WWE Royal Rumble 2000: Full Match & Results
Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive back into a truly iconic year in WWE history with the Royal Rumble 2000. This event wasn't just a pay-per-view; it was a seismic shift, a night where legends were cemented and new stars began to rise. If you're a true aficionado of the Attitude Era, then this is a show you absolutely cannot miss. We're talking about a Rumble match that was absolutely stacked with talent, a main event that had the world on the edge of their seats, and moments that are still talked about today. Get ready to relive the chaos, the drama, and the sheer unpredictability that only the Royal Rumble can deliver. We'll break down all the key matches, give you the full results, and highlight those unforgettable moments that made Royal Rumble 2000 a night to remember. So grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let's take a trip down memory lane to one of the most thrilling Royal Rumble events ever produced by WWE.
The Undercard: Building the Hype
Before we get to the main event, it's crucial to talk about the matches that set the stage for the Royal Rumble 2000. WWE knew how to build anticipation, and the undercard for this event was no exception. These bouts weren't just filler; they were crucial in showcasing the depth of the roster and providing thrilling action that kept the crowd buzzing. One of the standout contests was the Tag Team Championship Triple Threat Match. This was pure, unadulterated tag team wrestling at its finest, with the New Age Outlaws defending their titles against The Dudley Boyz and The Hardy Boyz. Talk about a clash of styles and a recipe for an instant classic! The Hardys brought their high-flying, daredevilics, the Dudleyz brought their hardcore, table-smashing brawling, and the Outlaws brought their charismatic, rule-bending teamwork. The chemistry between these three teams was unbelievable, leading to a match filled with jaw-dropping spots, near-falls that had you on your feet, and a level of intensity that you rarely see. It was a demonstration of why tag team wrestling was so beloved during this era, and it perfectly primed the audience for the main event spectacle.
Another significant match on the card was the Intercontinental Championship Match between Chris Benoit and Chris Jericho. These two were, and still are, among the absolute best technical wrestlers in the world. Their matches were always a masterclass in storytelling, psychology, and athletic prowess. Benoit, the "Rabid Wolverine," known for his submission expertise and stiff strikes, versus Jericho, "The Ayatollah of Rock 'n' Rolla," known for his charisma, innovative offense, and incredible submission skills. The tension between them was palpable, and every counter, every hold, every near-fall felt incredibly meaningful. It was a hard-fought battle where both men left it all in the ring, showcasing a level of in-ring skill that elevated the championship and the entire event. These undercard matches weren't just there to fill time; they were essential in demonstrating the versatility and star power of the WWE roster, ensuring that every fan, no matter their preference, had something to cheer for. The energy from these bouts carried directly into the main event, making Royal Rumble 2000 an unforgettable night.
The Undisputed Main Event: The Royal Rumble Match
Alright guys, now we get to the heart and soul of Royal Rumble 2000: the titular Royal Rumble match itself! This wasn't just any Rumble; this was an absolute barnburner packed with iconic moments and a finish that still gets debated today. With 30 men entering the fray, the odds were stacked, and the potential for chaos was immense. The match featured a who's who of WWE talent from the Attitude Era, including Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, Triple H, Mick Foley (in his various personas), Undertaker, Kane, and many more. The sheer star power in this match alone was enough to guarantee fireworks.
The early entries set a furious pace, with wrestlers like Edge and Christian immediately going to work, showcasing their agility and quick strikes. As the match progressed, the eliminations started piling up, and the landscape of the ring constantly shifted. One of the most memorable and brutal segments involved Mick Foley. Competing under three different personas – Mankind, Cactus Jack, and Dude Love – Foley delivered a performance that was nothing short of legendary. His "I Quit" match against Triple H earlier in the night might have been the main event for the WWE Championship, but his showing in the Rumble was equally, if not more, impactful in terms of sheer spectacle and emotional investment. He took incredible risks, bumping and crashing in a way that few others could, truly embodying the "hardcore" spirit that defined the Attitude Era. The crowd was hanging on his every move, captivated by his willingness to endure pain for their entertainment.
As the numbers dwindled, the focus shifted to the established main eventers. The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin, two of the biggest rivals in WWE history, found themselves in the ring together, igniting the crowd with their intense staredowns and explosive confrontations. Their exchanges were electrifying, reminding everyone of the incredible rivalry that had captivated audiences for years. The anticipation of who would eliminate whom, and who would ultimately walk out victorious, was palpable. The closing moments were a masterclass in suspense, with the final competitors battling it out in a dramatic showdown. The winner of the Royal Rumble 2000 was The Rock, who eliminated Big Show to secure his victory. This win was monumental, not just because he eliminated a powerhouse like Big Show, but because it solidified his status as one of the top stars in the company. The Rock's victory sent the crowd into a frenzy and set the stage for his continued dominance in WWE. The Royal Rumble match of 2000 remains a benchmark for action, storytelling, and unforgettable moments, proving why it's a must-watch for any wrestling fan.
Beyond the Rumble: Key Moments and Surprises
While the Royal Rumble match itself was the undisputed headliner of the 2000 event, there were several other crucial moments and surprises that made this night truly special and contributed to its lasting legacy. One of the most talked-about aspects of Royal Rumble 2000 was the sheer number of surprise entrants and returns. WWE was known for its swerves, and this event delivered in spades, keeping the audience constantly guessing and on the edge of their seats. The returns of beloved superstars, or the debuts of new threats, always generate a massive pop from the crowd, and this Rumble was no exception. These surprises weren't just about shock value; they often had significant implications for the ongoing storylines and the future direction of the company, adding layers of intrigue to an already explosive night.
Beyond the Rumble match, the WWE Championship match was a brutal affair that saw Triple H defend his title against Mick Foley. This match was an "I Quit" match, meaning the only way to win was to force your opponent to utter those two words. It was a contest defined by unrelenting brutality, with both men pushing themselves to their absolute physical limits. Triple H, the "Cerebral Assassin," was at the peak of his powers, known for his methodical yet devastating offense, while Mick Foley, in one of his many iconic incarnations, was prepared to endure incredible punishment. The match culminated in a shocking moment where Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley, who had been aligned with Triple H, interfered in a way that ultimately led to Foley "quitting" to protect her. This interference was crucial, as it solidified the heel status of Stephanie and cemented the McMahon-H family's controversial reign of power, setting the stage for major storylines moving forward. The sheer violence and emotional stakes in this match were incredibly high, showcasing the dark and gritty nature of the Attitude Era.
Furthermore, the event featured other significant contests, including Edge and Christian vs. The Dudley Boyz vs. The Hardy Boyz for the Tag Team Championships, which, as mentioned earlier, was an absolute show-stealer. The athletic prowess and innovative spots displayed by these teams were a testament to the strength of WWE's tag division. The debut of The Radicalz (Chris Benoit, Dean Malenko, Eddie Guerrero, and Perry Saturn) on the Raw after the Rumble also stemmed from the underlying tensions and shifts in power showcased at this event, highlighting how Royal Rumble 2000 was a pivotal turning point. These moments, both within and outside the main event, collectively contributed to making Royal Rumble 2000 a landmark event in WWE history, celebrated for its thrilling action, shocking twists, and impactful storytelling that resonated with fans long after the final bell rang.
Why Royal Rumble 2000 Still Matters
So, why are we still talking about Royal Rumble 2000 all these years later? It's simple, guys: this event was a perfect storm of everything that made the Attitude Era so captivating. It wasn't just about a single match or a single winner; it was about the entire package. The Royal Rumble match itself was a masterclass in pacing, storytelling, and sheer unpredictable chaos. You had established legends like Stone Cold and The Rock going head-to-head, creating moments of intense rivalry that sent the crowd into a frenzy. You had the unforgettable, bone-crunching performance of Mick Foley under his various personas, reminding everyone why he was one of the toughest and most beloved Superstars of all time. The surprise entrants and the dramatic eliminations kept everyone on the edge of their seats, guessing who would get that coveted WrestleMania main event spot. It was pure, unadulterated wrestling excitement.
Beyond the Rumble match, the event showcased other thrilling contests that are still held in high regard. The Intercontinental Championship match between Chris Benoit and Chris Jericho was a technical wrestling clinic, demonstrating the incredible in-ring talent available in WWE at the time. The Tag Team Triple Threat match was a high-octane, spot-filled spectacle that highlighted the innovation and daring of The Dudley Boyz, The Hardy Boyz, and The New Age Outlaws. These matches weren't just filler; they were crucial in building the overall quality and excitement of the pay-per-view, proving that WWE could deliver top-tier action across the board. The WWE Championship "I Quit" match between Triple H and Mick Foley was a brutal, emotionally charged battle that perfectly encapsulated the darker, more intense side of the Attitude Era. The controversial interference and the subsequent "quitting" of Foley left a lasting impact, shaping storylines for months to come and solidifying the heel dominance of the McMahon-Helmsley faction.
Royal Rumble 2000 stands out because it perfectly balanced incredible in-ring action with compelling storylines and memorable characters. It was an event where legacies were forged, rivalries were intensified, and the future of WWE was shaped. The winners of the major matches, The Rock in the Rumble and Triple H retaining his WWE Championship, were all positioned perfectly to lead WWE into the next phase. The event served as a critical stepping stone towards WrestleMania 16 (WrestleMania 2000), setting up major confrontations and dream matches. For anyone looking to understand the peak of the Attitude Era, or simply to witness some of the most exciting wrestling action ever produced, Royal Rumble 2000 is an essential watch. It's a night filled with unforgettable moments, incredible performances, and the raw, unpredictable energy that made professional wrestling a global phenomenon. It remains a true classic for a reason, guys!