Hey wrestling fans! Get ready to rumble! The WWE Royal Rumble 2023 is in the books, and what a night it was! Let's dive into the match card and revisit some predictions. This event, held on January 28, 2023, in San Antonio, Texas, kicked off the road to WrestleMania 39, and it certainly delivered its fair share of surprises, memorable moments, and intense action. So, buckle up as we break down each match and relive the excitement.

Royal Rumble Match Card

The Royal Rumble is all about surprises, and the 2023 edition was no exception. From unexpected entrants to jaw-dropping eliminations, the road to WrestleMania began with a bang. Here's a closer look at the matches that made this year's event unforgettable.

Men's Royal Rumble Match

The Men's Royal Rumble match is always a highlight, and this year was no different! The match featured some of the top stars in WWE, all vying for a chance to main event WrestleMania. Guys like Cody Rhodes, Gunther, and Seth Rollins were among the favorites heading into the match, but as we know, anything can happen in the Royal Rumble. The match started with Gunther and Sheamus, delivering heavy blows right from the get-go. The surprises included the return of Cody Rhodes, who had been out with an injury for several months. Rhodes entered at number 30 and went on to win the match, last eliminating Gunther. His emotional victory was a testament to his resilience and determination. Other notable moments included Logan Paul and Ricochet colliding mid-air after springboard attempts and the dominant performance of Gunther, who lasted over an hour after entering at number one.

The sheer unpredictability of the Royal Rumble makes it so captivating. You never know who might show up or what alliances might form and break within the ring. This year’s match was a perfect example, filled with unexpected twists and turns that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Ultimately, Cody Rhodes proved that perseverance pays off, securing his spot in the main event of WrestleMania. This victory not only marked his triumphant return but also set the stage for a compelling storyline heading into the biggest show of the year. The blend of established stars and rising talents created a dynamic and exciting contest that will be remembered for years to come.

Women's Royal Rumble Match

The Women's Royal Rumble was equally thrilling. This match featured a mix of current stars and returning legends, all battling for a championship opportunity at WrestleMania. Rhea Ripley emerged victorious, showcasing her incredible strength and determination. The match included surprise appearances from Michelle McCool and Piper Niven. Ripley entered at number one and lasted the entire match, eliminating several competitors, including Liv Morgan, to secure her win. Other notable moments included a confrontation between legends Michelle McCool and Molly Holly and the impressive performance of Asuka, whose innovative offense kept her in the game until the very end. This match wasn't just a showcase of athleticism; it was a celebration of women's wrestling, highlighting the progress and talent within the division.

Rhea Ripley's victory was a defining moment, solidifying her position as a top star in WWE. Her endurance and strategic eliminations demonstrated her readiness to compete at the highest level. The inclusion of returning legends added a nostalgic element, bridging the gap between different eras of women's wrestling and honoring the contributions of those who paved the way. The Women's Royal Rumble continues to be a platform for showcasing the depth and diversity of talent in the women's division, and this year's match was a testament to the evolution and growth of women's wrestling in WWE.

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

In a high-stakes title match, Roman Reigns defended his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against Kevin Owens. This was a brutal and physical encounter, with both men leaving it all in the ring. Roman Reigns retained his title after a hard-fought battle, but the aftermath was perhaps even more significant. After the match, Sami Zayn finally turned on Roman Reigns, hitting him with a chair and defecting from The Bloodline. This betrayal was a culmination of months of tension and built-up animosity within the group. The turn sent shockwaves through the WWE Universe, setting the stage for a potential match between Reigns and Zayn down the line. The match itself was a display of wrestling storytelling at its finest, with Reigns playing the dominant champion and Owens showcasing his never-say-die attitude.

The emotional investment in this storyline made the match and its aftermath all the more impactful. The audience had been following The Bloodline saga for months, witnessing the manipulation and control exerted by Reigns over his stablemates. Zayn's defiance was a cathartic moment, signaling a shift in power dynamics and opening up new possibilities for storylines and rivalries. This match was more than just a title defense; it was a pivotal moment in a long-running narrative that captivated audiences and kept them invested in the ongoing drama of WWE.

Bianca Belair (c) vs. Alexa Bliss for the Raw Women's Championship

Bianca Belair defended her Raw Women's Championship against Alexa Bliss. Belair continued her impressive reign as champion, defeating Bliss in a competitive match. The match was a showcase of Belair's athleticism and strength, as well as Bliss's evolving character. While the match was solid, the storyline leading up to it was somewhat convoluted, with Bliss's character undergoing several changes. However, both women delivered a respectable performance, and Belair emerged victorious, further cementing her status as a top star in the women's division. The dynamic between Belair's unwavering confidence and Bliss's unpredictable nature made for an intriguing clash of styles.

Bianca Belair's continued success underscores her dedication and hard work. She has consistently proven herself to be a dominant force in the women's division, and her title reign is a testament to her talent and charisma. As for Alexa Bliss, her evolving character continues to be a subject of intrigue, and her adaptability keeps her relevant in the ever-changing landscape of WWE. This match was a chapter in their respective journeys, highlighting their strengths and setting the stage for future opportunities and rivalries.

Bray Wyatt vs. LA Knight in a Pitch Black Match

Bray Wyatt faced LA Knight in a Pitch Black Match, a unique and visually stunning encounter. This match was designed to showcase Wyatt's supernatural persona, with the arena bathed in darkness and neon lights. Wyatt defeated Knight in a match that was more about spectacle than traditional wrestling. The unique environment allowed for some creative spots and added to the overall mystique of Wyatt's character. While the match may not have been everyone's cup of tea, it was certainly memorable and added a different flavor to the Royal Rumble event. The Pitch Black Match was an experiment in blending wrestling with theatrical elements, creating a surreal and immersive experience for the audience.

Bray Wyatt's ability to reinvent himself and create compelling characters is one of his greatest strengths. The Pitch Black Match was a canvas for his creativity, allowing him to showcase his unique vision and engage the audience in a way that few others can. LA Knight, despite the loss, proved his willingness to embrace the unusual and adapt to different match types. This match was a testament to WWE's willingness to experiment with new concepts and push the boundaries of what wrestling can be.

Final Thoughts

The WWE Royal Rumble 2023 was a night filled with surprises, memorable moments, and intense action. From Cody Rhodes' triumphant return to Sami Zayn's shocking betrayal, the event set the stage for an exciting road to WrestleMania 39. The matches delivered both in terms of in-ring action and storytelling, making it a must-watch for any wrestling fan. So, there you have it, folks! The Royal Rumble 2023 – a night to remember! What were your favorite moments? Let us know in the comments below!