WWE SmackDown has played a pivotal role in the history of professional wrestling, contributing to some of the most iconic pay-per-view (PPV) events. Over the years, SmackDown has hosted exclusive PPVs, played a significant role in major WWE events, and featured legendary match cards that shaped the industry. Below, we delve into the legacy of SmackDown-exclusive PPVs, its involvement in major WWE spectacles, and some of the most memorable match cards and results.
SmackDown-Exclusive PPVs (Historically)
During WWE’s brand split eras, SmackDown had its own set of PPV events separate from Raw. This initiative allowed SmackDown to showcase its top stars and develop unique storylines independent of Raw’s influence. Some of the most notable SmackDown-exclusive PPVs include:
- No Way Out – This event was a staple for SmackDown, often featuring high-stakes matches such as the Elimination Chamber.
- Judgment Day – Focused on intense rivalries, Judgment Day delivered classic encounters like Eddie Guerrero vs. JBL for the WWE SmackDown Championships & Titles.
- Armageddon – Known for its chaotic and often brutal matches, including the famous 6-Man Hell in a Cell match in 2000.
- Vengeance – A battleground for some of the most unforgettable WWE Championship matches.
From 2002 to 2007, SmackDown-exclusive PPVs provided a platform for WWE SmackDown Superstars like The Undertaker, Edge, and Kurt Angle to shine. However, by 2007, WWE discontinued brand-exclusive PPVs, merging both brands into joint events.
For a deeper look into past SmackDown PPVs, check out our list of historical WWE pay-per-view events.
Role in Major WWE Events (WrestleMania, Royal Rumble, etc.)
SmackDown’s contribution to WWE’s “Big Four” PPVs—WrestleMania, Royal Rumble, SummerSlam, and Survivor Series—has been monumental. The brand’s superstars and storylines have played critical roles in shaping these landmark events.
WrestleMania
SmackDown has produced some of the most unforgettable WrestleMania moments:
- WrestleMania XIX – Brock Lesnar vs. Kurt Angle for the WWE Championship in an instant classic.
- WrestleMania 21 – SmackDown’s Batista won the World Heavyweight Championship against Triple H.
- WrestleMania 30 – Daniel Bryan’s journey to the WWE World Heavyweight Championship became a defining moment.
Explore the full history of WrestleMania main events featuring SmackDown superstars.
Royal Rumble
SmackDown has often produced Royal Rumble winners who later headlined WrestleMania. Notable winners from SmackDown include:
- Rey Mysterio (2006) – Won from the No. 2 position and dedicated his victory to Eddie Guerrero.
- Edge (2021) – Made a stunning comeback and won the Rumble, solidifying his legend status.
Check out our detailed Royal Rumble winners list featuring SmackDown superstars.
SummerSlam & Survivor Series
- At SummerSlam, SmackDown has delivered classics such as Brock Lesnar vs. The Rock (2002) and AJ Styles vs. John Cena (2016).
- Survivor Series often features Raw vs. SmackDown clashes, with memorable team battles shaping the brand’s legacy.
For a breakdown of SmackDown’s dominance at Survivor Series, see our Survivor Series History & Evolution of WWE SmackDown.
Match Cards & Results
The match cards for SmackDown PPVs have produced some of the most unforgettable WWE moments. Below are some iconic match cards and results:
No Way Out 2004
- WWE Championship: Eddie Guerrero def. Brock Lesnar
- Kurt Angle vs. Big Show vs. John Cena – No. 1 Contender’s Match
- Rey Mysterio & Rob Van Dam def. The Basham Brothers – WWE Tag Team Championship
Judgment Day 2005
- World Heavyweight Championship: John Cena def. JBL – “I Quit” Match
- Booker T def. Kurt Angle
- Eddie Guerrero vs. Rey Mysterio – Classic rivalry match
Armageddon 2006
- Last Ride Match: Undertaker def. Mr. Kennedy
- WWE Tag Team Championship: Paul London & Brian Kendrick def. William Regal & Dave Taylor
- United States Championship: Chris Benoit def. Chavo Guerrero
More Recent SmackDown PPVs
- Backlash 2016: AJ Styles def. Dean Ambrose – WWE Championship Match
- Hell in a Cell 2017: The Usos def. The New Day – WWE SmackDown Tag Team Championship (Hell in a Cell Match)
To explore complete match results for all SmackDown PPVs, visit our match results archive.
Conclusion
WWE SmackDown’s impact on PPVs has been undeniable, from exclusive events in the brand split era to legendary moments at WrestleMania and other major WWE events. With its rich history of unforgettable matches and iconic rivalries, SmackDown continues to be a driving force in WWE’s PPV landscape.
For further reading on SmackDown’s legacy, explore our full WWE PPV history.
