WWE Royal Rumble 2019: Full Match Card & Highlights
Hey wrestling fans! Get ready to dive back into the electrifying world of the WWE, specifically, let's rewind to the WWE Royal Rumble 2019. This pay-per-view event, held on January 27, 2019, at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona, was a night filled with unforgettable moments, shocking surprises, and, of course, the iconic Royal Rumble matches themselves. The atmosphere was buzzing with anticipation, as fans from all over the globe tuned in to witness the culmination of months of storylines, the clash of titans, and the potential for new champions to emerge. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the WWE Royal Rumble 2019 match card, the standout moments, the winners, and the lasting impact this event had on the road to WrestleMania. So, buckle up, grab your favorite snack, and let's relive the magic of the Royal Rumble!
The Road to Royal Rumble 2019: Setting the Stage
Before we jump into the matches, let's quickly recap how we got here. The build-up to the WWE Royal Rumble 2019 was intense, with various feuds and rivalries simmering across both Raw and SmackDown. The most prominent storylines included the ongoing battles for the WWE Championship and the Universal Championship, as well as the anticipation surrounding the Royal Rumble matches themselves. The winners of these matches would earn a guaranteed title shot at WrestleMania 35, making the stakes incredibly high. The weeks leading up to the event saw numerous qualifying matches, surprise returns, and unexpected alliances, all designed to keep fans on the edge of their seats. The creative team at WWE did an excellent job of weaving together multiple storylines, ensuring that every match on the card had a significant meaning and contributed to the overall narrative. This meticulous planning created a sense of excitement and unpredictability that is the hallmark of the Royal Rumble event. The pay-per-view lived up to its reputation and exceeded expectations. Let's delve into the official WWE Royal Rumble 2019 match card to uncover the memorable moments.
The Royal Rumble Matches: The Main Event
Of course, no Royal Rumble event is complete without the titular Royal Rumble matches. In 2019, both the men's and women's matches delivered plenty of thrills and surprises. The Royal Rumble match is a special type of match where 30 superstars (men or women) enter at timed intervals. The goal is to eliminate your opponents by throwing them over the top rope and onto the floor. The last person remaining in the ring is declared the winner and receives a guaranteed title shot at WrestleMania. These matches are always filled with unexpected appearances, shocking eliminations, and the potential for a new star to be born. These matches are not just about the final outcome; they're about the journey, the storytelling, and the moments that define a superstar's career. It's a rite of passage for many, and winning the Royal Rumble is a career-defining achievement. This year's Royal Rumble match was no exception.
Men's Royal Rumble Match
The men's Royal Rumble match was a rollercoaster of emotions. The match had a strong lineup of competitors. The entry of Seth Rollins, the eventual winner, was met with cheers from the crowd, while other fan favorites also entered the fray. The match was filled with thrilling near eliminations, hard-hitting action, and the usual array of unexpected twists. One of the most talked-about moments involved a confrontation between Braun Strowman and the returning Elias. The match also saw the shocking elimination of several top stars, adding to the drama and unpredictability. Seth Rollins, who had a strong showing throughout the match, ultimately emerged victorious. His win was a significant moment in his career, as it propelled him into a main event match at WrestleMania. This victory set the stage for an epic encounter.
Women's Royal Rumble Match
The women's Royal Rumble match also delivered in a big way, with a stellar performance and many surprise appearances. The match showcased the incredible talent and athleticism of the women's division. The entrance of several returning superstars added to the excitement. The match was also filled with its share of intense battles, near falls, and unexpected eliminations. Becky Lynch, who wasn't originally scheduled to compete, entered the match and put on an incredible performance. Lynch, riding high on a wave of popularity, delivered a memorable performance that will be discussed for years to come. In the end, it was Becky Lynch who ultimately outlasted the competition, securing her spot in the WrestleMania main event. Lynch's win marked a turning point in her career, setting her on a path to superstardom and etching her name in wrestling history.
Other Notable Matches on the Card
Beyond the Royal Rumble matches, the WWE Royal Rumble 2019 featured a stacked card of other exciting contests. Each match contributed to the overall narrative and provided fans with plenty of entertainment. These matches showcased the talent and versatility of the WWE roster and highlighted some of the key storylines heading into WrestleMania. Each match had its own unique storyline and provided viewers with a range of wrestling styles and personalities. Let's take a closer look at a few of the matches that took place at the event and how it made it a must-watch event for wrestling fans around the globe. The matches included everything from championship battles to grudge matches, offering something for everyone.
WWE Championship Match: Daniel Bryan (c) vs. AJ Styles
This match was a technical masterpiece, featuring two of the most skilled wrestlers in the world. Daniel Bryan, the heel WWE Champion, put his title on the line against the fan-favorite AJ Styles. The match was a back-and-forth contest, with both wrestlers showcasing their incredible in-ring abilities. The storytelling was superb, with Bryan's ruthless tactics contrasting Styles' determination to reclaim the title. The match was filled with near falls, dramatic moments, and exceptional wrestling. In the end, Daniel Bryan retained his championship, but not without leaving fans in awe of the incredible match they had just witnessed. This match solidified their place as one of the best in-ring performers of this era.
Universal Championship Match: Brock Lesnar (c) vs. Finn Balor
This match saw Brock Lesnar, the dominant Universal Champion, defend his title against the underdog Finn Balor. The match had a classic David vs. Goliath feel. Lesnar's raw power and aggression were on full display, while Balor's agility and determination made for an intriguing matchup. Despite Balor's valiant effort, Lesnar ultimately emerged victorious, retaining his championship. While the match itself was relatively short, it was impactful in showcasing Balor's resilience and Lesnar's dominance. The outcome of this match, though not what fans anticipated, added to the overall narrative heading into WrestleMania.
Raw Women's Championship Match: Ronda Rousey (c) vs. Sasha Banks
The Raw Women's Championship match between Ronda Rousey and Sasha Banks was a highlight of the night. This match was a hard-hitting, physical contest, with both women showcasing their incredible skills and athleticism. Rousey, the UFC star, was still new to professional wrestling but proved she could hold her own against one of the best. Banks, a seasoned veteran, brought her signature flair and technical prowess to the ring. The match was filled with near falls, dramatic moments, and a sense of unpredictability. Rousey ultimately retained her title, but not without a significant challenge from Banks. This match elevated both performers and further cemented Rousey's status as a dominant champion.
Memorable Moments and Surprises
The WWE Royal Rumble 2019 was packed with memorable moments and unexpected surprises that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The unpredictability of the event is what makes it so special. Whether it was a shocking elimination, a surprise return, or an unexpected alliance, there was never a dull moment. These moments become the stuff of legend and are replayed countless times by fans. These moments helped make the Royal Rumble 2019 a must-see event.
Surprise Entrants and Returns
The Royal Rumble matches are always known for their surprise entrants and returning superstars, and 2019 was no different. From legends of the past to unexpected comebacks, the element of surprise adds an extra layer of excitement to the matches. The returns of superstars like Jeff Jarrett, and others, added a sense of nostalgia and excitement to the event. The surprise appearances and unexpected returns often generate the most buzz and become the highlight reels for fans.
Shocking Eliminations
Besides surprise entrants, the Royal Rumble matches also feature shocking eliminations that change the course of the match and leave fans stunned. Seeing your favorite superstar eliminated is always a dramatic moment, and these eliminations can have a lasting impact on storylines. Whether it was a well-executed maneuver or an unexpected turn of events, the shocking eliminations were a major talking point. These shocking eliminations are what make the Royal Rumble matches so unpredictable and exciting. The eliminations often create unexpected twists and turns in the match, making it a thrilling spectacle.
Unexpected Alliances and Betrayals
Another staple of the Royal Rumble is the unexpected alliances and betrayals. These moments can lead to new rivalries, unexpected partnerships, and dramatic shifts in the landscape of WWE. Sometimes, superstars who were once enemies join forces to take on a common threat, while other times, friendships are shattered by the desire for victory. These unexpected alliances and betrayals add a layer of intrigue and drama to the event. These moments are often remembered long after the event has ended, creating memorable storylines.
The Aftermath and Legacy
The WWE Royal Rumble 2019 had a significant impact on the road to WrestleMania 35 and beyond. The winners of the Royal Rumble matches, Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch, both went on to compete in main event matches at WrestleMania, solidifying their status as top stars in the company. The storylines that developed from the Royal Rumble continued to evolve, leading to exciting matches and memorable moments. This event set the stage for one of the most memorable WrestleManias in recent history. The aftermath of the Royal Rumble also had a lasting impact on the careers of several other superstars. The event provided a platform for new talent to shine, while also giving established stars the opportunity to prove their worth. The storylines and rivalries that developed at the Royal Rumble continued to unfold, providing months of exciting content for WWE fans.
Conclusion: A Rumble to Remember
In conclusion, the WWE Royal Rumble 2019 was a night of excitement, surprises, and unforgettable moments. From the thrilling Royal Rumble matches to the stellar performances in other matches on the card, the event provided something for every wrestling fan. The event was a testament to the power of professional wrestling to captivate and entertain audiences worldwide. With its unexpected twists, impressive in-ring action, and the rise of new stars, the WWE Royal Rumble 2019 remains a memorable event in WWE history. Reliving the moments from the WWE Royal Rumble 2019 match card reminds us why we love professional wrestling.