Rob Van Dam vs. Kurt Angle on the October 4, 2001 episode of SmackDown is remembered as a standout television match that perfectly showcased the contrast between two elite but very different wrestling styles. The bout highlighted Angle’s Olympic-level technical precision and intensity against RVD’s explosive athleticism and unorthodox offense, creating a fast-paced and highly competitive encounter.

From the opening moments, Angle worked to control the match through grappling, takedowns, and constant pressure, attempting to neutralize RVD’s speed and aerial attacks. RVD responded with sudden bursts of offense—kicks, springboards, and innovative counters—that kept the momentum shifting and the crowd fully engaged. The chemistry between the two allowed for smooth transitions, believable reversals, and multiple near-falls that elevated the drama well beyond a typical TV match.

A key strength of the match was how it established RVD as a legitimate threat to top-tier technical wrestlers, while also reinforcing Angle’s adaptability and ring awareness. The contest felt intense and urgent, with both men pushing each other to the limit despite the match taking place on weekly television rather than pay-per-view.