Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive into a detailed recap of the WWE Royal Rumble 2023 full match, packed with thrilling moments, surprises, and unforgettable action. This event, held on January 28, 2023, at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, set the stage for WrestleMania. We’ll break down the key moments, analyze the outcomes, and discuss the implications for the road ahead. Whether you watched it live or are catching up, this is your go-to guide for everything Royal Rumble 2023!

Men's Royal Rumble Match

The Men's Royal Rumble match kicked off with a bang, featuring a star-studded lineup of WWE Superstars all vying for a chance to headline WrestleMania. The match started with GUNTHER and Sheamus as the first two entrants. GUNTHER would go on to break the record for longest time in a Royal Rumble Match. Early entrants included The Miz, Kofi Kingston, and Drew McIntyre, each bringing their unique style and intensity to the ring. Kofi Kingston's attempt at saving himself from elimination resulted in a botch, as his feet hit the floor. As the match progressed, surprise entrants like Edge made a dramatic return, adding to the excitement. Edge immediately went after The Judgment Day, exacting revenge for their attacks. The match saw intense rivalries play out, with familiar foes clashing and new contenders emerging. The final four consisted of Cody Rhodes, GUNTHER, Seth Rollins and Austin Theory. The match culminated in a thrilling showdown between Cody Rhodes and GUNTHER, with Rhodes ultimately emerging victorious, earning his ticket to WrestleMania.

Key Moments

• Surprise Entrants: Edge's unexpected return sent the crowd into a frenzy, adding a layer of unpredictability to the match.
• Eliminations: Brock Lesnar's dominant run saw him quickly eliminate several competitors before being surprisingly eliminated himself by Bobby Lashley, reigniting their feud.
• Final Showdown: The final moments between Cody Rhodes and GUNTHER were a masterclass in storytelling and athleticism, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

Analysis

The Men's Royal Rumble match was a well-paced and engaging contest that successfully built anticipation for WrestleMania. Cody Rhodes' victory was a popular choice, aligning with his comeback narrative and solidifying his position as a top star in WWE. The match also served to further existing storylines and establish new rivalries, ensuring a compelling road to WrestleMania.

Women's Royal Rumble Match

The Women's Royal Rumble match was equally captivating, showcasing the depth and talent of the WWE women's division. Rhea Ripley and Liv Morgan were the first two entrants in the match. The match featured a mix of established stars and up-and-coming contenders, all battling for an opportunity to challenge for a championship at WrestleMania. Surprise entrants like Michelle McCool added a nostalgic element, while NXT call-ups like Roxanne Perez provided a glimpse into the future of the division. The match was filled with memorable moments, including impressive displays of athleticism and strategic eliminations. The final moments saw Rhea Ripley eliminate Liv Morgan to win the match and punch her ticket to WrestleMania.

Key Moments

• Surprise Entrants: The inclusion of legends like Michelle McCool and the debut of NXT stars injected excitement and unpredictability into the match.
• Eliminations: Nia Jax's dominant performance, which saw her eliminate multiple competitors, showcased her power and established her as a force to be reckoned with.
• Final Showdown: The final sequence between Rhea Ripley and Liv Morgan was a hard-fought battle, highlighting their resilience and determination.

Analysis

The Women's Royal Rumble match was a testament to the growth and evolution of women's wrestling in WWE. Rhea Ripley's victory was a significant moment, solidifying her status as a top star and setting the stage for a potentially historic match at WrestleMania. The match also provided opportunities for other talents to shine and develop their characters, contributing to the overall depth of the division.

Other Notable Matches

While the Royal Rumble matches were the main attractions, the event also featured several other notable contests that added to the overall excitement.

Roman Reigns vs. Kevin Owens (Undisputed WWE Universal Championship)

Roman Reigns defended his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against Kevin Owens in a hard-hitting and emotional battle. The match was filled with drama, as Reigns continued to assert his dominance while Owens fought with heart and determination. Ultimately, Reigns emerged victorious, retaining his title and further solidifying his reign as the top champion in WWE. After the match, Sami Zayn hesitated to beat down his long time friend Kevin Owens, and was attacked by Roman Reigns and the rest of The Bloodline, effectively kicking him out of the group.

Bray Wyatt vs. LA Knight (Pitch Black Match)

Bray Wyatt faced LA Knight in a unique and chaotic Pitch Black Match. The match was contested under blacklight, with neon colors and unconventional weapons adding to the spectacle. Wyatt emerged victorious in a match that was heavy on theatrics and storytelling. This match marked Bray Wyatt's first win since returning to WWE at Extreme Rules in October.

Overall Event Analysis

The WWE Royal Rumble 2023 was a resounding success, delivering thrilling action, memorable moments, and significant developments that set the stage for WrestleMania. Both Royal Rumble matches were well-executed and unpredictable, with deserving winners emerging to challenge for championships on the grandest stage of them all. The undercard matches also provided entertainment and furthered existing storylines, contributing to the overall quality of the event. From start to finish, the Royal Rumble 2023 was a showcase of WWE's ability to deliver compelling storytelling and captivating in-ring action.

The Road to WrestleMania

The Royal Rumble is traditionally the first step on the Road to WrestleMania, and the 2023 event was no exception. Cody Rhodes and Rhea Ripley's victories have set them on a collision course with destiny, as they prepare to challenge for championships at WrestleMania. The outcomes of other matches, such as Roman Reigns' title defense and the continuation of rivalries like Brock Lesnar vs. Bobby Lashley, will also have significant implications for the WrestleMania card. As we look ahead to the coming months, fans can expect plenty of twists and turns as WWE builds towards its biggest event of the year.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the WWE Royal Rumble 2023 was a fantastic event that delivered on all fronts. From the thrilling Royal Rumble matches to the captivating undercard bouts, there was something for everyone to enjoy. The event successfully set the stage for WrestleMania, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what's to come. Whether you're a longtime wrestling fan or a casual viewer, the Royal Rumble is always a must-see event, and the 2023 edition certainly lived up to the hype. So grab your favorite WWE gear, gather your friends, and get ready for the Road to WrestleMania! It's going to be a wild ride!

What were your favorite moments from the Royal Rumble 2023? Who are you rooting for at WrestleMania? Share your thoughts in the comments below!