10 Things WWE Wants You To Forget About SmackDown

A few incidents they'd rather you never knew about as Smackdown turns 15.

By Jack G King /

This week has cause for celebration within the WWE as it sees the 15th anniversary of SmackDown. Although less revered than Raw, the blue brand has certainly reached a stage now where it holds a very important place in wrestling history. With its distinctive look and "Ovaltron" set design, the new show proved an instant hit upon its 1999 début, connecting with fans hungry for extra wrestling during the tail-end of the Monday Night Wars. Unlike Raw's comparatively stable existence (staying put on the USA Network for most of its existence, bar a five-year deal with Spike TV), SmackDown has jumped between four channels during its fifteen year period on our television screens. Despite this - and a risky move from Thursday to Friday nights in 2005 - the show has often been seen as a preferable alternative to Raw, particularly due to a perceived focus on in-ring action in contrast to Raw's soap opera appeal. It certainly hasn't been plain sailing for the WWE's secondary show. Although Raw's infamous moments may live longer in the memory, SmackDown hasn't been short of controversy, shame, and even nationwide criticism. From scandalous moments on the show itself to shady political dealings backstage, the blue brand is just as shady and shocking a part of the wrestling industry as any other show. Here are a few notable incidents your memory may have let slip.