5 Instances of Misguided Men’s Royal Rumble Wins in WWE History
The Men’s Royal Rumble match has historically been one of the WWE’s most thrilling events, showcasing spectacular athleticism and strategic gameplay. However, not every decision regarding the winner has resonated positively with fans or pundits alike. Here’s a look at five instances when WWE’s choice for the Royal Rumble champion fell short.
1. Lex Luger and Bret Hart (1994)
During the 1994 Royal Rumble, both Lex Luger and Bret Hart were deemed the winners after they simultaneously touched the ground outside the ring. The indecisiveness left fans divided, as many felt a clear victor was necessary for a match of such high stakes. Instead of building a clear narrative, it created confusion and dissatisfaction among the fanbase.
2. Vince McMahon (1999)
In a controversial twist in 1999, Vince McMahon himself won the Royal Rumble. This decision raised eyebrows as it drew attention away from full-time talent and placed the spotlight on the company’s chairman. Many fans viewed this as a self-serving move, undermining the significance of the Royal Rumble as a platform for emerging stars.
3. The Great Khali (2007)
The 2007 Royal Rumble was notable for the victory of The Great Khali, a decision that left many fans feeling disappointed. While Khali brought a unique presence to WWE, the lack of a thrilling final sequence, paired with his limited in-ring ability, made for a less than memorable win. This choice was seen as a missed opportunity to solidify a younger talent as the victor.
4. Roman Reigns (2015)
Roman Reigns’ victory in 2015 elicited a significant backlash from the audience, primarily because of the overwhelming expectation for Daniel Bryan to secure the win. Fans showed their discontent vocally, which manifested in a wave of boos as Reigns emerged victorious. This situation highlighted the necessity of storytelling and fan engagement in determining a successful winner.
5. Randy Orton (2017)
Even though Randy Orton’s 2017 win might have appeared justified, many fans were left underwhelmed by the overall execution of the event. The match featured multiple high-profile entrants, yet the storylines surrounding Orton’s win felt disjointed and lacked the weight one would expect from a Royal Rumble champion. Instead of culmination, this win felt more like an afterthought.
Analysis and Fan Reaction
Each of these instances reflects a broader struggle within WWE to balance storytelling, character development, and audience expectations. When a Royal Rumble winner is perceived as an inadequate representation of the match’s significance, it can lead to a rift between the promotion and its fanbase.
Audiences have consistently shown their preference for not just in-ring abilities but compelling storylines. In cases like Reigns’ win, the audience reaction indicates that WWE must remain attuned to its base sentiments when making pivotal decisions about champions.
Ultimately, the Royal Rumble serves as a stage for rising stars to shine, and when those moments are overshadowed, it risks alienating loyal fans. The selected winners may have left an indelible mark on the history of the event, but the mixed reactions to their victories demonstrate that the path to creating a beloved champion is as intricate as the match itself.
