Royal Rumble 2023: Results, Highlights, And Surprises

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Royal Rumble 2023: Results, Highlights, and Surprises

The Royal Rumble 2023 was one heck of a night for wrestling fans! Held on January 28, 2023, at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, this event delivered all the drama, surprises, and unforgettable moments we've come to expect from the Royal Rumble. Whether you're a die-hard WWE follower or just getting into the sport, let's dive into the juicy details of what went down.

Setting the Stage: What You Need to Know About Royal Rumble

Before we jump into the specifics of the 2023 event, let's cover some basics about the Royal Rumble itself. The Royal Rumble is a yearly professional wrestling event, produced by WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) since 1988. It's known as one of WWE's 'Big Four' pay-per-views, alongside WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Survivor Series. What makes the Royal Rumble unique is its namesake match: the Royal Rumble match.

The Royal Rumble match typically features 30 wrestlers (though there have been variations). Wrestlers enter the match at timed intervals, usually 90 seconds or two minutes apart. The goal is simple: eliminate your opponents by throwing them over the top rope with both feet touching the floor. The last wrestler standing is declared the winner and earns a championship match at WrestleMania. This high-stakes opportunity makes the Royal Rumble one of the most exciting and unpredictable events in WWE. The event usually features other championship matches as well, adding to the overall excitement.

Beyond the main event Royal Rumble matches (one for men and, since 2018, one for women), the event usually includes other high-profile championship matches. These matches often feature some of WWE's biggest stars battling for their respective titles, adding another layer of excitement and importance to the show. The Royal Rumble is more than just a single match; it's an entire event packed with wrestling action and drama. This year's event lived up to all the hype, delivering a night full of memorable moments and surprises that have fans talking for weeks.

The Men's Royal Rumble Match: A Battle of Titans

The Men's Royal Rumble match was, as always, a total rollercoaster. The match included a mix of current stars, legends, and surprise entrants, making for some truly unforgettable moments. Cody Rhodes made his return in this match, after a long injury. He entered at number 30, and won the Royal Rumble match.

The match began with two well-known rivals in the WWE Universe, in Gunther and Sheamus. The match continued and saw many stars enter, some highlights from the match included the returns of WWE Legend Edge, who was seeking retribution on the Judgment Day. Another legend in Booker T also made an appearance. The final four in the match consisted of Cody Rhodes, Gunther, Seth Rollins, and Austin Theory. Rhodes would eliminate both Theory and Rollins, before finally eliminating Gunther to win the match.

The Women's Royal Rumble Match: History in the Making

The Women's Royal Rumble match was just as thrilling, showcasing the incredible talent and athleticism of WWE's female superstars. This match had a different feel compared to the men's match, with a greater focus on storytelling and rivalries. Asuka would win the Royal Rumble match, however this was mired in controversy as she never officially eliminated Rhea Ripley. Both women fell at the same time, however, the referees declared Asuka the winner.

There were a number of celebrity appearances in this match, with the return of Michelle McCool who dominated the match for a period of time. Other superstars from the past included names such as, Nia Jax, Piper Niven, and Chelsea Green. In terms of the final four, this included Rhea Ripley, Asuka, Charlotte Flair and Bianca Belair. Belair was eliminated, and then Flair was eliminated by Ripley. Asuka and Ripley would both be eliminated at the same time, however, the referees declared Asuka the winner.

Other Key Matches and Moments

While the Royal Rumble matches themselves are the main draw, the 2023 event also featured several other significant matches. These matches not only added to the overall excitement of the night but also had important implications for the storylines heading into WrestleMania.

  • Bray Wyatt vs. LA Knight (Pitch Black Match): Bray Wyatt and LA Knight had a match that was very unique, as it was contested under Pitch Black rules. The match included neon lights and the superstars could use anything to try and beat their opponent. Wyatt would ultimately win the match.
  • Alexa Bliss vs. Bianca Belair (Raw Women's Championship): Bianca Belair continued her reign as Raw Women's Champion after defeating Alexa Bliss. This match was very competitive, with the match lasting just over 7 minutes. Belair would win with a KOD to retain her championship.
  • Roman Reigns vs. Kevin Owens (Undisputed WWE Universal Championship): Roman Reigns continues to dominate the WWE, as he defeated Kevin Owens to retain his championship. After the match, Sami Zayn would turn on Roman Reigns after Reigns ordered him to attack Owens with a chair. Zayn refused, and attacked Reigns. This would lead to the Bloodline attacking Zayn.

Biggest Surprises and Shocking Twists

The Royal Rumble is known for its surprises, and the 2023 event didn't disappoint. From unexpected entrants in the Royal Rumble matches to shocking turns and betrayals, there were plenty of moments that left fans gasping.

  • Cody Rhodes' Return: After being out with an injury for several months, Cody Rhodes made his triumphant return in the Men's Royal Rumble match. His entry at number 30 was met with a huge reaction from the crowd, and he went on to win the match, securing his spot in the main event of WrestleMania.
  • Edge Returns: Edge had been out with an injury, after being attacked by members of the Judgment Day. He sought retribution on the Judgment Day, and he eliminated both Dominik Mysterio and Finn Balor from the Royal Rumble match.
  • Sami Zayn Turns on Roman Reigns: In what was arguably the most shocking moment of the night, Sami Zayn finally turned on Roman Reigns after months of tension within The Bloodline. This betrayal had been building for weeks, and the crowd erupted when Zayn finally snapped, attacking Reigns and siding with Kevin Owens.

The Road to WrestleMania: What's Next?

With the Royal Rumble 2023 in the books, the road to WrestleMania is officially underway. The winners of the Royal Rumble matches, Cody Rhodes and Asuka, have secured their spots in the main events of WrestleMania, where they will challenge for championships. The outcomes of the other matches at the Royal Rumble have also set the stage for new rivalries and storylines that will play out in the coming months.

The Royal Rumble is the first step on the 'Road to WrestleMania,' and the 2023 event has set the stage for an exciting few months in WWE. Expect to see the storylines and rivalries that started at the Royal Rumble continue to develop, with new twists and turns along the way. WrestleMania is WWE's biggest event of the year, and the Royal Rumble is the starting point for many of the storylines that will culminate at the show.

Final Thoughts: A Royal Rumble to Remember

The Royal Rumble 2023 was a night to remember, filled with thrilling matches, shocking surprises, and unforgettable moments. From the returns of Cody Rhodes and Edge to the shocking betrayal of Sami Zayn, there was something for every wrestling fan to enjoy. As we look ahead to WrestleMania, it's clear that the Royal Rumble has set the stage for an exciting and unpredictable road ahead. Whether you were there in person or watching from home, the Royal Rumble 2023 was a reminder of why we love professional wrestling.

So there you have it, guys! The Royal Rumble 2023 delivered big time. What were your favorite moments? Who do you think will walk out of WrestleMania as champion? Let's get the conversation going!