The 2017 Royal Rumble marked the 30th anniversary of this iconic WWE event, celebrated for its dramatic surprises and intense rivalries. Held on January 29, 2017, at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, this year's Rumble was particularly special—not just for the thrilling matches but for the electrifying atmosphere that only a Royal
This event featured not only the traditional 30-man Royal Rumble match but also title matches that had fans on the edge of their seats. The stakes were high, as the winner of the Rumble would earn a championship match at WrestleMania 33. It wasn't just about who could make it out of the ring; it was about making a lasting impact on the road to WrestleMania. With surprises, legends, and rising stars, the 2017 Royal
Key Highlights of the Event
The 2017 Royal Rumble was packed with memorable highlights that kept fans buzzing for weeks. Here’s a rundown of some of the standout moments:
- The 30-Man Royal Rumble Match: The main event featured unexpected entrants, including legends like The Undertaker and Goldberg, alongside current stars battling for supremacy.
- Goldberg's Dominance: Making a triumphant return, Goldberg showcased his iconic spear and jackhammer moves, eliminating several competitors and solidifying his place as a formidable force.
- Undertaker's Participation: The Deadman made waves by entering the Rumble, eliciting wild cheers from the crowd and reminding fans of his unparalleled legacy.
- Randy Orton's Victory: Orton ultimately prevailed, outlasting 29 others and earning a title shot at WrestleMania, much to the surprise of many fans.
- Luke Harper's Brief Spotlight: Harper eliminated several key competitors, hinting at a potential push for this often-overlooked talent.
In addition to the Rumble, there were also championship matches that added to the event’s excitement:
| Match | Championship | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| AJ Styles vs. John Cena | WWE Championship | John Cena |
| Kevin Owens vs. Roman Reigns | WWE Universal Championship | Kevin Owens (with help from Chris Jericho) |
Overall, the 2017 Royal Rumble was a thrilling night of action that set the tone for the rest of the wrestling year, rife with rivalries, intrigue, and unforgettable moments that continue to resonate with fans today.
Who Won the 2017 Royal Rumble?
The 2017 Royal Rumble, a signature event in WWE history, featured excitement and drama that kept fans on the edge of their seats. On January 29, 2017, at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, the atmosphere was electric as 30 superstars entered the ring, each vying for glory and a coveted spot in the main event at WrestleMania 33. The winner? None other than the "Undertaker," although he didn’t win the Rumble match itself. The ultimate victor of the 2017 Royal Rumble match was none other than Randy Orton!
Orton, a third-generation superstar and a veteran in the ring, cemented his status by eliminating the last contender, Roman Reigns, who had been a fan favorite. What made this victory particularly significant was how he earned it; he entered the match as the 23rd participant and made a strategic comeback after laying low in the earlier moments.
Key Moments of the Match:
- Surprise Entrants: The return of legends and fan favorites added layers of excitement.
- Elimination Count: Orton eliminated a total of 6 superstars, showcasing his prowess.
- Final Showdown: The highly anticipated face-off between Orton and Reigns was the climax fans had been waiting for.
With his victory at the Royal Rumble, Randy Orton not only earned a title match at WrestleMania but also reignited his long-standing rivalry with many WWE superstars, setting the stage for an electrifying year ahead.
Impact of the Victory on WWE Storylines
Winning the 2017 Royal Rumble had a ripple effect on WWE storylines that lasted well beyond the event itself. Randy Orton's victory was not just a personal achievement; it opened new avenues for various narratives that unfolded in the following months. The most immediate impact was Orton's path to WrestleMania 33, where he challenged Bray Wyatt for the WWE Championship.
One of the most exciting developments stemmed from Orton’s alliance with the Wyatt Family prior to the Rumble. After winning, fans were left questioning his loyalty. Would he remain loyal to Bray Wyatt, or would he betray him? This ambiguity created a compelling storyline.
Key Storyline Impacts:
- Champion vs. Challenger: The Rumble victory allowed Orton to position himself as a main event star, headlining against Wyatt at WrestleMania.
- Character Development: The betrayal arc made for interesting television, as viewers were left guessing Orton's next move.
- Repercussions for Other Superstars: With Orton gaining momentum, other wrestlers were also drawn into the fray, as they sought to challenge him or align with Wyatt.
In essence, Randy Orton's victory at the Royal Rumble wasn't just about winning a match; it served as a pivotal moment for several storylines, intertwining the fates of various superstars and engaging audiences in an unforgettable narrative across WWE programming. It showcased how victories can serve as catalysts, driving the action and drama that WWE is known for!
5. Memorable Moments from the Rumble
The 2017 Royal Rumble was packed with moments that fans still talk about today. First and foremost, who could forget the return of legends? The event saw the much-anticipated comeback of Goldberg, who made a massive impact by eliminating several competitors with ease. The crowd erupted as he lifted the iconic championship once again, validating why he’s considered one of the greatest icons in wrestling history.
Another highlight was the shocking entry of Undertaker. His presence was felt right away, and fans were treated to a nostalgic moment when he eliminated Big Show, reminding everyone of his formidable prowess in the ring.
And let’s not overlook the captivating storyline between Braun Strowman and Roman Reigns. Strowman showcased his brute strength by tossing Reigns over the top rope, creating a buzz around their ongoing rivalry. Their exchanges added depth to the match, making the stakes even higher for surrounding storylines.
Last but certainly not least, the final moments were nothing short of electric. The almost surreal confrontation between Randy Orton and John Cena had fans on the edge of their seats. The suspense, the excitement—it was all there. When Orton ultimately triumphed, it was a perfect blend of storytelling and athleticism.
In summary, the 2017 Royal Rumble delivered more than just a wrestling match; it provided unforgettable memories that fans continue to cherish.
6. Conclusion and Legacy of the 2017 Royal Rumble
The 2017 Royal Rumble is regarded as one of the pivotal events in WWE history. Not only did it set the stage for WrestleMania 33, but it also cemented several legacies that continue to influence the WWE landscape today. Randy Orton’s victory was a powerful reminder of his enduring status as a top-tier performer and signaled a potential resurgence in his storyline relevance.
Moreover, the event featured a blend of established legends and rising stars, showcasing WWE's commitment to balancing nostalgia with fresh talent. This diversity highlighted the promotion’s ability to appeal to a broader audience, appealing to both older fans and the next generation.
The emotional connections forged during this event are also noteworthy. From the iconic returns to the rivalries showcased, the 2017 Royal Rumble was a richly layered experience. Fans were left not just entertained, but invested in ongoing storylines and character arcs.
Ultimately, the legacy of the 2017 Royal Rumble extends beyond the ring. It sparked conversations, inspired debates, and had a lasting impact on future events. The energy and excitement generated that night will be remembered fondly, reaffirming why the Royal Rumble remains a highlight of the wrestling calendar.
