Who Won the Royal Rumble 2004? A Look Back at Iconic Moments

The 2004 Royal Rumble is a significant moment in the world of professional wrestling, particularly because it marked the return of the event to the grand stage of WWE. Held on January 25, 2004, at the Wachovia Center in Philadelphia, this Royal Rumble wasn't just another wrestling match; it showcased the intense competition and the dramatic storytelling that have become hallmarks of WWE. Fans were hyped, and expectations were high, as superstars battled it out for a chance at glory at WrestleMania XX.

Overview of the Event

This annual event is not just a match; it's a spectacle filled with anticipation, nostalgia, and surprises. Let's delve into the details that made the 2004 Royal Rumble unforgettable.

• Date: January 25, 2004
• Location: Wachovia Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Attendance: Approximately 15,000 enthusiastic fans
• Match Type: 30-man Royal Rumble match

The event kicked off with a series of exciting matches leading up to the Royal Rumble itself. The night featured well-known WWE superstars, including:

This Royal Rumble not only served as an exciting contest for fans, but it also set the stage for some iconic moments, including shocking eliminations, surprise entrants, and the ultimate victory by Chris Benoit, who entered as the number one contestant. This victory had profound implications, leading to an unforgettable storyline that culminated at WrestleMania XX.

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Key Participants in the 2004 Royal Rumble

The 2004 Royal Rumble was a spectacle packed with talent, drama, and unforgettable moments. As WWE fans, we were treated to a diverse lineup that showcased some of the biggest names in wrestling, each looking to claim victory and a chance to main event WrestleMania 20. Let's dive into some of the key participants who made this event so memorable:

• Chris Benoit - The eventual winner, Benoit was a fan favorite and a skilled technician. His underdog story captured hearts as he fought his way through the competition.
• Bob Holly - Known for his toughness, Holly brought intensity to the ring. His resilience was on full display, making him a formidable participant.
• Randy Orton - The youngest WWE World Champion at the time, Orton’s participation was significant. He was fresh off his groundbreaking Evolution storyline and was eager to prove his mettle.
• John Cena - Before becoming a megastar, Cena was making waves with his "Doctor of Thuganomics" persona. His charisma and mic skills grabbed attention even before he entered the ring.
• Edge - A seasoned veteran and fan favorite, Edge was looking to make an impact in the Rumble. His cunning nature made him a player to watch.
• Big Show - Standing at an enormous height and weight, Big Show brought sheer power and was a massive obstacle for anyone trying to toss him over the top rope.

These are just a few of the stars who participated in the 2004 Royal Rumble. Each of them contributed their own unique flair, making the match an unforgettable experience packed with surprising alliances, rivalries, and ultimately, a hard-fought victory.

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Match Format and Rules

The Royal Rumble match format is famous for its unique structure, which distinguishes it from regular wrestling matches. In 2004, fans witnessed a battle royal where 30 Superstars entered the ring at timed intervals, creating exhilarating dynamics throughout the contest. Here's how it all works:

What's truly fascinating about the Royal Rumble is how it sets the stage for surprise returns and storylines. The unpredictability keeps fans on the edge of their seats, wondering who will be the next entrant and how alliances might shift throughout the match. In 2004, the excitement reached a fever pitch as the clock ticked down, building anticipation for each new participant.

In conclusion, the format of the Royal Rumble is as entertaining as it is complex, making it one of the highlights of the wrestling calendar. The 2004 Royal Rumble was a perfect embodiment of these rules, filled with surprises that left a lasting impression on fans worldwide.

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Iconic Moments from the Royal Rumble Match

The Royal Rumble is a storied event in wrestling history and the 2004 edition was no exception. This particular Rumble was not only filled with high-octane action but also featured some unforgettable moments that fans still reminisce about today. Here are some of the most iconic moments that stood out during the Royal Rumble match in 2004:

• The Return of Edge: After a debilitating injury that sidelined him for months, Edge made a spectacular return to the Rumble. His entrance was met with thunderous cheers as he came back not just to participate, but to dominate.
• Triple H’s Dominance: As one of the early entrants, Triple H showed his prowess by eliminating *several superstars*. His entrance at number 1 got fans buzzing, but it was his ability to fend off multiple opponents that really made an impression.
• Crisis in the Ring: The Rumble had its share of chaos, especially when multiple wrestlers tried to hurl each other over the top rope. At one point, the ring became a battleground of surprise alliances and temporary partnerships as competitors aimed to survive.
• The Final Four Face-off: Watching the final four competitors battle it out was incredible. The suspense was palpable as fans were on the edge of their seats, waiting to see who would secure their ticket to WrestleMania.

These moments encapsulated the essence of the Royal Rumble and provided the thrilling entertainment expected from such a pivotal WWE event. Fans not only witnessed athletic maneuvers but also experienced emotional highs and lows that kept them engaged throughout the match.

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Surprising Eliminations

One aspect that often leaves fans on the edge of their seats during the Royal Rumble is the eliminations, especially the shocking ones that nobody saw coming. The 2004 Royal Rumble had its fair share of surprising eliminations that astonished the audience and changed the trajectory of the match.

• Eddie Guerrero’s Eliminating Angle: Fans were stunned when Eddie Guerrero sent Kurt Angle over the top rope. The rivalry and respect between these two were well-documented, making this elimination all the more shocking.
• Chris Jericho’s Unexpected Exit: Y2J was one of the favorites going into the match, yet he was eliminated unexpectedly early. This twist left fans gasping, as many thought he would make a deep run.
• Big Show's Quick Exit: Big Show, towering over his opponents, was a formidable presence. However, his elimination was surprising as he was thrown out by someone significantly smaller—a moment that left many fans questioning how it happened.
• RVD’s Shocking Fall: Rob Van Dam was riding high with momentum but was unceremoniously tossed out by a rival, leaving fans heartbroken as they had hoped to see him go further.

These surprising eliminations not only kept the audience guessing but also added layers to the storyline arcs for various superstars. They served as crucial turning points in the match—moments where the expected didn't happen and the unpredictability of wrestling shone through. Each surprise left an indelible mark on the event, making it a Royal Rumble for the ages.

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Highlighting the Winner: Chris Benoit

When we talk about the 2004 Royal Rumble, one name stands out above the rest: Chris Benoit. Not only did he enter the match as a formidable competitor, but he also left as the champion of heartbreak and triumph. Benoit, often regarded as one of the most technically gifted wrestlers in the history of the WWE, made an unforgettable mark on this event.

Entering the Royal Rumble match from the number one spot, Benoit showcased his incredible stamina and skill, battling against 29 other superstars. His perseverance was what made this performance particularly memorable. Here are a few highlights of Benoit's victory:

• Dominance from the Start: Benoit wasn't just surviving; he was eliminating his rivals with precision. From the moment he stepped into the ring, he showed he was there to claim his destiny.
• Showdown with Top Stars: Benoit went toe-to-toe with big names like Kane and The Big Show, proving that size didn't matter when it came to talent and heart.
• Finale Moments: In the closing moments of the Rumble, Benoit faced off against the formidable Eddie Guerrero, showcasing an emotional and technical display that left fans on the edge of their seats.

Benoit ultimately secured his victory after eliminating The Big Show, and the moment was drenched in emotion. It was a culmination of hard work and determination, not just for that night, but for his entire career. This victory at the Royal Rumble would become a pivotal moment not just for Benoit, but for WWE as a whole.

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Impact of Benoit’s Victory on His Career

The victory at the 2004 Royal Rumble was more than just a win for Chris Benoit; it was a defining milestone that would alter the course of his wrestling career. This moment shifted perceptions, propelled him into the main event scene, and solidified his status as a top-tier wrestler in the WWE universe.

After claiming the Rumble win, Benoit earned the coveted opportunity to challenge for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania XX. This was a dream come true for someone who had tirelessly dedicated his life to wrestling. The impact of this victory included:

• Increased Popularity: Fans rallied behind Benoit's underdog story. His victory resonated with audiences, and he quickly became a fan favorite.
• Main Event Status: Following the Royal Rumble, Benoit was thrust into the top-tier main events, showcasing his talent on an even larger stage.
• Title Win at WrestleMania: Benoit’s journey culminated in a historic moment when he defeated Triple H and Shawn Michaels for the World Heavyweight Championship, one of the high points of his career.

Benoit’s victory at Royal Rumble 2004 opened doors that many athletes only dream of. While his legacy is complex and marred by later events, there’s no denying that this moment was a highlight not only for him but also for wrestling as a sport. It reminded fans and competitors alike of the sheer power of dedication and heart within the ring.

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Legacy of the 2004 Royal Rumble

The 2004 Royal Rumble isn't just remembered for who won; it’s considered a pivotal moment in the world of professional wrestling. Having a captivating storyline, a mix of established stars and rising talent, and unforgettable moments, this Rumble set the stage for future events in the WWE landscape.

One of the standout legacies of this event is the impact it had on the career of the winner, Chris Benoit. His historic victory marked the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, giving him a well-deserved spotlight in the main event scene. Benoit went on to have a legendary match at WrestleMania 20, solidifying his status as a top-tier performer. Here are a few key points about its legacy:

• Elevation of Stars: The 2004 Rumble showcased not only established stars but also rising talents like Shelton Benjamin and John Cena, who later became household names.
• Storytelling: The event featured compelling narratives, including longstanding rivalries that added depth to the matches. This emphasis on storytelling paved the way for future Rumbles to focus more on character development.
• Memorable Moments: From surprise entrants to unexpected alliances, the 2004 Rumble is packed with moments that fans still talk about today.

Overall, the legacy of the 2004 Royal Rumble lives on, shaping the paths of wrestlers and influencing the direction of WWE storylines for years to come.

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Fan Reactions and Aftermath

• Royal Rumble 2004
• Royal Rumble Highlights
• Royal Rumble History
• Royal Rumble Moments
• Royal Rumble Winners