Number 3: WrestleMania XIX
A card that was stacked and had that big fight feel to it. Seattle, Washington and Safeco Field hosted the 19th edition of WrestleMania, with over 54,000 fans in attendance. While many consider this the worst of The Undertaker’s matches, with a victory of A-Train and The Big Show minus Nathan Jones, the rest of the night did not disappoint. Daredevil Rey Mysterio would start off the night losing to Matt Hardy, who was hot as a cruiserweight with his cockiness and unique entrance. Other matches were decent, but it was Shawn Micahels and Chris Jericho who lit the fire that would follow. They put on quite a display of athleticism, technical wrestling, and an intense back and forth contest that would result in a hug at the end. They knew and the fans knew that they witnessed 22 minutes of pure genius inside the ropes. This was followed by an average Triple H vs. Booker T match for the World Heavyweight Championship. Both guys were in their prime, but it was bottled down because of what followed. What tells the story of WrestleMania besides the names “Hogan” and “McMahon.” They battled in what was a blood bath. With their ages averaging over 100 years, Vince and Hulk did a fantastic job at making big bumps and selling the injuries to create the hatred inside of both of them. Both men made each other, just like Rock vs. Austin III. Another great match between the two, especially with The Rock as a full fledged heel returning from Hollywood. Rock wore the leather vest of Austin, and he was the one who stood tall, finally, on the big stage. With all of the star power, it came down to Angle vs. the new sensation Brock Lesnar. Two amateur wrestlers in the pinnacle of their careers, they would finish the night with a fantastic match from beginning to end. Chemistry, timing, and the athleticism displayed here was second to none. It capped off a complete night of action and entertainment. The botched Shooting Star Press looked painful, but Brock brought the Pain on Angle with an F-5 to end the show. Complete from beginning to end.
8.5/10 Rating
