Though the main event between Triple H and Batista was entirely predictable, the great build-up (something we haven't seen in a long time) and unforgettable blade job by HHH made it worthwhile. HHH was busted open with a well-done catapult from the disassembled ring steps into the turnbuckle support. This was a long bout with a little bit of everything. However, it was a step down from last year's classic triple-threat. The finish was again abrupt, a real rarity in Wrestlemania main events. Those close calls and faux finishes always get the crowd on their feet, but once Batista hit his finisher, it was over. Triple H never recovered.
This was a rare Wrestlemania, one that didn't feature a single tag team match and the only "gimmick" match was the six-way ladder dance. The event really needed that extra push, and a cage match or no-holds barred brawl probably would have helped. Still, it was a night with some great pro wrestling, just not enough to really put it into the upper echelon of Wrestlemania's. In fact, it seemed like most of the WWE programming as of late, a little lazy without much originality.
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Article comments
1 - Chris Beaumont
Nice review, still wish I saw it...
The card only seemed like half a Wrestlemania. When I think of Wrestlemania, generally I think of all or nearly all of the titles on the line, and a better build up.
2 - James Woodin
I saw Wrestlemania 21 on Sky Box Office in the UK. And staying up late was worth it. Batista won the title as predicted. Piper's Pit was a bit of a shame because of not so cool - Carlito. The ladder match was fantastic, same for Angle/HBK. Not the best WM's but it was worth the £14.95 I paid.
3 - Matt Paprocki
Wow James, you guy get off cheap. That's only like $25 or $30 US if my math is right (and it probably isn't). We're stuck with a $50 bill over here. Consider yourself lucky!
4 - Robert Horrace
This WWE wrestle...boar...mania 21 just plained sucked.
No tags no great matches...Has WWE turned into WCW Saturday Night????
I am very disapionted.
5 - Stu
I thought, overall WM21 was excellent. JBL/Cena was a dud as were Hemme/Trish. Piper's Pit was pointless. But Angle/HBK and HHH/Batista and that ladder match truly made up for it.
The nice thing is, here in Australia, the PPV was just AUS$21.90 - about US$16.50.
6 - Scott Pepper
Matt, this article has been syndicated at the Advance.net network of sites, including Cleveland.com.
7 - james scrannage
i thought overall the ppv was pretty average. my expectations were too high after last year. There was definatly a lack of tag/hardcore action. That said, Benoit is a legend! ladder match was ace, time for a Shelton push i rec. Also, HBK/Angle and Trips/Batista stole the show
8 - Stephen knupp
yo yo man wrestlemania was off the shizzle for rizzle. i would watch it all over again if it came on everyday.. Batista and John Cena are the Champs.YEAH BABY!!!!!
9 - oliver mcmillan
haha gutted you guys having to pay like $50, i live in new zealand and get it for $20 which is like $7-8 where you live, HAHA
10 - Kyle Anderson
this ppv was pretty decent
everything was average except the ladder match, angle/hbk, and hhh/batista. i thought cena/jbl was shit and hemme/stratus. overall, taker/orton and mysterio/guerrero were pretty good too.
11 - Spencer Sullivan
I at the staples center last night. It was a fun night and a decent pay per view. It lacked alot and the set up and ramp way just seemed odd. DECENT PPV.