WWE Smackdown: Top Moments & Highlights Of 2022

Hey guys! Ready to dive into the most electrifying, jaw-dropping, and downright unforgettable moments from WWE Smackdown in 2022? It was a year packed with shocking twists, epic rivalries, and championship showdowns that kept us all on the edge of our seats. So, buckle up as we count down the very best of the blue brand from the past year! Let's get into it!

The Undisputed Reign of Roman Reigns

Of course, no discussion about WWE Smackdown in 2022 would be complete without spotlighting the dominant and seemingly never-ending reign of the Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns. Seriously, this guy defined the year. From the very beginning, he held onto the Universal Championship with an iron grip, crushing anyone who dared to step up to him. What made it even more compelling was the way his character evolved, becoming more ruthless and calculating with each passing month.

Reigns' story wasn't just about winning matches; it was about control, family, and legacy. The Bloodline, consisting of The Usos and later Solo Sikoa, became an integral part of his dominance, ensuring that anyone who challenged Reigns had to face the entire group. This created a near-impossible obstacle for potential challengers, adding layers of intrigue to every title defense. We saw credible contenders like Drew McIntyre and even Brock Lesnar fall victim to the Bloodline's interference and Reigns' strategic brilliance. Each victory further cemented his status as a seemingly unbeatable force.

One of the most captivating aspects of Reigns' reign was the blurring of lines between heel and anti-hero. While he employed villainous tactics, there was a undeniable charisma and aura of invincibility that drew fans in. His promos were consistently captivating, blending arrogance with genuine emotion, making him one of the most compelling characters in modern wrestling history. The question wasn't just if someone could beat Roman Reigns, but how. This question alone fueled countless storylines and kept fans invested week after week. Reigns' impact on Smackdown in 2022 is undeniable, shaping the entire landscape of the show and setting the stage for even bigger things to come.

Brock Lesnar's Ferocious Comebacks

Speaking of Brock Lesnar, The Beast Incarnate was a constant thorn in Roman Reigns' side throughout 2022. Whenever you thought someone might dethrone the Tribal Chief, BAM! Lesnar would come roaring back into the picture, ready to unleash his brand of chaotic destruction. His appearances were never just matches; they were events, filled with suplexes, F5s, and an intensity that few can match. Lesnar’s presence automatically elevated any storyline he was involved in, making him a key player in Smackdown’s biggest moments.

Lesnar's unpredictable nature made him incredibly compelling. You never quite knew what he was going to do or who he was going to target. One week he might be a destructive force of nature, and the next he might be cracking jokes with a sinister grin. This unpredictability kept fans guessing and made his confrontations with Roman Reigns even more exciting. Their matches were brutal, physical affairs, showcasing Lesnar's incredible strength and resilience. Even when he didn't win, Lesnar always left a lasting impression, reminding everyone why he's considered one of the most dominant forces in WWE history.

Beyond his rivalry with Reigns, Lesnar also had memorable clashes with other members of the Smackdown roster. These matches served as reminders of his versatility and ability to adapt to different styles of opponents. Whether he was battling smaller, more agile wrestlers or going head-to-head with other powerhouses, Lesnar always delivered a captivating performance. His contributions to Smackdown in 2022 were significant, providing both thrilling action and compelling drama that helped to shape the year's storylines.

The Rise of Gunther and Imperium

One of the freshest and most impactful additions to Smackdown in 2022 was the arrival of Gunther and his imposing faction, Imperium. Gunther, formerly known as Walter, brought a level of old-school intensity and brutality that had been missing from WWE for some time. His matches were stiff, hard-hitting affairs that showcased his incredible strength and technical prowess. Imperium, consisting of Giovanni Vinci and Ludwig Kaiser, provided unwavering support, adding a layer of dominance to Gunther's already impressive presence.

Gunther's reign as Intercontinental Champion was a highlight of the year. He defended the title with ruthless efficiency, dismantling challengers with a combination of power moves and strategic ring generalship. His matches were not just about winning; they were about asserting dominance and establishing Imperium as a force to be reckoned with. Gunther's dedication to the craft and his commitment to maintaining a serious, no-nonsense demeanor made him a standout performer on Smackdown.

Imperium's presence extended beyond Gunther's matches, as they consistently interfered in other storylines and targeted anyone who dared to disrespect them. This created a sense of unease and unpredictability on Smackdown, as no one was safe from their wrath. Their disciplined and coordinated attacks made them a formidable unit, adding a new dimension to the show's tag team division. The rise of Gunther and Imperium was a refreshing change of pace, injecting a dose of European wrestling sensibility into the American scene and solidifying their place as major players in WWE.

Ronda Rousey's Championship Run

Ronda Rousey's presence on Smackdown in 2022 was a major draw, bringing star power and legitimacy to the women's division. Her transition back to WWE after a hiatus was met with excitement, and she quickly re-established herself as a dominant force. Rousey's matches were a blend of striking and grappling, showcasing her unique skillset and her ability to adapt to different opponents. Her intensity and competitive spirit made her a compelling character, and her championship reigns were a testament to her hard work and dedication.

Rousey's rivalries were a highlight of her run, particularly her feuds with Charlotte Flair and Liv Morgan. These matches were hard-fought and filled with drama, showcasing the depth and talent of the Smackdown women's division. Rousey's willingness to push the boundaries and take risks made her matches must-see events, and her contributions helped to elevate the status of women's wrestling in WWE.

Beyond her in-ring performances, Rousey also brought a level of mainstream attention to Smackdown. Her appearances on talk shows and in other media outlets helped to promote the show to a wider audience, attracting new fans and generating buzz around WWE. Rousey's impact on Smackdown in 2022 was significant, both in terms of her in-ring accomplishments and her ability to draw attention to the brand.

The Usos' Tag Team Dominance

The Usos, Jimmy and Jey, had an absolutely stellar year as the top tag team on Smackdown. Their chemistry, athleticism, and undeniable charisma made them a force to be reckoned with. As part of The Bloodline, they not only dominated the tag team division but also played a crucial role in supporting Roman Reigns' championship reign. Their matches were consistently exciting, filled with innovative offense and nail-biting finishes.

The Usos' ability to connect with the audience was a key factor in their success. Their high-energy performances and their willingness to take risks made them a fan favorite, even as they embraced their roles as heels. Their rivalries with teams like The New Day and The Street Profits were legendary, showcasing the depth and talent of the Smackdown tag team division. Each match was a battle of wills, with both teams pushing each other to the limit.

Beyond their in-ring accomplishments, The Usos also played a significant role in the overall storylines on Smackdown. Their interactions with Roman Reigns and other members of The Bloodline added layers of complexity to the show, creating compelling drama and intrigue. Their loyalty to Reigns was unwavering, and they consistently put their bodies on the line to ensure his success. The Usos' contributions to Smackdown in 2022 were undeniable, solidifying their place as one of the greatest tag teams in WWE history.

Other Memorable Moments

Of course, 2022 on Smackdown had tons of other memorable moments that deserve a shout-out:

• The return of Bray Wyatt: This was huge! The Firefly Funhouse is back.
• Liv Morgan's Cinderella story: Her Money in the Bank win and subsequent title reign was a feel-good moment.
• The Intercontinental Championship picture: Besides Gunther's reign, we saw great matches with Ricochet and Shinsuke Nakamura.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, folks! WWE Smackdown in 2022 was a wild ride, filled with unforgettable moments, thrilling rivalries, and championship showdowns. From the dominant reign of Roman Reigns to the rise of Gunther and Imperium, the blue brand delivered week after week. What were your favorite moments from Smackdown in 2022? Let us know in the comments below!