Historic WrestleMania XL Eclipsed Our Expectations

WrestleMania XL wasn’t just another entry in WWE’s storied history; it was a monumental event that went above and beyond, leaving fans and critics alike in awe. From heart-pounding matches to unexpected returns, WrestleMania XL had it all, setting a new benchmark for what the grandest stage in sports entertainment can offer. Let’s dive into the electrifying night two, which lived up to and eclipsed our wildest expectations.

John Cena confronts The Rock in the ring at Wrestlemania XL
John Cena confronts The Rock in the ring at Wrestlemania XL.

With its blend of nostalgia, high-octane action, and storytelling, WrestleMania XL has set a new standard for what fans expect from WWE’s flagship event. The emergence of new champions, the continued excellence of the women’s division, and the incorporation of celebrities and legends into the fabric of the event have all contributed to a WrestleMania that will be remembered for years to come. As we look to the future, it’s clear that WWE is on a new trajectory that promises even more excitement, drama, and wrestling excellence. WrestleMania XL was not just a celebration of the past but a bold step into the future of professional wrestling.

A Night of Surprises and Milestones

The main event of the evening was nothing short of a wrestling fan’s dream come true. It featured a star-studded showdown between Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns. With the entire wrestling world watching, the match delivered on every level, complete with high-flying maneuvers, intense drama, and surprise interventions that had the audience on the edge of their seats.

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 the Bank briefcase at Wrestlemania XL in this photo hes has just climbed the Money in the Bank ladder to grab it.
Damien Priest cashed in the Money in the Bank briefcase at Wrestlemania XL

A Tale of Two Champions: Cody Rhodes and Damian Priest

Central to Night Two’s narrative was the crowning of Cody Rhodes as the new WWE Undisputed Champion, a moment that signified a new era in WWE. Rhodes’ victory was not just a personal triumph but a symbolic passing of the torch, marking the end of Roman Reigns’ dominant reign. The match was laden with interference and high drama, characteristic of a true WrestleMania main event, culminating in Rhodes standing tall amidst legends and contemporaries alike.

In a surprising twist, Damian Priest emerged as the new World Heavyweight Champion, cashing in his Money in the Bank contract. This moment was significant for Priest’s career and for representing Puerto Rican heritage at the pinnacle of WWE, a feat not achieved since Pedro Morales.

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The Undertaker Surprises The Rock in the Wrestlemania XL ring
The Undertaker Surprises The Rock in the Wrestlemania XL ring

The Surprise Factor

WrestleMania XL’s night two was packed with jaw-dropping moments, but none more so than the surprise appearances that peppered the main event. From Jimmy Uso’s unexpected involvement to the legendary Undertaker‘s shocking entrance, these moments added excitement and unpredictability to an already thrilling match.

Cody Rhodes seen here with the WWE Championship belt after defeating Roman Reigns at Wrestlemania XL
Cody Rhodes is seen here with the WWE Championship belt after defeating Roman Reigns at Wrestlemania XL.

Champions Crowned

The night was defining for Cody Rhodes, who emerged victorious against Reigns, signalling the new Paul Levesque (aka Triple H) era in WWE. In another twist, Damian Priest captured the World Heavyweight Championship, marking a historic moment as he became the first of Puerto Rican descent to achieve this feat in 50 years.

The Undercard Shines

While the main event stole the show, the undercard matches were nothing to scoff at. Bailey’s clash with Iyo Sky was a masterclass in wrestling, proving once again the incredible talent within the women’s division. Meanwhile, the street fight, infused with Snoop Dogg’s charismatic commentary, added a unique flavour to the event, blending hardcore action with sheer entertainment.

WrestleMania XL: The Verdict Is In

The scores are in, and they speak volumes. Our own Dave Simon gave the night an impressive 8.5 out of 10, while Ben Simon wasn’t far behind with an 8. Harold Schneider from the audience also lauded the event, giving it an 8 out of 10. These scores reflect the consensus that WrestleMania XL night two was an unmissable spectacle.

WrestleMania 40 Night Two Scores

NameRoleScore out of 10
Dave SimonHost8.5
Ben SimonHost8.0
Johnny NorthHost6.0
Ryan KatzAudience8.5
Patrick DenaultAudience8.7
Angelo KontegonisAudience6.0
Kyle SalisburyAudience5.0
Scores out of 10

These scores reflect the diverse perspectives of the Ringside Report Network hosts and the audience, encapsulating the overall sentiment towards WrestleMania 40 Night Two. ​

Key Takeaways

  • Unexpected Returns: The surprise appearances throughout the night added an extra layer of excitement and nostalgia.
  • A New Era: Cody Rhodes’s and Damian Priest’s victories signal a fresh direction for WWE’s storytelling.
  • Women’s Wrestling Excellence: The women’s division continues delivering top-tier performances, with Bailey vs. Iyo Sky as a highlight.

Conclusion: A WrestleMania for the Ages

WrestleMania XL night two was more than just a wrestling event; it celebrated the sport’s past, present, and future. With a mix of high-octane matches, unexpected twists, and historic moments, it’s safe to say that this WrestleMania has not only met but eclipsed our expectations. As we look ahead, one thing is clear: the future of WWE is brighter than ever, and we can’t wait to see what’s next on this wild ride through the world of professional wrestling.

Jon Simon from the Editorial Staff

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