Elimination Chamber Results (spoilers obviously!)

Event: WWE Elimination Chamber Pay-Per-View
Airdate: Sunday, February 17th, 2013 (Pay-Per-View)
Location: The New Orleans Arena in New Orleans, LA

WWE Elimination Chamber Opener:

The show opens with a video package highlighting the Chamber match, the Shield vs. Sheamus/Ryback/Cena match, and the Rock/Punk match.

- The pyro hits and Michael Cole welcomes us to the PPV, hyping it as the final stop before WrestleMania. The bell rings, and it looks like the World Heavyweight Championship will be opening things up as the Big Show's music hits, and the big man makes his way down to the ring.

World Heavyweight Title Match
Big Show vs. Alberto Del Rio (c)

Ricardo Rodriguez is out to introduce the Champ, and Alberto Del Rio gets a tiny pop, but overall mild reaction out of the crowd on his way to the ring.

The bell rings and Del Rio and Show lock up. Show shoves Del Rio into the ropes for a couple of clubbing blows. Del Rio turns things around in the corner for a second, but eats a huge chop to the chest from Show. Del Rio crosses the ring, and Show chops him across the chest again. Show chops Del Rio across the back and sends him down to the mat. Del Rio crawls back to his feet and is slammed right back down.

Show chokes Del Rio against the middle rope before hitting him with another huge chop to the chest. Del Rio tries to head butt Show, but ends up sent into the corner. Del Rio avoids a splash and targets Show's knee, knocking him to the mat for a series of kicks to the chest. Del Rio hits Show with a superkick to the kneeling giant, but Show shrugs off a cover, tossing Del Rio across the ring. Del Rio tries for the arm breaker, but Show shoves him into the ropes and follows up with a spear for two.

Show stands on Del Rio's chest in the corner before being called off by the ref. Show picks Del Rio up and hits him with a nasty short arm clothesline. Del Rio kicks at Show's legs, but he hits the ropes and runs right into a stiff kick from Show that puts him right back down to the mat. Show climbs up to the middle rope and tries for a Vader bomb, landing square on Del Rio's chest, but Del Rio is still able to kick out.

Show picks Del Rio up and Del Rio is able to clamp on the cross arm breaker out of nowhere. Show struggles, but he's able to make it to the ropes to break the hold. Del Rio gets to his feet but he's shoved away by Show into the corner. Del Rio kicks Show in the face and leaps off the middle rope, but he's caught in a bear hug. Del Rio fades, but Show breaks the hold to chase Ricardo off the apron. He turns around into a series of strikes from Del Rio, but Show shrugs it off and hoists Del Rio up for a powerbomb. Del Rio hits Show with a couple of punches and turns it into a hurricanrana that sends Show to the outside. Del Rio flies through the ropes with a suicide dive, taking out both men.

Both men beat the count into the ring. Del Rio heads to the top rope and hits a seated senton, good for another two count. Del Rio charges into Show with a kick, but Show catches his foot and puts him down with a big chokeslam, but it's still not enough to keep the champ down for three.

Show calls for the KO punch, but Del Rio bails to the outside. Show pulls him back into the ring, from the inside, and plants Del Rio on the canvas. Show tries for another chokeslam, but Del Rio counters, trying for a sunset flip. Show picks Del Rio up, and is immediately planted by a surprise DDT from Del Rio that's good for another near fall. Del Rio hits the enzugiri in the corner, but Show kicks out of another pinfall attempt.

Del Rio goes back to the cross arm breaker in the middle of the ring. Show reaches for the rope, but rolls over onto his feet instead, picking up the champ and slamming him to the canvas to break the hold. Show makes it to his feet first and calls for the KO punch again before knocking Ricardo from the apron again. Show holds up the bucket the Ricardo brought to the ring. Del Rio botches an enzugiri, but then hits another that puts the bucket to Show's head. Del Rio hits another enzugiri, then clamps on the cross arm breaker for the third time. Show reaches for the ropes, but he's just out of reach. Show screams in pain before tapping out.

Winner and STILL World Heavyweight Champion: Alberto Del Rio

U.S. Title Match
Antonio Cesaro (c) vs. The Miz

Miz's shoulder is all taped up. The bell rings and both men begin circling. Miz peppers Cesaro with a couple of rights and some kicks in the corner, but he runs into a boot to the gut from Antonio. Cesaro sends Miz out to the apron, but finds himself trapped in a roll up for two. Cesaro turns to the arm of Miz, hitting him with a big shoulder block before being caught with another roll up. Miz hits a running knee lift, but Cesaro responds quickly, catching Miz and planting him with a big shoulder breaker across his knee. Cesaro stomps at Miz's shoulder before leaping up and stomping down hard, then slamming Miz's arm down into the mat.

Cesaro puts Miz into a keylock hold, but Miz is able to fight out, hitting Cesaro with a knee to the gut, a running kick to the chest, and a near fall. Cesaro slams Miz to the mat before mounting him and raining down with a series of forearms. Cesaro knees Miz in the shoulder before picking him up by the arm and flipping him over to the mat. Cesaro clamps on a short arm scissor, working over Miz's arm even more.

Miz tries to roll up Cesaro, but Cesaro fights up to hit a big clothesline, then another two count. Cesaro stomps on Miz's shoulder hard before slamming it down against the ring apron. Cesaro goes for another pin, getting another two count. Cesaro grabs Miz's fingers and twists his arm and wrist over. Miz fights up to his feet and hits Cesaro with a back elbow before kicking him square in the chin. Miz kicks away at Cesaro in the corner before being pulled away by the ref and hitting his running corner clothesline. Miz heads to the top rope and leaps off, but is caught by Cesaro and put into a sick armbar. Miz turns it into a roll up for two before dumping Cesaro over the top and to the outside.

Miz leaps off the apron, but he's caught by Cesaro. Cesaro shoulders Miz, but Miz slips off and shoves Cesaro into the ring steps, hurting Cesaro's knee. Cesaro heads back into the ring and Miz hits him with a chop block, and a dragon screw before hitting him with a low DDT while Cesaro is on his knees. Cesaro kicks out of a pin attempt and kicks Miz away, but ends up eating a low dropkick from Miz. Miz tries for the figure four, but Cesaro trips up Miz and Miz accidentally knees Cesaro in the crotch. Cesaro points is out to the ref and the ref calls for the DQ.

Winner and STILL WWE US Champion: Antonio Cesaro

Following the match, a frustrated Miz kicks Cesaro low, causing the champ to fall from the ring writhing in pain.

Backstage:

Kane is shown pacing backstage, and Daniel Bryan asks if he's still giving him the silent treatment. Bryan says the Royal Rumble was every man for himself, and Kane eliminated Bryan, so he should be the one who's mad. Bryan asks why Kane is so grumpy. Kane says Bryan looks grumpy since he's like a dwarf. Kane says he's never competed in a WrestleMania main event, and tonight's his shot, so it's really important. Bryan says it might come down to the two of them, so they should look out for each other. They hug. Kane says Bryan will watch his back, and Kane will watch his back too.

- They cut to the arena where the chamber is being lowered for the #1 Contenders match.

Elimination Chamber Match
Winner gets a World Heavyweight Title shot at WrestleMania 29
Chris Jericho vs. Daniel Bryan vs. Randy Orton vs. Mark Henry vs. Kane vs. Jack Swagger

We get a video package running down the rules, and a bit of the history of the chamber match.

Jack Swagger is the first man to make his way to the chamber. He's accompanied by Zeb Colter on his way down the entranceway. Swagger has a mic in hand. He says when he holds the mic, he holds the power. When he uses the mic, he uses it to shower the fans with truth. Zeb Colter speaks the truth. Zeb is a great American and if the fans have any type of respect for their country they will stand up and give it to him. This man, Zeb Colter. Swagger hands off the mic and applauds. Zeb says they are in a den of inequity. They are in New Orleans, and on the eve of President's day, he can't help but think of Thomas Jefferson and the Louisiana purchase, and how ashamed he would see what became of it, and this once great nation. A nation that Zeb defended with his life. And just like the WWE, they're both full of intruders, panderers, and he spent one year in the muck with Swagger's daddy to see people crossing borders, breaking laws, and asking for a handout. Together, they will make things right, because tonight, in this chamber, a real patriot and American will set things straight, and win one for the good guys. Mark Zeb's words, tonight marks the beginning of a Jack Swagger era. Swagger yells out 'We the people' before being cut off by Kane's music.

Kane makes his way into the chamber to a decent reaction, and heads right for his pod without a big speech like Swagger.

Mark Henry is the third entrant, and the World's strongest man doesn't get the warmest reaction from the crowd, although to be fair, it's not really much of a reaction at all.

Henry stares down Swagger before making his way into his personal pod and finds himself closed in.

The final pod is claimed as Randy Orton makes his way down to the ring and into the chamber. Orton gets a really nice initial pop from the crowd.

Daniel Bryan makes his way out next, discouraging the crowd from their 'Yes' chants on his way into the chamber. Michael Cole reminds us that last year Bryan actually won the Chamber match on the way to WrestleMania last year.

Chris Jericho is the final entrant into the Chamber, and it's safe to say that the fans are happy to see him as he makes his way down to the ring.

The Chamber door is locked and the bell rings, and we're ready to begin. Bryan and Jericho circle each other before Bryan locks in a head lock. He takes Jericho to the mat with a shoulder block, but is taken over with a couple of arm drags, and a headlock takeover from Jericho. Bryan tries to turn it into a pin, but Jericho fights out, holding onto the headlock. Bryan pushes Jericho off and eats a shoulderblock. Jericho tries to catch Bryan in the walls of Jericho, and Bryan almost counters into the No lock. Jericho tries for the walls again, but Bryan kicks him away. Bryan kicks at Jericho's chest in the corner, wearing him out.

Bryan runs into a big boot from Jericho in the corner. Bryan flips over Jericho in the corner before heading out to the chamber floor. Bryan tries to suplex Jericho to the floor, but Jericho fights out of it. Bryan tries to lock in the No lock, but Jericho fights it off and slingshots Bryan into the chamber wall. Things head back into the ring where Jericho drops Bryan with a back body drop. Jericho goes for the pin, getting a two count. Jericho winds up and kicks Bryan in the ribs. The clock begins to count down as Jericho suplexes Bryan. The lights dim, and the next entrant is Jack Swagger.

Swagger rushes into the ring and plants Jericho on the mat before hitting a Swagger bomb out of the corner. Swagger stomps at Jericho before turning to Bryan on the outside. Swagger picks up Bryan and slams him into the chamber wall twice. Swagger stares at Bryan before hitting the ropes and driving a knee into Bryan's gut against the chamber wall. Swagger drives his knee into the side of Bryan's face against the chamber floor before heading back into the ring and walking into a big dropkick from Jericho. Jericho works over Swagger in the corner with a series of strikes, but Jericho misses a big splash in the corner and falls to the outside.

Swagger follows Jericho to the outside and tosses him repeatedly into the ropes before driving his knee into Jericho's gut against and again. Swagger continues to focus on Jericho and when he turns around, he eats a top rope flying knee from Bryan that puts Swagger down on the chamber floor. In the ring Bryan hits Jericho with a big DDT before heading to the top rope. Bryan tries for a flying head butt, but Jericho moves out of the way and scores a near fall before hitting a low dropkick to Bryan's back.

The clock counts down again and the next entrant is Kane. Kane heads in and goes after Jericho with a big chop to the throat. Kane tosses Jericho into the corner, then tosses Swagger in after him and splashes both. Kane tosses Bryan into the pile up in the corner for a huge assisted dropkick, and the tag champs team up with Kane sending Swagger to the outside. Bryan tries to roll Kane up, but only gets two and he immediately begs off. Bryan tells Kane to calm down and he asks for a hug. Kane says no, that he wants the title. They yell at each other for a bit, and both look disappointed before Bryan shoves Kane and Kane slaps Bryan.

Bryan sends Kane into the corner with a drop toe hold before hitting him with a big dropkick and a series of kicks to the chest. Kane tries for a chokeslam, but Bryan fights out, only to run into a sidewalk slam from the monster. Kane heads to the top, but he's stopped by Bryan. Bryan tries for a superplex, but he's stopped by Jericho. Jericho and Kane execute a perfect doomsday device, and Swagger tries to pin Bryan, but only gets two. Swagger and Kane trade rights, and Swagger hits a back elbow before trying for a suplex. Kane is able to reverse into a cover for two.

Jericho comes in and kicks away at Kane before the clock counts down once more and Randy Orton enters the match. Orton suplexes Swagger to the outside, then hits Jericho with a big back elbow. Orton runs into a right hand from Kane, but he ducks a clothesline and hits the big man with a nice clothesline. Orton hits Bryan with a rope assisted suplex before heading outside after Kane. Kane grabs Orton around the throat, but Orton is able to shove Kane into the chamber wall before tying Kane up in the ropes and hitting him with the suspension DDT on the chamber floor.

Bryan kicks away at Jericho in the corner before Jericho turns it around. Jericho takes Bryan to the top turnbuckle as Orton takes Swagger up on the other side. Orton superplexes Swagger, then Jericho superplexes Bryan, and all four men are down. Mark Henry looks frustrated that he's having to wait, pacing back and forth and pounding against his pod walls. The clock begins to count down and Henry makes his way out.

Henry wipes out everyone in the match, taking Bryan down with a worlds strongest slam for three.

Daniel Bryan has been eliminated.

Henry heads to the outside after Randy Orton, throwing him through one of the pods. Orton crumbles in a heap inside of the busted pod. In the ring, Kane and Henry trade right hands. Henry sends Kane into the corner, but Kane dodges a splash and hits a couple of big clotheslines. Kane heads to the top and leaps off, but he's caught by Henry, and put down with a world's strongest slam for three.

Kane has been eliminated.

Henry turns to Jericho, tossing him over the top rope and following to the outside. Henry shoulders Jericho, but Jericho drops down and pushes Henry into the chamber wall. Jericho and Swagger team up, pushing Henry repeatedly into the chamber wall before hitting a double suplex on the chamber floor, planting Mark Henry.

Jericho clotheslines Swagger back into the ring before hitting a big cross body on the All American for a two count. Jericho sends Swagger across the ring, but runs right into a big boot. Swagger tries for the gut-wrench powerbomb, and Jericho is able to reverse it into the walls of Jericho, but Swagger kicks Jericho away. Jericho connects with a running bulldog, the he tries for the lionsault. Henry catches Jericho around the throat and throws him into the chamber wall hard.

Henry gorilla presses Jericho into the ring, into Swagger, wiping out both men. Henry places Jericho on top of Swagger, and he heads to the middle rope. Henry tries for a Vader bomb, but both men move. Swagger hits a big boot, and Jericho hits the code breaker. Orton is up and he connects with the RKO and gets the three count.

Mark Henry has been eliminated.

Swagger, Orton and Jericho are all down as Henry slowly makes his way from the chamber to the back. Henry stops on his way out and fights his way back into the chamber. He hits Swagger with a world's strongest slam. Then he does the same to Orton. The officials try to call him off, but he hits Jericho with it as well. Booker T makes his way down with Teddy Long to try and restore order, and Henry gets out of the ring. He heads down the steps and to the back with Booker T and Long.

Swagger rolls over to pin Orton and gets a two count. Swagger hits Jericho with a series of rights in the corner, but Orton and Jericho team up on the youngster, sending him crashing shoulder first into the ring post. Jericho and Orton stare each other down and trade blows. Orton hits a big clothesline, then another, but misses a third and falls to two shoulderblocks. Jericho sends Orton to the chamber floor, but Jericho lands on his feet and heads to the top. Jericho jumps off, but leaps right into a dropkick from Orton that's good for another two count. Orton hits Swagger with two powerslams, then tries to hit him with the suspension DDT, but Jericho comes in with a springboard dropkick for a two count on Orton.

Jericho tries for the codebreaker, but Swagger catches him with a belly to belly throw instead. Swagger tries for the Swagger bomb but Orton gets his foot up. Swagger catches the foot and clamps on the ankle lock. Jericho breaks it up and finds himself in the ankle lock. Jericho is able to counter into the walls of Jericho, but Orton breaks it up with his across the back backbreaker for a two count on Jericho. Orton backdrops Swagger to the outside, then gets both Jericho and Swagger with the suspension DDT into the ring.

Orton drops to the mat and tries for the RKO, but Jericho fights it off. Jericho tries for the lionsault, but Orton counters and hits the RKO. Orton pins Jericho for three.

Chris Jericho has been eliminated.

Swagger rolls up Orton for a three count, and this one is over.

Winner and #1 Contender to the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania: Jack Swagger

Swagger limps to the back with Zeb in tow, and the crowd doesn't seem too happy about this one.

Seth Rollins, Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns vs. John Cena, Ryback and Sheamus

We get a video package that highlights the events that have led up to this match, including multiple attacks on Cena, Ryback and Sheamus by the Shield over the past few weeks.

John Cena is the first man to make his way out to the ring for this match, and Cena gets what seems to be a mostly positive reaction, but there are definitely some boos sprinkled in there as well.

Sheamus is out to the ring next, and the Irishman gets a warm reception from the New Orleans crowd.

Ryback is out last for his team, and he gets the weakest reaction of everyone on his team for sure.

The Shield is out next, coming through the crowd just as they did in their debut match at TLC.

Things break down immediately as Cena, Sheamus and Ryback jump the Shield on their way into the ringside area. Cena, Sheamus and Ryback hit triple stalling vertical suplexes on the Shield. Ambrose and Sheamus are left in the ring and the bell rings. Sheamus catches Ambrose with a knee life before sending him to the apron and hitting him with a series of clubbing blows to the chest. Sheamus rips off Ambrose's vest, then hits him with even more clubbing blows to the chest. Sheamus heads to the apron and takes out Rolling with a charging shoulder block from the apron. Sheamus stares down Reins, and Ambrose takes advantage, knocking Sheamus to the floor before tagging in Roman.

Roman brings Sheamus into the ring and quick tags and kicks from each man leaves Rolling in the ring attempting to choke out Sheamus. Sheamus is able to fight up to his feet, but is backed into the Shield corner and Ambrose tags in, assaulting Sheamus in the corner with multiple elbows to the back of the head. Ambrose turns around a second too long and eats a brogue kick from Sheamus. Reins and Cena tag in and Cena with dual shoulderblocks before hitting the five knuckle shuffle on Roman. Cena tries for the AA, but Rollins breaks it up. Cena tosses Rollins from the ring and locks in the STF on Roman. Ambrose breaks it up and Rollins hits Cena with a top rope dive that sets up Roman for a near fall.

Ambrose hits Cena with a couple of right hands, then a nice elbow drop that's good for a two count. Ambrose tags out to Rollins who comes in and hits Cena with a big right hand. Rollins taunts Cena and hits him with another big right hand to the face. Cena avoids a third punch from Rollins, tries to fight back, but runs into a big enzugiri from Rollins that's good for another two count. Rollins hits Cena with a big splash in the corner that sends him crumpling to the mat.

Ambrose tags in and hits Cena with a couple of nasty head butts before slapping away at Cena's head. Quick tags and all three members off the Shield double team Cena, leading to a big clothesline from Roman Reins. Sheamus breaks up a pin attempt. Reins hits Cena with a big right hand, then gets in Sheamus' face. When Reins turns around, Cena hits him with a couple of rights, but then he runs into a big Samoan drop from Roman that's good for two.

Reins clamps on a rear chin lock, but Cena is able to fight to his feet and almost into his own corner. Roman is able to bring Cena back to his side of the ring, and away from a tag. Ambrose and Rollins taunt Cena, yelling at him to give up. Cena fights to his feet again and breaks the hold with a belly to back suplex. Cena tries for the tag, but runs right into a big clothesline from Reins that's good for another two count.

Ambrose tags in and hits Cena with a couple of rights before bringing him down to the mat for a two count. Ambrose clamps on a legscissors, wearing down Cena's neck. Cena stands with Ambrose on his shoulders, but Ambrose drops down, hits a knee to Cena's gut, and drops him with a wicked DDT for two. Ambrose runs into a big back body drop from Cena that sends him out to the floor.

Cena tags out to Ryback, who comes in and takes out Rollins and Ambrose with big back body drops. Ryback hits Rollins with a powerbomb before slamming Ambrose into Rollins in the corner. Reins blindsides Ryback, and Sheamus intervenes, fighting Roman to the outside. Reins spears Sheamus through the timekeeper's area, and both men are down. Rollins heads to the top rope, but he's caught by Ryback. Ryback tries for a gorilla press, but it's 3 on 1 as the Shield triple team Ryback. Cena pulls Reins from the ring, and he hits an AA on Ambrose as Roman spears Ryback. Rollins falls on top of Ryback, and gets the three count.

Winners: The Shield

Cena looks disappointed as Ryback heads to the back angrily. Both Sheamus and Cena look on and their disappointment turns to shock.

In the Arena:

Dolph Ziggler comes out with AJ and Big E. in tow. He's not too happy about not being booked. He says it's great that Jack Swagger came into the Elimination Chamber after his long vacation and won. He probably thinks he's guaranteed the championship, but nope, the briefcase that Ziggler has guarantees it. Ziggler has stolen the show more than anyone.

He's interrupted by Booker T who says Ziggler may just be wasting everyone's time. He knows Ziggle feels like he can do things no one else can do, but Booker begs to differ because he knows someone who can do everything, and a little bit more than Dolph can, and he's his opponent now.

Dolph Ziggler vs. Kofi Kingston

Kofi Kingston makes his way out for an impromptu match with Ziggler. The bell rings and Ziggler clamps on a head lock, taking Kofi down to the mat. Kofi fights up and hits a dropkick before monkey flipping Ziggler out of the corner hard. Kofi misses a splash in the corner and runs shoulder first into the ring post. Ziggler catches Kofi with a dropkick of his own before putting him in a headlock. Kofi fights up to his feet and ducks a couple of clotheslines, but Ziggler is able to lock on the sleeper hold and Kofi drops down to one knee.

Kofi is able to fight up and he tosses Ziggler from the ring. Big E helps Ziggler up, and ends up eating a dive from Kofi. AJ accidentally distracts Ziggler and allows Kofi to hit the trouble in paradise, but it's only good for two. Ziggler rolls to the outside, and Kofi dives out, wiping out Big E again. Kofi sends Ziggler back into the ring and takes him out with a big springboard cross body. Kofi heads to the top, but he's stopped by Ziggler. Ziggler tries for a superplex, but instead drops him down on the top turnbuckle stomach first. Ziggler hits the Zig zag, then gets the three count.

Winner: Dolph Ziggler

Following the match, Big E gets into the ring and hits Kofi with a couple of clubbing blows before hitting him with a running splash that flattens Kingston. Langston hits Kingston with a series of knees to the gut, then shoulders him, dropping down to the mat with Kingston across his shoulder. Langston holds one arm high and screams out, standing over top of Kingston.

Backstage:

Brodus Clay and the Funkadactyls are shown backstage playing with some WWE toys. Clay shows off his action figure to Tensai, who he calls 'Sweet T'. Tensai asks where little Tensai is. Clay says the writing on his face is probably too much to put on an action figure. Clay asks what the writing is. Tensai says they're supposed to be words of honor, but with his luck, it's probably a sushi menu. Clay says he's got what Tensai needs, and the music hits. Everyone dances, and we all just wasted two minutes of our lives.

WWE Divas Title Match
Tamina Snuka vs. Kaitlyn

Backstage footage of Tamina and Kaitly is shown fighting to justify the reason for this match. Tamina makes her way out to the ring first, followed by Kaitlyn. Both of them don't get much of a reaction from the crowd.

Eve gets a little bit of promo time where she explains that Tamina is scary, but she still thinks she'll win tonight.

The bell rings and Kaitlyn backs Snuka into the ropes. Snuka isn't too happy about it and shoves Kaitlyn. Kaitlyn is able to take Snuka down to the mat, and she rolls her up for a two count. Snuka heads into the ropes to get some time. Kaitlyn rolls her up again for another two count. Snuka heads to the outside and Kaitlyn is quick to follow. Kaitlyn hits her with a baseball slide before bringing things back into the ring. Tamina hits Kaitlyn with a big forearm that sends her falling from the ring apron to the floor.

amina brings things back into the ring and kicks at Kaitlyn before pinning her for another two count. Tamina shoulders Kaitlyn and puts her down with a Samoan drop. Snuka heads to the top rope and goes for the superfly splash, missing. Kaitlyn hits a spear and puts Tamina down for a three count.

Winner and STILL WWE Diva's Champion: Kaitlyn

- We get a video package that recaps the events of the Royal Rumble, and a brief synopsis of the events in the month that followed leading up to Rock vs. CM Punk.

WWE Title Match
If The Rock gets himself disqualified or counted out, CM Punk wins the title
CM Punk vs. The Rock

CM Punk is the first man to make his way out to the ring with Paul Heyman carrying the WWE Title and holding it up behind him. Punk definitely has his supporters, but it's not hard to see who this crowd will likely be rooting for.

Punk has himself introduced as the People's Champion, and he holds the title high above his head, walking around the ring and showing it off to all the fans in attendance.

The Rock is out next and he gets a massive pop on his way into the arena.

After a slow formal ring introductions, and a reminder from Justin Roberts that if the Rock gets DQ'ed or counted out, he will lose the title, it's time for the main event.

The bell rings and both men circle each other. Punk kicks at Rock before ducking a lock up. Punk continues to kick away at Rock before they finally lock up. Punk drops Rock with a shoulder block, and Punk is quick to celebrate. Another lock up and Punk clamps on a headlock. Rock pushes Punk off and is dropped with another shoulder block. Punk gloats again and Rock doesn't look too happy. A third lock up and another headlock from Punk leads to another push off, and a third shoulder block from Punk. This time Rock retaliates with a couple of arm drags before Punk bails to the outside.

Punk gets back into the ring and slowly walks up to stare down the Rock. Rock and Punk have words before Punk slaps Rock. Rock hits Punk with a series of rights in the corner and Punk calls for more. The ref reminds Rock he'll be DQ'ed and lose the belt, but Rock continues with the rights before being pulled off again. Rock stops himself and Punk smiles before getting to his feet and spitting in Rock's face. Rock attacks and sends Punk to the outside, following and launching Punk into the barricade, then hitting a big clothesline. Rock slams Punk head first into the announcer's table before laying Punk out across the table.

Punk rakes Rock's eyes and heads back into the ring. Rock follows and Punk catches him with a quick clothesline, then a neckbreaker. Punk places Rock in a rear chin lock and works over the champ. Rock fights to his feet, but Punk pulls him right down to the mat. Punk releases the hold and hits a couple of knee and elbow drops. Punk goes for the pin but is only able to get a two count, so he goes right back into the chin lock.

Rock fights to his feet and out of the hold, but he runs right into a back heel kick from Punk that leads to another near fall. Punk pulls Rock up and hits him with a big suplex that puts Rock down for another two count. Punk puts on another rear chin lock, and Rock is quick to fight to his feet this time. He gets out of the hold and hits Punk with a big right, then another. Punk is able to catch Rock with a big boot, then a springboard clothesline which is good for another near fall. Punk goes back to the well for another rear chin lock.

Rock fades, but eventually he's able to get back up to his feet. Rock fights Punk with a series of rights, but Punk ducks a clothesline in the corner and Punk connects with a high knee. Punk stalks Rock and backs up across the ring. He runs in with another high knee, then puts Rock down with a right hand. Punk goes to the top rope hitting the elbow drop for another two count. Punk picks up Rock and dumps him to the outside, following himself. Punk begins taking apart the Spanish announce table, but Rock responds with a series of right hands before bouncing Punk's head off the announcer's table and sending things back into the ring. Rock tries for the Rock bottom, but Punk fights it off and hits Rock with a big kick to the side of the head.

Punk picks up Rock and tosses him to the outside again. This time he gets him up on the Spanish announcer's table, and he hits the Rock bottom, planting Rock on the table. The table doesn't break, I guess they reinforced it too much after last month. Punk rolls back into the ring and smiles, but Rock is able to beat the count. Punk mounts Rock and hits him with a series of punches to the face. Punk hits the ropes and runs right into a big Samoan drop from Rock.

Both men get to their feet and Rock hits Punk with a giant right hand, then another. Punk responds with a couple of his own, but Rock gets the upper hand with a big clothesline. Rock hits a DDT, then waits for Punk to stand up. Rock tries for the Rock bottom, but Punk fights it off with a series of elbows to the head and neck, then the back of the Rock. Punk rolls out to the apron and gets to his feet, trying for another springboard clothesline. Rock catches Punk with a Rock bottom, and he goes for the pin, but Punk kicks out at two.

Punk rolls to the outside and Rock follows, bringing things back into the ring. Punk tosses Rock into the referee and the ref falls to the outside. Punk hits the Rock with the G2S, and Punk covers the Rock for a ten count, clean, but there's no referee. Heyman is pleading with the referee to get up. Another official is down. Punk tries for another G2S, but Rock fights out and hits a spinebuster. Rock hits the People's elbow and pins Punk, but Punk kicks out at two!

Punk knocks over the other official, causing him to roll his ankle, before hitting Rock with a kick to the side of the head. Punk calls for Heyman to get him the title, and Heyman obliges. Heyman gives the belt to Punk and then holds Rock. Punk winds up and aims for Rock, but Rock ducks and Punk hits Heyman. Rock hits Punk with the Rock bottom and the original official is in. Rock pins Punk for three.

Winner and STILL WWE Champion: The Rock

Didn't really see the point in the Shield match. Presume it'll be Shield vs Ryback in a gauntlet type match at WM

It's been about 8 years since I last watched wrestling but I've been getting back in to it and I need to know when did the World Title become a PPV opener? Also was I the only one who could see that Swagger would obviously win the EC to set up a feud with Del Rio where he can play the real American gimmick and make some thinly veiled tv friendly racist remarks towards Del Rio?

I have to say that overall it was an alright event even though Mark Henry still bores me as a wrestler and I felt that Team Cena v The Shield gave Roman Reigns a huge push while making Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose (in particular) look like they couldn't cope without him but I guess that also emphasises the great team work they have.

The World Title match has been the card opener quite a few times now, the WWE Title is very much the No1 title nowadays with the WHC one more Intercontinental level.

Sounds like a fairly dull show, not really any of the surprises people hoped for. Is Wrestlemania next or is there one more PPV first?

Nope, WM next

nope thats it for PPVs before Mania

The Rock needs to get some serious cardio in before WM, he bonked badly.

There's no pleasing some folk, The Shield went over the top three faces in the company the PPV before Mania and still it's regarded as a dull show?
If the faces had won there would be the immediate clamour of 'Oh they're burying yet another faction, they're heading the same way as the Nexus etc'.
Swagger comes back and immediately gets a WHC title shot at Mania, plus a really decent gimmick, plus Swagger v Del Rio could be a real quality match IMO, both excellent wrestlers that could be the show stealer if they give it a bit of airtime.
I think the only problem with the show was after the Shield match there were two fillers before the main event which left it flat and the main event was probably the easiest to call result wise.

I would have preferred if Randy Orton had won the EC but it made sense to see Jack Swagger get the push due to his gimmick/being the up and comer and I have to say everyone in the EC gave a really strong performance, even Henry who as I've mentioned does bore me a bit due to the fact with his size he can't really have many moves done against him.

I only just remembered there was a diva's match, wow a lot has changed since I last watched WWE, remember the days when Lita and Trish had matches that you'd actually be interested in watching?

I haven't watched WWE for a while so it was based purely on what people were asking for pre show and so to me it sounded dull, I'm sure everything makes sense to those who watch it regularly

I think alot of the negativity is because the main event of Wrestlemania has sucked the life out of everyone. On paper you'd think it should create a big buzz, the 2 biggest stars on the roster going head to head at Mania for the biggest prize on offer. But does it create the same buzz as the title matches between Hogan and Warrior, Michaels and Hart, Rock and Austin? No, it doesnt. Because it's been rammed down our throats for 3 years now and the outcome of the match is so so predictable.

The top 2 billed matches are going to be Cena v Rock and HHH v Lesnar and i'd guess 90% of the IWC don't want to see that.

With CM Punk left in no mans land because of Taker's Mania appearance being in doubt, i'm not so sure i'll be buying the PPV.

Pleased The Shield won and i agree with Hero that Swagger v Del Rio could be decent, but in terms of the marquee matches i'm not that interested right now.

Do you want the good news that Rock is about to announce he's signed for WM30 too so we'll probably get a third instalment too!

Mr H wrote:I think alot of the negativity is because the main event of Wrestlemania has sucked the life out of everyone. On paper you'd think it should create a big buzz, the 2 biggest stars on the roster going head to head at Mania for the biggest prize on offer. But does it create the same buzz as the title matches between Hogan and Warrior, Michaels and Hart, Rock and Austin? No, it doesnt. Because it's been rammed down our throats for 3 years now and the outcome of the match is so so predictable.

The top 2 billed matches are going to be Cena v Rock and HHH v Lesnar and i'd guess 90% of the IWC don't want to see that.

With CM Punk left in no mans land because of Taker's Mania appearance being in doubt, i'm not so sure i'll be buying the PPV.

Pleased The Shield won and i agree with Hero that Swagger v Del Rio could be decent, but in terms of the marquee matches i'm not that interested right now.

Punk vs Lesnar will happen.

What was the point of the no DQ stip when it didnt really appear to add anything to the match (although bear in mind I did watch it in Fast Forward).

Also, Chris mentioned there was a big botch in the show - can anyone confirm what it was. Was it the Cesaro ending (which was weird)

TopoftheChops wrote:

Mr H wrote:I think alot of the negativity is because the main event of Wrestlemania has sucked the life out of everyone. On paper you'd think it should create a big buzz, the 2 biggest stars on the roster going head to head at Mania for the biggest prize on offer. But does it create the same buzz as the title matches between Hogan and Warrior, Michaels and Hart, Rock and Austin? No, it doesnt. Because it's been rammed down our throats for 3 years now and the outcome of the match is so so predictable.

The top 2 billed matches are going to be Cena v Rock and HHH v Lesnar and i'd guess 90% of the IWC don't want to see that.

With CM Punk left in no mans land because of Taker's Mania appearance being in doubt, i'm not so sure i'll be buying the PPV.

Pleased The Shield won and i agree with Hero that Swagger v Del Rio could be decent, but in terms of the marquee matches i'm not that interested right now.

Punk vs Lesnar will happen.

I agree on that, it very much seems that they're changing plans to have a Punk Heyman break up asap though it will result in Punk turning face again to face Lesnar.

Hero wrote:

TopoftheChops wrote:

Mr H wrote:I think alot of the negativity is because the main event of Wrestlemania has sucked the life out of everyone. On paper you'd think it should create a big buzz, the 2 biggest stars on the roster going head to head at Mania for the biggest prize on offer. But does it create the same buzz as the title matches between Hogan and Warrior, Michaels and Hart, Rock and Austin? No, it doesnt. Because it's been rammed down our throats for 3 years now and the outcome of the match is so so predictable.

The top 2 billed matches are going to be Cena v Rock and HHH v Lesnar and i'd guess 90% of the IWC don't want to see that.

With CM Punk left in no mans land because of Taker's Mania appearance being in doubt, i'm not so sure i'll be buying the PPV.

Pleased The Shield won and i agree with Hero that Swagger v Del Rio could be decent, but in terms of the marquee matches i'm not that interested right now.

Punk vs Lesnar will happen.

I agree on that, it very much seems that they're changing plans to have a Punk Heyman break up asap though it will result in Punk turning face again to face Lesnar.

Although i dont think it will happen, i do hope you're right.

Vince being F5'd has a Triple H return written all over it.

I think they were the plans at that moment in time, I just think since then they've perhaps agreed Taker isn't worth the risk and this is being built as back up quickly. We'll all know soon enough tonight though as if Taker is to have a match at Mania it will have to be this night's RAW he returns at.

Watched it live and thought it was a brilliant ppv.

Ok whc was a solid match most notable for the bucket botch but the rest of the card was quality.

The chamber and shield matches were brilliant, rock punk had very good story telling.

Seems people just aren't happy with 2 big stars who don't face off very often going at it 1 on 1.

What was the bucket botch?

Adam D wrote:What was the bucket botch?

Del Rio failed with an enzigueri to Big Show when he had the bucket so he did the kick again

Anyone think Swagger winning sets up a Ziggler cash in on ADR given the history with Swagger and Ziggler?

Just watched the bucket botch, in fairness to ADR he's pretty quick to just launch himself back into it.

Yeah I didn't think it was terrible just amusing!

I haven't watched it it but couldn't resist the spoilers. Hasn't deterred me from watching tonight

I know people have pitched Punk v Lesnar but with the screwy finish to the title match (punk hitting the GTS and pinning with no official) is this a way to make Cena/Rock a triple threat and have Punk in there as no doubt there'll be some promo saying he was screwed again against the Rock.

If Undertaker doesn't come back on Raw tonight (they'd have to start building it now) and Trips comes back to face Lesnar for F5-ing Vince it leaves absolutely nothing for Punk to do. Well nothing that his hard work for the past 12 months deserves anyway

I thought the show did the job as the final PPV before Wrestle Mania. However like most PPV's it had its negatives and positives.

Ill start with the positives. The 6 man tag match, was not only a truly excellent match but the booking of it couldn't of been done more to perfection if people were to criticize that, then i think Wrestling is simply not for them and they are just completely stupid. All 3 members of the shield really impressed me, Regins the most, that spot with Sheamus was class. They got the win which was most important and they looked strong in doing so. Ryback proved he can really get the crowd going, the hype he got from the crowd when he got the tag of Cena showed that and then his part of the match was done well. I think there will be a Ryback vs shield kind of match at Wrestle Mania, but there's me also thinking a Ryback vs Big Show could be in the on card, for Ryback to shell shock him and get his big Wrestle Mania moment. John Cena also came of looking strong, going into his huge match at Wrestle Mania.

The Elimination Chamber match was the match, i had the highest hopes for and tbf that did deliver. There was a few good spots in it and in general i thought all 6 guys did the business. Not a big fan of Jack Swagger wining, but after Ziggler not cashing in earlier in the night and with his promo before the match it became quite clear that he was probably going to win, i did like the ending to the match. Jack Swagger vs Alberto Del Rio should be a good match however for it to be the world title match at the biggest event doesn't get me that excited.

Final positive was the Del Rio match, was a decent opening as you need in a PPV. Be interesting to see where Big Show goes from here. The only thing i did want was a Ziggler cash in after the match though, as im sure a lot of people wanted as well.

A few negatives. I thought the crowd were dreadful in the punk rock match. The match i personally enjoyed but you need a hot crowd for that match and they were completely dead. Now i recon it could be a Punk vs Lesnar match at Mania with Punk blaming Heyman for the loss of his title, but i really don't want to see Punk turn face again. Ideally i would like to see Punk cut a promo on Raw tonight to get interrupted by the Undertaker.

The Miz Cessaro match was just a complete snooze for me and the ending was dreadful. Divas matches just continue to bore me and waste PPV time. The commentary was terrible, BRING BACK JR!!! When Booker T brought out Dolph's opponent why did it have to be Kofi Kingston!

But still decent PPV and did the business going into Wrestle Mania.

I thought it was going to be John Morrison for the Ziggler match instead we got kofi... Miz and Cesaro wasn't awful, a classic match where one body part is attacked, also it keeps the fued going to a Wrestlemania match.

GSC wrote:Anyone think Swagger winning sets up a Ziggler cash in on ADR given the history with Swagger and Ziggler?

I think Ziggler will cash in at WrestleMania because it fits his character's MO. By winning the tilte on the grandest stage, he can claim to have stolen the show on the biggest possible show. I don't see there being any need to play up Swagger and Ziggler's past, as in the great scheme of things they were a pretty irrelevant team.

I thought the best match of the night was The shield match but they mist the opportunity for a Cena heel turn, He could have taken out Ryback and Sheamus but hey this is WWE and they never do anything this easy.

I'm starting to like the new Swagger. I like his new music, his manager Zed Coulter means we can take him more seriously as his lisp does reduce the intensity of his promos, he has also got the wrestling machine psycho look and it should hopefully lead to a decent fued between the real American and the Mexican Aristocrat.

As long as the fued is stronger than Sheamus vs Bryan where they didn't promo against each other for the build to wrestlemania I will be happy and also make sure it is not the first match on the card.

Ent wrote:Seems people just aren't happy with 2 big stars who don't face off very often going at it 1 on 1.

The issue, as ever, is that one of the "stars" is somebody nobody wants to see.

Just some random thoughts...

- The crowd was really quite tonight. The heels got little to no reaction. In fact some faces didn't even get a reaction, only Cena, The Rock and Randy Orton got a half decent pop.

- Roman Reigns looked like an absolute beast throughout the match. I like how they are emphasing on The Shields teamwork.

- I don't mind Swagger winning as it sets up a nice storyline between himself and Del Rio.

- Is Randy Orton's heel turn luming? The way he looked bemused at the end and the little stare he gave to Jericho after the defeat seems like there going with Randy Orton vs Chris Jericho at Mania.

- The ending to Miz/Cesaro match was poor. I expect this to be a rematch on possible the pre show for Wrestlemania.

- Kane and Bryan looks set in stone. They may lose the titles to Rhodes Scholars over the next few weeks.

- Im hoping Dolph Ziggler cashes in at Mania. Would make a great Wrestlemania moment and different to other cash ins.

- What next for the likes of Sheamus and Ryback? Possibly a rematch against the shield, but with a new member? Maddox? Kingston?

Statto00 wrote:

Ent wrote:Seems people just aren't happy with 2 big stars who don't face off very often going at it 1 on 1.

The issue, as ever, is that one of the "stars" is somebody nobody wants to see.

Who is this nobody though? Sales for this year's Mania PPV will surpass any prior and that will be for the most part due to it being Cena v Rock.

Nakatomi Plaza wrote:

GSC wrote:Anyone think Swagger winning sets up a Ziggler cash in on ADR given the history with Swagger and Ziggler?

I think Ziggler will cash in at WrestleMania because it fits his character's MO. By winning the tilte on the grandest stage, he can claim to have stolen the show on the biggest possible show. I don't see there being any need to play up Swagger and Ziggler's past, as in the great scheme of things they were a pretty irrelevant team.

#TeamZigSwag

Thats fine by me if Dolph cashes in at WM. I can possibly see Big Show coming out hitting the WMD on ADR, Ziggler goes for the ultimate opportunist style cash in, boom New Champion

TheCultOfPersonality wrote:Just some random thoughts...

- The crowd was really quite tonight. The heels got little to no reaction. In fact some faces didn't even get a reaction, only Cena, The Rock and Randy Orton got a half decent pop.

- Roman Reigns looked like an absolute beast throughout the match. I like how they are emphasing on The Shields teamwork.

- I don't mind Swagger winning as it sets up a nice storyline between himself and Del Rio.

- Is Randy Orton's heel turn luming? The way he looked bemused at the end and the little stare he gave to Jericho after the defeat seems like there going with Randy Orton vs Chris Jericho at Mania.

- The ending to Miz/Cesaro match was poor. I expect this to be a rematch on possible the pre show for Wrestlemania.

- Kane and Bryan looks set in stone. They may lose the titles to Rhodes Scholars over the next few weeks.

- Im hoping Dolph Ziggler cashes in at Mania. Would make a great Wrestlemania moment and different to other cash ins.

- What next for the likes of Sheamus and Ryback? Possibly a rematch against the shield, but with a new member? Maddox? Kingston?

So they couldn't beat the shield with the number 1 guy in the company, yet they will stand more of a chance getting one of these 2 guys in

Pleasantly surprised with the Shield - Team Cena result - didn't think they would book Cena to lose the PPV before WM! i know he didn't get pinned but still.....

Hoping this lead to a Ryback v Roman Reigns at WM with Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose maybe going for the Tag Titles!
Wouldn't like to see a Shield vs Ryback in a gauntlet match (like suggusted above) as i think Ryback would be gassed in the first match of the three so they'd prob have to make it a 2 squash match then a full on match with the third!!!

I think that match shows that WWE are really building the three guys of the Shield up to be big big stars.

Put this in perspective.

Sheamus - Hugely pushed initially as he came onto the roster, recent WHC, thought of very well by HHH.

Ryback - Possibly the last pet project of Vince, again hugely rammed down our faces to get him over with the kids.

Cena - The number 1 guy in WWE for the past decade, the current Royal Rumble winner, the face of the company.

Yet in the PPV prior to Wrestlemania the three of them, 3 of the biggest faces in the company lost to three guys that prior to Survivor Series 95% of the audience wouldn't have had a clue who they were.

Hero wrote:

Statto00 wrote:

Ent wrote:Seems people just aren't happy with 2 big stars who don't face off very often going at it 1 on 1.

The issue, as ever, is that one of the "stars" is somebody nobody wants to see.

Who is this nobody though? Sales for this year's Mania PPV will surpass any prior and that will be for the most part due to it being Cena v Rock.

Ok, maybe not "nobody". But is there anybody on here that actually enjoys Cena (a) on the mic or (b) wrestling?

When he's motivated in a feud he makes for a very good rivalry, over the years there's some really good matches he's been involved in, but yes the majority of them come about because of his opponent.

Is it the WM main event I wanted?
No
Do I understand why as a business WWE had it for the main event?
Yes

I thought the PPV was awesome, loved it and thought it was a great job overall by WWE.

Elimination Chamber was one of the best, there were four believable winners for me and was glad to see Swagger get the win, although I hope this isn't a quick push followed by a nosedive again. I like Swagger's look and character, think an angle with Del Rio heading into Mania could do big business and I looked forward to it.

Jericho looked strong, Henry was an absolute beast and Orton's heel turn is slowly growing....I really enjoyed it, best match of the night.

Sheild bout was good and obviously happy with the victory they got. Massive fan of Roman Reigns, think he has legitimate bada55 written all over him so glad to see him pushed as such. Ambrose and Rollins were fantastic too and I think the sky is the limit if the WWE continue on this road with them. Personally see them taking the tag titles of Bryan/Kane at Mania or before hand, especially considering the whole "teamwork" that the commentators were banging on about.

Quick note, Lawler is a clown, the guy doesn't even have a clue what he is talking about. It actually felt like JBL was genuinely getting annoyed by his innane ramblings last night, I know I was.

Ziggler vs Kofi was a good little filler with a decent ending. Think Ziggler is cashing in at Mania for the "show stealer". Big E vs Kofi might be a decent little undercard bout as well.

Cesaro is world class and I am loving this rise of his character. Fair to say the ending was "cheap" but it is what it is. I think this guy is golden and is only going to get better.

Divas match was ok, I got to see Kaitlyn so no complaints from me. I imagine Kaitlyn vs AJ is the logical match for Mania but no doubt it will be some pathetic celebrity ordeal instead.

Del Rio vs Show was meh. Decent enough with getting me overally interested. I knew Del Rio would win so there was no surprises, but I would like to see him add another finisher to his repetoire, the armbar is good but he needs something that he can use to gain a pinfall win....something better than a roundhouse kick or an enzeguiri.

Rock and Punk was fine, I expected nothing more from it so didn't have particularly high expectations of it. Punk and Heyman played their part well and Rock looked strong so guess it was job done.

Tonight's RAW is the interesting one now, because if Undertaker isn't involved then I fully expect Punk to be going against Lesnar at Mania instead....but where does that leave HHH, because he was supposedly a certainty to face Lesnar.

I also have a feeling (although nothing to substantiate it) that The Shield will help Cena beat The Rock at Wrestlemania. I'm not saying it will be a heel-turn, maybe just to plant seeds of doubt in Cena and his loyal fans' minds but I think that will be the outcome.

Ryback and Sheamus could also be built on Ryback storming out after the match last night but now I am just clutching at straws.

Enjoyed the PPV and I am intriugued to see where we go from tonight.

I thought it was a decent offering but was let down by the main event which for me was average at best. The Rock is one of the greatest ever and I've genuinely loved the guy but he's now coming across as a fish out of water in the ring. It was an ugly match all round really.

The Chamber match was outstanding and Swagger winning was an obvious surprise. I think all 6 guys brought something to the party which is not always the case in these types of matches. I thoroughly enjoyed that one.

The match of the night though, for me, was the 6 man tag match. I don't think the Shield could have impressed me any more in all honesty. They were absolutely perfect last night and Ambrose is quite the master of the taunt. I had a little chuckle when Reigns had Cena in a chin lock and you could hear Ambrose shouting "shut up Sheamus!" in the background. Gold!

The Del Rio botch was priceless!

Shield were the highlight of the night for me. JBL really bigged them up in contrast to Lawler and Cole. Reigns spear to Sheamus was incredible, so much ferocity and intensity and the spear to Ryback was superb.

Elimination chamber match was excellent, everyone had a good run. Really thought orton would win it. Was hoping he would to become heel again when feuding with a face del rio. I still don't really rate Swagger. In the ring he is good but brings nothing on the mic or in his demeanor and will never get over with the crowd just like del rio.

Rock/Punk match was pretty average and I have a feeling Punk is going to be cast aside to make way for Rock cena again which will be awful, considering cena will win the title again. Surprised there was no Lesnar which is a shame but I can see the whole Triple H feud with Mcmahon at Mania which will suck imo.

On a side not, the worst backstage segment I have ever witnessed in all my years watching wreslting with Brodus Clay and Tensai. That's 2 of the most embarrassing cringe worthy minutes i've ever seen.

Liam wrote:

On a side not, the worst backstage segment I have ever witnessed in all my years watching wreslting with Brodus Clay and Tensai. That's 2 of the most embarrassing cringe worthy minutes i've ever seen.

It was just awful wasn't it. Them poor toys being a part of that!

Im going home to watch the show soon but was there any reasoning behind Team Rhodes Scholars teaming again? Only thought is that they didnt have anything for them following the break up or they are going to be the team to take the titles from Hell No

On the Del Rio botch, not only was it hilarious but it also showed to me how choreographed their 4 to 5 spots a match are. Big Show didnt move after, just stood waiting. I have no problem with them planning moments, but if you screw it up have the brains to improvise. He was holding that bucket to his head like it was a phone.

Cracking PPV, really good. Spoilers make it less interesting by a mile.

Swagger seemed set to win, yet so did Orton or Jericho if you consider their history with Ziggler and his cash in potential. Henry looked insanely good for awhile and some of the spots in that match were amazing. It all ended brilliantly, everyone in the chatbox was shocked by the way they finished it.

The Shield were wonderful. Roman Reigns is fantastic and nearly ripped Sheamus and Lilian Garcia in half. Hes the most convincing in the ring. The triple teamwork was inspired, flowed so naturally. Rollins is also a real natural in the ring, Ambrose is less impressive but still shows he has a real mind for it, smart worker, its not insult to him to say hes behind them (on current, WWE showings) because the other two are fantastic. Taking Ryback was surprising, I liked how angry he was too.

Those were the two matches of the night by a distance and worth watching even if you know the result, they were brilliant. Such a shame WWE couldnt do a Chamber for the WWE title. Would have saved Rock's stamina too.

Main event was fine, thats about it. Not great, not awful. Was too slow a match to lift the crowd which made it feel a little flat. I was a tad disappointed in both of them, Punk didnt seem to be giving it his best. I worry about how he'll look in a feud with Lesnar cos he didnt seem any sort of physical threat to The Rock due to his size, but he wrestled him like a guy equal to his own height.

I think Miz v Cesaro is what Crips would call 'economical booking'.

no surprises but a good PPV. Very surprised Big Show tapped out but think it was the right move. I got really angry after Big Show resisted the arm bar and slammed ADR then immediately got up and signalled for the KO punch, when realistically being in the arm bar for such a long time would have resulted in ligament damage and if it was a real MMA fight Big Show's KO punch would have been taken out of equation - see Jon Jones v Belfort, who didn't use his right arm after a very tight arm lock in the first round. But the match didn't end in the predictable KO punch and so I was happy.

The EC was entertaining enough but actually there's only so many spots you can manage, thought the double suplex on Mark Henry was the best spot. The Shield match got a massive reaction from the crowd, bigger than I expected. Happy the Shield won but didn't think the match itself was all that entertaining. The finish was good though.

Was really surprised how strong Punk came across in the match but I assumed the Rock had to make him look strong as he was going to lose and the WWE don't want to bury Punk. Rock is carrying a lot of muscle so he could of gassed but I think much of that was him trying to sell Punk as a competitor. The match was probably my favourite of the night as it told a story and kept both competitors looking strong - Rock came across as very resilient even if he did get a huge beating off of Punk, much bigger than expected for someone of his stature.

talkingpoint wrote:no surprises but a good PPV. Very surprised Big Show tapped out but think it was the right move. I got really angry after Big Show resisted the arm bar and slammed ADR then immediately got up and signalled for the KO punch, when realistically being in the arm bar for such a long time would have resulted in ligament damage and if it was a real MMA fight Big Show's KO punch would have been taken out of equation - see Jon Jones v Belfort, who didn't use his right arm after a very tight arm lock in the first round. But the match didn't end in the predictable KO punch and so I was happy.

The EC was entertaining enough but actually there's only so many spots you can manage, thought the double suplex on Mark Henry was the best spot. The Shield match got a massive reaction from the crowd, bigger than I expected. Happy the Shield won but didn't think the match itself was all that entertaining. The finish was good though.

Was really surprised how strong Punk came across in the match but I assumed the Rock had to make him look strong as he was going to lose and the WWE don't want to bury Punk. Rock is carrying a lot of muscle so he could of gassed but I think much of that was him trying to sell Punk as a competitor. The match was probably my favourite of the night as it told a story and kept both competitors looking strong - Rock came across as very resilient even if he did get a huge beating off of Punk, much bigger than expected for someone of his stature.

NickisBHAFC wrote:

talkingpoint wrote:no surprises but a good PPV. Very surprised Big Show tapped out but think it was the right move. I got really angry after Big Show resisted the arm bar and slammed ADR then immediately got up and signalled for the KO punch, when realistically being in the arm bar for such a long time would have resulted in ligament damage and if it was a real MMA fight Big Show's KO punch would have been taken out of equation - see Jon Jones v Belfort, who didn't use his right arm after a very tight arm lock in the first round. But the match didn't end in the predictable KO punch and so I was happy.

The EC was entertaining enough but actually there's only so many spots you can manage, thought the double suplex on Mark Henry was the best spot. The Shield match got a massive reaction from the crowd, bigger than I expected. Happy the Shield won but didn't think the match itself was all that entertaining. The finish was good though.

Was really surprised how strong Punk came across in the match but I assumed the Rock had to make him look strong as he was going to lose and the WWE don't want to bury Punk. Rock is carrying a lot of muscle so he could of gassed but I think much of that was him trying to sell Punk as a competitor. The match was probably my favourite of the night as it told a story and kept both competitors looking strong - Rock came across as very resilient even if he did get a huge beating off of Punk, much bigger than expected for someone of his stature.

should have explained what I meant more LOL, good spot! What I was referring to was no cash in by Ziggler or appearance by Lesnar.

Just watched the vast majority of the PPV with my sons (we will watch the main event tomorrow evening)

From my point of view...the first match was pretty decent, ADR continues to look good despite the botch though I agree with a few others that 3 losses in a row for Big Show now leaves him looking weak heading into Mania.

Cesaro continues to impress in his match v Miz, can really see him taking it up a notch after Mania. Good to see a match where the psychologically comes into play of targeting limbs.

Elimination Chamber wise my one grudge was that it seemed to have changed from it used to be like, rarely were there times when there was two lots of fights going on, do WWE feel the Universe can only concentrate on one thing at once? Mark Henry looked an utter beast, for me its a shame WWE only really gave him such a push so late in his career, 10 years ago and imagine him at this ferocity in the Ruthless Aggression era. Chuffed with the Swagger win and I think him v ADR will be a great WHC title match, I just hope they give it enough time.

The Shield v Team Sell? No!
Wow. Once again my boys steal the show, what a showing, Id disagree though in regards to Ambrose looking the weakest of the three, Rollins didn't have much ring time and didn't do a great deal when he was, Ambrose sold particularly well and was used to show the potential recoveries by Sell? No! He was the one that kept the story being told during the match and the crowd interested when just on the ropes with taunts etc. Reigns though was the MVP (not the wrestler that was released) of the entire show, awesome spear through the barrier on Sheamus and again to Ryback. These guys have clearly got huge backing backstage and I hope they get a decent showing at WM.

Ziggler v Kingston, just a match really to keep Ziggler in our minds building to WM where its obvious the MITB will finally be cashed in, I imagine he'll turn face at that point and head into a feud v Swagger.

Overall so far I'm impressed with the show, several strong performances and especially in regards to giving the Shield such a powerful showing.

agree Hero that Rollins was the weak link there, I like him as a wrestler but he looked far from polished in the ring at EC. Also and this is a minor gripe, it bugs me they wear their bullet proof vests or whatever they're meant to be in ring - do they think Cena is going to turn a sorn off shotgun on them or something? Seems abit ridiculous to me.