NEW DELHI: The
Royal Rumble
match, a creation of the ingenious Pat Patterson, first graced television screens on the USA Network in 1988.
Over the years, this annual event has become a cornerstone of WWE's "big four" premium live events. The 30-Man Royal Rumble bouts are often remembered for their thrilling encounters and unforgettable moments.
In this retrospective, we revisit the top five Royal Rumble matches that have left an indelible mark on wrestling history.
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5. Royal Rumble 1997
The 10th annual Royal Rumble in 1997 showcased the emergence of
Stone Cold Steve Austin
, who secured the first of his three Rumble victories.
Despite a somewhat depleted talent roster, Austin's aggressiveness and energy, coupled with a controversial finish, made this a 45-minute thriller and a standout moment in Royal Rumble history.
4. Royal Rumble 2001
The 2001 Royal Rumble match was a rollercoaster of excitement, featuring surprise entrants, a hardcore section, and even a cameo by comedian Drew Carey.
With Stone Cold Steve Austin assaulting
Triple H
, the final moments saw Austin eliminate The Rock and Kane to secure a record third Rumble victory. This match remains etched in memory for its celebrity appearances, surprise twists, and non-stop action.
3. Royal Rumble 2007
The 2007 Royal Rumble boasted a star-studded lineup, with The Undertaker,
Shawn Michaels
,
Randy Orton
, Edge, and others vying for victory.
The final two participants, Michaels and The Undertaker, engaged in a phenomenal 7-minute exchange, showcasing dramatic storytelling. Undertaker's win from the number 30 spot marked a historic moment in Royal Rumble history.
2. Royal Rumble 2010
The 2010 Royal Rumble was a star-studded affair featuring Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Batista,
John Cena
, and others.
CM Punk's entertaining dominance, Beth Phoenix's historic participation, and Shawn Michaels' desperate quest to win the match for a WrestleMania title shot created a captivating narrative. Edge's surprise return and eventual victory added to the drama, making this Rumble a stunning match in WWE history.
1. Royal Rumble 1992
Revered as the greatest Royal Rumble match, the 1992 edition stands out for
Ric Flair
's extraordinary performance. Wrestling for an hour, Flair eliminated five participants and outlasted legends like Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage, and The Undertaker.
The vacant WWF Championship added urgency, and Flair's historic victory set the stage for WrestleMania VIII. With constant action, compelling storytelling, and a foresight to shape future storylines, the 1992 Royal Rumble remains unmatched even three decades later.
(Inputs from agencies)
