Overview of 'WWE SmackDown' Season 5

Episode 1 - SmackDown 177

Release Date: 2003-01-02

As SmackDown kicks off the new year with the wedding ceremony of Dawn Marie and Torrie Wilson, Brock Lesnar returns to action as he faces Matt Hardy in the main event. However, with the Royal Rumble approaching, Paul Heyman and Big Show have a special challenge for the Beast. John Cena makes a bold statement at the expense of Eddie Guerrero.

Episode 2 - SmackDown 178

Release Date: 2003-01-09

Team Angle compete in singles action against two formidable opponents. Paul Heyman promises to teach Brock Lesnar a lesson as the Beast goes one-on-one with A-Train in the main event. Plus, Big Show takes on Rikishi, John Cena battles Chavo Guerrero, and more.

Episode 3 - SmackDown 179

Release Date: 2003-01-16

WWE Champion Kurt Angle and his team of Shelton Benjamin and Charlie Haas compete in a Handicap Match. Brock Lesnar & Rey Mysterio face A-Train & Big Show. Dawn Marie holds a funeral service to honor the memory of Al Wilson, but when Torrie Wilson mourns her father, her new stepmother sheds some light her loss. Plus, John Cena and more in action.

Episode 4 - SmackDown 180

Release Date: 2003-01-23

With Brock Lesnar's victory in the Royal Rumble securing his spot in the main event at WrestleMania, WWE Champion Kurt Angle readies for a main event of his own as he goes one-on-one with Rey Mysterio. While Raw General Manager Eric Bischoff looks to sign a former adversary to his brand, Stephanie McMahon brings a legend to SmackDown.

Episode 5 - SmackDown 181

Release Date: 2003-01-30

Following Hollywood Hulk Hogan's return to SmackDown, Mr. McMahon resolves to put an end to Hulkamania by enlisting The Rock to face him at No Way Out. As Undertaker continues to call out Big Show, Paul Heyman offers an unusual apology to the Deadman. Team Angle sets their sights on becoming the No. 1 contenders for the WWE Tag Team Championship.

Episode 6 - SmackDown 182

Release Date: 2003-02-06

Hollywood Hulk Hogan addresses his upcoming match against The Rock, however, The Great One has some words of his own for the Hulkster. While Team Angle looks to capture the WWE Tag Team Championship from Los Guerreros, their leader and WWE Champion is faced with a challenge of his own in the main event. Plus, John Cena calls out Brock Lesnar.

Episode 7 - SmackDown 183

Release Date: 2003-02-13

Brock Lesnar goes one-on-one with John Cena in the main event. After weeks of asking forgiveness from The Undertaker in the most unorthodox ways, Big Show delivers another unusual peace offering to the Deadman. Dawn Marie and Torrie Wilson compete in a Bra and Panties Match. Plus, Eddie Guerrero battles Shelton Benjamin, Edge in action, and more.

Episode 8 - SmackDown 184

Release Date: 2003-02-20

Brock Lesnar battles each member of Team Angle in a Gauntlet Match. The Rock finally comes back to SmackDown for a confrontation with Hollywood Hulk Hogan. The Undertaker gets more than little choked up when Big Show offers him another present. Plus, Torrie Wilson looks to give Nidia some corporal punishment and more.

Episode 9 - SmackDown 185

Release Date: 2003-02-27

Brock Lesnar takes on Shelton Benjamin and Charlie Hass in a Handicap Match main event. With his team in action, Kurt Angle gives Brian Kendrick the opportunity of a lifetime. Plus, Mr. McMahon addresses his involvement in Hollywood Hulk Hogan's loss at No Way Out, The Undertaker receives help from a newcomer, and more.

Episode 10 - SmackDown 186

Release Date: 2003-03-06

Brock Lesnar gets his hands on Paul Heyman in a Steel Cage Match. Mr. McMahon vows to put an end to Hulkamania when he challenges Hollywood Hulk Hogan to a match at WrestleMania. Rey Mysterio faces Tajiri and Jamie Noble in a Triple Threat match. Plus, Matt Hardy defends his Cruiserweight Championship, The Undertaker battles A-Train, and more.

Episode 11 - SmackDown 187

Release Date: 2003-03-13

Brock Lesnar's chance for a WrestleMania moment comes early as he challenges Kurt Angle for the WWE Championship. Upset over Torrie Wilson's recent accomplishment, Dawn Marie decides to get something off her chest. Plus, Rey Mysterio and Billy Kidman take on WWE Tag Team Champions Team Angle, Los Guerreros in action, and much more.

Episode 12 - SmackDown 188

Release Date: 2003-03-20

The road to WrestleMania XIX is pathed with ill intentions as Mr. McMahon takes his rivalry with Hollywood Hulk Hogan to another level when they sign the contract for their match. After relying on brotherly love to help him retain his WWE Championship against Brock Lesnar last week, Kurt Angle receives some disheartening news.

Episode 13 - SmackDown 189

Release Date: 2003-03-27

As their match for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania XIX approaches, Kurt Angle gives Brock Lesnar something to reflect upon. But while Lesnar readies for the challenge of a lifetime, John Cena calls out the Beast. With his career on the line at WrestleMania, Hollywood Hulk Hogan addresses his Hulkamaniacs for what could be the last time.

Episode 14 - SmackDown 190

Release Date: 2003-04-03

Stephanie McMahon initiates a tournament to determine the No. 1 Contender for the Brock Lesnar's newly-won WWE Championship. Despite losing to Hollywood Hulk Hogan in their Street Fight, Mr. McMahon reveals his measure as a man. Plus, a legendary diva congratulates Torrie Wilson on recent accomplishment, The Undertaker in action, and more.

Episode 15 - SmackDown 191

Release Date: 2003-04-10

WWE Champion Brock Lesnar returns faces Cruiserweight Champion Matt Hardy. "Rowdy" Roddy Piper hosts a new edition of Piper's Pit with Mr. McMahon as his guest. Plus, the tournament to determine the No. 1 Contender for the WWE Championship at Backlash reaches the semi-finals. All this and more.

Episode 16 - SmackDown 192

Release Date: 2003-04-17

As the tournament to determine the number one contender for Brock Lesnar's newly won WWE Championship reaches the finals, John Cena confronts the Beast. Following her surprise return, Sable serves as special referee for Torrie Wilson's match with Nidia. Plus, another edition of Piper's Pit, Eddie Guerrero in action, and more.

Episode 17 - SmackDown 193

Release Date: 2003-04-24

John Cena sets out to make an impression on WWE Champion Brock Lesnar when the Beast faces off with A-Train in the main event. Sable hosts a Bikini Invitational. With Kurt Angle still out-of-action due to his injuries from WrestleMania, WWE Tag Team Champions Shelton Benjamin & Charlie Haas make a special dedication in honor of their team captain.

Episode 18 - SmackDown 194

Release Date: 2003-05-01

Brock Lesnar calls out Big Show. Following weeks of anticipation, Mr. America makes his debut on a brand new Piper's Pit, however many questions arise over the identity of this patriotic superstar. Plus, John Cena receives a freestyle challenge, WWE Tag Team Champions Los Guerreros face against Shannon Moore & Matt Hardy, and much more.

Episode 19 - SmackDown 195

Release Date: 2003-05-08

Despite the indefinite suspension of Hollywood Hulk Hogan from WWE, the hiring of the conspicuous Mr. America and his new lucrative contract has Mr. McMahon demanding answers. Plus, John Cena goes one-on-one with Rhyno, Sable issues a sultry challenge to Torrie Wilson, and much more.

Episode 20 - SmackDown 196

Release Date: 2003-05-15

WWE Champion Brock Lesnar goes on a rampage. With the identity of Mr. America causing him restlessness, Mr. McMahon looks to some hired muscle to take out this growing nemesis at Judgment Day. Before he faces off with Shelton Benjamin, Eddie Guerrero pays respect to the captain of Team Angle. Plus, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper hosts Piper's Pit and more.

Episode 21 - SmackDown 197

Release Date: 2003-05-22

WWE Champion Brock Lesnar faces with Johnny "The Bull" Stamboli. With Mr. America defeating "Rowdy" Roddy Piper to keep his identity from being revealed, Mr. McMahon is out for vengeance as he reconsiders Zach Gowen's position in the WWE Universe. Plus, Rey Mysterio battles Crash and Shannon Moore in a Handicap match and more.

Episode 22 - SmackDown 198

Release Date: 2003-05-29

The Undertaker & WWE Champion Brock Lesnar battle against Chuck Palumbo & Johnny "The Bull" Stamboli. After having Zach Gowen arrested to strike at the heart of Mr. America, Mr. McMahon looks to discover the truth about his patriotic nemesis by putting to the ultimate test. However, it is The Chairman of WWE who ends up having his leg pulled.

Episode 23 - SmackDown 199

Release Date: 2003-06-05

Kurt Angle makes his return to SmackDown. However, the Olympic Gold Medalist receives a cold welcome from a former ally. On an all new edition of Piper's Pit, Mr. McMahon challenges Zach Gowen to prove he is worthy of a WWE contract. Plus, Matt Hardy defends his Cruiserweight Championship against Rey Mysterio in the main event and more.

Episode 24 - SmackDown 200

Release Date: 2003-06-12

This episode of SmackDown features an arm-wrestling contest between Mr. America and Mr. McMahon. Brock Lesnar defends the WWE Championship against The Big Show. Matt Hardy battles Rey Mysterio. "Rowdy" Roddy Piper hosts Piper's Pit with special guests Eddie Guerrero and Tajiri. Billy Gunn faces A-Train. The Undertaker, John Cena, and much more.

Episode 25 - SmackDown 201

Release Date: 2003-06-19

Big Show and WWE Champion Brock Lesnar battle for the Beast's title. Mr. McMahon's constant humiliation of Zach Gowen finally pushes Stephanie McMahon to the limit. When the Full Blooded Italians play the numbers game on The Undertaker, some friends return to business to assist the Deadman. Plus, Kurt Angle is called out by his former teammates.

Episode 26 - SmackDown 202

Release Date: 2003-06-26

WWE Champion Brock Lesnar teams with Kurt Angle & Mr. America to take on Big Show, Shelton Benjamin & Charlie Haas. After weeks of being tormented, Zach Gowen receives an apology from Mr. McMahon. John Cena gets more than he bargained for when he looks to give a young rookie a special opportunity. Plus, the Ultimo Dragon debuts and much more.

Episode 27 - SmackDown 203

Release Date: 2003-07-03

While forcing Zach Gowen to earn his WWE contract by teaming with Stephanie McMahon to face against Big Shown in a Handicap Match, Mr. McMahon looks seal the fate of Mr. America with a revealing announcement. Eddie Guerrero & Tajiri defend the WWE Tag Team Championship against the World's Greatest Tag Team. Plus, WWE Champion Brock Lesnar and more.

Episode 28 - SmackDown 204

Release Date: 2003-07-10

WWE Champion Brock Lesnar is forced to take on Big Show & The World's Greatest Tag Team in a special 3-on-1 Falls Count Anywhere Match. As Zach Gowen finally realizes his dream of becoming a WWE Superstar, Mr. McMahon exerts his authority on his newest employee. Plus, the United States Championship Tournament continues and much more.

Episode 29 - SmackDown 205

Release Date: 2003-07-17

Kurt Angle is forced to take on Big Show and The World's Greatest Tag Team in a 3-on-1 Falls Count Anywhere Match. But while Mr. McMahon readies for his upcoming confrontation with Zach Gowen, the Chairman receives a beastly challenge. Plus, Stephanie McMahon finally gets her hands on Sable, John Cena makes a grave mistake, and much more.

Episode 30 - SmackDown 206

Release Date: 2003-07-24

Kurt Angle, Zach Gowen & WWE Champion Brock Lesnar battle Big Show & the World's Greatest Tag Team. With CEO Linda McMahon recuperating from her injuries sustained during her recent Raw experience, Sable crosses the line with Stephanie McMahon. Plus, Eddie Guerrero goes one-on-one with Rhyno and much more.

Episode 31 - SmackDown 207

Release Date: 2003-07-31

Kurt Angle receives a challenge from Brock Lesnar. However, Mr. McMahon looks to put their friendship to the test by ordering the Beast and the Olympic Gold Medalist to team up against Big Show & A-Train. Plus, Eddie Guerrero defends his newly won United States Championship against Tajiri, John Cena faces off with Orlando Jordan, and more.

Episode 32 - SmackDown 208

Release Date: 2003-08-07

As Brock Lesnar faces Mr. McMahon inside a steel cage with WWE Champion Kurt Angle serving as the special guest referee, a plan unfolds to ensure that the Beast doesn't get his hands on the Chairman of WWE. The Undertaker goes one-on-one with John Cena. Plus, Cruiserweight Champion Rey Mysterio takes on WWE Tag Team Champion Charlie Haas and more.

Episode 33 - SmackDown 209

Release Date: 2003-08-14

After Mr. McMahon introduces the 'real' Brock Lesnar to the WWE Universe, the Chairman forces Stephanie McMahon to take on A-Train in the main event. Cruiserweight Champion Rey Mysterio & Billy Kidman challenge The World's Greatest Tag Team for the WWE Tag Team Championship. Plus, Undertaker takes on Big Show, Zach Gowen faces John Cena, and more.

Episode 34 - SmackDown 210

Release Date: 2003-08-21

WWE Champion Kurt Angle calls out Mr. McMahon and Brock Lesnar. However, the Chairman of WWE counters the Olympic Gold Medalist's challenge by having him compete in a Falls Count Anywhere Street Fight against Big Show. Plus, John Cena & A-Train battle The Undertaker & Orlando Jordan, Zach Gowen is put in a dangerous situation, and more.

Episode 35 - SmackDown 211

Release Date: 2003-08-28

Brock Lesnar demands a rematch against WWE Champion Kurt Angle. However, SmackDown General Manager Stephanie McMahon has other plans that sees the Beast battle The Undertaker and Big Show in a Triple Threat main event to determine a new No. 1 Contender. Plus, Rey Mysterio defends his Cruiserweight Championship and much more.

Episode 36 - SmackDown 212

Release Date: 2003-09-04

When The Undertaker challenges Kurt Angle for his WWE Championship, Brock Lesnar decides make his presence felt by taking a ringside seat for the match. United States Champion Eddie Guerrero demands to take his rivalry with John Cena to the streets after Cena decides to go for a little ride. Plus, The World's Greatest Tag Team, Tajiri, and more.

Episode 37 - SmackDown 213

Release Date: 2003-09-11

Mr. McMahon puts SmackDown GM Stephanie McMahon between a Brock and a hard place. John Cena and Eddie Guerrero take their rivalry to the street in a Latino Heat Parking Lot Brawl. Plus, several of SmackDown's top Superstars are in action including the APA, Matt Hardy, Rey Mysterio, and many more.

Episode 38 - SmackDown 214

Release Date: 2003-09-18

Two amateur wrestling greats face off in a 60 Minute Iron Man Match when Kurt Angle takes on Brock Lesnar! The Undertaker has a special message for Vince McMahon. Tajiri and Rhyno compete in tag team action. Los Guerreros challenge Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin for the WWE Tag Team Championship.

Episode 39 - SmackDown 215

Release Date: 2003-09-25

As Mr. McMahon looks to present Brock Lesnar with his newly-won WWE Championship, Kurt Angle sets his sights on a fight with the Beast. Before he defends his United States Championship against Charlie Hass in the main event, Eddie Guerrero must first put tag team gold on the line as he and Chavo defend their titles. Plus, Rey Mysterio and more.

Episode 40 - SmackDown 216

Release Date: 2003-10-02

Kurt Angle & The Undertaker take on John Cena & WWE Champion Brock Lesnar. When Big Show shows United States Champion Eddie Guerrero disrespect, Latino Heat decides to teach him a lesson. With their "I Quit" match at No Mercy coming up, Mr. McMahon makes a special stipulation for Stephanie. Plus, the Basham Brothers, Matt Hardy, and more in action.

Episode 41 - SmackDown 217

Release Date: 2003-10-09

The rivalry between United States Champion Eddie Guerrero and Big Show gets messy when Latino Heat takes up a new job. Kurt Angle challenges John Cena to a unique form of competition. As Stephanie and Mr. McMahon prepare for their "I Quit" match, another member of the McMahon family raises the stakes. Plus, The Undertaker in action and more.

Episode 42 - SmackDown 218

Release Date: 2003-10-16

Kurt Angle shows John Cena exactly what he thinks of him. With their Chain Match for the WWE Championship just a few days away, Brock Lesnar and The Undertaker look to kick things off early. When United States Champion Eddie Guerrero faces off against Rhyno, Big Show gets some payback. Plus, Stephanie McMahon receives a message of fatherly love.

Episode 43 - SmackDown 219

Release Date: 2003-10-23

With Stephanie McMahon being forced to resign as SmackDown General Manager due to her loss at No Mercy, Paul Heyman makes his shocking return to assume her responsibilities. Heyman shakes things up by having The Undertaker face both WWE Champion Brock Lesnar and United States Champion Big Show in the main event.

Episode 44 - SmackDown 220

Release Date: 2003-10-30

While SmackDown General Manager Paul Heyman introduces some powerful additions to WWE Champion Brock Lesnar's Survivor Series team, the Beast partners with United States Champion Big Show to take on the APA. Mr. McMahon, worried over his upcoming Buried Alive Match against The Undertaker, receives some words of inspiration from an unlikely source.

Episode 45 - SmackDown 221

Release Date: 2003-11-06

WWE Champion Brock Lesnar and his Survivor Series teammates look to recruit a new addition before taking on two members of Team Angle in a 4-on-2 Handicap Match. Plus, Eddie Guerrero battles the Basham Brothers in a Handicap match, Bradshaw faces off against United States Champion Big Show, and more.

Episode 46 - SmackDown 222

Release Date: 2003-11-13

After siding with Team Angle heading into Survivor Series, John Cena proves his ability to play well with others when he and a future teammate faceoff against WWE Champion Brock Lesnar and United States Champion Big Show in the main event. Plus, Sable turns to a spiritual answer to Mr. McMahon's nightmares, Kurt Angle faces Nathan Jones, and more.

Episode 47 - SmackDown 223

Release Date: 2003-11-20

Following their loss at Survivor Series, WWE Champion Brock Lesnar gives each of his teammates a chance to redeem themselves by having them compete in singles action against members of Team Angle. After helping Mr. McMahon lay The Undertaker to rest, Kane gives a special eulogy for his brother. Plus, John Cena, Los Guerreros, and many more.

Episode 48 - SmackDown 224

Release Date: 2003-11-27

As the WWE Universe celebrates Thanksgiving, SmackDown General Manager Paul Heyman gives his locker room something to be thankful for by announcing a 20-Man Battle Royal to determine the No. 1 Contender for Brock Lesnar's WWE Championship. Plus, Eddie Guerrero takes on Charlie Haas, Hardcore Holly breaks his silence on his suspension, and more.

Episode 49 - SmackDown 225

Release Date: 2003-12-04

The two winners of last week's Battle Royal face off in a No. 1 Contender's Match for a chance to challenge Brock Lesnar for his WWE Championship. Problems within the Guerrero family continue to escalate when Chavo goes one-on-one with Shelton Benjamin. Plus, Paul Heyman gives Shannon Moore a big opportunity to prove himself and much more.

Episode 50 - SmackDown 226

Release Date: 2003-12-11

Rey Mysterio goes one-on-one with WWE Champion Brock Lesnar for a potential chance at the Beast's WWE Championship. Shannon Moore is put to the test once again as he faces off against A-Train. Plus, The World's Greatest Tag Team takes on Los Guerreros, Big Show calls out Johnn Cena, and much more.

Episode 51 - SmackDown 227

Release Date: 2003-12-18

General Manager Paul Heyman gives Hardcore Holly the chance to challenge Brock Lesnar for the WWE Championship if he can first defeat A-Train & Matt Morgan. Plus, a Fatal 4-Way match for the WWE Tag Team Championship, Orlando Jordan battles United States Champion Big Show, and more.

Episode 52 - SmackDown 228 - Tribute to the Troops

Release Date: 2003-12-25

The Superstars of SmackDown travel to Camp Victory for the very first edition of WWE Tribute to the Troops. In the main event, John Cena faces off against United States Champion Big Show in a Non-Title Match. Plus, The Acolytes take on The World's Greatest Tag Team of Charlie Haas & Shelton Benjamin, a Santa's Little Helper Contest, and more.