Opinion

The Good, Bad and Ugly Royal Rumble 2019

Published

6 years ago

January 28, 2019

How did Royal Rumble stack up when it comes to the Good, Bad and Ugly classifications? Bobby gives us the breakdown.

With a brilliant NXT Takeover in the books, here we are, The Royal Rumble. The Final Chapter prior to the always over the top, illustrious WrestleMania. The card is set, the ring ready, the crowd and millions of fans buzzing. In fact right off the bat a fan behind Coach, was seen giving the double middle finger and being removed. A lot of passion, and potential here. All that is left is to tell the story.

Only question is, will it be Good, Bad or Ugly?

THE GOOD

Non-Title Match- Bobby Roode and Chad Gable (Raw Tag Team Champions) vs. Rezar of AOP and Scott Dawson of The Revival

Scott Dawson and Rezar are big, physical and the better halves of their teams. This is a Good unique set up. Another thing, any Bobby Roode is Good Bobby Roode. Roode would be an awesome win for the actual Royal Rumble as he is Main Event Caliber. Dawson and Gable did some decent work. Rezar is a big guy, with the proper direction he could be a major player but he is a long way away. It was unfortunate that the crowd was so quiet, the match was pretty Good. Bobby Roode came in on fire. So talented and the audience loves him. Dawson hit Rezar by accident leading to Gable and Roode to take advantage. Gable came in with a big “moonsault/neckbreaker combo” for the Win. Quick, solid, entertaining match.

United States Championship Match– Rusev (c) w/ Lana vs. Shinsuke Nakamura

This is a stellar feud. The US Title is relevant with this level representing it. It really is a shame it is on the Kickoff Show. Great to see The Stunning, Lana come out with the Champ. Rusev much like Roode is a top contender to push up to the Main Event, Heavyweight Championship level storyline. Rusev was very sharp, hitting picture perfect moves. Everything looked Good. Shinsuke is also just so Good. Everything clicked. The story was told well, it was physical and detailed. The “Super-athletes” make this look so easy. It looked like it could go either way, then Rusev was locked into a series of submissions. Lana stopped Nakamura from cheating, but got destroyed by Rusev off the apron. Nakamura took full advantage and hit a knee to the back of the head for the Win becoming the New United States Champion.

Fatal 4-Way Cruiserweight Championship Match– Buddy Murphy (c) vs. Kalisto vs. Akira Tozawa vs. Hideo Itami

Although the hopes aren’t high for this one, it will at the least be entertaining. Obvious to some, Hideo Itami is in another league in this match. It is surprising that he isn’t seen more, on either Raw or SmackDown. Buddy Murphy is a viable argument as well for that honor. He did absolutely amazing throwing around Kalisto and Tozawa. We saw Good stuff from everyone involved. Some really unique spots that stunned the crowd. Kalisto was a maniac tonight. The whole match was put together well, and greatly entertaining. The ending was just insane! Everyone hitting strikes, finishers, all hell broke loose, but it was The Champion, Buddy Murphy and his knee strikes from Down Under and a “Murphy’s Law” for the victory, retaining the Cruiserweight Championship. Awesome match and overall awesome Kickoff Show!

SmackDown Women’s Championship Match– Asuka (c) vs. Becky Lynch

Opening Match! Becky Lynch, The Superstar, The Man, the most popular figure in Professional Wrestling, looked ready! Asuka hasn’t stopped being ready and came out pumped. The crowd was so loud at times. Becky Lynch was a different bread in this match. She would not back down or back off, she just kept attacking. Asuka did what she knows how to do, and fought back! They were killing each other on the outside, jocking for position, and upping each other’s moves. Lynch did what she had to do to take down the “Empress.” Asuka did everything she could but just was overcome by “The Man” every time. This got extreme with a nasty “Fisherman neckbreaker” devasting Becky Lynch. Lynch came back with a “Super-expoder” which looked amazing. Asuka got the “Disarmer” on Lynch but was quickly revered into an “Asuka Lock” by Lynch. Lynch then got her into her own “Disarmer, but was rolled up for a 2-count. Asuka got Becky Lynch in a modified “Asuka Lock” she then modified into a “Chicken Wing” but then sprung forward into a bridge. Lynch tapped, in a fantastic Championship Match. This match was Great all around.

SmackDown Tag Team Championship Match– The Bar (c) vs. The Miz & Shane McMahon

The opening shot of Shamus in the spotlight is incredible. It really is a cool opening. Unexpectedly, Shane just attacked Shamus, shocking the big brute. Cesaro took over and was challenged by the Miz. Once The Bar got going though, they kept it up. This match was all about team work, each guy was there for their partner. Shamus was stiff on the Miz, he really laid into him, and Cesaro expertly took him apart. Shane was ready to pop n the corner. He came in hot, unstoppable, hitting The Bar with everything in his arsenal. Finally setting The Bar for a 2-1 “Coast to Coast,” but Cesaro cut it off taking him “Round the World.” Shane still managed a “triangle” which was successful until Shamus broke it up. Shane then kicked out of “White Noise” which is insane. Shamus then hit Cesaro with an accidental “borough kick” and got “Skull Crushing Finale, followed by a “Shooting Star press onto Cesaro by Shane to win the SmackDown Tag Team Championships. The sweet victory continued as Miz got to have a moment with his Father. That was a Good touch. Good match, good story, onto the next one!

Raw Women’s Championship Match– Ronda Rousey (c) vs. Sasha Banks

Sasha Banks oozes confidence. They both looked great! Awesome gear, and obviously confident. Rousey handled herself well, she literally held her own against Sasha Banks. They were stiff and personal with each other and it looked Good. Banks started getting momentum being in full control, wearing down on the Champion. Banks brutally tried to rip Rousey’s arm off, doing all she could. Rousey then got caught into a “Bank’s Statement.” Rousey could not get control even getting “superplexed.” Rousey again recovered and delivered a series of “judo throws” and took over. These two were tired, hurt and spent but still kept going. Sasha Banks got desperate during a “bank statement”, using her gear to pull and gag Rousey. However she again fought back hitting a “Piper’s Pit” for the victory. This was just another superior performance. Hell of a Match again! The mutual respect at the end was a Good touch as was the “4 Horsewomen” gesture of Sasha Banks.

WWE Heavyweight Championship Match (SmackDown)- Daniel Bryan (c) vs. AJ Styles

Everyone already knows of the talent here. Two of the very best. The Royal Rumble is not the place to see them fail. Expertly put together this went smoothly. They really went at it, stiff with authority. They pushed each other to the limits from start to finish. The two superstars kept trying to outdo each other. This was very violent. Styles and Bryan went all out leaving it all on the line. This New Daniel Bryan just tried to inflict as much punishment as he could while AJ Styles would constantly counter even worse. Daniel Bryan went in for the kill with tons of kicks and stomps. AJ gain would counter. Styles impressively flipped out of a back suplex off the top and did a great pinning combination into a “calf crusher.” Then Rowen came down seen for the first time in recent memory. The Ref got knocked out, AJ Styles had the match won, but Rowan attacked AJ Styles. The ref came to, Daniel Bryan covers for the win. Daniel Bryan Retains the WWE Championship. Rowen and Daniel Bryan then teamed up dismantling “The Phenomenal One.” So Fickle! But it was a sick match.

Universal Championship Match (Raw) Brock Lesnar (c) w/ Paul Heyman vs. Finn Balor

We needed the Demon, but we did Not get him. Lesnar looked extra mean and ready to take care of business. Balor without the never-ending power of the Demon makes you wonder how he could ever defeat the Beast. Well, he decided to come out full steam and attack. Lesnar took back control with a single “belly to belly.” Lesnar bullied Balor around but only momentarily as Finn came back. Lesnar got hurt on the announce table hitting the corner. Whenever Lesnar got close he would just hurl Balor around. Balor worked Lesnar’s inner leg where he seemed to be hurt. Lesnar again though would just devastate Balor every chance he got. Out of Nowhere Lesnar went for the “F5” but was countered into a huge DDT, then Balor went on the offense again, non-stop action. Balor would not stop, Lesnar was hurt. Balor went for a “coupe de grace” hit it but Lesnar kicked out and put Balor in the “kimura lock.” Lesnar retains the Universal Title. Lesnar then destroyed what was left of Balor with complete disrespect and finished with an “F5.”

Woman’s Royal Rumble

Lacey Evans and Natalya opened the Rumble, decent choices, surprising. It was also surprising they would give Lacey Evans or anyone the mic before the actual Match in this spot. That aside, Good stuff. Mandy Rose entered 3 with authority but got into a “double sharpshooter” for her trouble. Liv Morgan came and within a blink of an eye was thrown out by Nattie. The Veteran Mickie James followed then by the highly anticipated Ember Moon. Billie Kay came out next but wouldn’t enter the ring. Nikki Cross took Billie Kay down on the outside then crashed onto the whole group in the ring. The very talented Peyton Royce came out hot and immediately helped her bestie. Tamina Snuka strutted her way down next and made a huge impact taking out everyone one by one. Mickie James was then eliminated just as Xia Li made her entrance. The first Chinese Woman to compete in the WWE. She led with powerful and dominant kicks. Sarah Logan then came next. Nikki Cross was then violently thrown out by the IIconics. The next one was a big one, The Queen Charlotte Flair. Everyone swarmed her as she is a major threat, and rightfully so as she took charge once she got up. The IIconics were both thrown out then by Lacey Evans which was impressive. Xia Li then followed via Charlotte. Then a favorite, Kairi Sane entered to a very happy ovation. As if a blessing Tamina then was eliminated. Sane came in hard gong hard diving in then going after Charlotte who welcomed the challenge. Sane and Natalya then throw out Logan before Natalya attacked Sane. Maria then entered, and did some work on the group of competitors. Naomi then got a good spot at 16^th and got to throw out Mandy Rose, got pulled out by Rose then managed to not touch the floor. She put on a show but was then drilled down by Mandy Rose. Another surprise Candace Larae entered followed by Alicia Fox. Maria was then eliminated by Fox but newbie Casey Capisaro entered. Zelina Vega was next, followed by Ruby Riott who came with her girls, (Morgan and Logan). They destroyed Charlotte on the outside, followed by Fox. Zelina Vega then hid under the ring. Alicia Fox then eliminated by Riott, then Candace Larae. Dana Brooke came out very hot, ready to go fighting everyone until the Riott Squad again attacked. Io Shirai then came to her friends’ aid fighting off the Riott Squad, and took revenge. The very impressive Rhea Ripley then came out and everyone went crazy. Casey Capisaro then got thrown out but fought back in only to be overpowered and eliminated by Rhea Ripley. Sonya Deville was next. Dana Brooke was sent out by Rhea Ripley and Zelina Vega was then chased by Hornswoggle before getting tossed by Rhea Ripley. Next up “The Goddess” and my God it is about damn time. Unfortunately Sonya Deville was then eliminated. But was followed up by fan favorite Bayley. She quickly got rid of Ruby Riott, Rhea Ripley and continued her assault. Number 28 was Lana who was injured earlier in the night by Rusev, she just couldn’t continue to the ring. She is a no-go. 29, Nia Jax who then beat the hell out of Lana, brutally attacking her before going to the ring. Jax was just a force in there. Io Shirai and Natalya, and was thrown out by Jax. #30 of course is Carmella. Becky Lynch then came out demanding be put in for Lana with the whole world yelling behind her. Fit Finley then obliged. The Man was greeted by Nia Jax and the whole crew but was on fire. Alexa Bliss devastated Ember Moon on the apron eliminating her. Carmella and Bayley threw out Alexa Bliss. Nia Jax was about to break Lynch’s face again but was saved by Charlotte. Carmella was then eliminated by Charlotte. Unfortunately Bailey was then eliminated by Charlotte/Nia Jax. Jax took out Charlotte and Lynch and Becky rolled out via bottom rope. Jax and Charlotte then went on to fight it out. Charlotte even got Nia Jax up but couldn’t hold. Jax went over and was pulled down by Lynch leaving the final two. Flair vs Lynch. However Nia Jax then attacked Lynch hurting her knee. Lynch bravely went back in, denying Flair satisfaction. Flair just destroyed Lynch, but Lynch fought back and ultimately won the Royal Rumble. The Man will be going to Wrestlemania. Wow! Well Done!

Men’s Royal Rumble

Elias, who better for #1. #2 Jeff Jarrett which is just genius. It seemed a concert was about to take place but Elias had other plans. Jarrett looked Good in there but didn’t last long getting eliminated, right before Shinsuke Nakamura entered. Then Kurt Angle the 2^nd HOF’er then entered followed by Big E. Angle got thrown out but Johnny Gargano aka Johnny Rumble made an impact. Jinder Mahal was next and brought some heat. Johnny Wrestling then kicked Mahal out of the Rumble. The Singh Brothers were then punished for their actions by Big E and Elias. Samoa Joe one of the most dangerous men in a match like this came next eliminating Big E. Curt Hawkins came out and kept running out of the ring but got caught up in the “coquina clutch but got out and hid under the ring. Then Seth Rollins, “the King Slayer” the heavy favorite drew #10 and got out the #1 man Elias. Titus O’Neil came down and the whole world was watching. He did not trip this time but decided to hide under the ring apparently to fish out Hawkins, who then eliminated Titus right away but then was eliminated by Samoa Joe. Kofi Kingston who is a Royal Rumble veteran with 12 of them, came next. He is always exciting in the Royal Rumble. Someone equally exciting, next is Mustafa Ali, in his first Royal Rumble, he made a big move knocking out Shinsuke Nakamura. Another big one, Dean Ambrose was next. Kofi Kingston as always put on a show keeping his feet off the ground at all cost. Gargano was then eliminated by Ambrose. 15 goes to No Way Jose with his whole crew but was immediately eliminated and not a second too soon by Samoa Joe. The dance continued of course as always. Back to business, Drew McIntyre finally arrives at 16, he beat the hell out of the “conga line” and rolled to the ring. McIntyre is a sick force in there. Xavier Woods is next saving Kofi Kingston once again, however McIntyre then quickly eliminated both Woods and Kingston. NXT UK’s Champion Pete Dunn is next and he beat down the big boys, well everyone. Dunn took out the whole ring before Andrade came out at 19. Apollo Crews then came out at #20. As said he could be interesting, but not as much so as Aleister Black who drew 21. He is a serious person to be coming in so late. He eliminated Ambrose. Shelton Benjamin then entered. Samoa Joe finally got taken out by Ali. Baron Corbin was next, eliminating Crews. Jeff Hardy drew 24. Corbin then threw out Aleister Black, Drew McIntyre then got Pete Dunne. Rey Mysterio got a decent #25. Bobby Lashley the Intercontinental Champion another big guy so late, unfortunately he went right out, but he pulled Rollins out and threw him through a table. Not be ever be taken lightly, Braun Strowman is #27, taking out Baron Corbin right away, followed by Shelton Benjamin. #28 Dolph Ziggler a big surprise, while Jeff Hardy is eliminated. Ziggler eliminated McIntyre. Randy Orton was #29 but was cut off by Strowman. We saw a huge 4 person suplex off of Strowman which was outstanding. And of course R-Truth 30, but Nia Jax beat the hell out of R-Truth and took his spot. Nia Jax staked her claim. Jax threw out Ali then countered an “RKO.” She then took it to Rey Mysterio but was “superkicked” by Ziggler and got a “619” and an “RKO.” She was then eliminated by Mysterio and Orton. Orton then hit an “RKO” on Mysterio and eliminated him but was also thrown out by Andrade. Ziggler and Andrade remain, and Strowman and Rollins on the outside. Strowman then took control momentarily, before getting hit from all directions but Strowman got Andrade eliminated, then Ziggler. Rollins almost got Strowman. The last two, Rollins and Strowman. Rollins wins via stomp on the apron. Seth Rollins is going to Wrestlemania.

THE BAD and THE UGLY: Didn’t see anything close.

FINAL

GOOD- Perfect 10

BAD- 0

UGLY- 0 NO WAY!

OVERALL- Fantastic, perfect 10 matches. This was more than a Good show, it was Great. That is the way PPV’s are supposed to go. Some we knew, some we didn’t know. There was a lot of excitement and it met expectations if not exceeded them.

Wow! This one is in the books! A lot of moves, surprises, and overall usual WWE flavor. If this is how the rest of the Road to Wrestelmania will go, we will all be in for a Blockbuster. This was a very enjoyable night as part of a great time to be a fan. Hope you enjoyed! See you this week with more Good, Bad and Ugly.

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(NOAH) WEEKLY NEWSLETTER VOL.20 ~ 27TH JANUARY 2019

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Opinion

Greg DeMarco’s 2025 WWE Royal Rumble Results, Review & Reaction

We are firmly on the Road to WrestleMania, starting with the Royal Rumble! Greg has his initial thoughts and reactions for everyone’s favorite event!

Published

2 months ago

February 2, 2025

Greg DeMarco

We are firmly on the Road to WrestleMania, starting with the Royal Rumble! Greg has his initial thoughts and reactions for everyone’s favorite event!

It’s the first Royal Rumble in an NFL stadium (thanks to the WWE calendar change), and both Rumble matches feature a star-studded line-up that makes it much harder than you’d think to pick a winner. I was lucky enough to attend one Royal Rumble live, 2019, and it’s always the best way to set the stage for WrestleMania.

If @whoislaniee‘s rendition of the Star Spangled Banner is any indication, we are in for one hell of a night with one hell of a crowd!

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 1, 2025

Always great to see Stephanie McMahon kicking off a show–the more Stephanie, the better. Apparently we’ve managed to pack 70,000 fans into Lucas Oil Stadium, and if you didn’t know, Pat McAfee loves him some Indianapolis.

With each match you’ll see my picks, in my traditional “Who Should Win?/Will Will Win?” format. I made them in this week’s solo edition of The Greg DeMarco Show, which you can listen to here:

Women’s WWE Royal Rumble Match

Greg’s predictions from earlier in the week:

Who Should Win: Bianca Belair
Who Will Win: Bianca Belair

Last year’s winner was Bayley, entering at #3, and she went on to defeat Iyo Sky for the WWE Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 40.

Iyo Sky enters #1, and I do love the elevated platform–it’s not really a stage, but it does enhance the overall feel of the show. Old school fans will remember the entrance from Montreal watching Prime Time Wrestling.
I feel like Liv Morgan always enters these matches early. I also didn’t realize she’s been in all 8 Women’s Royal Rumble matches.
I do love the “ticker” across the bottom of the screen with stats and info during the entrances. Very ESPN, very “Wrestling As A Sport” to me.
Gotta say I was hoping for the black canvas (I’m biased), but I’ll always take grey over light blue.

Roxanne Perez has “Iron Woman” written all over her entering at #3. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 1, 2025

We even get “Active” and “Eliminated” in the ticket? I am REALLY digging this.
Lyra Valkyria enters to very little reaction–she’s a fantastic talent but has not connected on the main roster.
Lyra with the early wardrobe malfunction and we are already slightly derailed, kudos to everyone for getting it together.
Interesting to have the secondary champions enter back-to-back, and Indianapolis doesn’t seem to care much about her, either. Maybe I was wrong about this crowd, and maybe my criticism of Lyra was premature.
Chelsea thinking she’s dumped everyone and pointing to the sign is a great piece of business.
B-Fab enters at #6, and I would assume she has the lowest chance of winning of anyone in the field.
Man, B-Fab is still very NOT good.
Ivy Nile enters #7, the 5th straight entrant who has zero chance of winning this thing.
Also, we are still without an elimination, but probably 10 “hanging on the rope” spots already.
Ivy Nile is already more over in Indy than the Intercontinental and United States Champions.
Zoey Stark, complete with Barry Windham’s “Stalker” facepaint, enters eighth to continue our run of women with zero chance of winning.
Lash Legend enters at #9, and I have a feeling she’s about to win this crowd over.
LASH POINTED TO THE SIGN.
“Get her on the Fever” – Pat McAfee.
Chelsea Green gives us our first elimination, of B-Fab.
Bianca Belair enters at #10, really hurting my chances of being right.

And here’s my pick to win the Women’s #RoyalRumble, Bianca Belair. At #10? Doesn’t look good for me!

(Seth Rollins won his from #10, I believe.)

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 1, 2025

The crowd definitely picked up with Bianca being in the match.
BIANCA IS A MACHINE.
Shayna Baszler enters #11, reminding me she works for WWE. Which is sad, I really thought she’d have a hell of a run in WWE.
Bayley is #12, and we still have quite the group in this match. Personally I don’t see Bayley being a back-to-back winner.
Sonya Deville is in at #13 to complete the PFC trio in this match. I’m sure that’ll work out well for them!
Iyo Sky is so good, she saved Sonya’s knee spot and I am sure no one noticed.
Maxxine Dupri in at #14, another non-winner, but to her credit she only keeps getting better.
With 12 women thill in this match, I have a feeling we’re getting Nia Jax or Charlotte Flair soon to give us a bunch of eliminations.
Ivy Nile out, followed by Maxxine Dupri, and the countdown is on!
Naomi brings the halfway point with her, entering at #15.

Naomi is a former women’s champion and had an amazing WrestleMania moment back in Orlando–why does Michael Cole keep saying 2024 was her breakout year? #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 1, 2025

All of PFC is gone, and nothing of value is lost (from this match–they are valuable as people).
Jaida Parker, entering at #16, comes in to a better reaction than half of the field. Miss Parker has a hell of a WWE career ahead of her.
Chelsea Green is so damn good at what she does.
And here comes Piper Niven at #17.
Will Piper somehow eliminate Piper?
Yes – the answer to that question is yes.
Naalya enters at #18, her eighth Royal Rumble. She’s a little over 20 minutes away from 3 cumulative hours in Rumble matches.

If anyone “deserves” a Royal Rumble win, it’s Natalya. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 1, 2025

FANTASTIC reaction for Jordynne Grace–that has to raise some eyebrows among leadership.
JORDYNNE GRACE IS A STAR.
Michin in at #20, as we are up to 10 eliminations.

BUT THE INTERNET TOLD ME ALEXA BLISS WASN’T GONNA COME BACK DUE TO A CONTRACT DISPUTE. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 1, 2025

Wade Barrett, Michael Cole, and Pat McAfee crapping all over the wrestling newz sites is amazing.
And you can tell Alexa Bliss is THRILLED to be back.
Zelina Vega in at #22 to not win the Royal Rumble.
HUGE SPOT for Zelina Vega and Jordynne Grace.
If you happen to rewatch this match, watch Bayley very closely. It’s a look inside the business–she’s basically an agent in the ring.
Candice LeRae enters at #23, and I am reminded that she’s the WWE Women’s Speed Champion. I also wonder if they’ve started piping in crowd noise for these entrances.
Of note, we haven’t closed a Royal Rumble PLE with the Women’s Royal Rumble Match since the first one in 2018.
Of the 10 women eliminated so far, 6 of them entered #4-5-6-7-8-9.

Great reaction for Stephanie Vaquer–Indianapolis seems to be an NXT crowd. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

LET STEPHANIE VAQUER HER WIN YOU COWARDS. (Personal opinion, she’s the best women’s wrestler in the world.)
#25 already–we are trying to make up some time.
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaand it’s Trish Stratus.

Honestly, did we need Trish Stratus? #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

Kinda wanted Jordynne Grace to toss Trish Stratus right there.
Piper Niven just kncoked the SH*T outta Trish!
Raquel Rodriguez in at #26, and we have 4 more entrants left.
Nia, Charlotte, and…..Becky? Nikki? (Bella, that is.)
The crowd is NOT HAPPY about Alexa Bliss’ elimination.
#1-3 all still in the match.
Charlotte Flair and her new face at in at #27.

Listen, I’m going to hell, but Charlotte Flair’s entrance reminds me of when JR returned from his stroke. Lay off the plastic surgery. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

Love Wade Barrett pointing out that Charlotte got pyro. I hope Roman gets his, too.
Took Charlotte forever to get her robe off, apparently.
Like I’m supposed to believe Jordynne Grace can’t suplex Charlotte Flair?
Charlotte definitely brought some fire to this match.
Giulia getting almost no reaction is surprising given the reaction of some other NXT talents.
Iyo and Liv approaching an hour in the match, along with Roxanne Perez.

Giulia eliminated Jordynne Grace, which makes me think Jordynne might be spending some time in NXT. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

Nia Jax enters at #29, leaving a surprise for #30? Becky Lynch?
Good for Nikki Bella! And she gave someone in the crowd one hall of a souvenir.
And now it’s time for the “World vs Nia” spot.
Forget Superkick It’s an APRON PARTY.
Roxanne Perez just snuck back in without being eliminated.
Given who is left, it does seem like this is Charlotte’s match to win.
ROXANNE PEREZ IN THE FINAL THREE?

This company obviously believes in Roxanne Perez. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

LOLCHARLOTTEWINS

Winner of the 2025 Women’s Royal Rumble Match: Charlotte Flair

I don’t love the decision to have Charlotte Flair win the Women’s Royal Rumble Match after being gone for over a year, but she IS Charlotte Flair. This should shock nobody. I know Charlotte Flair is a dream match opponent for Tiffany Stratton in the eyes of many, and if she were to put Tiffany Stratton over at WrestleMania, then I will eat my words and say it was worth it.

Hell of a performance for Roxanne Perez, I haven’t seen the tally yet but I do wonder if she broke the record for longest time in one Rumble.

I could go for a Slim Jim meat stick right about now.

Why was Mickie James in the crowd, and not IN THE MATCH??? #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

2 Out of 3 Falls Match for the WWE Tag Team Championships
The Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin) vs. #DIY (Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano, champions)

Greg’s predictions from earlier in the week:

Who Should Win: DIY (but it doesn’t matter in the grand scheme of things)
Who Will Win: DIY (but it doesn’t matter in the grand scheme of things)

(I won’t be live tweeting or doing a bulleted list for these two matches, likely just the two Rumbles.)

Had to laugh seeing the drone in front of Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin during their entrance.

DIY wins 2 falls to 1, making my prediction accurate. That is small change, though. I liked the match for what it was, but it’s a reminder of Charlotte Flair vs. Ronda Rousey from WrestleMania 38–great match, wrong setting. This was an arena match, not a football stadium match. Yes, that DOES matter. Setting is a huge part of pro wrestling.

NXT Black and Gold will always hold a place in my heart, but part of what made that what it was was the crowd. This wasn’t the crowd for this match. Plus it got around 15 minutes, which is about right for a 1-fall match featuring these four. On TV, counting commercial breaks, these guys get 25-30 minutes.

The Street Profits got involved, eventually attacking everyone. I fully expect a WWE Tag Team Championship Ladder Match at WrestleMania, with DIY, MCMG, the Street Profits, and possibly Pretty Deadly and Angel/Humberto. This was really just the beginning–it was just misplaced on this card.

Winners AND STILL WWE Tag Team Champions: DIY

Michael Cole did also inform us that Roxanne Perez is the new record-holder for longest Royal Rumble performance. Score one for the good guy (me, from my tweet above).

Ladder Match for the WWE Championship
Kevin Owens vs. Cody Rhodes (champion)

Greg’s predictions from earlier in the week:

Who Should Win: Kevin Owens
Who Will Win: Cody Rhodes

Love that Kevin Owens took down the Winged Eagle Championship during SmackDown last night, and entered with it. Granted, Cody Rhodes has his, too. But KO has a certain edge to him when carrying that title.

That little ladder is HILARIOUS. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

This match was brutal, and whatever they are paying Kevin Owens isn’t enough. Cody Rhodes was beating on KO as a heel would, but he’s a babyface? I know everyone wants “Homelander” Cody, but really he might be more like “Patrick Bateman” Cody. Either way, as great as Cody is (and he is great), there is one missing element. At this point, it’s obvious to me that Cody is the worst babyface in the company. Look at him: THE MAN IS A HEEL.

While I’m glad Cody is fully out of The Bloodline’s shadow, he just needs to beat John Cena at WrestleMania, turn heel, and truly hit his stride. And I want true heel Cody. Chicken sh*t, goons, the whole thing.

Winner, AND STILL WWE Champion: Cody Rhodes

Cody Rhodes is gonna buy Kevin Owens a lot of cigars, booze, or meat. Whatever that man wants. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

You gotta think Sami Zayn not stopping Cody Rhodes from winning will be a major sticking point for Kevin Owens. Seems like we’ll get Sami vs Kevin at WM41.

Men’s WWE Royal Rumble Match

Greg’s predictions from earlier in the week:

Who Should Win: Jey Uso
Who Will Win: John Cena

Last year’s winner was Cody Rhodes, entering at #15, and he went on to defeat Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 40.

Rey Mysterio (Jr) enters at #2, and it’s obvious that gone are the days where randoms would enter at #1 and #2.
I believe I said on my podcast (if not, I meant to) that Penta would need to enter #1 or #2 so he can have his pyro.

I am so happy for Penta in the WWE. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

I really hope we get a Lucha Underground reference on commentary.
LET PENTA WIN YOU COWARDS! (I know, it didn’t work for Stephanie Vaquer.)
PENTA IS A STAR.
I do appreciate how they didn’t fight on the apron, instead just got right back into the ring.
Chad Gable in at #3, and all we need is for Dominik Mysterio to be #4.
That spot looked NASTY, I hope Chad Gable’s knee is okay.
Carmelo Hayes in at #4, and I am reminded that we likely get Trick in this match.

Trick Williams’ #RoyalRumble entrance is gonna be ICONIC.

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

I know they have a temporary alliance at the moment, but Chad Gable vs. Carmelo Hayes would be an absolute BANGER.
KING CUERNO vs PENTAGON JR! #IYKYK
That spot was far too similar to what we saw in the Women’s Rumble.
Otis in and had some fun.
BRON BREAKKER IS A MACHINE.
The crowd reaction to Bron Breakker tells me the WWE might make even MORE money in the future.
What if Breakker won this match? He won’t, but What If?
If not for WWE, I wouldn’t know who IShowSpeed was.
Honestly, nothing wrong with what they did with IShowSpeed there.
Sheamus enters at #9, and I assume we will see some Beats Of The Bowery.

Gotta play the hits, pal. (Sheamus.) #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

This is the most normal Sheamus’ hair has ever looked.
Crazy that this is only Jimmy Uso’s 3rd Royal Rumble.
Big Jim definitely got a bulk discount on his new gear. I wonder how many color combos he got???
Andrade in at #11, and Wade Barrett points out what I’ve been thinking–why run to the ring?
Jacob Fatu enters at #12 and gets his pyro. The rocket ship has been strapped, pal.
Ludwig Kaiser enters at #13 and no one not named (Greg DeMarco Show co-host) Patrick O’Dowd cares.
Kaiser immediately dumped by Penta, and he’ll probably lose to him on Monday’s Raw, too.

Here comes the most underappreciated wrestler in WWE history, @mikethemiz. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

We lost Michael for a minute there.

The fact that Joe Hendry’s fact on the ticket is “Say His Name And He Appears” is amazing.

Great pop for him, too.

And Michael Cole references Nic Nemeth! #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

I’d actually forgotten that we’d likely get a Joe Hendry appearance, so they got a little pop out of me.
I acknowledge you, my Tribal Chief.

☝️☝️☝️☝️☝️ #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

Roman Reigns vs. CM Punk would be one hell of a match at WrestleMania, just sayin’.
Showdowns like Roman Reigns and Bron Breakker is what the Royal Rumble is all about.
SPEAR TO ROMAN.
That might have been the greatest spear ever.
After Joe Gendry and Roman Reigns, Drew McIntyre gets very little reaction entering at #17.
Drew McIntyre with the very silky smooth hair tonight.
Finn Balor in at #18 and we have our second drone sighting of the night.
Something is wrong with Pat McAfee’s headset. Hell of a showing by Penta, by the way.
Jey Uso in at #20 to a HUGE pop.
LET JE YWIN YOU COWARDS.
Poison Rana by Jey???
Let’s hope AJ Styles can stick around for a bit this time. (Not necessarily in the Rumble, but in general.)

All these megastars, and Jacob Fatu might be the most over guy in the match right now. #ROYALRUMBLE

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

I’d be okay if Braun shaved his head again.
Jacob Fatu can literally do ANYTHING and it makes sense.

JOHN CENA’S SOCKS!
JOHN CENA’S SOCKS!
JOHN CENA’S SOCKS!#RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

CM Punk, John Cena, and Roman Reigns all in the ring all at the same time? YES PLEASE.
Now add in Seth Rollins? This is the greatest Royal Rumble of all time.
The current field: Seth Rollins, CM Punk, John Cena, AJ Styles, Jey Uso, Drew McIntyre, and Roman Reigns. That is ABSURD.
The only man who can follow all that talent is indeed Dominik Mysterio. This is about to be amazing.
Imagine if Dom wins. I mean, just imagine it.
With the addition of Sami Zayn, the storylines in this Rumble right now are insane.
Damian Priest, who is probably challenging Shinsuke Nakamura at WrestleMania, enters at #28.
Two more to go. Any surprises?
LA Knight, who I forgot was in this match, enters next.
I kinda expect him to move to Raw in this transfer window.
Ah yes, Logan Paul. I also forgot he was on this.
We’ve had a Nic Nemeth and now a Ricochet reference tonight. I love when you’re WWE, and you are comfortable talking about (almost) ANYBODY.

If I’m WWE, I have Logan Paul wait until the final two before jumping back into the ring. #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

He didn’t, by the way. Opportunity missed.
Final 6: Roman Reigns, Jey Uso, John Cena, CM Punk, Seth Rollins, Logan Paul… STAR. STUDDED.
Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins – the WrestleMania Main Event we never got.
YESSS!
Brilliant spot to have Logan Paul eliminate CM Punk.
Final 3: John Cena, Jey Uso, and Logan Paul. Two of my picks are left.
The action on the outside between Rollins, Roman, and Punk drives home how important the Rumble is to the competitors.
And then there were 2: my Who Should Win vs. my Who Will Win.
Please God let Jey Uso win this thing.
(And that’s not a slight against John Cena.)
YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!

IT’S JUST YOU, UCE! #RoyalRumble

— Big Daddy Greg 🤡 (@gregdemarco44) February 2, 2025

Winner of the 2025 Men’s WWE Royal Rumble Match: Jey Uso

Just like the sign said: EAT. SLEEP. YEET. MANIA. I am so damn happy for Jey Uso. You can tell John Cena was as well, along with Michael Cole. And probably everyone in the entire company. Jey Uso is the success story.

As for the match? Well obviously this is a knee jerk reaction, but eff it–this is the best Royal Rumble Match they have ever put on. The early action was fun and exciting. But from the time Joe Hendry’s music hit to the moment Jey Uso pushed John Cena off of the apron, this match was insane. I think Roman Reigns coming in at 16 was a huge part of that. Once Roman is in the match, you are watching to see a) what he does, and b) if he’ll get eliminated. CM Punk eliminating Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns was beautiful, and then Logan Paul tossing CM Punk was even better. If that leads to Rollins vs. Reigns and Logan vs. Punk at WrestleMania, you can take my money.

My money is a Peacock membership, which is automatically charged. But still. Take it.

If John Cena wins it’s still probably the best Royal Rumble Match of all time. But Jey Uso winning makes that an undisputable fact.

Overall Thoughts on the 2025 WWE Royal Rumble

The Women’s Royal Rumble was decent to good. Loved Roxanne getting the Iron Woman treatment, but in the end it’s another chapter of LOL Charlotte Wins.
I need to rewatch DIY vs MCMG because I was on the phone when my son called. Maybe I will enjoy it more on a second viewing.
The ladder match was brutal but the end result was expected. Cody is still missing something, and I think that something will continue to be missing until he turns heel. He’s just overshadowed by too many of the other babyfaces.
The Men’s Royal Rumble Match was the best Royal Rumble match they have ever put on. Great action in the early half, and from 15 (Joe Hendry) on, it was amazing. The storyline movement with CM Punk, Roman Reigns, and Seth Rollins was (here’s that word) cinema, and having the most over wrestler in the company not named Roman Reigns win, and doing so by eliminating the odds-on favorite, was perfect. I’m biased because Jey Uso was my pick, but it was the perfect ending to what was probably as close to perfect as a Rumble match has been since 1992.

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TheChairshot.com PRESENTS: WWE Crown Jewel Immediate Reactions

Join DJ and Tunney for their immediate reactions to WWE Crown Jewel. For the latest, greatest and up to datest, ALWAYS #UseYourHead and visit THECHAIRSHOT.COM

Published

5 months ago

November 2, 2024

PC Tunney

Join DJ and Tunney for their immediate reactions to WWE Crown Jewel. For the latest, greatest and up to datest, ALWAYS #UseYourHead and visit THECHAIRSHOT.COM