WWE Royal Rumble: January 28, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
For over thirty years, the Royal Rumble has created icons, defined careers and ultimately crowned Champions. The road to WrestleMania begins at the unique event, and leads to one superstar receiving their chance to etch their name in the history books and headline WrestleMania. But now... it changes.
For the first-time ever, a 30-Woman Royal Rumble Match will take place to earn a female superstar a shot at her choice of Women's Championship on The Grandest Stage of Them All. In this history-making bout, which woman will walk out with her hand raised having beaten 29 other superstars? Tonight, we make history. Tonight, the road to WrestleMania truly begins.
Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson def. The Revival (Kickoff Match)
This past Monday at the 25 Years of Raw celebration, The Revival and The Good Brothers got into a fight in the historic Manhattan Center. That night, Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson earned the victory over the former NXT Tag Team Champions. The Revival were then beaten down by Razor Ramon, D-Generation X, and The Good Brothers’ good brother Finn Bálor. The Revival looked for some sort of revenge on the Royal Rumble Kickoff after that chaotic night in Manhattan.
The Revival had a set game plan in place from the opening bell, deciding to double team and target Anderson’s legs. Once Anderson got the super hot tag to Gallows, the momentum shifted and it meant the end for The Revival. The Good Brothers continued their beat down that led to a Magic Killer for the victory that was just #TooSweet.
Kalisto, Gran Metalik & Lince Dorado def. TJP, Drew Gulak & Gentleman Jack Gallagher (Kickoff Match)
Looking to impress the soon-to-be-announced 205 Live General Manager, these six Cruiserweights brought their high-octane offence to the Royal Rumble Kickoff. The masked trio of luchadores took on the oddball team of Drew Gulak, Gentleman Jack Gallagher, and the first WWE Cruiserweight Champion TJP.
The masked marvels showed a chemistry unmatched by the other team with some impressive moves that wowed the Philadelphia crowd. Gulak and Gallagher showcased their ground-based gruesome grappling against Dorado, Metalik, and Kalisto. In the end, a mishap in miscommunication forced TJP to accidentally dropkick his two partners from the apron to then fall victim to a big Metalik Driver to give the luchadores the win.
United States Champion Bobby Roode def. Mike Kanellis (Kickoff Match)
The Royal Rumble Kickoff became glorious as Bobby Roode looked to prove himself as a fighting champion from the get-go by defending his illustrious red, white and blue title in an Open Challenge. Things went from glorious to greatest when the challenge was accepted by Roode’s old rival Mike Kanellis.
The two rivals brought their very best in the match in an absolute rekindling of their rivalry. Kanellis showcased the talents that have brought him all over the world in multiple squared circles, but Bobby Roode was too much to handle at times for Maria’s husband. In the end, the United States Championship remained around the waist of The Glorious One after a beautiful Glorious DDT secured the win.
Asuka wins the first-ever 30-Woman Royal Rumble Match
The women didn't have to wait long to make their mark as the first-ever 30-Woman Royal Rumble Match kicked off the thirty-first annual Royal Rumble event on this history-defining night. The Raw Women's Champion,
Alexa Bliss and her blue brand counterpart, the SmackDown Women's Champion,
Charlotte Flair made their way to ringside before the opening bell, clearly to observe this prestigious bout and scout their potential opponent come WrestleMania. Sharing a tense staredown with each other, the golden females backed down and sat either side of the commentary area to let this one unfold. Meanwhile sat on commentary was the Raw Commissioner, Stephanie McMahon. The daughter of the Chairman expressed her excitement to witness this history in the making. Entrants number one and two made their way to the ring, and the WWE Universe were not disappointed.
Entrant #1: Becky Lynch
Entrant #2: Sasha Banks
The two former "Four Horsewomen" from NXT reunited to open up this history-making match, also pitting Raw against SmackDown Live. Becky Lynch and Sasha Banks shook hands before the opening bell and the match got underway, the WWE Universe abuzz as they witness a first-ever in sports entertainment history. The two former Women's Champions tried to out-wrestle each other in the opening moments, hoping to get an early lead and eliminate the other to earn themselves a moment to breathe. But no sooner had they locked up, the 90-second timer was up and entrant number three made her way to the ring.
Entrant #3: Lana
It's not quite Rusev Day, but it could very well be Lana Day! The Ravishing Russian made her way to the ring to join Becky and Sasha, immediately going after The Irish Lasskicker. However, Sasha Banks came to the aid of her friend and pulled Lana away, dropping her with a big DDT. The Boss lifted her adversary up and threw her towards Lynch who delivered a jaw-shattering superkick, sending Lana stumbling back into a double knee backbreaker before locking in the Bank Statement! The WWE Universe erupted as both Sasha and Becky lifted Lana to her feet and sent her crashing over the top rope for the bouts very first elimination. Shortly after, entrant number four was ready to make her entrance.
Eliminated: Lana
Entrant #4: Ruby Riott
Showing no intimidation after the fate Lana just suffered, Ruby Riott stormed to the ring and tackled Becky Lynch to the canvas. Sasha tried to aid her friend once more, but Riott turned her attention to the former Women's Champion, backing her into the corner. The leader of The Riott Squad laid into The Boss with right hands, even turning her attention to Becky for a moment and delivering a big dropkick. Riott maintained control of the situation leading into the entrance of number five.
Entrant #5: Sonya Deville
Adding yet another element to an already increasingly volatile situation, Absolution’s Sonya Deville arrived on the scene and immediately confronted Ruby Riott, but before they could collide, Sasha Banks and Becky Lynch attacked the duo and took control. Sasha dragged Deville to the corner and attempted to eliminate her, but when she couldn’t get her over the top, she delivered her signature knees to the sternum of the elevated Deville. Meanwhile, The Irish Lasskicker was taking the fight to Ruby Riott on the opposite side of the ring. The countdown continued and entrant number six joined the fray.
Entrant #6: Liv Morgan
The Riott Squad continued to grow as Liv Morgan joined her leader, Ruby Riott. She immediately assisted Riott by dragging Becky Lynch away and hitting her hard with a flurry of forearms, but the fiery former Women’s Champion battled back and sent Morgan crashing to the canvas with a roundhouse kick. Riott capitalised on the momentary break and dropped Becky with a neck breaker. The Riott Squad members regrouped as Sonya Deville managed to turn the tables on The Boss across the other side of the ring. Another ninety seconds went by and the entrance of number seven was upon us.
Entrant #7: Mickie James
The WWE Universe erupted at the arrival of the iconic superstar as she ran to the ring and took to the skies with a diving crossbody, flooring Sonya Deville. Ducking underneath a double clothesline from Riott and Morgan, Mickie also took the pair down with a leaping clothesline of her own. The former Women’s Champion screamed to the delight of the crowd as she turned to come face-to-face with former rival, Becky Lynch. The two traded forearms back and forth with Mickie coming out on top and managing to hit Becky with her patented Mick Kick. But it wasn’t long before She turned to encounter her fellow Raw superstar, Sasha Banks. The two stood face-to-face sharing a few words as the countdown clock began.
Entrant #8: Nikki Cross
The deranged SAnitY member made her Pay-Per-View debut, arriving from NXT for this history-making bout. Cross waste no time getting between The Boss and Mickie James, screaming in their faces. She unleashed a series of hard shots to both women and took them down with clotheslines. The NXT superstar grabbed Sonya Deville and hit a suplex before turning her attention to Becky Lynch. But the red-head was ready and came back with a flurry of her own and even pulled her down for the Dis-Arm-Her, but Cross quickly escaped and rolled under the ropes. Ruby Riott and her cohort, Liv Morgan attacked Lynch from behind as the next entrant awaited.
Entrant #9: Mandy Rose
Absolution evens the score as Mandy Rose makes her entrance, quickly stopping Sonya Deville from being eliminated by Mickie James. The pair then double teamed the former Women’s Champion and moments later, sent her over the ropes and down to floor, shockingly eliminating an iconic superstar in this first-ever contest. The two Absolution members revelled in their success, while on the other side of the ring, Ruby Riott and Liv Morgan continue to beat down on Sasha Banks. Nikki Cross re-entered the match to brawl with The Irish Lasskicker and took her down with a tackle. The countdown began and number ten was on their way.
Eliminated: Mickie James
Entrant #10: Sarah Logan
The trio was completed by the arrival of Sarah Logan, and The Riott Squad were now in full force. As she united with her allies, they quickly took control of the Rumble bout and became the most dominant force in the ring, taking the fight to everyone in sight. Becky Lynch, Sasha Banks, even Nikki Cross tried to overcome the odds, but The Riott Squad were too much of a force to be reckoned with and the tide turned in their favour, The trio stood united in the center of the ring before turning around and coming face-to-face with Sonya Deville and Mandy Rose. The WWE Universe sensed the tension as The Riott Squad and Absolution engaged in a stare down. But something was missing, and entrant number eleven proved to be the missing piece...
Entrant #11: Paige
Despite originally believing that The Raven-Haired Renegade would be ruled out due to injury, Paige made her way to the ring to a deafening reaction and much to The Riott Squad’s shock, the odds were evened. The two dominant female units stood across the ring from each other and moments later exploded into a brawl. The six superstars tore into each other to find out who the most dominant faction was, and it wasn’t long before bodies began to fly. Sonya Deville dumped Sarah Logan over the top rope, Liv Morgan managed to send Mandy Rose over and out, Paige grabbed Liv Morgan and tossed her over the ropes to eliminate her, while Ruby Riott delivered a super kick to Sonya Deville, cutting her night short. The two leaders of their teams came face-to-face once more as the countdown began again.
Eliminated: Sarah Logan, Mandy Rose, Liv Morgan & Sonya Deville
Entrant #12: Nia Jax
One of the favourites to win this first-ever bout, Nia Jax headed to the ring as the Rumble competitors turned to the entrance. Paige and Ruby Riott put their differences aside to rush the dominant female, but Jax stopped them at the ropes and dropped them with a double clothesline. Nikki Cross delivered some hard shots to Nia Jax, but she also fell victim to the dominance as she was dropped with a thunderous Samoan drop. Becky Lynch and Sasha Banks once again united and attacked their larger adversary, but Jax would once again show why she’s a potential winner of this 30-Woman Royal Rumble Match when she dropped Becky with a super kick and then crushed Sasha with a huge scoop slam. Nia Jax stood atop the carnage as the countdown lead us into entrant number thirteen.
Entrant #13: Kharma
Unlucky for some, but perhaps unlucky for Nia Jax, Kharma shocked the world and made her return to come face-to-face with the dominant superstar. One of the few women to compete in the male Royal Rumble contest, Kharma stepped through the ropes and stood nose-to-nose with Nia Jax. The WWE Universe were right to chant “this is awesome” as the two monsters collided. They began trading blows as the rest of the Rumble looked on, and Kharma even had Nia Jax on the ropes at one point. But in a shocking turn of events, Nia Jax battled back and after avoiding a clothesline from Kharma, she returned the favour with one of her own and sent the dominant superstar over the ropes and down to the floor! Kharma couldn’t believe it as Nia Jax raised her hands into the air. The countdown clock struck once more and the next entrant was due.
Eliminated: Kharma
Entrant #14: Asuka
Talking of favourites, the undefeated superstar known as Asuka was here to make history. Nia Jax turned to the entrance to see her rival make her entrance, but before Asuka got to the ring, the superstars in the ring attacked Jax and took her down. Asuka slid into the ring and immediately clashed with Nikki Cross, delivering some hard kicks with a final roundhouse kick for good measure. Ruby Riott was next to confront The Empress of Tomorrow and took a hard backhand for her troubles. Nikki Cross got back to her feet and went back on the attack, but Asuka was taking no prisoners and delivered three backhand shots before tipping Cross over the ropes and down to the floor. Meanwhile, Banks and Becky continued to keep Nia Jax cornered while Paige scouted the opposition from the corner.
Eliminated: Nikki Cross
Entrant #15: Alicia Fox
Foxy was the next entrant into the bout and immediately crossed Asuka who met her with a flurry of kicks and punches. Paige took her chance and attacked Asuka from behind, taking The Empress of Tomorrow to the canvas. Alicia Fox joined the attack and suddenly Asuka was on the back floor. Nia Jax fought back in the opposite corner and threw both Sasha Banks and Becky Lynch over the rope rope, but both superstars managed to hang on and save their Rumble experience for just a bit longer. Jax grabbed Ruby Riott and threw her into the corner, following it up with a big avalanche. Jax then pulled Paige and Alicia Fox off Asuka and grabbed her for herself. Jax screamed into Asuka’s face and then planted her in the center of the ring with a Samoan drop.
Entrant #16: Natalya
The Queen of Harts entered the match and was keen to avoid Nia Jax, edging around her and instead going on the attack on Becky Lynch. Sasha Banks came to blows with Paige, trying to eliminate her in a struggle on the ropes. Nia Jax continued her attack on Asuka while Alicia Fox and Ruby Riott clashed as well. With the halfway mark having passed, it was becoming more and more tense as the WWE Universe wondered who would be victorious in this history-making bout. But if history was going to be made, then there were always going to be some superstars desperate to be a part of it...
Entrant #17: Lita
Nobody could hear themselves think when the theme of WWE Hall of Famer, Lita hit the arena. The former Women's Champion entered the match and climbed to the top rope before hitting an amazing hurricanrana on Nia Jax, sending the dominant superstar to the canvas. Lita then traded blows with Paige, Sasha Banks and Ruby Riott before hitting a huge dropkick on Alicia Fox. Showing no signs of ring rust, Lita kicked Natalya in the gut and dropped her with a Twist of Fate. The extreme superstar then got to her feet and clotheslined Alicia Fox over the top rope, scoring the elimination. She raised her hands in the center of the ring top a huge ovation, but her Rumble moment was about to become a whole lot more surreal.
Eliminated: Alicia Fox
Entrant #18: Trish Stratus
If you couldn't hear yourself think before, you certainly couldn't now. Another WWE Hall of Famer and arch-rival turned best friend of Lita, Trish Stratus hit the ring and entered this first-ever match. The blonde bombshell came face-to-face with Lita and time almost appeared to stand still as arguably two of the most iconic female superstars in history stood locked in an intense stare down. They smiled at each other, but quickly began trading forearms to the delight of the WWE Universe. Back and forth they went as the rest of the competitors simply watched in awe. Lita went for another Twist of Fate, but Stratus slipped out and instead delivered a Chick Kick, knocking Lita to the canvas. Trying to capitalise on the situation, Ruby Riott grabbed the legendary superstar and tried to throw her over the ropes, but instead she fell victim to another Chick Kick which sent her crashing over the ropes as the countdown clock began.
Eliminated: Ruby Riott
Entrant #19: Carmella
Miss Money in the Bank slowly made her way to the ring and came into contact with Trish Stratus, but as they came closer to each other, Carmella slapped the taste right out of Trish's mouth. Not a wise move to aggravate a WWE Hall of Famer, and Carmella found that out the hard way as Trish kicked her in the gut and dropped her with a huge Stratusfaction bulldog. Nia Jax clubbed the former Women's Champion from behind, putting an end to her momentum. But Asuka quickly joined the fray and started to brawl with the monstrous female, the two potential favourites battling it out. Lita was back on her feet and found herself scuffling with Natalya in the opposite corner. The number one and two entrants, Sasha Banks and Becky Lynch were still hanging in their, catching their breath as entrant number twenty waited in the wings.
Entrant #20: Dana Brooke
The Titus Worldwide secretary made her entrance into the Royal Rumble Match and quickly ran into Nia Jax, who grabbed the former bodybuilder and quickly sent her right back over the rope rope, cutting Dana's WrestleMania dreams very short. Seeing an opening, Lita and Becky Lynch moved in on Nia Jax and attempted to tip her over the ropes. Trish Stratus soon joined them, as did Sasha Banks. But even these four powerful superstars couldn't dispose of Nia Jax as she fought out of the sticky situation and refused to be eliminated.
Eliminated: Dana Brooke
Entrant #21: Bayley
There will certainly be no hugging in this every woman for herself match, that's for sure. But the former Raw Women's Champion entered the match and unleashed her adrenaline on her adversaries, hitting dropkicks on Natalya, Sasha Banks, Becky Lynch, Carmella and Nia Jax. But Bayley turned around to come face-to-face with two of her all-time icons, Trish Stratus and Lita. Clearly struggling with the decision to hug or fight her heroines, she decided an opportunity at WrestleMania meant too much to her and after mouthing "I'm sorry", the huggable superstar swung her fists around. But the two Hall of Famers grabbed Bayley and slammed her to the mat with a double suplex. Trish and Lita raised their hands and looked out towards the crowd, but they may have taken their eye off the ball for a bit too long as from behind, Carmella and Natalya tipped the legends over the ropes and down to the floor to the WWE Universe's dismay.
Eliminated: Trish Stratus & Lita
Entrant #22: Nikki Bella
Surprising everyone with her entrance into this first-ever bout, Nikki Bella slid into the ring and took down Paige and Natalya with a series of shots. She then dropped Carmella with a Bella Buster and then turned her attention to Asuka. After a moment of confrontation, they traded blows with Asuka coming out on top and dropping Nikki with a huge roundhouse kick. Sasha Banks entered the picture and surprised Asuka with a backstabber into the Bank Statement, but submissions cannot win you a Royal Rumble Match. However, Banks knew they could wear your opponents down and kept it locked in, hoping to take Asuka out of the match. Bayley tried to battle Nia Jax in the corner but the power advantage was clearly with Jax who threw her to the mat.
Entrant #23: Tamina
Things just got a lot more serious with the entrance of Tamina. She wasted no time grabbing Becky Lynch and driving her into the canvas with a Samoan drop. She did the same thing to Bayley and hit a superkick on Carmella. But then the fierce superstar confronted Nia Jax and the two stood across from each other for a moment, until Jax made the first move and dropped Tamina with a big boot. On the opposite side of the ring, Paige was hanging in there, keeping Sasha Banks grounded in the corner while Bayley and Natalya began to brawl. Nikki Bella looked to eliminate Asuka on the ropes as the next entrant was ready to come to the ring.
Entrant #24: Victoria
The shockers kept on coming as another former Women's Champion, Victoria made her return to WWE to compete in this historical matchup. Getting involved right away, Victoria showed off her strength by throwing her adversaries around and even delivering her patented Widow's Peak to Sasha Banks. The former Women's Champion got stuck into the action, but on the other side of the ring, Nia Jax looked to eliminate Asuka with a running clothesline,. However, using Jax's own momentum, Asuka pulled down the ropes and sent the dominant superstar over the ropes and out of the match! The WWE Universe erupted as Jax tumbled to the floor. Asuka danced around in celebration as Jax looked on in horror. She tried to get back in the ring but the officials were not having any of it and sent her packing.
Eliminated: Nia Jax
Entrant #25: Ronda Rousey
It was rumoured, and now it's a reality. Ronda Rousey is here and she's in the first-ever 3-Woman Royal Rumble Match! The former UFC fighter entered the ring to the astonishment of all the other superstars, and immediately made an impact by throwing Tamina over the ropes. Rousey then ducked beneath a shot from Paige and sent her crashing over the ropes too! Natalya then tried her hand and brawling with Rousey, but suffered a big knockout blow to the jaw which allowed Ronda to dump The Queen of Harts over and out. Rousey made a statement on her entry and looked like she could win her debut match and go onto WrestleMania. Rousey then crossed paths with Asuka to a deafening reaction, but before they could collide, Carmella and Bayley pulled either one aside and their attention turned elsewhere.
Eliminated: Tamina, Paige & Natalya
Entrant #26: Naomi
The former SmackDown Women's Champion entered the ring and joined in the action, helping her ally, Becky Lynch to take down Victoria. Not long after she entered, Naomi helped The Irish Lasskicker to toss Victoria over the ropes, eliminating her from the match. On the opposite side, Asuka had got her hands on Carmella and time was up for Miss Money in the Bank as she sent her over the ropes with a spinning heel kick! Ronda Rousey continued to battle with Bayley in the corner, proving that she can hang with the best that WWE has to offer. Nikki Bella was back on her feet and approached the ring apron from a breather, only to be surprised by the next entrant.
Eliminated: Victoria & Carmella
Entrant #27: Brie Bella
Joining her sister, Brie Bella entered the Rumble Match and in a heart-warming moment, the twins shared an embrace in the center of the ring. Their emotional moment was ruined, however, by Asuka. The Empress of Tomorrow didn't care for any reunions and hit both Bellas with backhand shots. Asuka immediately capitalised and sent Brie Bella crashing over the ropes to the outside, and then followed it up by throwing Nikki over as well with a headscissors! Asuka had single-handedly eliminated The Bella Twins. Asuka screamed to the skies and the WWE Universe were totally in awe of her presence. She turned around and once again came face-to-face with Ronda Rousey. The inevitable clash was bound to come soon, but yet again it was ruined by an intervention from Bayley and Naomi.
Eliminated: Brie Bella & Nikki Bella
Entrant #28: Shayna Baszler
Coming up short at NXT Takeover: Philadelphia, the dangerous Queen of Spades decided to try her hand in the Royal Rumble Match and quickly confronted her former UFC counterpart, Ronda Rousey. The two traded some trash talk before coming to blows in a hard-hitting brawl that had the WWE Universe on their feet. Naomi and Bayley got involved and pulled the pair apart, but Baszler and Rousey were not about to be interrupted, and threw Naomi and Bayley out respectively, eliminating them from the bout before going right back to their brawl. Sasha Banks and Becky Lynch join the fight and all hell breaks loose.
Eliminated: Naomi & Bayley
Entrant #29: Ember Moon
NXT is being represented to the fullest tonight, and even more so with the NXT Women's Champion, Ember Moon entering the historic battle. Moon climbed to the top and took down her Takeover opponent from 24 hours prior, Shayna Baszler with a huge crossbody. The War Goddess delivers a dropkick to Ronda Rousey and then hits Sasha Banks and Becky Lynch with two flying forearms. The NXT Women's Champion showed her determination and lifted Baszler up to try and eliminate her. Ronda Rousey got to her feet and dragged Ember Moon away, dropping her with a hard clothesline. Rousey then clotheslined Baszler over the top herself, eliminating her from the match. With the match almost at a close, it was time for the final entrant, and it was one that shocked the entire WWE Universe, and not in a good way.
Eliminated: Shayna Baszler
Entrant #30: Stephanie McMahon
The boos were deafening as Stephanie McMahon removed her headset and made her way down to the ring with a smirk on her face. The WWE Universe were up in arms as Stephanie had once again let her ego get the better of her, and made herself the number thirty entrant in this history-defining match. The Raw Commissioner made her way to ringside where she was greeted by Ronda Rousey. Rousey beckoned Stephanie into the ring, but the billionaire daughter had other ideas, holding her hands in the air and backing away from the superstar who embarrassed her three years ago at WrestleMania 31. But the distraction appeared to have worked as Asuka came from behind and eliminated Ronda Rousey! The WWE Universe were in shock as Rousey fell to the floor and Stephanie burst into hysterical laughter.
Eliminated: Ronda Rousey
Remaining superstars: Sasha Banks, Becky Lynch, Asuka, Ember Moon & Stephanie McMahon
Stephanie slid into the ring with a grin from ear-to-ear, sarcastically waving goodbye to Ronda Rousey as she reluctantly left up the aisle. But Stephanie should probably have thought this through as sh turned around into four intense superstars who were determined to punch their ticket to WrestleMania. Stephanie tried to wave them off, but it was no use as they all grabbed the Raw Commissioner and sent her flying over the top rope. This was every woman for themselves, and even the daughter of the Chairman wasn't exempt from that.
Eliminated: Stephanie McMahon
Remaining superstars: Sasha Banks, Becky Lynch, Asuka & Ember Moon
Four superstars remained with one of them going to WrestleMania to challenge for one of the Women's Championships. The fight broke down and bodies were flying everywhere until Asuka took control, hitting everyone with brutal kicks left and right. The Empress of Tomorrow threw Ember Moon over the top but the NXT Women's Champion hung on. But when she tried to climb up the turnbuckle to re-enter the match, Sasha Banks shoved her from the top and sent her crashing to the floor.
Eliminated: Ember Moon
Remaining superstars: Sasha Banks, Becky Lynch & Asuka
The final three were left and it wasn't long before Sasha Banks and Becky Lynch decided to unite once more to try and take out Asuka. The duo were able to take Asuka over the top, but struggled to get her down to the floor. Sasha Banks stepped back and let Becky Lynch continue trying, but suddenly she came up from behind and tipped Becky Lynch up, eliminating her from the match! Becky looked up at Sasha in shock, but The Boss simply shrugged her shoulders. However, Asuka was quick to regroup and got to her feet, spinning Sasha Banks around and drilling her with a sickening roundhouse kick and then dumping her over the top to claim the victory in the first-ever 30-Woman Royal Rumble Match!
The Bar def. Raw Tag Team Champions Seth Rollins & Jason Jordan
As any former WWE tag team competitor would tell you, communication is key. It is make or break for a tag team, especially in a Raw Tag Team Championship match. Current champions Seth Rollins and Jason Jordan have had a problem with communication recently - but they looked to right that wrong against The Bar tonight.
The Bar had no trouble communicating amongst themselves during the bout, using their tag team experience to dismantle Rollins in the opening moments. Once The Kingslayer was able to get a tag to Jordan - the momentum of the match drastically shifted in favor of the Raw Tag Team Champions. Jordan was on fire and torpedoed through Sheamus and Cesaro to the sound of boos from the wild Philadelphia crowd.
The action spilled to the outside and things went south for the explosive team of Rollins and Jordan when The Bar nearly decapitated Jordan with a a modified 3D - ala The Dudley Boyz - onto the barricade outside the ring! Seth Rollins fought through an onslaught brought on by the challengers and looked to finish things with the Blackout - the same finishing maneuver that won him the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 31 - on Cesaro, but miscommunication once again came into play. Jordan entered the ring and delivered a bulldog to a bent-over Cesaro before Seth could connect with the move, which allowed Sheamus to push Jordan out of the ring and boot Rollins with a Brogue Kick to steal the victory - a victory that marked the start of The Bar’s fourth reign as Raw Tag Team Champions.
WWE Champion AJ Styles def. Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn (2-on-1 Handicap Match)
The question surrounding this bout was if AJ Styles could overcome The Yep! Movement to continue his run on top of the Smackdown Live mountain. The Phenomenal One ultimately looked to prove that he is the face that runs the place, even though his face would battle against not one but two opponents at the same time. Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn were looking to become the first-ever co-WWE champions in history.
The numbers advantage quickly took its toll on AJ Styles when Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn double-teamed the champion with absolute ruthless aggression. Owens did take a small break to rest his injured leg, allowing Sami Zayn to continue the beatdown on his own. The champion, however, showed his talents by overcoming the initial onslaught and nearly getting an early win by locking in the Calf Crusher on Owens that was only broken up by a blindsided kick from Sami.
As the match continued with both champion and challengers exchanging offense and momentum, the vested interest in the match for the Smackdown Live Commissioner Shane McMahon was made apparent when he walked down to the ring to cheer on AJ Styles in this bout. McMahon became involved in the match after an errant Pele Kick from Styles intended for Owens connected with the referee - leaving the match with no official to call the action. The Commissioner had no choice but to take the referee’s shirt and insert himself into the match as the new referee, much to the chagrin of both Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn.
Smackdown General Manager Daniel Bryan was not a fan of Shane McMahon’s decision - Bryan himself coming down to the ring in a referee shirt as he claimed he would now be the official for the match. As Styles battled with Owens and Zayn, Bryan and Shane argued back and forth that led to a pushing match between the two bosses. The Yep! Movement momentarily stopped their attack on the WWE Champion to cheer on Bryan, who kicked Shane in the head in a moment the Philadelphia crowd absolutely loved. The distraction, however, allowed AJ Styles to roll Zayn up in a small package, the greatest move in history, as the original referee slid back into the ring to count final three.
On this historic night, AJ Styles managed to retain the WWE Championship - but once again overcame the odds thanks to the ongoing troubles between Shane McMahon, Daniel Bryan, and The Yep! Movement. And after that kick from GM to Commish, we think things on Smackdown will never ever be the same again.
Chad Gable & Shelton Benjamin def. SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos (2-out-of-3 Falls Match)
After beating the Smackdown Tag Team Champions earlier in the month only to have the result reversed, Chad Gable and Shelton Benjamin looked to defeat The Usos twice to become Smackdown Tag Team Champions in this Two-out-of-Three falls match. Chad Gable and Shelton Benjamin, an impromptu tag team that formed out of the dissolution of American Alpha and Benjamin’s delayed return to WWE, were ready to make their mark on the tag team scene.
Gable and Benjamin showed off their strategy right away, immediately pounding The Usos to the mat with a destructive assault with steel chairs. Both Jimmy and Jey were beaten to the mat - forcing the referee to call the disqualification, giving the first fall to The Usos. The damage, however, was done to the champions as Gable and Benjamin put on a wrestling clinic that left the reigning champions writing and screaming in pain. The pain from the chair attack followed by the stretching allowed Gable to easily force Jimmy Uso to tap to an Ankle Lock to decide the second fall of the match.
The next fall was for all the marbles - and the champions rebounded from the earlier sneak attack to bring the fight to the challengers. The Usos and Benjamin and Gable brawled all around the ring and traded offense like no other as they both fought for the right to be Smackdown Tag Team Champions. Benjamin and Gable connected with a slew of suplexes, but The Usos continued to fight. After dismantling Jimmy Uso with a rolling German suplex, Chad Gable finished the job alongside Shelton when they planted Jey Uso with their powerbomb and diving clothesline combination. Tonight marked the day when The Usos’ championship reign went down in flames on day 112 ish.
Universal Champion Brock Lesnar def. Braun Strowman & Kane
The squared circle is certainly no stranger to the phrase “the irresistible force meeting the immovable object.” But here at the Royal Rumble 2018, not one, not two, but three immovable objects faced off for the prestigious Universal Championship. Brock Lesnar, accompanied by his advocate Paul Heyman, took on the challenge of The Monster Among Men Braun Strowman and The Demon Kane!
This ring-shaking clash abruptly began with Brock Lesnar and Kane forming an tense short-term partnership to take down the deranged Strowman - who did not go down without a fight. Thanks to the advice from Heyman, Lesnar managed to bring The Monster Among Men to the ground with the use of the heavy and devastating steel steps. Afterwards, Lesnar exchanged the momentum with The Demon Kane, the two ring veterans brawling around the ring.
As the match went on, Braun Strowman regained his well-being and went on an absolute tear against his two opponents. Strowman threw Lesnar around as if he were a small child, and then he planted Kane through the Spanish announce table - the remnants of the table exploding! In a rematch from No Mercy, Lesnar “caught the hands” of Strowman, who unleashed a fury never seen upon the reigning and defending WWE Universal Champion. A running powerslam, however, wasn’t enough to put away The Beast before Kane returned to the melee.
Once again, the three behemoths fought outside the ring - taking full advantage of the Triple Threat rules - and managed to find themselves next to the remaining commentary booths. In order to eliminate Strowman from the contest, Kane picked up The Monster Among Men and Chokeslammed him through the Smackdown announce table! Lesnar then followed it up by giving Strowman an F5 through the Raw announce table! Strowman was down and out, having been put through two tables by his opponents.
Back in the ring, the numbers spelled disaster for Kane as he squared off against Brock Lesnar. Lesnar jumped out of a Chokeslam and planted Kane with a huge F5. Looking to add insult to injury, Lesnar picked Kane back up and eviscerated him with a second F5! Lesnar went for the cover, but Braun Strowman got back up and ran into the ring looking to break up the pin… only to be a second too late as Brock Lesnar secured another title defense for his reign as Universal Champion.
Shinsuke Nakamura wins the 30-Man Royal Rumble Match
With one Royal Rumble Match already out of the way with the first-ever 30-Woman version being won by Asuka, it was now time for the traditional 30-Man bout with the winner headlining WrestleMania. The opportunity only comes around once a year and thirty individuals are waiting in the wings for that rare chance to go on to WrestleMania and compete for their chosen World Championship. The opening moments introduced us to the superstars who drew numbers one and two, and while it is never the ideal starting position, it's been proven to be possible.
Entrant #1: Bray Wyatt
Entrant #2: Randy Orton
The WWE Championship Match from WrestleMania 33 had come full circle as Randy Orton and Bray Wyatt became the first two competitors to enter this year's Rumble bout. Moments after the bell rang, Wyatt went on the attack of his former disciple, cornering him and repeatedly delivering shot after shot. The Eater of Worlds tried to make quick work of The Viper by lifting him up over the ropes, but Orton's veteran instincts helped him fight back and stay in the match. Going for an RKO, Orton leaped into action, but Wyatt slid away and under the ropes out of harms way. The former World Champion slowly walked around the ring, glaring at Randy Orton as entrant number three was due to enter.
Entrant #3: Baron Corbin
The Lone Wolf slid into the ring and wasted no time trading blows with The Viper. Corbin gained the initial advantage and floored Orton with a huge Deep Six, but as he looked to capitalise, Bray Wyatt once again entered the match and attacked Corbin from behind. The Eater of Worlds used his mass to crush Corbin with a senton, and then did the same thing to Randy Orton. "Who's gonna stop me?!" he screamed to the WWE Universe, who didn't respond too positively. The countdown clock began again and entrant number four joined the action.
Entrant #4: Apollo Crews
Representing Titus Worldwide, Apollo Crews arrived on the scene and looked to further the brand even more with a victory. The impressive superstar took Bray Wyatt down with a standing dropkick and hit his signature standing moonsault on Baron Corbin. As he celebrated, he turned around into a big uppercut from The Viper and Orton took him down with a snap powerslam, regaining control of the situation. Wyatt climbed to his feet and approached Orton, only to be taken back down with a headlock backbreaker. Orton surveyed the chaos as the next entrant loomed.
Entrant #5: Kassius Ohno
From NXT, The Knockout Artist made his way to the ring to an ovation from the Philadelphia crowd. Coming up short against The Velveteen Dream at NXT Takeover, Ohno was looking for some redemption, and what a debut it would be to go on to headline WrestleMania. He immediately confronted The Viper and the two traded some inaudible words, but actions speak volumes and when Orton took a swing at Ohno, he missed and Ohno returned the favour with a jaw-jacking elbow. Orton dropped to the canvas in a heap as Ohno raised his hand into the air with the WWE Universe erupting. Baron Corbin spun Ohno around and went for a right hand, only to receive a shot of his own sending The Lone Wolf down to the canvas. Ohno then finds himself clubbed from behind by Bray Wyatt who disarms The Knockout Artist with a devastating Sister Abigail! Wyatt knelt beside the body of his adversary and smiled to the sky as the countdown clock began.
Entrant #6: Matt Hardy
Wyatt's smile soon turned to a scowl as The Woken Warrior, Matt Hardy made his return to the Royal Rumble Match. With a psychotic grin on his face, Hardy entered the match and both he and Bray Wyatt unleashed a flurry of right hands to each other. Hoping to avenge his loss to Wyatt at Raw's 25th anniversary, Hardy had him reeling on the ropes and went for a clothesline, but The Eater of Worlds had other plans and avoided the shot, dropping Hardy with a uranage instead. Randy Orton battled with Apollo Crews in the opposite corner, while Baron Corbin looked to eliminate Kassius Ohno.
Entrant #7: Kofi Kingston
One third of The New Day dances his way to the ring, looking to make more history in the Royal Rumble Match. The former Intercontinental Champion flew from the top rope to take down Baron Corbin with a crossbody and followed it up with a Boom Drop. Bray Wyatt moved in to put a stop to Kingston's energy, but he suffered a Trouble In Paradise, sending him right back to the canvas. Kofi joined the fight as Randy Orton continued to work over Apollo Crews in the corner. Crews battled back and went to the top rope for a high-risk move, only to learn quickly why it is called "high-risk" as Orton quickly rushed back and shoved Crews from the top and down to the floor.
Eliminated: Apollo Crews
Entrant #8: Cesaro
Earlier in the night, Cesaro recaptured the Raw Tag Team Championships along with his partner, Sheamus, and now he had the chance to headline WrestleMania as well. The Swiss Superman entered the ring and hit European uppercuts left and right on everyone who stood before him. Catching Kofi Kingston flying from the top, dropping Bray Wyatt as he ran towards him, Cesaro seemed unstoppable. But he came face-to-face with a superstar from his past, Kassius Ohno. The WWE Universe erupted as the former tag team partners on the indy scene crossed paths. In an exciting scene, the two began trading hard shots and when Cesaro looked to have the upper hand, Ohno dropped him with a huge knockout blow. Ohno mocked Cesaro with his signature taunt to the WWE Universe's delight. Bray Wyatt and Matt Hardy continued their Great War in the corner while Baron Corbin had Orton on the ropes ready for elimination, but The Viper was able to fight out of it.
Entrant #9: Rusev
It's Rusev Day! The Bulgarian Brute made his way to the ring and clashed with Kassius Ohno, but he was able to take The Knockout Artist down with a superkick. With the WWE Universe chanting behind him, Rusev went on a tear, first crushing Kofi Kingston in the corner with an avalanche, and then dragging Bray Wyatt away from Matt Hardy to drop him with a big gutwrench suplex. Unfortunately, his momentum was cut short by Randy Orton who dropped him with a huge RKO! The Viper had snapped and hit an RKO on Baron Corbin and Cesaro as well. Orton was well on his way to winning his third Royal Rumble Match. He lifted Kofi Kingston to his feet and hit yet another RKO, maintaining control of the match. As he grabbed Kingston, presumably to eliminate him, the countdown clock struck once more.
Entrant #10: Shinsuke Nakamura
The Viper's expression changed and he dropped Kingston, focusing solely on the arrival of The Rockstar. The former NXT Champion entered the ring and engaged in a stare down with Randy Orton to chants of his name from the crowd. "Come onnnnnn" Nakamura shouted in vintage fashion as Orton looked on with a smirk. The Viper struck and immediately went for an RKO, but Nakamura pushed him away and caught him coming back with a big leg lariat. And another, and another. Nakamura measured Orton for the Kinshasa, but he was pulled aside by Rusev. The Bulgarian Brute may have regretted his decision as he took the brunt instead, Nakamura drilling him with a Kinshasa. Baron Corbin rushed towards Nakamura, only to be taken over the ropes by his own momentum and was eliminated from the match.
Eliminated: Baron Corbin
Entrant #11: Tye Dillinger
It might not be number ten, but it's close enough. The Perfect 10 quickly made a statement, grabbing Cesaro and planting him with a Tye Breaker. Dillinger then took aim on Bray Wyatt, brawling with The Eater of Worlds, but his decision to target such a dangerous foe may not have been the wisest idea as Wyatt delivered a sickening headbutt to Tye and then drove him into the canvas with a Sister Abigail. The New Face of Fear lifted Dillinger to his feet and dumped him over the top rope, cutting his WrestleMania dreams short. Matt Hardy took the opportunity to try and eliminate Bray Wyatt, but was unsuccessful. Kassius Ohno started a fight with Randy Orton in the corner while Shinsuke Nakamura and Rusev scuffled on the opposite side. Kofi Kingston edged his way around the ring, picking his spots.
Eliminated: Tye Dillinger
Entrant #12: Seth Rollins
Not in the best of moods after losing his Raw Tag Team Championships earlier in the night, Seth Rollins made a beeline for Cesaro. The Architect tackled him to the canvas and hit him with a flurry of right hands. He dragged The Swiss Superman to his feet and drilled him with a huge enziguiri. Kofi Kingston attempted to intervene, but was met with a superkick from Rollins. The Kingslayer evaded a shot from Kassius Ohno and hit him with a spin kick, and then drove his boot into the face of Randy Orton with a dropkick. Rollins was on fire as the countdown clock returned.
Entrant #13: Titus O'Neil
The leader of Titus Worldwide may have lost his right-hand man, Apollo Crews already, but he was determined to take his brand to WrestleMania if it's the last thing he does. He entered the match with intensity and delivered a big Clash of the Titus to Cesaro. O'Neil took his eye off the ball and performed his "Worldwide" taunt to the WWE Universe, only to be dumped over the top rope from behind by Bray Wyatt. The Eater of Worlds chuckled to himself before turning around to Kassius Ohno with a knockout blow. Matt Hardy collided with Shinsuke Nakamura by the ropes, the two unorthodox superstars trading blows.
Eliminated: Titus O'Neil
Entrant #14: Big E
Kofi Kingston received some help in the form of his New Day ally, Big E. But as he approached ringside, Kofi Kingston was vaulted over the ropes by Cesaro. Big E caught his ally and stopped him from touching the floor. Once again escaping elimination, Kingston is rolled back into the ring as Big E follows, the pair taking Cesaro down with a double clothesline. Randy Orton tipped Kassius Ohno over the ropes in an attempt to eliminate him, but Ohno responded with a hard shot, stumbling The Viper. But Ohno's night was ended by Rusev who rushed into the scene and knocked Ohno from the apron with a superkick. The Bulgarian Brute celebrated the elimination to the WWE Universe's dismay.
Eliminated: Kassius Ohno
Entrant #15: Aiden English
Rusev's tag team partner arrived at ringside, but as he approached the apron, Kassius Ohno decided to get a measure of revenge on the man who eliminated him and took out his partner, English with a huge rolling elbow. Ohno rolled the unconscious body of Aiden English into the ring at Rusev's feet as The Bulgarian Brute looked down at his fallen ally. He turned around to see Randy Orton behind him, and with a big clothesline, sent Rusev over the ropes and down to the floor! The Viper quickly picked up Aiden English as well and sent him following Rusev, eliminating him as well. Meanwhile, Bray Wyatt and Matt Hardy battled atop the turnbuckle in a very precarious position. The Eater of Worlds raked the eyes of The Woken Warrior and pushed him off the top, sending him crashing down to the arena floor. Wyatt outstretched his arms and laughed while sat on the top rope.
Eliminated: Rusev, Aiden English & Matt Hardy
Entrant #16: Sheamus
The other half of the new Raw Tag Team Champions enters the ring and assists his ally, Cesaro to take down Seth Rollins. Bray Wyatt descends from the top and clashes with The New Day, holding his own against the former Tag Team Champions. Randy Orton and Shinsuke Nakamura continue to clash in the corner, revisiting their rivalry from SmackDown Live as the Rumble continues. With over half the field entered, things start to get extremely tense.
Entrant #17: Jason Jordan
The former Raw Tag Team Champion quickly made his way to the ring, just in time to save Seth Rollins from elimination. Aligning with his tag team partner, they took the fight to the new Champions and Seth Rollins was able to deliver a superkick to Cesaro, sending him flying over the ropes! Sheamus saw the elimination and went for a Brogue Kick on Rollins, only for The Architect to move, hanging Sheamus up and allowing him to tip The Celtic Warrior over and out! Rollins and Jordan celebrate the eliminations as a unit, perhaps showing that their loss earlier in the night was not the end of their alliance. However, that soon changed when in a shocking turn of events, Jason Jordan grabbed Rollins and threw him over the top rope! Jordan shrugged his shoulders at Rollins as he looked up from the arena floor in disbelief. The WWE Universe expressed their dismay for Jordan's actions as Rollins was forced to leave ringside.
Eliminated: Cesaro, Sheamus & Seth Rollins
Entrant #18: The Miz
The reigning Intercontinental Champion entered the Royal Rumble Match with victory on his mind. He cleverly avoided any conflict by jumping onto the apron and scouting out his moments to strike. The New Day were on the verge of eliminating Bray Wyatt while Orton had Nakamura on the ropes as well. Jason Jordan intervened in the battle between Orton and Nakamura and even took down The Viper with a German suplex. Jordan then tried to eliminate Nakamura himself as the countdown clock once again began.
Entrant #19: Bobby Roode
Glorious! The United States Champion had successfully defended his title in the Kickoff Show, and now had his sights set on going to WrestleMania. Roode spotted The Miz on the ring apron and pulled him to the floor, trading blows with him. The two then entered the ring and Roode made sure Miz got himself involved. The two Champions went back-and-forth until Roode took him down with a Glorious DDT. Retaliating from earlier, Randy Orton spun Jason Jordan around and dropped him with an RKO! He picked up the former Raw Tag Team Champion and tossed him over the top for an elimination. The first two entrants once again came face-to-face as Orton and Wyatt collided in the center of the ring. The New Day regrouped in the corner, awaiting the arrival of their third member, Xavier Woods, and it just so happens that they didn't have to wait that long.
Eliminated: Jason Jordan
Entrant #20: Xavier Woods
The entire New Day had now entered the Royal Rumble and they wasted no time getting to work, trying to eliminate Randy Orton and Bray Wyatt. However, Shinsuke Nakamura breaks up the fight and in an extremely oddball alliance, Orton, Wyatt and Nakamura each eliminate a member of The New Day! The trio looked at each other for a moment before engaging in a brawl once more, ending their momentary alliance. Bobby Roode and The Miz continued to battle on the other side of the ring. as the Rumble rolled on.
Eliminated: Kofi Kingston, Big E & Xavier Woods
Entrant #21: Elias
Drawing a decent number, The Drifter made his way to the ring... slowly. Holding his guitar, he strolled his way down the aisle and paused as he reached the ring apron. Elias simply paced back-and-forth, observing the ongoing match. Randy Orton managed to escape the onslaught of Wyatt and Nakamura, leaving them to fight amongst themselves. While The Miz gained the upper hand on Bobby Roode and rolled under the ropes for a breather. Orton grabbed Roode and they began to trade blows, Miz looking on with a smile, knowing he had a good strategy, until he walked into Elias on the other side of the ring. Miz raised his hands and tried to convince Elias that they could have an alliance, but Elias didn't seem interested and simply turned his focus back to the match itself. But his focus was about to turn drastically with the next entrant.
Entrant #22: John Cena
Elias spun round faster than ever as Cena's theme played around the arena. Miz backed away as the former 16-time World Champion stormed down the aisle and immediately came into contact with the man who assaulted him on Raw's 25th anniversary. Cena ducked beneath a guitar shot and instead tackled Elias to the floor. The Cenation Leader picked up the guitar for himself and returned the favour from this past Monday, smashing it over the spine of Elias! He rolled The Drifter into the ring and hit him with three shoulder blocks before dropping a Five-Knuckle Shuffle. But as he measured him for the Attitude Adjustment, Bray Wyatt intervened, only to be lifted up by Cena and thrown over the top rope with an Attitude Adjustment for himself! Cena turned back around into a big clothesline from Elias. The Drifter stumbled into the corner having taken down Cena and stopped his momentum.
Eliminated: Bray Wyatt
Entrant #23: Kevin Owens
Shocking the WWE Universe, Kevin Owens entered the Royal Rumble bout after failing to win the WWE Championship alongside Sami Zayn earlier in the night. We were informed that the decision to add Kevin Owens was made by SmackDown Live General Manager, Daniel Bryan. Owens entered the ring and didn't waste any time making an impact, driving Randy Orton down with a Pop-up Powerbomb, and then taking Nakamura off his feet with a superkick. Owens came face-to-face with John Cena, revisiting their old rivalry and the two traded blows. Cena lifted Owens onto his shoulders for an Attitude Adjustment, but Owens slipped off and shoved Cena into Elias, who dropped him with the Drift Away neckbreaker! Elias and Owens smiled at each other momentarily, only for both men to be taken down by Bobby Roode and Randy Orton.
Entrant #24: Sami Zayn
Anyone would think it was planned... and it probably was. Sami Zayn immediately follows his best friend, Kevin Owens and enters the Royal Rumble. He goes right to assist his ally who is in the process of trying to eliminate Bobby Roode. Randy Orton and Shinsuke Nakamura come onto the scene and trade blows with Owens and Zayn, the SmackDown Live group representing tonight. Elias continued to work over John Cena in the corner, shouting the occasional insult towards the former World Champion. The Intercontinental Champion, The Miz remained on the outside of the ring, which went unnoticed for the most part.
Entrant #25: Finn Bálor
The first-ever Universal Champion made his entrance into the Royal Rumble and clashed right away with Elias, taking The Drifter down with a huge slingblade. Bálor then turned his attention to The Miz on the outside and beckoned him into the ring with a smile. The A-Lister scowled at Bálor from the outside, but he did climb onto the apron and point some fingers towards the leader of The Bálor Club. Elias attacked Bálor from behind and The Miz took that moment to step in and join in the attack. On the other side of the ring, Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn had taken down Randy Orton and were trying to eliminate Shinsuke Nakamura. The Rockstar battled back and took both men down, even hitting a big roundhouse kick on Sami Zayn.
Entrant #26: Jinder Mahal
The WWE Universe were not too happy to see the former WWE Champion, but he entered the ring and almost immediately scooped up Bobby Roode who was resting on the ropes and tipped him over the top! Boos rained down on The Modern Day Maharajah as he eliminated The Glorious One. Mahal raised his hands into the air and celebrated to the dismay of the WWE Universe. Bobby Roode looked on in disappointment before taking his leave as Mahal turned his attention to Shinsuke Nakamura. The former rivals traded blows with one another with Mahal gaining the advantage. John Cena resurfaced in the match and took down Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn with a double shoulder block and then followed it up with a unique double Five-Knuckle Shuffle. The Drifter targeted Cena once more and ran towards him, but instead of hitting his intended move, Cena quickly lifted him onto his shoulders and sent him over the ropes with an Attitude Adjustment! The WWE Universe cheered as Elias crashed to the floor.
Eliminated: Elias
Entrant #27: Samoa Joe
Originally believed to be out of the match due to injury, Samoa Joe made a shocking entrance into the Royal Rumble Match. The Destroyer slid into the ring and immediately came face-to-face with John Cena. After some trash talk, Joe struck with a back elbow and took Cena down with a snap suplex. Joe stood over the fallen Cena and pointed towards the WrestleMania sign. The Miz continued to beat down on Finn Bálor, Nakamura and Mahal brawled in the corner and Randy Orton was in the process of trying to eliminate Sami Zayn. But Kevin Owens managed to save his best friend and after some struggle, Owens and Zayn shockingly eliminated The Viper! Orton tumbled to the floor after an incredible showing from number two. Owens and Zayn laughed and embraced in celebration.
Eliminated: Randy Orton
Entrant #28: Mojo Rawley
The newly aggressive Mojo Rawley stormed to the ring and showed off his brute force by tackling Randy Orton to the floor on the outside. Rawley screamed at the WWE Universe and then entered the ring, delivering another tackle to Nakamura. Rawley was on a tear, attacking everyone in the ring before focusing on Nakamura alone. Samoa Joe was still working over John Cena in the corner, showing a disturbing focus on the former World Champion. On the opposite side of the ring, Finn Bálor began battling back against The Miz and almost had the Intercontinental Champion over the ropes when out of nowhere, The Miztourage arrived on the scene. Curtis Axel and Bo Dallas hopped into the ring and attacked Finn Bálor, saving The Miz from elimination. Despite the referee's warnings, they continued to assault Bálor, that was until the arrival of Bálor's allies, Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson. The Bálor Club united to take down The Miztourage and both Gallows and Anderson sent Axel and Dallas packing.
Entrant #29: Roman Reigns
The Big Dog had arrived, and he slid into the ring before drilling Mojo Rawley with a Spear, following it up by launching over the top rope! Jinder Mahal was next to go for the former World Champion, but he too fell victim to Reigns after a Superman Punch, followed by a clothesline over the top. Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn targetted The Big Dog and almost gained the advantage, but Reigns battled back and had them on the ropes, when out of nowhere, Shinsuke Nakamura joined the fight and helped Reigns clothesline the best friends over and out! With just one more superstar to make their entrance, the road to WrestleMania was truly in sight.
Eliminated: Mojo Rawley, Jinder Mahal, Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn
Entrant #30: Braun Strowman
The reaction was deafening as The Monster Among Men who was unsuccessful in his attempt to become WWE Universal Champion earlier in the night made his entrance into the Royal Rumble. Immediately upon entering, Strowman dominated and grabbed both Finn Bálor and The Miz, tossing them over the ropes and knocking them out of the match. Strowman bellowed to the sounds of the WWE Universe as it became clear that we were down to Braun Strowman, Roman Reigns, John Cena, Samoa Joe and Shinsuke Nakamura. John Cena exploded out of the corner and took down Samoa Joe with a clothesline, and then confronted The Monster Among Men. He delivered some hard rights to the gargantuan, a even had him on the ropes, but when he tried to eliminate Strowman, the monster battled back and threw Cena to the canvas. When the former 16-time World Champion went back on the offensive, he was side-stepped by the big man, and out of nowhere, Samoa Joe returned to the fight and delivered a thunderous clothesline sending Cena over the ropes and to the floor! Samoa Joe had just eliminated the iconic John Cena!
Eliminated: Finn Bálor, The Miz & John Cena
Remaining superstars: Shinsuke Nakamura, Samoa Joe, Roman Reigns & Braun Strowman
Realising the situation at hand, Roman Reigns and Shinsuke Nakamura united to combat Braun Strowman, and even Samoa Joe got in on the action. But as Strowman threw his three adversaries away, he threw Roman Reigns over the top rope... but The Big Dog hung on. Samoa Joe tried to eliminate SHinsuke Nakamura, but The Rockstar turned the tables and as he fell over the top, he pulled The Destroyer with him and sent him crashing to the floor!
Eliminated: Samoa Joe
Remaining superstars: Shinsuke Nakamura, Roman Reigns & Braun Strowman
Inside the ring, Roman Reigns hit a Superman Punch on Braun Strowman, sending him stumbling over to the ropes. Reigns hit a second consecutive Superman Punch on the big man, almost knocking him over. Then, Shinsuke Nakamura pulled down the ropes as Roman Reigns hit his third Superman Punch, sending The Monster Among Men over and to the floor in a shocking elimination!
Eliminated: Braun Strowman
Remaining superstars: Shinsuke Nakamura & Roman Reigns
Nakamura rolled back into the ring and the WWE Universe erupted as The Rockstar was nose-to-nose with The Big Dog in the final two. Chants for Nakamura were deafening as the two stared into the eyes of the other. Reigns made the first move with a strong uppercut, but Nakamure returned the favour with a hard forearm. The former World Champion bounced Nakamura off the ropes and went for another Superman Punch, but Nakamura ducked the shot and instead hit a spinning heel kick, taking down Reigns. Nakamura pointed to the WrestleMania sign looming above the ring and grabbed Reigns before throwing him over the top, but once again Reigns was able to hang on. Nakamura ran at Reigns, only to receive a big punch which stunned The Rockstar. But when Roman Reigns tried to re-enter the ring, Nakamura threw caution to the wind and threw himself over the ropes with a big roundhouse kick. Both men hung precariously on the apron as the tension began to build. Reigns blocked another kick and shoved Nakamura back, but in an explosive comeback, Nakamura ran and delivered a thunderous Kinshasa, knocking Reigns out cold and sending him to the floor!
Shinsuke Nakamura fell back into the ring as the bell rang to declare him the winner of the 2018 Royal Rumble and his ticket to WrestleMania had been punched! The former NXT Champion now had the opportunity of a lifetime and will headline WrestleMania 34 for a World title of his choosing. The Rockstar is here, and he holds all the cards. The King of Strong Style has truly arrived!