Who Won the WWE Royal Rumble 2004? Iconic Moments from the Match

The WWE Royal Rumble 2004 was a thrilling spectacle that took place on January 25, 2004, at the Wachovia Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Known for its unique format and unpredictable twists, the Royal Rumble sets the stage for WrestleMania, making it one of the most anticipated events on the WWE calendar. Packed with jaw-dropping action, this year’s Rumble featured 30 Superstars battling it out for a chance to main event WrestleMania XX. Fans were treated to unforgettable moments, shocking eliminations, and a rollercoaster of emotions that left everyone on the edge of their seats.

The Build-Up to the Royal Rumble

The road to the Royal Rumble 2004 was paved with intense rivalries and compelling storylines that had fans buzzing in anticipation. Here are key elements that fueled the excitement:

• Explosive Rivalries: Leading up to the event, superstars like Chris Benoit and Randy Orton were at the center of heated rivalries, with Benoit seeking retribution against the Evolution faction, particularly Triple H.
• Storylines Galore: The weeks on WWE programming saw various segments highlighting potential Rumble participants showcasing their rivalries, allowing fans to speculate on who might emerge victorious.
• Promotional Campaigns: WWE ramped up its marketing, utilizing promotional videos, merchandise, and social media to get fans hyped about the Rumble match.
• Legends in the Ring: The presence of past legends and fan favorites created a buzz. Wrestlers like Mick Foley and Kevin Nash were rumored to make appearances, sending fans into a frenzy of speculation.
• Royal Rumble History: The Rumble is known for surprising outcomes, and with many veterans returning or taking part for the first time, the stakes and excitement were higher than ever.

As the event approached, anticipation reached a fever pitch, making WWE Royal Rumble 2004 not just an event but an atmosphere of possibilities and excitement.

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Iconic Moments from the Royal Rumble 2004

The Royal Rumble 2004 was loaded with thrilling moments that fans still talk about today. It wasn't just about the elimination of superstars; it was about the drama, the excitement, and a sprinkle of unexpected surprises. Here are some of the iconic moments that left a lasting impact:

• John Cena's Surprise Entry - John Cena made a sudden return following a lengthy injury hiatus, and the crowd exploded with excitement. His energy and charisma lit up the arena, and it was a moment that marked the beginning of his rise in WWE.
• RVD's High-Flying Action - Rob Van Dam showcased his incredible aerial skills by performing jaw-dropping moves, including a spectacular dive over the top rope. His innovative high spots impressed fans and solidified his reputation as one of the best performers of his time.
• Triple H and Shawn Michaels' Tension - The rivalry between these two legends bubbled to the surface during the match. Their interactions were loaded with emotion, showcasing just how personal their competition had become. This added an extra layer of storytelling to the event.
• Goldberg's Destruction - The powerhouse known as Goldberg didn't just enter the match; he dominated it. His sheer presence and raw power created a palpable excitement, as fans rallied behind him, hoping to see a dominant performance.
• The Final Four Showdown - As the match neared its climax, the anticipation was electric. When The Undertaker, John Cena, Randy Orton, and Edge found themselves as the last four competitors, fans could barely contain their excitement. The stakes were high, and the tension was unmistakable.

These moments blend together to create a fascinating tapestry of excitement and drama that made the Royal Rumble 2004 truly unforgettable.

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The Winner of the 2004 Royal Rumble

In 2004, the prestigious honor of winning the Royal Rumble match went to none other than Chris Benoit. His victory marked a significant milestone in his career, showcasing the culmination of years of hard work and determination. As the final entrant into the match, Benoit demonstrated not only his resilience but also his exceptional in-ring ability.

Throughout the match, Benoit faced numerous challenges, including fierce competitors like The Undertaker and Triple H. But, one of the most memorable parts of his victory was the dramatic elimination of The Big Show, a feat that many thought was improbable. Benoit’s tenacity and skill shone through as he managed to outlast all others in the face of overwhelming odds.

Here’s a quick breakdown of Chris Benoit’s journey during the 2004 Royal Rumble:

Benoit's win was a jaw-dropping moment that fans continue to remember vividly. It encapsulated the essence of the Royal Rumble – hope, determination, and the thrill of witnessing the impossible unfold right before your eyes.

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Impact of the 2004 Royal Rumble on WWE Storylines

The 2004 Royal Rumble was more than just a spectacular wrestling event; it was a pivotal moment that significantly influenced WWE storylines for the year ahead. Winning the Rumble not only guarantees a shot at the World Championship at WrestleMania, but it also sets the tone for rivalries and character developments leading up to the grand event.

In 2004, the winner, Chris Benoit, became a prominent figure in the main event scene. His victory was the culmination of a gripping underdog narrative, positioning him against top-tier talent like Triple H and Shawn Michaels, who had been dominant figures in the WWE during that time. This led to a fierce storyline where Benoit fought against the odds, illustrating that perseverance could lead to success, a theme that resonates deeply with fans.

*Key Storyline Developments Following the Rumble:

Legacy Components of the 2004 Royal Rumble:

The WWE Royal Rumble 2004, held on January 25, at the Westgate City Center in Phoenix, Arizona, was a night filled with electrifying moments and surprising outcomes. The event featured the traditional 30-man over-the-top-rope battle royale, where Superstars competed for a chance to main event WrestleMania XX. In a stunning turn of events, it was Chris Benoit who emerged victorious, marking a significant moment in his career.

• Wrestling Legends Entering the Rumble: This event saw the return of several fan-favorites, including Mick Foley and the legendary performer, the Undertaker.
• Unlikely Alliances: Throughout the match, various competitors formed temporary alliances, such as Kurt Angle and Rey Mysterio working together to eliminate others.
• Dramatic Eliminations: Stars like Randy Orton and Edge showcased their athleticism with impressive performances, but ultimately fell short in their quest for victory.
• The Final Showdown: The climax of the match featured Benoit and the 7-foot tall Big Show*, showcasing an intense battle that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

The Royal Rumble 2004 is a pivotal chapter in WWE history, not only because Benoit won, but it also laid the foundation for future storylines and rivalries. His victory led to an unforgettable moment at WrestleMania XX, where he captured the World Heavyweight Championship alongside Eddie Guerrero, cementing this era in wrestling folklore.

Conclusion: Why the 2004 Royal Rumble Remains Memorable

The 2004 Royal Rumble is etched in the memory of WWE fans for its unexpected twists, significant returns, and the crowning of Chris Benoit, whose journey symbolized perseverance and determination in the wrestling realm, making it a standout event in wrestling history.

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