Eddie Guerrero: The Face of SmackDown! in the Second Half of 2004

The world of professional wrestling in 2004 was a dynamic and passionate landscape, filled with colorful characters and gripping storylines. Among the many standout moments of the year, one name rose to prominence on the SmackDown! brand—Eddie Guerrero. An epitome of skill and charisma, Eddie Guerrero became a fan favorite, his powerful Championship runs and engaging personas making him a significant figure in the second half of 2004. This article delves into the pivotal role Eddie Guerrero played as the face of SmackDown!, exploring his impact on the brand and the wrestling world.

Background and Rise: The Undertaker Version

Before becoming the face of SmackDown!, Eddie Guerrero had a storied career with professional wrestling's flagship brands. Since his debut in 1995, he had established himself as a formidable competitor, best known for his appearances with the WWE. His on-screen persona as 'The Undertaker' was the stage name he adopted while competing with Extreme Championship Wrestling, showcasing the gravity and skill he would bring to the wrestling world. By the time he joined SmackDown!, Eddie Guerrero was no stranger to the rigors of the ring and the demands of delivering worldwide entertainment.

The Undertaker Story: A Misunderstood Legend

The Undertaker version of Eddie Guerrero’s rise was a tale of being misunderstood but ultimately revered. His early matches with SmackDown! were marked by fierce competition with Warrior, and their matches attracted significant attention. However, it was his role as a champion that brought him to global prominence. By the second half of 2004, Eddie Guerrero had won the WWE Championship, a title that had been coveted by the greatest wrestlers in the business. His ascension to champion underscored his abilities and the growing significance of his role on the brand.

Eddie Guerrero's Impact on SmackDown!

The presence of Eddie Guerrero on SmackDown! was transformative. His championship runs not only boosted the brand's ratings but also resonated deeply with fans. His matches were marked by raw power and intense drama, captivating audiences and fostering a sense of excitement and unpredictability. Eddie's victory at WrestleMania 20, where he defeated Stone Cold Steve Austin and Paul Heyman in a triple threats match, solidified his status as a major player in the wrestling landscape. His victory over Austin, a living legend, in such a high-profile match is a testament to his skill and the respect he commanded in the industry.

Champions and Championships: The Undertaker's Journey

During his tenure as a champion, Eddie Guerrero took on some of the biggest names in the business. His Championship runs saw him face illustrious figures like The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and even Triple H. These matches were monumental in the context of SmackDown! and highlighted the muscle and strategy that made Guerrero a dominant force. The relationship between Eddie Guerrero and some of his competitors, such as Randy Orton, was marked by both respect and rivalry. Their feuds were memorable, both for the drama they created and the high-quality matches they delivered.

Conclusion: Legacy and Impact

The legacy of Eddie Guerrero on SmackDown! is profound. Beyond his title runs, his ability to connect with fans and his skill in the ring made him an enduring figure in wrestling history. The Undertaker’s journey on SmackDown! in the second half of 2004 is a testament to his talent and his enduring impact. His contributions to the brand resonate with fans to this day, and his name is forever etched as one of the most memorable faces of SmackDown! in WWE history.