Always a great time, this year's Wrestlemania had plenty of moments to remember it by, even though the crowd failed to be lively enough in the background. A decent if unspectacular card was aided by heavy mainstream attention thanks to the build-up between Vince McMahon and Donald Trump, and even the undercard proved entertaining.
The WWE crew wasted no time in getting the show running with the Money in the Bank ladder match. Containing multiple spots that would remain the night's best, this energetic eight-man scuffle was solid throughout. The show stealer was Jeff Hardy falling from a 20-foot ladder through another bridged between the apron and crowd barricade. He cleanly slammed Edge through it, shattering the supports in the process.
The match ground to a halt as both were carted off on stretchers. ECW rising star CM Punk was allowed a few excellent spots, including a drop kick to knock Mr. Kennedy off his perch as he was reaching for victory. The kick was so solid it snapped the ladder. Regardless, Kennedy would come away with the victory after countless finishers, ladder hits, and painful falls.
Chris Benoit and MVP from Smackdown clashed for the US Championship in a solid mid-card effort. Benoit carried the bout with countless triple suplex sets. MVP was unable to mount a steady offense, and Benoit nailed a trademark flying headbutt from the top rope to finish the young wrestler.
Kane versus Great Khali carries the distinction of killing an already dead crowd with a sluggish, dull, and stiff brawl. Khali’s dull array of moves led to numerous slow headbutts, countered chokeslams, and not much else. Kane pulled off an impressive bodyslam, but Khali power-bombed Kane, standing on top of his chest for the three count.
The first main event of the evening would finally draw the crowd to their feet, as the Undertaker and Batista battled it out for the World Title. The two giants showcased some incredible stunts for their size, Undertaker giving his all for his 15th Wrestlemania appearance. Undertaker wasted no time in taking it to Batista, clearing the top rope with a flying clothesline to the outside.
Article comments
1 - Chris Beaumont
Nice recap, sounds like it was a decent show.
Perhaps I should try watching again.
2 - Glen Boyd
I thought Mania was pretty good this year. Batista and Taker had a better match than I think anyone could have reasonably expected, and Micheals carried Cena to his best main event match to date. I'm not sure I understand the logic in relegating Ric Flair and Carlito to the dark match before the PPV to make room for two slugs like Khali and Kane. And what about that ladder bump that Edge took? Hardy damn near killed him -- hopefully he's okay. All in all, though a good Mania this year. Your wrapup summed it nicely as well.
-Glen
3 - bern
Who knows the list of songs used for WrestleMania 23?..