The 2017 Royal Rumble was an electrifying spectacle that took place on January 29, 2017, at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. This annual wrestling extravaganza has been a cornerstone of WWE entertainment, captivating fans with its unique twist on elimination-style matches. With a record of 30 Superstars entering the arena, each vying for a chance to headline WrestleMania, the Royal Rumble has become synonymous with surprising returns and shocking eliminations. For fans that year, it was no different, as the event set the stage for some unforgettable moments that would resonate throughout the year in the wrestling world.
Key Facts About the Event
Here’s a breakdown of some key facts surrounding the 2017 Royal Rumble that highlight its significance:
- Event Location: Alamodome, San Antonio, Texas
- Date: January 29, 2017
- Attendance: Approximately 52,000 fans packed the Alamodome, making it one of the largest crowds in recent Rumble history.
- Theme: The event focused heavily on nostalgia, with several legends and returning stars making their presence felt.
The main attraction was, of course, the 30-man Royal Rumble match. Each entrant was paired with suspenseful moments as the countdown clock ticked down to zero, prompting seismic crowd reactions. The match concluded with Randy Orton emerging as the winner, after last eliminating Roman Reigns and The Undertaker, both of whom had epic runs during the Rumble.
Match Type | Winner | Significant Highlights |
---|---|---|
Royal Rumble Match | Randy Orton | Return of Legends, Surprise Entrants (like Brock Lesnar) |
Universal Championship Match | Goldberg | Goldberg def. Kevin Owens |
From the unexpected returns to the fierce competition among the Superstars, the 2017 Royal Rumble was a dazzling delight for fans, encapsulating what makes WWE so thrilling and memorable.
Read This: Can Rumble Strips Damage Your Car? An In-Depth Look at Road Safety
The Build-Up to the Royal Rumble
Ah, the excitement leading up to the Royal Rumble! It’s always a time filled with anticipation, surprises, and a few twists along the way. For 2017, fans were particularly buzzing with excitement as the event promised to be one of the most unpredictable iterations yet.
In the weeks prior, WWE programming was rife with storylines that had fans guessing who would enter the Rumble and who might come out on top. Several Superstars began dropping hints and making bold declarations, each trying to outshine the other as they prepared to stake their claim to WrestleMania glory.
- Legends Returning: Fans were thrilled to hear about some exciting former WWE legends that were rumored to make an appearance. The nostalgia factor was at an all-time high.
- Rivalries Intensifying: Existing rivalries intensified as Superstars exchanged heated words and even physical altercations in the weeks leading up to the match, setting the stage for an explosive showdown.
- Unforeseen Entrants: Speculation grew around surprise entrants from various brands. This escalated the tension as loyal fans tried to guess who might enter the Rumble.
The show was also spotlights on the title shots that would be on the line, heaping on layers of pressure for the competitors. When the official Royal Rumble matches were announced and the entry list circulated, fans couldn’t help but speculate how everything would unfold in this epic match—a true spectacle in the world of professional wrestling.
Read This: Why Didn’t Eren Stop the Rumbling in Attack on Titan?
Match Format and Rules
Entering the Royal Rumble is like stepping into a gladiatorial arena, and the rules for this iconic match are as thrilling as the event itself! In 2017, the format was tried-and-true but still offered plenty of room for surprises and excitement.
Here’s a breakdown of how the Royal Rumble works:
Element | Description |
---|---|
Participants | Twenty-nine competitors plus one surprise entrant, totaling 30 Superstars. |
Entry Order | Two Superstars start the match, and every 90 seconds, another wrestler enters. |
Elimination | Superstars can be eliminated by being thrown over the top rope, with both feet touching the floor. |
Winning | The last competitor remaining in the ring is declared the winner and earns a shot at a championship title at WrestleMania. |
Right from the get-go, the suspense builds as you never know who will enter next or which surprise talent will make an appearance. The unpredictability of the eliminations, coupled with the chaotic energy of the crowd, creates an electrifying atmosphere that captures the essence of professional wrestling perfectly.
As the clock ticks down and entrants pour into the ring, alliances are formed, rivalries flare up, and the intensity escalates. This is what makes the Royal Rumble one of the most entertaining events in the WWE calendar! If you thought the build-up was exhilarating, you can only imagine how the match itself played out!
Read This: Who Won the Royal Rumble 2012? Reliving WWE’s Iconic Matches
5. Surprise Entrants and Returning Legends
The 2017 Royal Rumble was packed with unexpected surprises and nostalgic returns that added to the excitement of the event. Fans were buzzing in anticipation as the entry numbers were announced, and it was no disappointment! Here are some of the most memorable surprise entrants and legends that made their comeback:
- Randy Orton (Entry #22) - While not exactly a surprise to die-hard fans, Orton’s return to the Rumble after a brief injury layoff generated immense excitement. The Viper showcased his legendary skills and ultimately emerged as the winner of the match, solidifying his status in WWE history.
- Undertaker (Entry #29) - This was one of the most electrifying moments of the night! The lights went dim, and the familiar gong echoed throughout the arena. Fans erupted as the Deadman made his iconic entrance, sending shivers down the spines of competitors and fans alike.
- Goldberg (Entry #28) - Fresh off his return to the WWE, Goldberg mania took over as he stormed into the ring. His quick elimination of several superstars reminded everyone why he’s a legend in the business.
- James Ellsworth (Entry #1) - With his underdog story, Ellsworth’s entry was both surprising and endearing. He entered the match as the first competitor and managed to last longer than many expected, bringing fans on a rollercoaster of emotions.
These surprise entrants and returning legends not only boosted the Rumble’s intensity but also created memorable moments that fans would talk about long after the event was over.
Read This: When Is the Next Royal Rumble? Date and Schedule for Upcoming Events
6. Highlight Moments from the Rumble Match
The 2017 Royal Rumble was not just a battle for supremacy; it was filled with jaw-dropping moments that had the audience on the edge of their seats. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and relive some of the most unforgettable highlights:
Moment | Description |
---|---|
First Elimination | Right from the start, the action was fierce. The first elimination came quickly, setting the tone for the rest of the match. |
Goldberg vs. Lesnar | When Goldberg and Brock Lesnar faced off in the ring, fans were treated to a clash of titans. The anticipation was electric, and their confrontation delivered big-time drama. |
Undertaker’s Chokeslam | The Deadman made his presence felt by chokeslamming multiple competitors, reminding everyone that he still possesses the power to dominate. |
Orton outlasts everyone | The climactic moment came when Randy Orton outsmarted Roman Reigns and The Undertaker, bringing home the victory. Fans were divided—cheering for Orton's clever tactics while respecting the legacies of the legends. |
These highlights, along with a thrilling atmosphere and the anticipation of who would claim victory, made the 2017 Royal Rumble an event that stands out in wrestling history. Each moment contributed to the narrative and excitement of the match, leaving fans both satisfied and yearning for what’s next!
Read This: How to Play Crash Team Rumble Without PlayStation Plus and Enjoy the Game
The Final Four Competitors
As the 2017 Royal Rumble unfolded, the excitement heightened as we approached the final moments of the match. The atmosphere was electric, with fans on the edge of their seats. The *Final Four Competitors* who fought fiercely to claim victory were:
- Roman Reigns
- Bray Wyatt
- Randy Orton
- Chris Jericho
Each of these superstars brought their unique styles and strategies to the ring, and it was a thrilling showcase of athletic prowess:
- Roman Reigns: Known for his power moves and resilience, he was a former WWE Champion and undoubtedly one of the favorites, though some fans were divided about his popularity.
- Bray Wyatt: With his eerie persona and mind games, Wyatt used the psychological edge to try to eliminate his opponents in a cunning manner.
- Randy Orton: A veteran in the ring and master strategist, Orton's methodical approach often led him to victory in high-stakes matches.
- Chris Jericho: The cunning veteran, Jericho was not only a fan favorite but also known for his ability to outmaneuver his opponents, often staying in the ring longer than expected.
Each competitor had the potential to walk away with a title shot at WrestleMania, making this moment all the more riveting!
Read This: How Much Does Rumble Awakening Cost and How Can You Unlock It?
Who Won the 2017 Royal Rumble?
As the final showdown unfolded, the tension in the air was palpable. After an intense back-and-forth battle, it was Randy Orton who emerged victorious from the chaos of the Royal Rumble match. This victory marked Orton's second Royal Rumble win, with his first being back in 2009.
So, how did he do it? Here’s a quick breakdown of his path to triumph:
Competitor Eliminated | Method |
---|---|
Chris Jericho | Pushed over the top rope |
Bray Wyatt | Eliminated after a confrontation |
Roman Reigns | Last competitor eliminated |
Orton’s strategy was clear: he played the long game by hanging back and waiting for the right moments to strike. After a surprise partnership with Bray Wyatt that even led fans to believe they might work together, Orton turned on Wyatt, showcasing his classic cunning style that fans have come to love.
The victory not only solidified Orton's legacy but also set up an exciting storyline leading to WrestleMania 33, where he would challenge for the WWE Championship. What an unforgettable night it was for the WWE Universe!
Read This: Did Rumble Crash? Troubleshooting Issues and Fixes
Reaction and Aftermath
The 2017 Royal Rumble generated a whirlwind of reactions, both from fans and the wrestling community. With Randy Orton emerging as the last man standing, there were mixed sentiments regarding the outcome. Given that he had been a part of the WWE landscape for over a decade, many fans were excited to see Orton return to the main event spotlight, while some felt it was time for fresh talent to shine.
Social media buzzed immediately after the event. Hashtags like #RoyalRumble and #RandyOrton trended as fans expressed their joy or frustration. Here are a few notable reactions:
- Positive Responses: Many longtime fans appreciated Orton's performance, highlighting his in-ring skills and ability to weave intricate storylines.
- Negative Responses: Some fans criticized the choice, arguing that other superstars deserved the spotlight, pointing out younger talent like Braun Strowman or Finn Balor, who had also made a strong showing during the match.
- Surprises: The return of Goldberg in the Rumble received a lot of attention. His early elimination of Brock Lesnar was a moment that shocked audiences and led to discussions about potential feuds at WrestleMania.
The aftermath of the Royal Rumble had significant ramifications for the WWE Universe. Orton’s win set the stage for an intense build-up to WrestleMania 33, but it also raised questions about the direction of several storylines and rivalries.
Read This: What Are the Purpose and Benefits of Rumble Strips on Roads?
Impact on WrestleMania 33
The Royal Rumble is often considered the launching pad for WrestleMania, and the 2017 edition was no exception. Randy Orton’s victory not only positioned him as the number one contender for the WWE Championship but also stirred the pot for several ongoing storylines.
As we approached WrestleMania 33, the following impacts of the Royal Rumble came to light:
Impact | Description |
---|---|
Main Event Scenario | With Orton challenging Bray Wyatt, their long-standing feud intensified, creating a highly anticipated match that played heavily on emotional storylines and personal vendettas. |
Feud Developments | Goldberg’s return, along with his showdown with Brock Lesnar, set up a major Championship match that diverted attention from Orton and Wyatt, capturing the interest of many fans. |
Overall Build-Up | The Rumble’s results laid the groundwork for multiple rivalries, helping WWE build compelling narratives in the weeks leading up to WrestleMania. |
In essence, the 2017 Royal Rumble was pivotal in shaping what would become a memorable WrestleMania 33, with storylines that kept fans engaged and eager for more.
Read This: How Old Was Jackie Chan in Rumble in the Bronx? A Fun Fact
Who Won the 2017 Royal Rumble? Recapping the Highlights and Surprises
The 2017 Royal Rumble, held on January 29, 2017, at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, was a spectacle that captivated WWE fans worldwide. This annual event includes the highly anticipated 30-man Royal Rumble match, where the last wrestler standing emerges as the winner, earning a title shot at WrestleMania.
Key Highlights from the 2017 Royal Rumble:
- The match began with Big Cass and Chris Jericho as the first two entrants.
- Undertaker's surprise entry as the 29th wrestler sent shockwaves through the audience.
- Fans were treated to a nostalgic moment as Goldberg and Lesnar faced off, drawing cheers and excitement.
- Shocking eliminations throughout the match, including the likes of Bray Wyatt and Randy Orton.
- The final moments had fans on the edge of their seats, with Randy Orton ultimately eliminating Roman Reigns and Bray Wyatt to win the match.
Entrant | Eliminations |
---|---|
Randy Orton | 3 |
Roman Reigns | 1 |
Bray Wyatt | 2 |
Ultimately, Randy Orton captured the victory in the 2017 Royal Rumble, cementing his place in history as one of the event's highlights. The 2017 Royal Rumble was not just a match; it was an event filled with surprises and unforgettable moments, with fans left buzzing for what lay ahead at WrestleMania.
Read This: Can the Rumble Seat Go on Top? Exploring the Features of the Rumble Seat
Conclusion: Legacy of the 2017 Royal Rumble
The legacy of the 2017 Royal Rumble endures as a defining moment in WWE history, showcasing unforgettable performances and setting the stage for Randy Orton's impactful journey towards WrestleMania 33.
Related Tags