WWE Smackdown: Top Moments & Highlights Of 2022

Hey guys! Ready to dive into the most electrifying, the most shocking, and the downright unforgettable moments from WWE Smackdown in 2022? This was a year packed with incredible matches, surprising turns, and the rise of new superstars. So, let's break down the top highlights that had us all on the edge of our seats!

The Reign of Roman Reigns

No surprise here, right? Roman Reigns absolutely dominated Smackdown in 2022. His Universal Championship reign was one for the ages, and his presence was felt in every single episode. The Head of the Table wasn't just a champion; he was the entire show's focal point. The way he carried himself, the way he controlled the narrative, it was all just chef's kiss. One of the biggest highlights was definitely his continued storyline with the Bloodline. Watching the family dynamics play out, the power struggles, and the sheer dominance they exerted over the entire roster was captivating. It wasn't just about Roman winning matches; it was about how he won, and who he had by his side. The matches themselves were epic, showcasing his power, his strategy, and his undeniable charisma. Think about those intense battles against Brock Lesnar – absolute bangers! Every time these two titans clashed, it was a guaranteed spectacle. And let's not forget the psychological warfare, the promos that cut deep, and the sheer presence that Roman brought to the ring. He wasn't just defending a title; he was defending his family, his legacy, and his position at the very top. Through every challenge, every opponent, and every obstacle, Roman Reigns stood tall, proving why he's the Head of the Table and the man in WWE. The constant evolution of his character and the Bloodline's storyline kept things fresh and exciting, making every Smackdown appearance must-see TV. It wasn't just wrestling; it was storytelling at its finest, and Roman Reigns was the undisputed star. Seriously, try to imagine Smackdown in 2022 without Roman Reigns – it's nearly impossible. He was the linchpin, the center of attention, and the reason so many of us tuned in week after week. Whether you loved him or hated him (and let's be real, a lot of us loved to hate him), you couldn't deny his impact and his importance to the show.

The Rise of Gunther and Imperium

From NXT UK to Smackdown, Gunther's arrival marked a new era of ruthless aggression and old-school wrestling. The Intercontinental Championship felt important again because of him! Gunther's presence alone brought a different kind of intensity to Smackdown. It wasn't just about flashy moves or high-flying antics; it was about pure, unadulterated power and dominance. Every match felt like a brutal showcase of his strength, and his opponents looked legitimately terrified to be in the ring with him. His no-nonsense attitude and his commitment to the craft made him an instant standout. But it wasn't just Gunther himself; it was the entire Imperium faction. With Ludwig Kaiser and Giovanni Vinci by his side, Gunther had the perfect backing to enforce his will. Their presence added a layer of sophistication and danger to the group, making them a force to be reckoned with. The way they moved, the way they spoke, everything about them screamed authority and control. The revival of the Intercontinental Championship under Gunther was a huge highlight. For years, the title had felt like an afterthought, but Gunther brought it back to prominence. He defended it with pride and ferocity, making every match feel like a main event. The title became synonymous with his name, and anyone who wanted to challenge him had to be prepared for a war. His matches were masterclasses in ring psychology and storytelling. He knew how to work a crowd, how to build tension, and how to deliver a satisfying conclusion. It wasn't just about winning; it was about making his opponents suffer and proving his dominance. Gunther's rise in 2022 was a testament to his hard work, his dedication, and his undeniable talent. He brought a fresh perspective to Smackdown and reminded us all why we love wrestling in the first place. He's not just a wrestler; he's a throwback to a different era, a time when power and skill reigned supreme. Watching him dismantle his opponents was both captivating and terrifying, and it's clear that he's only just getting started. The future is bright for Gunther and Imperium, and I can't wait to see what they accomplish next.

Ronda Rousey's Dominance

Ronda Rousey's return to WWE and subsequent run on Smackdown was nothing short of impactful. Her matches were intense, her presence was commanding, and she quickly re-established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the women's division. From the moment she stepped back into the ring, it was clear that she was there to dominate. Her experience in MMA gave her a unique edge, and she brought a level of realism and intensity that was unmatched. Her opponents knew they were in for a real fight, and the crowd was always on the edge of their seats. The intensity she brought to her matches was palpable. Every takedown, every submission attempt, felt like it could end the match in an instant. She wasn't just going through the motions; she was fighting with every fiber of her being, and that made her matches incredibly compelling to watch. Her rivalries were legendary, and she always managed to elevate her opponents. Whether it was Charlotte Flair, Liv Morgan, or anyone else who dared to step into the ring with her, Ronda made them look like worthy adversaries. She brought out the best in them, and that made their matches even more exciting. Ronda's reign as champion was a testament to her skill and her determination. She defended her title against all comers, and she always found a way to win. She was a true champion, and she carried herself with the confidence and poise that you would expect from someone of her caliber. But it wasn't just about winning; it was about inspiring others. Ronda is a role model for women all over the world, and she has shown that anything is possible with hard work and dedication. She's a true pioneer in the world of combat sports, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Let's not forget the sheer excitement every time her music hit. The crowd would erupt, and you knew something big was about to happen. Her matches were always a highlight of Smackdown, and she consistently delivered memorable moments. Ronda Rousey's impact on Smackdown in 2022 was undeniable. She brought star power, intensity, and a level of competition that raised the bar for the entire women's division. Her matches were must-see TV, and she proved once again why she's one of the greatest female athletes of all time.

The Mysterios' Saga

The Mysterios, Rey and Dominik, had a rollercoaster of a year. Their tag team success, Dominik's eventual betrayal, and the emotional fallout made for compelling television. The dynamic between father and son was always fascinating to watch, but when Dominik turned on Rey, it added a whole new layer of intrigue to their story. It wasn't just a simple heel turn; it was a deeply personal betrayal that resonated with fans. Watching Dominik's descent into darkness was both shocking and captivating. He went from being the wide-eyed, innocent son to a cynical and rebellious young man, and his transformation was masterfully executed. The crowd's reaction to him was electric, and you could feel the animosity in the air whenever he stepped into the ring. The matches between Rey and Dominik were emotional and hard-hitting. It wasn't just about winning or losing; it was about family, about betrayal, and about the complex relationship between a father and son. Every strike, every taunt, felt like it carried years of resentment and frustration. Rey's heartbreak was palpable, and you could see the pain in his eyes every time he looked at his son. He never wanted to fight Dominik, but he knew he had to do what was right. The storyline was a masterclass in long-term storytelling. It wasn't rushed, and it allowed the characters to develop and evolve over time. The writers did an excellent job of building tension and creating a sense of anticipation for the eventual showdown between father and son. But it wasn't just about the drama; it was also about the wrestling. The Mysterios are both incredibly talented performers, and their matches were always exciting and innovative. They know how to work a crowd, how to build suspense, and how to deliver a satisfying conclusion. Their high-flying moves and their incredible athleticism made them a joy to watch. The Mysterios' saga was one of the most compelling storylines on Smackdown in 2022. It had everything: drama, emotion, betrayal, and incredible wrestling. It was a testament to the power of storytelling in wrestling, and it kept fans hooked week after week. I can't wait to see what's next for Rey and Dominik, and I'm sure their story is far from over.

Top Matches and Memorable Moments

Beyond these main storylines, Smackdown delivered tons of incredible matches. Think of Sheamus vs. Gunther – banger after banger! And who could forget the Sami Zayn Honorary Uce storyline? The twists and turns kept us all guessing! The wrestling was top-notch, the storylines were engaging, and the overall quality of the show was consistently high. The tag team division also had some standout moments, with teams like The Usos and The New Day delivering classic matches. The athleticism and the creativity on display were truly impressive, and it's clear that the tag team division is in good hands. The women's division also continued to shine, with stars like Charlotte Flair, Sasha Banks, and Bayley delivering memorable performances. The matches were hard-hitting and competitive, and the women proved that they can hang with the best of them. But it wasn't just about the matches; it was also about the memorable moments that made Smackdown so special. Think of the surprise returns, the shocking betrayals, and the unexpected alliances. These moments are what make wrestling so exciting and unpredictable, and they're what keep us coming back for more. And let's not forget the promos. The wrestlers on Smackdown are some of the best talkers in the business, and they know how to cut a promo that will get the crowd fired up. Their words are just as important as their actions in the ring, and they know how to use their voices to tell a story. Overall, Smackdown in 2022 was a year to remember. It had everything: great wrestling, compelling storylines, and memorable moments. It's a testament to the hard work and dedication of the wrestlers, the writers, and everyone else who works behind the scenes to make Smackdown such a great show. So here's to another year of amazing wrestling and unforgettable moments!