PHILADELPHIA (January 25th, 2015) — It's a once a year spectacular that gives one lucky superstars the chance to etch their name into the history books, awarding them a main event match at WrestleMania for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship — if they can outlast 29 other men in the process who are also fighting for the unique opportunity. The 28th annual Royal Rumble event rolls through Philadelphia with 30 superstars ready to put their stamina to the test in order to receive the ultimate reward. Only 22 men have received the one-way ticket to headline WrestleMania, some of them being victorious twice. Could tonight see another former winner make history and join the elite few such as Hulk Hogan and John Cena? It's anybody's game tonight in the Royal Rumble, but the 30-man brawl isn't the only showcase of the night — the WWE World Heavyweight Champion, Brock Lesnar defends his title against the #1 Contender, John Cena in what we can only assume will be Cena's last chance at the gold. If he can finally dethrone the Beast after over five months of terror then he will be heralded as a hero, but should he fall to the man who conquered the Undertaker's WrestleMania Streak just last year, then he will have exhausted all his options and have no choice but to give up the ghost.
But kicking things off on a night of huge ramifications, two bitter enemies collide with nothing on the line but their pride and their hatred for one another. Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins have been at odds since the self-proclaimed "Future of the WWE" turned his back on his Shield brothers back in June and sided instead with the Authority. Reigns never forgot that fateful night and now hopes to bring some closure to months and months of pent up anger and frustration. With both men also later featuring in tonight's Royal Rumble Match, the question is — will there be anything left of these two when they're finished?
You could quite easily have cut the tension with a knife as these two stood mere meters away from each other across the ring. With Jamie Noble and Joey Mercury close at hand, Seth Rollins had the psychological advantage, but Roman Reigns refused to let this throw him off and kept his focus on his rival. But with how dangerous J&J Security can be, Reigns must have known he had to keep one eye on the sidelines at all times or it could come back to bite him. All guns blazing is the best way to describe Reigns' initial approach as he wasted little time bolting towards his former Shield brother. Being the wise individual that he is, Rollins rushed to the ropes which forced the referee to back Reigns away. It wasn't too long before Reigns finally got his hands on the slimy Seth Rollins and pummeled him to the ground before he slithered out of the ring into the arms of his security. Reigns followed suit and delivered a double clothesline to the Authority stooges before giving chase. Rollins tried to escape through the crowd but Reigns grabbed him before he could get over the barricade, dragging him back into the ringside area with force.
When the fight returned to the ring, Rollins immediately took the advantage, using his wherewithal to capitalize on an unsuspecting Roman Reigns. The Authority's golden child was in full control of his adversary and he knew it, gloating in front of the less than supportive WWE Universe. Mr. Money in the Bank connected with a sickening superkick on a kneeling Reigns, dropping the Juggernaut to the canvas. With victory in his sights, Rollins looked to close in with his infamous Curb Stomp, but it would take more than that to take out the Rumble favorite who popped to his feet and delivered one his biggest Superman Punches yet! Rollins dropped to the canvas like a sack of potatoes as Reigns howled to the WWE Universe. They may not be 100% behind the Big Dog, but he sure showed what he is capable of tonight. Measuring his enemy for the Spear, Reigns looked ready to put this one to bed, but Joey Mercury decided it was a good idea to get himself involved, grabbing Reigns' leg in the corner. The official warned Mercury that if he didn't let go he would disqualify Seth Rollins, but he refused to release his grip. Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the ring, Jamie Noble slid Seth Rollins his Money in the Bank briefcase. Clutching it to his chest, Rollins climbed to his feet as Reigns escaped Mercury's grip. The rush was on as he bolted towards Rollins for a Spear — but Rollins was prepared, drilling Reigns over the skull with the Money in the Bank briefcase, getting himself disqualified anyway. —
Roman Reigns def. Seth Rollins (via Disqualification)It was blatantly obvious that Seth Rollins cared little for victory and was far more focused on taking Roman Reigns out. The assault continued past the ring bell as Rollins directed traffic, Jamie Noble and Joey Mercury stomping down on the Juggernaut. The pair lifted Reigns to his knees where he was met with Rollins' rage-filled face. "You're nothing to me, Roman!" he screamed, slapping Reigns in the face shortly after. Backing up, he raised his Money in the Bank briefcase to his face before cracking it over Reigns' skull with impact. Noble and Mercury dropped the motionless body of Reigns face-first onto the mat, but Rollins wasn't finished. The pair lifted Reigns up once more, but this time, all the way up onto Rollins' shoulders — hitting a Triple Powerbomb — shades of the Shield. A broken Roman Reigns lay in the center of the ring, his bitter rival stood over him raising his Money in the Bank briefcase and declaring that he was winning the Royal Rumble later tonight. The question is — will Roman Reigns be able to compete later tonight in the 30-Man Royal Rumble Match?
A series of pre-recorded segments expressed the views of various WWE superstars on the upcoming Royal Rumble Match. Rob Van Dam spoke of everything he had accomplished in his career but the Royal Rumble had avoided him. Heading into his seventh Rumble Match, he hoped that this would be the one. The Big Guy, Ryback spoke of coming so close two years ago — last eliminated by the eventual winner, John Cena — saying that he could taste the finish line, and tonight, he's not only going to feast on Rusev, but he's going to have one Rumble-sized feeding time and leave with the prize.
The office of the Authority is our next destination, Triple H and Stephanie McMahon beaming with delight at what took place between Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns just moments ago. Speaking of the devil, Mr. Money in the Bank entered the room and was welcomed with a tight hug and a pat on the back from the power couple. The general consensus is that Roman Reigns got what he deserved, but according to the COO, they "haven't finished yet". When asked what they had in store, Stephanie McMahon simply explained that Roman Reigns' punishment was far from over, and in tonight's Royal Rumble, he'll be dealt with the ultimate blow. What does this mean for Roman Reigns?
The daughter of Jim 'The Anvil' Neidhart is more than deserving of a shot at the Divas Championship, and tonight she got exactly what she wanted after showing an impressive determination the last few weeks. However, when the opponent across from you is the devious Divas Champion, Nikki Bella — followed closely by her sister, Brie — it isn't an easy task to overcome. But Natalya had a way to even the odds in the form of her close friend, Naomi who stood in her corner to ensure there was no "twin magic" tonight. The two Divas locker up and Natalya, with the clear wrestling advantage took control. Using her Hart ability, she took Nikki to the ground and maintained dominance over the Divas Champion. Brie stuck her nose in early, screaming at Natalya, but Naomi did her duty and saw to it that Brie couldn't get involved, approaching her on the outside. One slap later and Naomi pounced on Brie, starting a fight of their own on the outside. Natalya looked to the outside at the brawl but turned into a big dropkick from the Champion.
Nikki gains the momentum she needs to pick Natalya up and hit her with the Rack Attack. But surprisingly, the Queen of Harts kicked out and shocked everyone, especially Nikki Bella. Brie somehow managed to escape Naomi's clutches and roll into the ring. As she ran across the ring, she was met with a huge clothesline from the challenger and Naomi pulled Brie out of the ring to allow the match to continue. But the distraction was enough as Nikki rolled Natalya up and pulled off an upset victory out of nowhere to retain her butterfly belt. —
Divas Champion Nikki Bella def. Natalya (Title retained)The Bella Twins scarpered shortly after the end result, allowing Natalya no time to exact revenge. Naomi tended to her fallen friend and looked on as they watched the Divas Championship taken away by Nikki Bella, who blew a kiss their way just to add salt to that wound.
The beautiful Renee Young stood alongside the Russian Brute, the United States Champion, Rusev and his associate, Lana. When she asked if Rusev thinks his title reign is in jeopardy tonight, Rusev responded in Russian. Lana translated however, and informed Renee and the WWE Universe that Rusev will
never lose the United States Championship and there is no man on the planet that can stop him — especially not Ryback. And with that, the duo left with the entire WWE Universe wondering if Ryback can do what nobody else has done and pin this Soviet Machine to the mat.
Since debuting in the WWE at last year's Royal Rumble, Rusev has never been pinned and he has never submitted. Nobody has been able to stop this Russian Brute between those ropes but tonight, Ryback believed that he was the man that could dethrone the self-proclaimed "Hero of the Russian Federation" and take home the United States Championship. The Big Guy entered the arena wielding the stars and stripes of our beautiful flag, showing his pride as a citizen of the United States of America. Before the bell had even rang, these two were nose-to-nose with intensity oozing from the both of them. The moment the official called for the bell, the brawl began. Right hands swinging repeatedly as each monster tried to knock the other down a peg or two. To the surprise of the WWE Universe, Ryback sent the big Russian reeling, delivering a big clothesline that knocked him through the ropes and out to the floor. "Feed me more!" echoed across the arena as Rusev looked on in fury. He soon returned to battle and delivered a clothesline of his own that flattened the Big Guy. Lana bellowed instructions from ringside and Rusev obeyed, picking apart his challenger like a piece of meat. Seating Ryback in the corner, Rusev sped across the ring and threw himself into him like a bowling ball, the gasps of the WWE Universe telling the whole story. But even despite the impact of the move, Ryback managed to kick out at two.
"Rusev crush!" screamed Lana, and the big Russian went to do just that. Grabbing Ryback's arms he looked to lock in the Accolade, but as he mounted Ryback, he muscled his way up and lifted Rusev off his feet with great power. The WWE Universe looked on in awe, as did Lana as Rusev was elevated on Ryback's shoulders. Feeding time had indeed begin as he managed to shuffle Rusev around and drop him with a Shell Shocked! But even that couldn't keep the unbeaten Russian down, kicking out at two. Would there be anything that would keep this man down? Ryback seemed to believe that a Meat Hook Clothesline could do the trick and backed into the corner, pumping his fist to the beat of the WWE Universe's chants of "Feed me more!". Charging in, Ryback gained a full head of steam, only to have his head all but removed from his shoulders thanks to a vicious superkick right to the jaw. And in that split second, momentum changed and the match was in Rusev's hands. The big Russian regained his composure and picked Ryback up, lifting him into the air and slamming him down with a huge uranage slam. Bouncing off the ropes, he quite literally crushed Ryback with a big splash — and another — and another. The limp body of Ryback laid in the center of the ring before being rolled onto his stomach and the Accolade being locked in. The Big Guy was limp and had nowhere to go. It wasn't long before the referee called for the match to be stopped and Rusev declared the winner. —
United States Champion Rusev def. Ryback (Title retained)The disappointment continues for the WWE Universe as Rusev holds the United States Championship hostage from America once again. If even the human wrecking ball couldn't dethrone the Hero of the Russian Federation, who can? Is it even possible? And it also raises the question — will anyone be able to throw Rusev over the top rope later tonight in the Royal Rumble match? Or could the Soviet Machine go all the way and headline WrestleMania?
Continuing the short video segments of various superstars talking about the Royal Rumble Match, Fandango believes that it's about time that WrestleMania had some class to it, and what better way to celebrate WrestleMania than with a "Championship Cha-Cha" as he put it. Up next was the former WWE Tag Team Champions, The Miz and Damien Mizdow. Of course, it was Miz doing all the talking, claiming that he would win the Royal Rumble and headline WrestleMania for the second time in his career, but Damien Mizdow interrupted by saying that
he would headline WrestleMania. Turning to his stunt-double, The Miz asks "Really?" as Mizdow shrugs his shoulders. The WWE Universe seem to agree with Mizdow's claim. And finally, Mr. Money in the Bank, Seth Rollins who was met with a largely negative response following his actions earlier in the night. Accompanied by Jamie Noble and Joey Mercury, Seth Rollins states that this year will be his year — just like last year — and every year going forward because he is the "Future of the WWE" and nobody can deny it.
Renee Young was once again standing by, this time alongside the #1 Contender for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, John Cena who had a much more serious expression on his face than usual. "Tonight is the night for you, John. Do you think you have what it takes to beat Brock Lesnar and leave with the title?" she asked. Cena looked down at his feet and rubbed his head. "I have no choice" said Cena, and then he left. Usually a man of many words, John Cena gave the only answer he could muster. This is his last chance. And if he can't do it now, he might never be able to do it again.
He knew that this was his last chance. John Cena knew that if he couldn't beat Brock Lesnar tonight at the Royal Rumble then the WWE World Heavyweight Championship may very well be out of his grasp for a very long time. This was all-or-nothing for the 15-time World Champion, looking to make it 16 and tie WWE Hall of Famer, Ric Flair's iconic record. But when an obstacle like the Beast, Brock Lesnar is in your path, how can you even begin to make your way around it? You can't. And that is why John Cena had every intention of going
through his dangerous adversary. Once the bell had rung, these two came nose-to-nose, the bad blood practically boiling in front of our very eyes. In an act of disrespect, Lesnar laughed in his rivals face, but he soon came to regret that decision as John Cena slapped the taste right out of Lesnar's mouth. As expected, the WWE World Heavyweight Champion didn't take too kindly to Cena's sudden buildup of courage and gored the challenger into the corner, delivering an unfathomable amount of shoulder blocks to Cena's abdomen. Over and over again he unleashed his rage with every thrust, Cena's face scrunching in pain. The Beast gave his opponent momentary relief before dragging him to the center of the ring and driving him into the canvas with an amateur-style slam. Lesnar mounted Cena and began throwing lefts and rights to his cranium, forcing the referee to get involved and stop the onslaught, but Lesnar threw the referee aside and risks being disqualified. "Ease it off, Brock!" screamed Heyman, warning Lesnar that he could be disqualified. Standing upright, Lesnar smirked as he saw John Cena sprawled on the mat with the referee checking him. There's no quit in John Cena though as he told the referee to step aside and let him fight.
Then, Cena scrambled to his feet using the ropes only to see the near-300 pound monster running towards him. Ring-savvy helped John Cena here as he pulled down the ropes and sent the Champion plummeting to the arena floor with a hard thud, giving himself some breathing room. Cena then left the ring and grabbed Lesnar by the head, slamming him face-first into the announce desk as the referee's count began. Cena cared little for the count, however, as he launched Lesnar like a torpedo into the side of the steel steps, evening the playing field. Being sure to avoid a countout, Cena rolled himself and Brock back into the ring where he once again picked Lesnar up. But the time it took to get back into the ring was enough time for Lesnar to get a second wind and lift Cena onto his shoulders, preparing for one of his vicious F-5s. This was thwarted by Cena who slid off the back and returned the favor, lifting Lesnar up but actually connecting with his intended move — an Attitude Adjustment! One hook of the leg later and there was a kick out at two. Somehow, John Cena needed to pull something out of the bag and find a way to defeat this unstoppable force. He decided that taking a risk is the only option, climbing to the top rope where he is out of his comfort zone. Surprisingly, he connected with his signature diving leg drop to the back of Lesnar's head, taking the Beast down, at least momentarily. Then it was time to set him up for a second Attitude Adjustment, but as he raised Lesnar up, the WWE World Heavyweight Champion slid off the back and hit one of his now-iconic German suplexes, landing Cena on the back of his head. The suplexes continued, hitting a total of five on the now exhausted challenger.
The Beast was back in control. Paul Heyman saw it as only a matter of time before his client wrapped this one up and retained his gold. But John Cena had other plans, continuing to get to his feet much to Lesnar's dismay. The WWE Universe tried to rally behind the leader of the Cenation, but to no avail as Cena was lifted into the air with an astonishing belly-to-belly suplex that sent Cena flying across the canvas. "Finish it!" bellowed Heyman, and Lesnar looked to put this one to bed. The limp body of John Cena was lifted from the canvas and onto Lesnar's shoulders, ready for the F-5. Once again though, John Cena battled back, slipping off the Beast's shoulders and driving his fist into his face time and time again, sending Lesnar reeling. After blocking one of Cena's right hands, Lesnar whipped his adversary across the ring and attempted to hit a clothesline, but Cena ducked underneath and followed it up with his signature shoulder tackle. Another one followed and he put his rival down with a spin-out powerbomb. With Cena's hand in the air, everyone knew what was coming next. "You can't see me!". Five Knuckle Shuffle! Cena was in full control once more and this could be his moment. But many had forgotten Paul Heyman who hopped onto the ring apron and began shouting at John Cena. The former Champion turned his head for just a second to warn Heyman off, but as he turned back around, he was picked up and dropped with one of the biggest F-5s we have seen to date. Lesnar hooked the leg and scored the victory, retaining his WWE World Heavyweight Championship and crushing Cena's title dreams. —
WWE World Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar def. John Cena (Title retained)Faces across the arena were stunned as Cena's hopes of headlining WrestleMania once again had been dashed by the Beast, Brock Lesnar. Now we know that this monster of a man will be in the main event of WrestleMania against the winner of the Royal Rumble Match, while John Cena's WrestleMania fate is unknown. Paul Heyman raised the hand of his client in a scene reminiscent of WrestleMania XXX where Brock Lesnar did the unthinkable and ended the Undertaker's Streak. That too was a sole crushing moment for the individual whom Lesnar beat, much like it was tonight. The Cenation leader sat up with his head in his hands, realizing that his last chance to become WWE World Heavyweight Champion had just been snatched away. But what Brock Lesnar has to be thinking now is who will he face at WrestleMania? Well, it was time to find out exactly that.
The Royal Rumble Match provides one lucky superstar with the chance of a lifetime — a shot at the WWE World Heavyweight Championship in the main event of WrestleMania. It's the ultimate prize. Nothing can compare. On this night, 30 men enter the ring with the hope of walking away with that unique opportunity, but only one man can leave with the victory.
Entrant #1 — Intercontinental Champion Dolph Ziggler — The cruel nature of the Authority pitted Dolph Ziggler against a close ally, Roman Reigns on SmackDown where the loser would be forced to enter at the #1 position in tonight's Royal Rumble Match. A position that requires the ultimate test of stamina and strength to endure the other 29 men. It's been done before on two occasions, one of which was by WWE Hall of Famer, Shawn Michaels.
Entrant #2 — Roman Reigns — In a harsh twist of fate, it seemed the Authority's plans were to not only punish Roman Reigns, but make his previous efforts worthless. The already broken man (thanks to the vicious assault earlier in the night from Seth Rollins) now had to enter the Royal Rumble match from an equally treacherous position. The Authority well and truly had this year's Royal Rumble in the palm of their hands. Despite the rules stating that the numbers would be drawn at random, it seems those with power can bend the rules to their will.
The bell rang and the 28th annual Royal Rumble Match was underway. Dolph Ziggler and Roman Reigns shared a fist bump before they tied up, showing their respect for each other. But immediately following their fist bump, Ziggler went in headstrong with an attempt to eliminate the Juggernaut early, capitalizing on his injuries and knowing that from his current position, he couldn't afford to pull any punches. But Roman Reigns fights back, despite his injuries, throwing Ziggler aside and drilling him with a flying clothesline. As both men laid on the canvas, the countdown began for entrant #3.
Entrant #3 — Luke Harper — The deranged big man a bee-line for his old rival, Dolph Ziggler who took his Intercontinental Championship just a few weeks ago. Unleashing his brute force on the Show-Off, Harper looked to be taking the dominant approach. Roman Reigns began to stir but he was soon swatted down by Harper with a big superkick. This big bulldozer of a man stood tall over his two fallen opponents as the countdown began for the second time tonight, preparing the WWE Universe for the next combatant.
Entrant #4 — Adam Rose — Could there be a sharper contrast from the current in-ring situation than the entrance of this man? The self-professed party animal paraded to the ring alongside his Rosebuds and took his sweet time entering the ring, circling it once before climbing onto the apron and falling back into the arms of his followers who again carried him all the way around the ring. You know what they say — the party doesn't stop with Adam Rose. Finally, the South African is on the apron and climbs in through the ropes — only to be clotheslined out immediately by Luke Harper!
Adam Rose had been eliminated! Harper stood with a tilted head, glaring down at Rose on the floor, surrounding by his Rosebuds. Michael Cole questions if that had broke a record, however, luckily Adam Rose avoided the history books, but not by much, lasting a mere 3 seconds in his first Royal Rumble Match ever.
Entrant #5 — Tommy Dreamer — Suffice to say, Philly went crazy. The ECW Original himself had come home to throw his name in the hat for a WrestleMania main event match. The Innovator of Violence exploded to the ring and immediately began trading blows with Luke Harper. Even Harper struggled to go toe-to-toe in a fist fight with the ECW alumnus. After a missed Discus Clothesline attempt, Harper found himself kicked in the gut and dropped on his head with a vintage DDT. Holding his arms out by his side, Tommy Dreamer screamed and the WWE Universe responded in kind. The Heart and Soul of ECW had returned. Dreamer turned around to survey the damage as the clock ticked down once more.
Entrant #6 — Tyson Kidd — Earlier tonight, Tyson Kidd and Cesaro were victorious on the Royal Rumble Kickoff Show and are now the new #1 Contenders for the WWE Tag Team Championships. But why stop there? Why not try and headline WrestleMania as well? Kidd climbed the top rope and lunged himself at Dreamer, taking him down with an impressive missile dropkick. Kidd then grabbed the Intercontinental Champion and dropped him with a snap suplex. The last graduate of the Hart Dungeon was in control of the Royal Rumble — that was until he was met with a Superman Punch from Roman Reigns. The Juggernaut bellowed but he too discovered that he shouldn't take his eye off the ball as he was taken down by a Discus Clothesline from Luke Harper.
Entrant #7 — Erick Rowan — Harper's ears pricked up as Erick Rowan's music hit and Big Red bolted to the ring. Immediately following his entry, he traded blows with his former Wyatt Family teammate and they tore chunks out of each other. Left and rights flew before Rowan shoved Harper into the ropes and met him with a huge Lou Thesz Press, continuing to pummel Harper into the mat. Rowan stood to his feet and stared intensely into the WWE Universe. Tommy Dreamer spun Erick Rowan around and kicked him in the gut, trying to go for a DDT, but Rowan lifted him up onto his shoulders, spun him around and planted him with a powerslam. Rowan then went right back to Harper while on the opposite side of the ring, Dolph Ziggler and Tyson Kidd were going at it.
Entrant #8 — R-Truth — The Truth entered the match with a fast pace, taking down Dolph Ziggler with a big flying kick. He hit his signature Lie Detector on Tyson Kidd and then went for Erick Rowan. Big Red overpowered Truth and threw him across the ring, but when he turned back around, Harper hit him with a huge big boot. Harper then grabbed R-Truth and hit him with a devastating Discus Clothesline. This made it easy for Harper to pick Truth up and dump him over the ropes for another elimination.
R-Truth had been eliminated! Right now, it seemed as though Luke Harper was in complete control of this Royal Rumble with two elimination to his name already.
Entrant #9 — Rob Van Dam — For the second time tonight, Philadelphia lost its mind, another one of their idols had made his entry into the 2015 Royal Rumble Match. The former World Champion climbed to the top rope and took Luke Harper off his feet with a big diving kick. The Michigan-born RVD then traded kicks with Tyson Kidd before catching on of Kidd's shots and hitting his signature step over heel kick. Roman Reigns attempted to deliver a Spear to Rob Van Dam out of nowhere, but the ring veteran leapfrogged Reigns and hit a roundhouse kick right to the head. Seeing his next opportunity, Van Dam ran to the corner and leaped onto Dolph Ziggler before sending him flying across the length of the ring with an outstanding monkey flip and landed Ziggler flat on his face. All of a sudden, this Royal Rumble was in Van Dam's hands. And then the home of ECW got shivers down their spine as Rob Van Dam turned to see his former ECW ally, Tommy Dreamer. "ECW!" was the chant that was heard across the world as RVD and Dreamer stood face-to-face in the center of the ring. However, the moment was ruined by Erick Rowan and Luke Harper who blasted the ECW Originals and took them to the canvas. And then the attention turned to the two former Wyatt Family brethren as they too stood face-to-face as the countdown clock struck 0.
Entrant #10 — Bray Wyatt — And as if things couldn't get any more intense, here comes the Eater of Worlds who has warned of things to come in the near future. Erick Rowan and Luke Harper stood side-by-side as their former leader entered the ring with a grin from ear-to-ear. "Come to me my children!" he shouted to them, both looking at him with blank expressions. Things took an odd turn when Harper suddenly blindsided Erick Rowan as Wyatt looked on laughing hysterically. Harper then threw Rowan to the ropes in an attempt to eliminate him, but then out of nowhere, Bray Wyatt tipped them both over the top, eliminating both of his former disciples at once.
Erick Rowan and Luke Harper had been eliminated! Bray Wyatt spread his arms wide and shouted "This is my time! My destiny!", looking out at his fallen adversaries. Wyatt turned around and came face-to-face with Tommy Dreamer who began brawling with him. One kick to the gut later and Wyatt set Dreamer up for Sister Abigail — and he connected. The Eater of Worlds picked the ECW Original up and tossed him over the top rope, scoring his third elimination of the night.
Tommy Dreamer had been eliminated! Bray Wyatt was in complete control.
Entrant #11 — Fandango — The dancing superstar quickly made his way to the ring and saw that Bray Wyatt stood before him. He made a swift u-turn and started stomping down on Dolph Ziggler in the corner. Bray Wyatt turned his attention to Roman Reigns and the two powerhouses brawled in the opposite corner. Meanwhile, Rob Van Dam hit a Rolling Thunder on Tyson Kidd, a resounding cheer coming from the crowd. All of a sudden, Reigns shoved Wyatt aside and exploded from the corner — hitting Fandango with a rib-splitting Spear. Reigns turned around and hit yet another Spear on Bray Wyatt. Turning around a second time, he shot towards Rob Van Dam who he also drilled with his signature Spear. Despite his injuries, Roman Reigns was building quite the head of steam.
Entrant #12 — WWE Tag Team Champion Big E — Stay positive! The motto of The New Day may help Big E here as he enters his second Royal Rumble Match. The powerhouse immediately came face-to-face with Roman Reigns and the two traded blows with Big E gaining the upper hand, being the fresher of the two. He bounced Reigns off the ropes and took him down with a big clothesline. He made his way over to the corner and grabbed Tyson Kidd, one half of the team he and Kofi Kingston will defend their WWE Tag Team Championships against. Dolph Ziggler saw an opening and attempted to eliminate Bray Wyatt from the Royal Rumble, but Wyatt fought back and took Ziggler down with a headbutt. Wyatt returned the favor and tried getting Ziggler over the ropes but to no avail.
Entrant #13 — United States Champion Rusev — The number 13 is unlucky for some, and it was unlucky for the entire Royal Rumble as the undefeated Russian made his way to the ring to enter his second Royal Rumble Match with every intention of leaving as the winner. Instantly he makes an impact, grabbing Fandango and launching him over the ropes for elimination number one.
Fandango had been eliminated! Rusev then grabbed Big E and planted him with a huge uranage slam. Rusev turned his attention to Tyson Kidd who he threw over the top rope with ease.
Tyson Kidd had been eliminated! Rusev then returned his attention to the WWE Tag Team Champion, Big E who he delivered a huge superkick to. And then to the shock of the WWE Universe, Big E was easily dumped over the top, marking that up to three elimination for the United States Champion.
WWE Tag Team Champion Big E had been eliminated! The dominant Rusev was in complete control and began to beat down Dolph Ziggler in one of the corners. In another corner, Roman Reigns and Bray Wyatt did battle once again.
Entrant #14 — Kane — The Royal Rumble is synonymous with this man. He held the record for most eliminations in a single Rumble Match with 11 until last year where he was outdone by Roman Reigns. Tonight, Kane was on the road to claiming another Royal Rumble record, being just one elimination away from Shawn Michaels' all-time elimination record of 39. The Corporate Monster went right for Roman Reigns, the very man whom the Authority did not want to win this match by any means. Delivering shot after shot he picks apart the Juggernaut, capitalizing on Reigns' already injured midsection. Dolph Ziggler came to the aid of his ally, jumping on Kane's back with a Sleeper Hold. The Intercontinental Champion wore down the Authority member allowing Reigns some breathing room. Bray Wyatt was on the opposite side of the ring, allying with Rusev to beat down Rob Van Dam. Poor RVD.
Entrant #15 — Stardust — If you're having troubles within your team, why not try and break out into singles competition? And what better way to do it than by winning the Royal Rumble and earning yourself a shot at the WWE World Heavyweight Championship? Well, that's how a normal person would think, and Stardust is far from normal. The cosmic creature springboarded his way into the match with a big cross body onto Dolph Ziggler. He quickly bounced off the middle rope and hit Ziggler with a Disaster Kick. Hissing his way around the ring, he grabbed Roman Reigns and tried to hit him with a DDT, but Reigns threw him over the ropes. Stardust hung on, however, and skinned the cat back into the ring before retreating to a corner for safety. Reigns pulled Bray Wyatt away from Rob Van Dam and the two began brawling for the third time in this match. Rusev continued his attack on Rob Van Dam, keeping the former World Champion at bay.
Halftime Round-Up — Superstars remaining — Dolph Ziggler, Roman Reigns, Rob Van Dam, Bray Wyatt, Rusev, Kane and Stardust
Entrant #16 — Sheamus — Fresh from a return, Sheamus was ready to claim his second Royal Rumble victory, winning his first in 2012. He didn't wait long to make an impact, hitting a Brogue Kick on Bray Wyatt just seconds after sliding under the ropes. The Celtic Warrior then went right for one of the men responsible for taking him out of action, Rusev. He went toe-to-toe with the big Russian and even had him reeling. Sheamus attempted a clothesline to get Rusev out of the ring, but in retaliation, the United States Champion hit one right back and the two of them stood still, neither of them budging. They tried it again but with the same result. Sheamus avoids Rusev's next shot and ducks underneath before tipping him over the ropes. The Celtic Warrior believed he had eliminated his Russian adversary, but he thought wrong as Rusev hung on and rolled back underneath the ropes. The ring was beginning to fill up at this point — a time when the Royal Rumble can get very dangerous for all involved.
Entrant #17 — The Miz — Can we please have quiet on the set? The Miz is here! The former World Champion made his way to the ring and entered the match going right for Rob Van Dam. He threw RVD over the ropes, but he hung on. Miz then tipped Dolph Ziggler over the top, but he too hung on. The Hollywood superstar somehow managed to toss Sheamus over the ropes as well, but just like the previous two, he hung on. The Miz was on top of the world, thinking he had eliminated three big names, but he suddenly realized that his efforts hadn't gone exactly as planned. He quickly ran to one of the corners, only to be met with a Spear from Roman Reigns. The Miz was laid out and ironically, he was probably seeing more stars than he would on the red carpet.
Entrant #18 — Damien Mizdow — How often does a stunt-double get more appreciation than the actor? Not often, but this is one of those rare cases and the WWE Universe love it. The Miz's personal stunt-double made his way to the ring to enter the Royal Rumble Match and as soon as he got in, he laid beside The Miz holding his ribs. The participants all stopped and stared at Mizdow with confused expressions as the WWE Universe laughed. As the action continued around them, they both got to their feet and Miz began shoving Mizdow in the chest, shouting at him. The Miz walked Mizdow over to the ropes and then said "Eliminate yourself now!". Mizdow looked around and there was a resounding chant of "No!" around the arena. Miz warned Mizdow that if he didn't do it he'd be in serious trouble. But then out of nowhere, Dolph Ziggler delivered a huge dropkick to The Miz, sending him over the ropes and to the floor.
The Miz had been eliminated! Damien Mizdow looked on with his hand over his mouth as The Miz scurried around wondering what just happened. He looked up at Mizdow with fury in his eyes and demanded that he do his job and throw himself over the top rope. In theory, as a stunt-double, he should do just that. But this is the Royal Rumble! Mizdow argued with himself about what to do, threatening to jump over the top but then rethinking it. But all his back and forth cost him whatever his decision would have been as he was tossed out by Kane.
Damien Mizdow had been eliminated! The Miz shouted at Mizdow, telling him he's useless before storming off and leaving his stunt-double behind.
Entrant #19 — Goldust — It should be noted that with Damien Mizdow's elimination, Kane has tied the record for Shawn Michaels' cumulative eliminations in the Royal Rumble Match. The Bizarre One entered the Royal Rumble and delivered right hands to everyone in sight. Dolph Ziggler, Kane, Roman Reigns, Bray Wyatt, Sheamus and Rusev all received a shot from Goldust until he met his brother, Stardust in the center of the ring. The two appear to agree on a plan to team up to eliminate whoever they can, but as soon as Goldust's back is turned — Stardust throws him over the top rope!
Goldust had been eliminated! The cosmic brothers appear to have crumbled before our very eyes. With their issues in recent weeks, this wasn't much of a surprise, but it seems as though Goldust thought better of his baby brother. Is the man behind the facepaint lost forever? Stardust looked out of the ring, hissing at his fallen partner. But his brotherly backstab came at a price as he was soon thrown over the ropes himself by Roman Reigns.
Stardust had been eliminated! He landed right in front of Goldust who looked down shaking his head. The stars may have unaligned for this strange pairing.
Entrant #20 — WWE Tag Team Champion Kofi Kingston — A man who has made a name for himself in over-the-top-rope matches, Kingston entered yet another Royal Rumble. What ways would he avoid elimination this time around? The United States Champion, Rusev grabbed Kofi Kingston as he entered the ring, but Kingston broke out of his clutches and hit a big Trouble In Paradise. Roman Reigns was fending off the Corporate Monster, all the while Bray Wyatt was pummeling Rob Van Dam into the ground. Kingston went to aid RVD against the Eater of Worlds but ended up joining the Whole Damn Show on the mat as Wyatt continued to dominate the opposition. The countdown clock began, preparing the WWE Universe for entry #21 into this year's Royal Rumble Match.
Entrant #21 — Daniel Bryan — The general response as the buzzer sounded was "Yes!" as the WWE's resident underdog, Daniel Bryan made his illustrious return from injury as a surprise entrant into the Royal Rumble. All of a sudden there was a brand new favorite in the vicinity. Kane turned around to see one of his most storied rivals rushing towards him, connecting with a stiff dropkick in the corner. Bryan proceeded to deliver several kicks to Kane's midsection, each one accompanied by the WWE Universe's chants of "Yes!". Before he could hit the final blow, he was spun around by Rusev, but he can't have thought that through as he received the final blow instead, dropping to his knees after the roundhouse kick. Daniel Bryan was back and he appeared to be better than ever. The came the inevitable confrontation with an old enemy, Bray Wyatt. The two began trading blows, right hands and forearms galore. Eventually, Bryan ran underneath a shot and bounced back with his signature Running High Knee, taking the Eater of Worlds off his feet and down the canvas. Bryan pumped his hands into the air as the WWE Universe went wild.
Entrant #22 — Mark Henry — The World's Strongest Man made his way down the ramp with evil intentions. He grabbed Daniel Bryan and dropped him with a headbutt. Dolph Ziggler made an attempt to take him out with a flying cross body, but he caught the Show-Off and planted him with the World's Strongest Slam. Henry caught a flying Kofi Kingston moments after and hit a second consecutive World's Strongest Slam. Rob Van Dam made the same mistake as the others and also fell victim to a devastating World's Strongest Slam. Could anybody stop this monster? Sheamus could. Out of nowhere the Celtic Warrior leveled Henry with a Brogue Kick, laying him flat out on his back. Henry stumbled back to his feet before being tipped over the top rope and shockingly eliminated by the 2012 Royal Rumble winner.
Mark Henry had been eliminated! The Great White beat his chest as Henry left up the ramp in anger. Sheamus had got one over on his rival and looked to be set on repeating history here tonight.
Entrant #23 — Ryback — It's feeding time! The Big Guy slid into the ring and immediately drilled Rusev with a big Meat Hook Clothesline. That one was for earlier in the night. In the opposite corner, Rob Van Dam had climbed up to the top and was measuring up Kane for a Five-Star Frog Splash, but out of nowhere, Bray Wyatt ran up and shoved him off the top, sending RVD crashing to the floor outside.
Rob Van Dam had been eliminated! That's why they call it high-risk. But a brilliant showing from the former World Champion. Ryback began pumping his arms shouting "Feed me more!", but he may have bitten off more than he can chew as he turns into a Spear from Roman Reigns. Reigns was going Spear crazy tonight! Sheamus began doing battle with the Corporate Monster in the corner, almost eliminating him in the process.
Entrant #24 — Cesaro — Hoping to last longer than his partner, Tyson Kidd did earlier in the match, Cesaro entered with intentions of this being his year. Making an immediate impact, Cesaro ducked underneath a Trouble In Paradise attempt from Kofi Kingston and delivered a sickening European Uppercut, sending Kingston flying over the top rope and down to the floor.
WWE Tag Team Champion Kofi Kingston had been eliminated! A perfect way to send a message to the Champions as a future challenger. Cesaro headed towards the Intercontinental Champion and grabbed him for the Cesaro Swing. After a total of fifteen — yes, fifteen! — rotations, Cesaro finally let go and Ziggler struggled to his feet using the ropes. Cesaro ran towards the Show-Off hoping to send him over the ropes, only to have the ropes pulled down on him and fly over himself, lasting such a short time in this year's match despite an impressive start.
Cesaro had been eliminated! Ziggler looked on, exhausted yet still in this match all the way from #1. Meanwhile, his counterpart who entered at #2, Roman Reigns laid flat on his back in the opposite corner.
Entrant #25 — Bad News Barrett — Returns a-plenty in this year's Royal Rumble Match as the former Intercontinental Champion makes his way to the ring to deliver some "bad news" to all the other participants. That bad news being that
he was winning this year's match. During the entrance of Bad News Barrett, the United States Champion, Rusev disposed of his rival, Ryback with a big superkick over the top rope.
Ryback had been eliminated! Barrett entered the match and directed his attack on Dolph Ziggler, the man who holds the title that he really never actually lost. Sheamus almost had Bray Wyatt eliminated elsewhere, but the Eater of Worlds held on for dear life, not wanting to lose at this stage of the game. Roman Reigns made it back to his feet and he and Daniel Bryan appeared to have formed some sort of alliance against Kane and Rusev, a brawl that shook the foundations of the ring.
Entrant #26 — Chris Jericho — Y2J has never won the Royal Rumble Match. One of the few accomplishments that has evaded Jericho's resume. The former World Champion grabbed Bad News Barrett and delivered some hard knife-edge chops to the man he mentored years ago on NXT. However, Jericho soon found himself pulled aside by Rusev who he has had some issues with in the last couple of weeks. Rusev beat down the 9-time Intercontinental Champion, showing his dominance. Dolph Ziggler climbed to the top rope and leaped off towards Bad News Barrett, only to be caught with a devastating Bull Hammer, knocking the Show-Off out cold. Barrett laughed before picking Ziggler up and dropping him over the top rope, putting an end to Ziggler's impressive stint in this year's match.
Intercontinental Champion Dolph Ziggler had been eliminated! Having eliminated the current Intercontinental Champion, Bad News Barrett may have thrown his name in the hat for a future shot.
Entrant #27 — Dean Ambrose — Fasten your seatbelts because the Lunatic Fringe has arrived. Ambrose immediately went underneath the ring and pulled out a Singapore cane before entering the match. A shot to Bad News Barrett, followed by a shot to Sheamus, and then a shot to Kane. Ambrose was going crazy. He then came face-to-face with his former Shield brother, Roman Reigns and the two shared some inaudible words before Ambrose attempted to swing for the Juggernaut, only to have the cane caught by Reigns and thrown out of the ring. The two were knocked to the ground by Bray Wyatt and Kane who continued the onslaught with aggression. Bad News Barrett got back to his feet after the cane shot and noticed that Dolph Ziggler was stirring by ringside. Barrett shouted that he would soon reclaim his Intercontinental Championship, but then he was taken by surprise as he was tipped over the ropes by Daniel Bryan.
Bad News Barrett had been eliminated! The WWE Universe erupted as Barrett landed on the outside courtesy of the current favorite. Ziggler wasted little time before lunging on Barrett on the outside before officials were forced to break up the scuffle.
Entrant #28 — Big Show — As if the World's Largest Athlete wasn't dangerous enough, entering at #28 makes him more dangerous than ever. Big Show entered the ring and firstly saw to it that his Authority ally, Kane was not eliminated, pulling Roman Reigns away and delivering a thunderous Chokeslam. All the while, Chris Jericho sat atop the turnbuckle, kicking Rusev away, but Rusev had a sudden rush and shoved Jericho down and out, over the top and into the realm of elimination.
Chris Jericho had been eliminated! Big Show and Kane then began their warpath, grabbing Sheamus and planting him with a Double Chokeslam. They grabbed Bray Wyatt and drove him into the canvas with the same move. Even Rusev fell victim to a Double Chokeslam from the two giants. And of course, finally, Daniel Bryan was the last to receive the devastating move. And just like that, the Authority had full control of the Royal Rumble Match. All that was left now was for them to dump their adversaries over the top and take this one home to Triple H and Stephanie McMahon. And that was the plan until the countdown clock hit zero once more ——
Entrant #29 — Randy Orton — Philadelphia came unglued as the Viper made his long-awaited return to action in the Royal Rumble Match. And perhaps most shocked were Big Show and Kane who readied their selves for the oncoming battle. Orton slithered into the ring and went right to work on the two giants, sending them both stumbling. Orton then backed up to the ropes as Big Show stormed towards him, only for Orton to pull down the ropes and send the World's Largest Athlete parading to the floor in a shocking turn of events.
Big Show had been eliminated! Kane went in to avenge his fallen comrade, but received an RKO for his troubles and as he got back to his feet, Orton hit a clothesline that sent the Corporate Monster to the floor, following his giant partner.
Kane had been eliminated! All of a sudden, the tables had turned and Randy Orton may have just changed the entire game plan of the Authority. And then Orton waited, knowing full-well who #30 was going to be. He knew that only one man remained, and that man is the one he wanted to get his hands on the most.
Entrant #30 — Seth Rollins — Mr. Money in the Bank walked out onto the stage with great reluctance, seeing his fate before him and how the entire plan had been turned on its head. He slowly walked towards the ring where Orton was practically begging him to get through the ropes so he could get his hands on him. He stood on the outside for quite a while, debating whether or not to enter the ring. Suddenly, Sheamus grabs Randy Orton but falls victim to an RKO! He is then thrown over the ropes and eliminated, falling right at Rollins' feet. Orton cares only about revenge, and it doesn't matter who you are, he will go through you to get it.
Sheamus had been eliminated! Rollins continued to waste time, but there was nobody else to enter the match. Nobody to come to his aid. But then out of nowhere, Jamie Noble and Joey Mercury appeared and jumped Orton from behind! The Viper fought back, however, and ended up throwing both of them over the ropes and out of the ring, but during this time, Seth Rollins had slithered under the ropes and came up behind Orton — eliminating him!
Randy Orton had been eliminated! Possibly the biggest shocker of the night, Seth Rollins tips Orton over the top rope and down to the floor, removing the threat from the match.
Randy Orton got to his feet in a fit of rage and hit an RKO on Jamie Noble on the outside, followed by a second one to Joey Mercury. The Viper was not happy and was forced to leave by officials as Seth Rollins looked on from the ring with a grin on his face. The grin was soon wiped off though as Rollins turned around — Spear! Roman Reigns ran right through Rollins and nearly broke him in half. Reigns growled as he stood over his fallen enemy. Daniel Bryan was battling with Rusev in one corner and on the other, old rivals, Dean Ambrose and Bray Wyatt were having it out. Wyatt threw Ambrose over the ropes but he hung on. However, Wyatt wasted little time and followed it up with a big clothesline sending Ambrose down to the floor.
Dean Ambrose had been eliminated! Rusev grabbed Roman Reigns from behind and tried to eliminate him, but Daniel Bryan came to his aid and hit him with kick after kick, stunning the big Russian. Then in a moment of partnership, the two join forces to tip the United States Champion over the ropes and down to the floor, dashing the WrestleMania dreams of the undefeated Rusev.
United States Champion Rusev had been eliminated!The final four remained — Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, Daniel Bryan and Bray Wyatt.
They each took a corner of their own as they prepare for the home stretch, knowing that only one of them can go to WrestleMania to compete for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. Bray Wyatt made the first move — if you can call it a move — dropping onto his back and proceeding to spider-walk into the center of the ring, creeping out his three opponents. He then rushed towards Daniel Bryan, unloading right hands on the former World Champion. Roman Reigns went right for Seth Rollins, showing the effects of tonight's event. Wyatt pulled Bryan into the center of the ring, ready for a Sister Abigail, but he slipped out and bounced off the ropes before hitting him with his signature Running High Knee! With both Bryan and Wyatt down, the focus remained on Reigns and Rollins who were going back and forth. Reigns suddenly saw an opening and prepared to hit Rollins with yet another Spear, but then out of nowhere, the Big Show and Kane re-emerged to boos from the WWE Universe. They grabbed Reigns in the corner and between the both of them, pulled him over the ropes and eliminated him from the match!
Roman Reigns had been eliminated! Michael Cole shouted how that was unfair, but John 'Bradshaw' Layfield simply explained that when you cross the Authority, you will
never win. The giants continue to pummel Reigns and take him up the ramp to the backstage area, clearly doing their duty as Authority members.
Daniel Bryan got to his feet and grabbed Rollins, attempting to throw him over the ropes, but the "Future of the WWE" hung on. Bryan was blindsided second later by Bray Wyatt who threw Bryan over the same ropes, landing him beside Rollins on the apron. Trading kicks, Bryan and Rollins went back and forth until Wyatt ran towards them, hoping to knock them both off, but the duo worked in tandem, pulling the ropes down and sending Wyatt crashing to the floor, making them the final two.
Bray Wyatt had been eliminated! An amazing showing from Bray Wyatt all the way from #10. And now it came down to Daniel Bryan and Seth Rollins. They both climbed back into the ring and stared each other down. Rollins tried to kick Bryan's head off with a roundhouse kick, but he felt one of his own when Bryan swing around and nailed him square on the back of the head. Bryan picked Rollins up and tried to throw him over, but Rollins would not let go. "Yes!" chants broke out as Bryan backed up, going for the Running High Knee, but Rollins moved out of the way and immediately followed it up by going for the Curb Stomp. However, Bryan avoided that too and clothesline Rollins over the top rope. He hung on and refused to go down. Rolling grabbed Bryan and tried to pull him over the ropes but Bryan released his grip, stumbled backwards and ran right back with a Running High Knee that sent Rollins flying down to the arena floor! —
Daniel Bryan wins the 2015 Royal Rumble Match (Will receive a shot at the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania)Daniel Bryan had done it! He had returned from injury and gone on to defeat 29 other men to earn his chance to compete for the title he was stripped of last June. We now know that Daniel Bryan will headline WrestleMania against Brock Lesnar for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, and that will be a match you won't want to miss. Seth Rollins looked on with disappointment in his eyes as Bryan celebrated, the pyrotechnics exploding from the WrestleMania sign and knowing that he is going on to headline his second WrestleMania in a row. What will the Authority have to say about Bryan's victory? Will Roman Reigns and Randy Orton get their revenge? Tune into Monday Night Raw, tomorrow night to find out all that and more!