Opinion

Greg DeMarco’s WWE Royal Rumble 2022 Review & Reactions

Did you watch the 2022 WWE Royal Rumble? Greg did too, and here are his reactions and ratings!

Published

3 years ago

January 30, 2022

Greg DeMarco

Did you watch the 2022 WWE Royal Rumble? Greg did too, and here are his reactions and ratings!

One of the most popular events of the year—possibly THE most popular—took place this Saturday night in St. Louis. It’s the WWE Royal Rumble, 2022 edition, and it’s the start to wrestling’s most wonderful time of the year: the Road to WrestleMania!

Who kickstarts their journey to Dallas?

We had two monumental world title matches, and two pivotal Rumbles. Surprises, and so much more as we have come to expect from the Royal Rumble.

Quick note: I watched the Royal Rumble later Saturday night, on a delay. I managed to stay relatively spoiler free. The following items were the only ones spoiled for me:

Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins started off the show
Ronda Rousey returned during the Women’s Royal Rumble (which I predicted anyway)
The Riott Squat, in some form, was in the Rumble and eliminated by the Bella Twins

Quick note #2: I am writing this review as I watch the event, so you’re getting real-time reactions. I tend to focus more on storylines than in-ring action. If you want that, read Mitchell’s review, and watch the show!

Now then, let’s take a look at my reactions to the 2022 WWE Royal Rumble!

Universal Championship Match
Roman Reigns (champion) vs. Seth Rollins

More of the traditional stadium set-up for WWE, which I don’t love as much as the two baseball stadium events we got in recent years. Still looks amazing, a WrestleMania-like feel for this event, which is nearly parallel to WrestleMania itself for so many.

Not shocked at this match kicking things off—and honestly any match order wouldn’t shock me tonight due to the storylines intertwined on the men’s side, and the changed necessitated by Roman Reigns’ COVID diagnosis keeping him off WWE Day 1 in Atlanta.

Seth Rollins’ brilliance is on full display early on, making The Shield entrance after Friday’s Smackdown established that Roman’s biggest weakness is the end of The Shield in 2014. Pat McAfee following Rollins’ lead and isn’t afraid to talk about “Mox” when telling the Shield story, as you can’t have The Shield without Dean Ambrose.

Also, props to Samantha Irvin, who just got called up to Smackdown a couple of short weeks ago, and now she’s doing a stadium show.

Match notes:

Great mental jockeying to start, and a wonderful suicide dive by Seth
Rollins in Shield gear and Reigns in Shield pants gives me amazing memories
SHIELD BOMB! (I know it’s a simple powerbomb, but still—it’s the story)
Kudos to Michael Cole for also bringing up Dean Ambrose with that spot
Phoenix Splash and The Stomp early!
Pat McAfee is still a national treasure with his commentary, “The GOAT vs. The Visionary” and “Curtains” in a callback to his Michael Vick interview earlier in the week
The crowd hates Reigns? But they love the OOOH AAAAH before the Spear
PEDIGREE
This is a WrestleMania main event caliber performance by both men, and it’s opening up the Royal Rumble
And now we have a Triple H reference—we’re literally getting the entire Shield story tonight
Reigns didn’t even block half of those head kicks
Amazing Spear, and Rollins is LAUGHING
And he wants a FIST-BUMP! Rollins is brilliant
I do wonder if this ends with Roman getting over The Shield, and fully putting it to rest
DQ??? DQ??? DQ???
Shit bag ending if it sticks
Roman still can’t beat Seth, so that part makes sense
Note: everything happening after the bell still counts in my match rating
Roman with the exact replica of the Rollins CHAIRSHOT that ended the Shield
I know he ain’t coming, but this is the perfect spot for Ambrose/Moxley if he were still with the company
There is still so much story left in Reigns vs Rollins
Roman with another chair assault on Rollins before finally leaving

Result: Seth Rollins wins vis disqualification, Roman Reigns retains the Universal Championship

Match Rating: ****

We were headed towards a five-star match for my entertainment value. Brilliant performances all around, starting with Rollins’ entrance. The ending obviously hurts the match, but it’s all about the story, and I am happy that this story isn’t over.

Women’s Royal Rumble Match

Now, I have no idea who closely my bullet points will follow this, as it’s a lot of entrances and not a ton of story, usually, in these matches. Sasha Banks, who returned last night on Smackdown, enters #1. Melina at #2 is a surprise, usually we don’t get legends in that spot.

Match notes:

Melina, 42, still crushes the splits in her entrance. 👊
Is Sasha going on a Brock-like run?
Tamina enters #3, and Sasha isn’t even letting her in the ring
I really wanted Sasha to dump her right there—but I don’t care for Tamina
Kelly Kelly now enters at #4, Tamina not dumped so we’re at 3
Aaaaaand Kelly Kelly absolutely sucks
Hell of a bump by Kelly Kelly in her elimination, I will give that credit
#5 is Aliyah, or I guess Aliyah 3:17
Nice of Sasha Banks to Thesz Press herself (now is a good time to point out that Aliyah made her wrestling debut in 2013
Liv Morgan in at #6, which seems too early for her unless she is getting the “long run” rub tonight
Bad timing on the Eddie Guerrero trio suplex spot, happening during the countdown
#7 is Queen Zelina, who I will assume no one has picked to win
Zelina eliminates Sasha Banks??? Very early exit for The Boss
Bianca Belair in at #8 to get the crowd back into it after the letdown of Sasha’s elimination
#9 is Dana Brooke, and no one cares…
Dana Brooke does not enter with the 24/7 Championship, let’s see if she complains when Mickie James gets to enter with the Impact Knockouts World Championship
Still really surprised Sasha Banks went out so early
#10 is Wife Du Taker, Michelle McCool
Hate seeing Michelle McCool being pushed as a world beater in this spot, even worse that she hits the Styles Clash
#11 is The (Other) Boss, Sonya Deville; Sonya’s gear is amazing with the jacket
I honestly hope Deville waits until the end before getting in the ring (presumably against Ronda Rousey)
#12 is Natalya…yay
Tamina out, thankfully
Bianca Belair saving herself, no need for her to be out
#13 is Cameron, and I am so happy she’s getting the Brodus Clay entrance theme
I really hope Sonya dumps Cameron, then sits back down with the jacket on
#14 has to be Naomi next, right?
YUP!
Deville is out, and the story has been told
Aaaaaaand we’ve hit the boring stage after Carmella enters at #15
#16 brings the energy back to the match, in Rhea Ripley
Natalya’s spinning lariat does nothing for me—it’s almost like the spin takes away the power
And at #17, we have The Queen, Charlotte Flair; business should pick up now from a storyline perspective
Sonya Deville eliminating Naomi is amazing, almost as good as when Mandy Rose did it in 2019
#18 is Ivory, AND she has a live mic
Eliminated and she’s still talking! That’s a 60 year old woman, delivering in her spot. Well done, Ivory!
#19 is our first Bella twin, Brie Bella
YES! chants, as expected
#20 is Mickie James, with Impact Knockouts Championships AND lower third including her championship! Bravo, Scott D’Amore, bravo!
Amazing pop for Mickie, too
And at #21, they found Alicia Fox!
#22 is the oddly heel Nikki A.S.H.
30-minute run so far for Liv Morgan, which now makes sense
#23 is Summer Rae, WWE “legend”
Summer Rae is out, thankfully—hopefully we can forget that ever happened
#24 is Nikki Bella, much bigger pop than Summer Rae (lol)
I can admit, I have missed Nikki Bella
#25 is the answer to that Riott Squat question from earlier, Sarah Logan
Welcome back, Sarah?
And there goes Liv…she had a good run
Fans are unhappy, maybe #26 is Ronda?
Nope, it’s Lita. And that works!
That’s it for Mickie, but let’s not forget that history was made tonight
#27 is Mighty Molly D.S.H. (Definitely A Super Hero)
Nikki attacks! This obviously makes sense
#28? RONDA ROUSEY
Could have been #30, but this works
Brie eliminates Nikki—love it
#29 is Shotzi Blackheart, who we all forgot existed because Ronda Rousey is here
Shayna Baszler gets #30 for the second time in her career
I’d love to see Ronda and Shayna as the final two
Charlotte eliminates Lita, making that match less likely now
Our final four: Bianca Belair, Charlotte Flair, Ronda Rousey, and Shayna Baszler
If Ronda eliminates Charlotte just to challenge her at WrestleMania, it seems to make Charlotte’s involvement in this just a silly addition
POINT TO THE SIGN, DAMMIT
Night 1 main event, Charlotte vs Ronda? Or WrestleMania 35 triple threat rematch?

Result: Ronda Rousey wins, last eliminating Smackdown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair

Match Rating: ***

It’s really hard to rate a Royal Rumble. Great in spots, slow in others. Mickie’s entrance was a highlight for me, and based on the reaction, Ronda Rousey winning was the right call. Kudos to WWE for revealing some “surprise” entrants while keeping others in their back pocket.

Raw Women’s Championship Match
Doudrop vs. Becky Lynch (champion)

This should be a win for Becky where Doudrop stands out. Hopefully she can drop that stupid name after this.

Match notes:

I can already tell they put Doudrop in a tough spot, following Ronda Rousey winning the Women’s Royal Rumble
Doudrop may have knocked Becky out with that roll into the corner

Result: Becky Lynch wins with a Super Manhandle Slam, and retains

Match Rating: ***

I didn’t take detailed notes as I wanted to watch this one to see if Doudrop had a breakout moment. I don’t feel like she did, honestly. This match was also hurt by it’s placement. This was the best spot for the mixed tag team match.

WWE Championship Match
Bobby Lashley vs. Brock Lesnar (champion)

Lashley enters in WrestleMania white, and this feels HUGE already. Brock Lesnar’s entrance still provides goosebumps. He’s the final boss, and that might never change.

Match notes:

Happy Hype Brock is the best Brock
I expect a short, heavyweight UFC fight
Dueling German Suplexes!
I love when Brock Lesnar is impressed with his opponent. That, for me, will always be Keith Lee’s best moment in WWE
Bob DESTROYED the ringside barrier
Brock’s dominance stopped by an F5 reversed into a Hurt Lock!
And there’s the ref bump. SHENANIGANS TIME!
Roman Reigns with the SPEAR
And Paul Heyman gives him the championship!
Now we were fixing the storylines

Result: Bobby Lashley pins Brock Lesnar to win the WWE Championship

Match Rating: ***1/2

Great heavyweight fight, and while it ended in shenanigans, those were needed. We are back to where we were supposed to be: Roman Reigns vs. Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania.

The Miz & Maryse vs. Edge & Beth Phoenix

Everyone seems to be having a blast with their entrances. Also of note, we only had Michael Cole and Pat McAfee for the opening match, everything has been the Raw crew. I bet we get Cole & McAfee for the Men’s Royal Rumble match.

Match Result: Edge & Beth Phoenix win with tandem glam slams

Rating: ***

Nothing spectacular, but nothing offensive. This was fun, but I can’t imagine we get another match out of his feud unless it’s on television—or in Saudi Arabia.

Men’s Royal Rumble

Alright, by this point you know the drill. AJ Styles at #1? Could the chic pick go Broadway tonight? And AJ with the Shawn Michaels pose??? Foreshadowing? Shinsuke Nakamura enters at #2, and these two are very familiar with each other. Michael Cole saying “Boogz is in the Rumble a bit later on” to take away some of the surprise. Not that Boogz’ entrance matters, but still.

Match notes:

Does Pro Wrestling Illustrated still list the Intercontinental Champion as the defacto #1 contender?
Hair Club Theory enters at #3…meh
#4 is Robert Roode, who I will forever call Bob Roode thanks to Pat McAfee
TNA chants for Roode vs Styles!
And Bob is out
#5 is “and look who’s here” Ridge Holland
90 seconds later we get Montez Ford, and we’ve hit a lull
Montez is amazingly athletic
Shinsuke entered with the Intercontinental Championship, Mickie James entered with the Impact Knockouts Championship, Damian Priest did NOT enter with the United States Championship
#8 is El Generico himself, Sami Zayn
#9 is Johnny Knoxville, exactly where you’d expect him
HE POINTS TO THE SIGN
Knoxville’s stay was short lived, as was Zayn’s—did exactly what it needed to do
#10 is Angelo Dawkins
Omos, who Christopher Platt somehow thinks will win this thing, enters at #11…far too early for a giant to enter is he’s going to win
#12, Ricochet, remains one of the most exciting members of the entire roster
#13 is Chad Gable, and he DOES get to wear his belt (don’t ask me to explain this)
So much for Damian Priest getting the long run
#14 is Eddie Guerrero’s son, Dominik Mysterio
And OMOS IS OUT! Sorry Platt…
#15 is Happy Baron Corbin, who sucks
He does get to eliminate Ricochet, which sucks as well
#16 is Dolph Ziggler, and this is his fifteenth Royal Rumble??? Damn!
Austin Theory gets recognized for being in 20+ minutes…can we go ahead and read his DMs?
Nevermind, he’s out
Sheamus in at #17, and I had no idea his Rumble win was also in St. Louis
Rick Boogz, who apparently has his own theme song, is #18
One-handed military press eliminated Chad Gable, off camera
This seems like a good spot for Kofi Kingston
Welp, it’s Madcap Riddick Moss, at #19
AJ Styles is eliminated by…Madcap Moss? Are we getting Styles vs. Corbin at WrestleMania???
#20 is Matt Riddle, and we gotta assume he’s eliminating Randy Orton, right?
Well I’ll be damned, it’s Drew McIntyre at #21
McIntyre eliminates the Happy duo, and then attacks them
#22 is Kevin Owens, and he and McIntyre brawl in the aisle for some reason
We get Rey Mysterio and the cover of WWE 2k22at #23
It’s a New Day for #24, Kofi Kingston—let’s see what his moment is this year
You know, Kofi would make a great winner
Interesting elimination for Kofi, maybe that’s the end of his amazing saves?
Otis enters at #25, with belt
“Otis who is first in class and last in class in the Alpha Academy…down to a knee”
#26 is Big E, a potential winner? After his move back to Smackdown, I am skeptical…
Amazing sell on that Brogue Kick by Big E
#27, Bad Bunny is here! (WWE shouldn’t have posted on Instagram that he was here)
Louis doesn’t seem to be familiar with Mr. Bunny
That Bunny Destroyer was ALL Riddle
The requisite celebrity elimination for Bad Bunny comes at the expense of Sheamus
SHANE MCMAHON
…at #28
I said Kevin Owens would get the celebrity match at WrestleMania, but it seems like he’s getting the Shane McMahon match at WrestleMania instead
Randy Orton at #29, leaving #30 as a surprise (unless I am forgetting someone, which I probably am)
And just like that Big E is out???
We’ve got to betting Lesnar at #30 now, right?
Yep, we are.
#30 is official Brock Lesnar, a pissed off Brock Lesnar
This won’t last long
And just like that, it’s Brock Lesnar and Drew McIntyre in the final two
The crowd is silent, just waiting for Brock to win
It was all academic, and Brock Lesnar is headed to WrestleMania

Result: Brock Lesnar eliminates Drew McIntyre to win the Royal Rumble

Match Rating: ***

That was a Royal Rumble. Nothing special, honestly. Lesnar wins, no RK-Bro break-up, a nasty bump for Kofi Kingston seems to end his spot prematurely, Shane McMahon surprise, but Brock Lesnar’s entry made it all but obvious.

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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

1 month 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

4 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