Royal Rumble 2000: A Wild Ride Back In Time

What's up, wrestling fanatics! Today, we're strapping ourselves in and taking a deep dive back into the absolute chaos that was the Royal Rumble 2000. Man, oh man, if you're looking for a wrestling event that had everything – epic storylines, surprising moments, and a finish that still gets people talking – then this is the one, guys. We're talking about a time when the Attitude Era was in full swing, and the WWE (then WWF) was firing on all cylinders, delivering unforgettable moments left and right. The Royal Rumble itself is always a spectacle, a massive 30-man battle royale where the winner earns a shot at championship glory at WrestleMania. But in 2000? They decided to crank the dial up to eleven and then smash it off. This event wasn't just about the Rumble match; it was a complete package of high-stakes action and simmering rivalries that had fans on the edge of their seats. Let's get into why the Royal Rumble 2000 is still a classic that deserves a spot in your wrestling watch list. Get ready to relive some of the most iconic and controversial moments in WWE history, because we're about to break it all down.

The Undercard That Delivered Fire

Before we even get to the main event, let's talk about the matches leading up to the Royal Rumble 2000 itself. Because, let me tell you, the folks behind the scenes knew how to build anticipation. We kicked things off with a fascinating Intercontinental Championship match between Chris Benoit and Chris Jericho. Now, these two are absolute legends, masters of their craft, and they did not disappoint. It was a technical masterpiece, a back-and-forth clinic that showcased their incredible skills. You had high-flying maneuvers, brutal submissions, and a pace that kept you glued to the screen. These guys were clearly trying to steal the show, and honestly, they succeeded for a good chunk of the night. Following that, we had a Tag Team Championship Triple Threat match featuring the Dudley Boyz, the New Age Outlaws, and the Hardy Boyz. Talk about a recipe for disaster – in the best way possible! These teams were known for their innovative and often death-defying spots, and this match was no exception. Tables, ladders, chairs – you name it, they probably used it. The chemistry between these teams was palpable, and every near fall had the crowd roaring. It was a perfect example of the tag team division at its peak during the Attitude Era, full of high-octane action and a surprising amount of heart. These early matches weren't just filler; they were crucial in setting the tone for the entire event, showcasing the talent and the intensity that the WWF was known for. It really built up the excitement, making sure that by the time the Royal Rumble match rolled around, the audience was already fully invested and ready for more.

The Women's Championship Match: A Glimpse of What's to Come

Now, let's address the elephant in the room, or rather, the crucial match that often gets overshadowed but was important for its time: the WWF Women's Championship match. Jacqueline defended her title against Ivory. While the women's division during the Attitude Era was certainly different from what we see today, this match represented a significant effort to showcase their athleticism and competitive spirit. These athletes were often asked to perform in roles that didn't always highlight their in-ring abilities to the fullest, but in matches like this, you could see the passion and the desire to prove themselves. Jacqueline and Ivory put on a respectable showing, and while it might not have had the same high spots or lengthy duration as the men's matches, it was an important part of the show. It offered a different kind of wrestling, focusing on the rivalry and the stakes for the Women's Championship. Looking back, it's easy to see how this era, despite its flaws, was laying groundwork for the incredible women's wrestling we have today. These competitors were pioneers in their own right, pushing boundaries and demonstrating their commitment to the sport. Their matches were often a breath of fresh air, providing a change of pace and a different dynamic to the overall event. It’s a reminder that even in the most Attitude Era-driven shows, there were efforts to include and elevate all aspects of the wrestling roster, giving fans a more rounded entertainment experience. It’s always good to appreciate these moments and the women who fought hard to make their mark on the WWF landscape.

The Main Event: The Royal Rumble Match Itself!

Alright, guys, the moment we've all been waiting for: the 30-man Royal Rumble match. This wasn't just any Rumble; this was a Rumble that had major implications and a finish that still sparks debates. You had a stacked roster of talent, from established stars to rising contenders, all vying for that coveted spot at WrestleMania. The early entrants set a frantic pace, and as the match wore on, the stories within the match started to unfold. We saw incredible endurance from some, surprising eliminations by others, and the classic moments of guys teaming up temporarily only to betray each other moments later. The sheer unpredictability is what makes the Royal Rumble so special, and the 2000 edition delivered in spades. Who could forget the sight of the Rock, the Undertaker, and the rest of the legends battling it out? Each entrant brought their unique style and energy, creating a dynamic that was both chaotic and compelling. The eliminations were brutal, the near-falls were heart-stopping, and the psychology of the match kept you invested. It was a true test of stamina, strategy, and sheer will. The crowd was electric, feeding off the energy of the competitors in the ring. Every surprise entrant, every unbelievable save, and every dramatic elimination had the fans on their feet. It was pure wrestling theater, and the WWF absolutely nailed it. The Royal Rumble match is always a gamble, but when it pays off like this, it becomes a legendary part of wrestling history. The strategy involved in picking your winners and anticipating eliminations is part of the fun, and this Rumble certainly gave us plenty to analyze and remember for years to come. The participants were all at the top of their game, and the stakes couldn't have been higher, making every second count.

The Rock's Dominance and the Shocking Finish

Okay, let's talk about the absolute star of the Royal Rumble 2000 match: The Rock. This guy was on fire during the Attitude Era, and his performance in this Rumble was nothing short of phenomenal. He came in and dominated, putting on a clinic of his signature moves and charisma. Every time he entered the ring, the crowd went wild. He had multiple eliminations, showcased incredible resilience, and really played to the audience like only The Rock can. He was the clear favorite for many, and his presence alone elevated the entire match. He was truly in his element, and you could feel the star power radiating from him. His interactions with other wrestlers were electric, and his ability to control the narrative within the match was unparalleled. He made the difficult look easy, and his charisma was infectious. He was embodying the attitude of the Attitude Era, and it was captivating to watch. However, the Rumble is famous for its twists and turns, and this one was no exception. The final moments were where things got really interesting. The match came down to The Rock and a surprise final entrant, Big Show. Now, Big Show entering late is always a huge threat, but the way this played out was unexpected. Big Show dominated, looking like he was going to steamroll The Rock and secure the victory. He tossed The Rock over the top rope, and for a moment, it seemed like the Rumble was over, and Big Show was the winner. The crowd was stunned. But wait! The referee hadn't seen the elimination because he was knocked down. This led to a situation where both men were technically still in the match. In a classic WWE swerve, The Rock managed to capitalize on the confusion, re-enter the ring, and eliminate the massive Big Show to win the Royal Rumble 2000!

The Controversy and Its Aftermath

So, yeah, the finish to the Royal Rumble 2000 was… controversial. The Big Show eliminated The Rock, but the referee didn't see it because he was laid out. The Rock then eliminated Big Show to win. This finish definitely left a sour taste in the mouths of some fans. Was it a legitimate win? Did The Rock really win clean? These are the questions that fueled the fire of the Attitude Era. While some might call it a screwjob or a cheap finish, others see it as a classic WWE swerve that kept the drama alive. It perfectly encapsulated the unpredictable nature of the WWF at the time. This controversy wasn't just a one-off; it had ripple effects. It fueled The Rock's rivalry heading into WrestleMania 16 (WrestleMania 2000), where he faced Triple H. The fact that The Rock won the Rumble in such a debatable fashion only added another layer of intrigue to their feud. It made fans question the integrity of the competition and whether The Rock truly earned his shot at the title. The ending was designed to create debate and keep people talking, which, let's be honest, the WWF was brilliant at. It ensured that The Rock's path to WrestleMania was anything but straightforward. This kind of finish, while frustrating for some, was a hallmark of the Attitude Era's storytelling – always pushing the boundaries and never afraid to stir the pot. It left the audience buzzing, debating, and eagerly anticipating what would happen next. The shock value was undeniable, and it served its purpose in building anticipation for the biggest show of the year. It’s a finish that’s debated to this day, proving its lasting impact on wrestling history. The debates alone are a testament to how engaging and memorable the event was.

Why Royal Rumble 2000 Still Matters

So, why are we still talking about the Royal Rumble 2000 all these years later? It's simple, really: it was a near-perfect blend of everything that made the Attitude Era so special. You had incredible in-ring action from the likes of Benoit and Jericho, insane tag team brawls, and a main event that, despite its controversial finish, delivered a star-making performance from The Rock. This event wasn't just about one match; it was a complete package that showcased the depth and excitement of the WWF roster at the time. The storylines were compelling, the characters were larger than life, and the stakes felt incredibly high. The Royal Rumble match itself was a masterclass in booking, with surprises, strong performances, and a finish that guaranteed continued interest. It gave us classic moments that are still replayed today and cemented The Rock's status as one of the all-time greats. Even the controversy surrounding the finish added to its legacy, proving that sometimes, a little bit of debate is good for business. It kept people invested and talking about the product. This Rumble was a snapshot of professional wrestling at its most popular and exciting. It delivered on the promise of a ticket to WrestleMania and provided plenty of drama along the way. It’s a testament to the era’s ability to create memorable characters and compelling narratives that resonate with fans long after the final bell rings. For any wrestling fan, revisiting the Royal Rumble 2000 is like taking a trip down memory lane to a time when wrestling was unpredictable, edgy, and utterly captivating. It’s a must-watch for anyone who wants to understand the impact of the Attitude Era and appreciate some truly legendary wrestling performances. The sheer entertainment value is undeniable, making it a standout event in the history of the Royal Rumble. It’s the kind of show that reminds you why you fell in love with professional wrestling in the first place, packed with iconic moments and unforgettable action that still hold up today.