Angle, the Olympic gold medalist, decided that the best way to celebrate his accomplishments (and, let’s be honest, to be a complete goofball) was to shower himself, his opponents, and the entire arena in milk. Why? Because why not! This segment was so bizarre, so over-the-top, and so utterly hilarious that it’s impossible not to love. Angle's commitment to the bit, his deadpan delivery, and the sheer absurdity of the situation made this a moment that fans still talk about today. It was a departure from his usual serious, intense character, and it showed a different side of Angle that was both endearing and hilarious. The visual of Angle, covered head-to-toe in milk, celebrating his victory is iconic. It was a moment that perfectly captured the spirit of the Attitude Era: wild, unpredictable, and completely unforgettable. This segment showcased Angle's versatility as a performer. He could be a serious, credible athlete, but he could also be a comedic genius. This ability to seamlessly transition between different roles made him one of the most valuable and entertaining performers in WWE history. The Milk-O-Mania segment is a perfect example of his comedic timing and his willingness to embrace the ridiculous. To this day, fans still reminisce about this crazy moment, proving its lasting impact on WWE history. It's a reminder that wrestling doesn't always have to be serious; sometimes, it's okay to just have fun and embrace the absurdity. This is why it rightfully earns its place on our list of top Smackdown moments!
3. Edge Spears Jeff Hardy Off a Ladder (2002)
Alright, let's get to something more extreme! Edge spearing Jeff Hardy off a ladder back in 2002. This wasn't just a wrestling move; it was a holy sh* moment* that defined an era. Edge and Jeff Hardy, two of the most innovative and daredevil performers in WWE history, were locked in a brutal battle for the tag team titles. With ladders strategically placed around the ring, the tension was palpable. Then, it happened. Jeff Hardy climbed to the top of the ladder, reaching for the titles, when Edge launched himself from the arena floor, soaring through the air and delivering a bone-jarring spear that sent both men crashing to the mat. The crowd erupted. The impact was sickening. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated wrestling mayhem. This spot wasn't just about the physicality; it was about the storytelling. Edge and Hardy had been rivals for years, and this match was the culmination of their animosity. The spear was a symbol of their intense rivalry, a moment of pure aggression that left fans breathless. This moment also showcased the incredible athleticism and risk-taking abilities of both Edge and Hardy. They were willing to put their bodies on the line to entertain the fans, and this spot was a testament to their dedication. The image of Edge soaring through the air, delivering the spear, is etched in the minds of wrestling fans forever. It's a moment that perfectly encapsulates the excitement and danger of WWE wrestling. It's a reminder that wrestling is not just about the moves; it's about the stories, the rivalries, and the moments that make you say, "Wow!" This is why it's earned its spot as one of the most memorable and shocking moments in Smackdown history!
4. Undertaker Returns and Chokeslams Edge Through the Ring (2007)
Speaking of shocking, remember when The Undertaker returned in 2007 and chokeslammed Edge through the ring? The arena went dark, the bell tolled, and the Deadman emerged from the shadows, ready to unleash hell. Edge, who had been tormenting The Undertaker for months, was caught completely off guard. With a menacing glare, The Undertaker stalked towards Edge, grabbed him by the throat, and delivered a devastating chokeslam that sent him crashing through the canvas and into the abyss below. The crowd went wild! It was a moment of pure, unadulterated retribution. This return wasn't just about the chokeslam; it was about the aura of The Undertaker. His presence, his mystique, and his ability to command the audience were on full display. The way he moved, the way he looked, and the way he delivered his moves were all perfectly orchestrated to create a sense of dread and anticipation. The chokeslam through the ring was the exclamation point on his return, a message to Edge and the entire WWE Universe that The Undertaker was back and ready to claim his rightful place at the top. This moment was a reminder of The Undertaker's legendary status in WWE. He was more than just a wrestler; he was an icon, a symbol of darkness and justice. His returns were always special, and this one was no exception. The image of Edge disappearing through the ring is a testament to The Undertaker's power and his ability to create unforgettable moments. This is why it remains one of the most iconic and talked-about moments in Smackdown history!
5. Shane McMahon Leaps Off the Titantron (2001)
Alright, folks, let’s crank up the crazy a notch with Shane McMahon's leap of faith off the Titantron in 2001. Shane-O-Mac was known for his insane stunts, but this one took the cake. In a street fight against Kurt Angle, Shane found himself in a precarious position atop the massive Titantron. Instead of backing down, he looked down at Angle, took a deep breath, and plunged off the structure, crashing down onto Angle below. The crowd went absolutely ballistic! This wasn't just a wrestling move; it was a testament to Shane's fearless attitude and his willingness to do whatever it took to entertain the fans. The sheer height of the Titantron, the impact of the fall, and the fact that Shane McMahon was not a trained wrestler made this spot all the more incredible. It was a moment of pure adrenaline and insanity. This moment also showcased Shane's dedication to the wrestling business. He was willing to put his body on the line, to take risks that most wrestlers wouldn't even consider, all for the sake of entertaining the fans. The image of Shane McMahon flying through the air, defying gravity and logic, is etched in the minds of wrestling fans forever. It's a reminder that wrestling is not just about the technical moves; it's about the moments that make you gasp, the moments that make you believe in the impossible. This is why it's rightfully earned its place as one of the most insane and unforgettable moments in Smackdown history!
6. Brock Lesnar Destroys John Cena (2012)
Remember when Brock Lesnar returned in 2012 and absolutely destroyed John Cena? This wasn't just a wrestling match; it was a statement. Lesnar, returning after a hiatus from WWE, was a force of nature, and Cena was his first victim. From the opening bell, Lesnar unleashed a barrage of suplexes, punches, and knees that left Cena battered and bruised. Cena, known for his resilience, tried to fight back, but Lesnar was simply too strong, too dominant. The match ended with Lesnar standing tall, a victorious beast who had decimated WWE's top star. This match wasn't just about Lesnar winning; it was about the way he won. He didn't just beat Cena; he dominated him. He showed the world that he was a different kind of wrestler, a legitimate tough guy who wasn't afraid to inflict pain. This victory catapulted Lesnar back to the top of WWE, establishing him as the company's top heel. It also showed a new side of Cena. The loss forced Cena to evolve, to become more aggressive and more determined. While it was a devastating loss for Cena, it ultimately helped him grow as a performer. The image of Lesnar standing over a defeated Cena is a testament to his power and his ability to dominate his opponents. This is why it's remembered as one of the most shocking and impactful moments in Smackdown history!
7. Daniel Bryan Wins the WWE Championship (2013)
Let’s shift gears to a feel-good moment! Who could forget when Daniel Bryan finally won the WWE Championship at SummerSlam in 2013, defeating John Cena in an epic battle? After being held back by The Authority for months, Bryan overcame the odds and proved that hard work and determination can pay off. The crowd erupted when Bryan pinned Cena, chanting "Yes! Yes! Yes!" in unison. It was a moment of pure jubilation, a culmination of Bryan's incredible journey to the top. This victory wasn't just about Bryan winning the title; it was about the fans who supported him. They believed in him, they chanted his name, and they refused to let The Authority bury him. This win was a victory for the fans as much as it was for Bryan. It showed that the voice of the WWE Universe can be heard, and that their support can make a difference. The image of Bryan holding the WWE Championship high above his head, surrounded by a sea of cheering fans, is a testament to his popularity and his connection with the WWE Universe. It's a reminder that wrestling is not just about the matches; it's about the stories, the characters, and the moments that make you feel something. This is why it's remembered as one of the most emotional and inspiring moments in Smackdown history!
8. The Debut of Chris Jericho (1999)
Talk about iconic debuts! Chris Jericho's debut on Smackdown in 1999 was legendary. The Millennium Clock ticked down, the lights went out, and the anticipation was palpable. Then, Y2J arrived, interrupting The Rock and delivering a bombastic promo that instantly established him as a major player in WWE. Jericho's confidence, his charisma, and his ability to deliver a captivating promo made him an instant star. This debut wasn't just about Jericho showing up; it was about the way he showed up. He didn't just walk to the ring; he arrived with a bang, making a statement that he was here to stay. His interruption of The Rock, one of the biggest stars in WWE at the time, showed that he wasn't afraid of anyone. This debut catapulted Jericho to the top of WWE, setting the stage for a Hall of Fame career. It also showed the importance of a strong debut in wrestling. A good debut can make or break a career, and Jericho's debut was a perfect example of how to do it right. The image of Jericho standing in the ring, facing off against The Rock, is a testament to his confidence and his ability to captivate the audience. This is why it's remembered as one of the most iconic and impactful debuts in Smackdown history!
9. Eddie Guerrero Low-Rides to the Ring (2004)
Speaking of charisma, Eddie Guerrero's low-rider entrance in 2004 was pure Latino Heat. Eddie, known for his lie, cheat, and steal persona, arrived in style, cruising to the ring in a souped-up low-rider, complete with hydraulics and custom paint job. The crowd went wild, chanting "Eddie! Eddie!" as he bounced the car up and down, showing off his unique flair. This entrance wasn't just about Eddie arriving in a cool car; it was about his personality. He was a showman, a charmer, and a natural entertainer. He knew how to connect with the audience, and this entrance was a perfect example of his ability to capture their attention. The low-rider became synonymous with Eddie, a symbol of his style and his attitude. It was a perfect representation of his character, a reminder that he was always going to do things his own way. The image of Eddie bouncing the low-rider, flashing his signature smile, is a testament to his charisma and his ability to entertain the audience. This is why it's remembered as one of the most fun and memorable entrances in Smackdown history!
10. Rey Mysterio Wins the World Heavyweight Championship (2006)
Last but not least, let's celebrate Rey Mysterio winning the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 22 in 2006. This was an emotional victory for Rey, who dedicated the match to his late friend, Eddie Guerrero. Overcoming tremendous odds, Mysterio defeated Kurt Angle and Randy Orton in a triple threat match to capture the title. The crowd erupted as Mysterio celebrated his victory, holding the championship high in the air. This victory wasn't just about Rey winning the title; it was about his journey. He had overcome countless obstacles, proving that size doesn't matter and that heart and determination can take you to the top. This win was a tribute to Eddie Guerrero, a reminder of their friendship and the impact that Eddie had on Rey's life. The image of Rey celebrating his victory, tears in his eyes, is a testament to his passion and his dedication to the wrestling business. This is why it's remembered as one of the most emotional and inspiring moments in Smackdown history!
So, there you have it, wrestling fanatics! The top 10 Smackdown moments that have defined an era and continue to thrill us to this day. What are your favorite Smackdown memories? Let us know in the comments below!