WrestleMania 39: Reigns Vs. Rhodes - Full Match Card
Hey wrestling fanatics! Get ready, because WrestleMania 39, affectionately known as 'WrestleMania Goes Hollywood,' was an absolute barnburner, and the main event everyone was buzzing about was the colossal clash between Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes. This wasn't just a wrestling match; it was the culmination of a dream, the ultimate underdog story against the seemingly invincible Tribal Chief. We're diving deep into the epic showdown and breaking down the entire match card from that unforgettable night in Hollywood. So grab your popcorn, folks, because this is the breakdown you've been waiting for!
The Undisputed WWE Universal Championship: Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes
This was the main event, the dream match that had the entire WWE Universe on the edge of their seats. Roman Reigns, the undisputed, longest-reigning Universal Champion in history, stood as the ultimate obstacle. His reign of dominance had been nothing short of legendary, characterized by his sheer power, strategic cunning, and the unwavering backing of his Bloodline. He had conquered every challenger, seemingly untouchable, a true titan of the industry. His presence alone commanded attention, exuding an aura of invincibility that few could even fathom breaking. On the other side stood Cody Rhodes, the son of a legend, returning to WWE with one singular mission: to finish his father Dusty Rhodes' story and claim the championship that had eluded his family for so long. Cody's journey back to WWE was an emotional rollercoaster, marked by his incredible performances, his connection with the fans, and his unwavering determination. He represented hope, the ultimate underdog narrative that resonates so deeply with wrestling fans. The hype leading up to this match was monumental. Social media was ablaze, fan theories were flying, and the anticipation was palpable. Every promo, every backstage interaction, only intensified the drama. Would Cody, the son of "The American Dream," finally bring the big one home? Or would Roman Reigns continue his historic reign, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest champions of all time? The stakes couldn't have been higher, and the wrestling world held its breath for this monumental clash. The story was perfectly crafted: the established, seemingly unbeatable champion versus the returning hero on a quest for redemption and legacy. This was more than just a championship match; it was a battle for supremacy, a collision of two eras, and a narrative that captivated millions. The build-up promised an instant classic, and the anticipation for Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 39 was unlike anything seen in years. The sheer star power and the weight of the storylines involved guaranteed a main event that would be etched in WrestleMania history, regardless of the outcome. This was the 'A-side' of WrestleMania, the bout that everyone circled on their calendar, a true spectacle of professional wrestling.
Raw Women's Championship: Bianca Belair vs. Asuka
Before the main event showdown, the Raw Women's Championship was on the line in a fiery contest between Bianca Belair and Asuka. Bianca, "The EST of WWE," had been a dominant force, showcasing incredible athleticism, charisma, and an unwavering spirit. Her reign as champion was marked by her ability to connect with the audience and deliver consistently thrilling performances. She was a beacon of energy, a true athletic marvel who seemed destined for greatness. Facing her was the enigmatic and dangerous Asuka. "The Empress of Tomorrow" brought a unique blend of intensity, unpredictability, and a submission prowess that made her a formidable opponent for anyone. Her presence in the ring was captivating, often accompanied by an eerie silence followed by explosive action. Asuka's mind games and her "Venom" persona added a layer of psychological warfare to the already intense rivalry. This match promised a clash of styles: Belair's explosive power and agility against Asuka's technical skill and submission expertise. The question on everyone's mind was whether Asuka's "poison" could neutralize Bianca's "EST" power. The build-up highlighted the contrasting paths these two women took to reach this championship match. Bianca's journey was one of relentless hard work and overcoming adversity, while Asuka's path was paved with destruction and a reputation for never backing down. Their previous encounters had shown flashes of brilliance, but this was their grandest stage, WrestleMania, where legacies are forged. The anticipation for this bout was high, as fans knew they were about to witness a display of elite women's wrestling. Could Asuka reclaim the championship she once held, or would Bianca Belair continue her dominant reign, proving once again why she is the EST of WWE? The dynamic between these two performers was electric, making their championship clash a must-see spectacle at WrestleMania 39, promising both athleticism and a compelling narrative of dominance versus challenge.
SmackDown Women's Championship: Charlotte Flair vs. Rhea Ripley
In another high-stakes women's championship match, Charlotte Flair defended her SmackDown Women's Championship against the formidable Rhea Ripley. Charlotte, "The Queen," is a perennial WrestleMania performer, a multi-time champion whose legacy is already cemented. Her in-ring prowess, her championship pedigree, and her undeniable star power make her a constant threat. She embodies the term "championship material," and her presence in any major match guarantees a certain level of intensity and expectation. On the other side stood "Mami," Rhea Ripley. Ripley had undergone a significant transformation, emerging as a dominant and captivating force in WWE. Her aggressive style, her imposing physique, and her undeniable charisma had earned her a massive following. She was a powerhouse, a woman who commanded respect and delivered destruction in equal measure. This match pitted two of WWE's most dominant female superstars against each other for the most prestigious women's title on SmackDown. The narrative was compelling: Charlotte, the established queen seeking to reaffirm her dominance, versus Rhea, the rising force determined to dethrone her and claim her place at the top. Their history added another layer of intrigue, with past encounters that were both physically brutal and emotionally charged. Ripley, in particular, had a score to settle with Flair, adding a personal vendetta to the championship pursuit. The contrast in their personas and in-ring styles made this a fascinating matchup. Charlotte’s calculated precision and experience against Rhea’s raw power and ferocious aggression. The question wasn't just who would win, but how brutal and captivating the contest would be. Fans eagerly anticipated seeing if Ripley could finally overcome the odds and capture the SmackDown Women's Championship, or if Charlotte Flair would once again prove why she is one of the greatest women's wrestlers of all time. This bout was a definitive statement match for both competitors, highlighting the depth and talent within WWE's women's division and promising a true spectacle of championship wrestling.
United States Championship: Austin Theory vs. John Cena
Talk about a dream match scenario! Austin Theory, the brash and supremely confident United States Champion, found himself in the ring with none other than the legendary John Cena. Theory, a product of WWE's Performance Center, had rapidly ascended the ranks, often using his youth and arrogance as a shield. He saw himself as the future of WWE, the guy who would usurp the old guard. And who better to prove that than by stepping into the ring with Cena, the man who practically defined the modern era of WWE and inspired a generation of fans? Cena, a 16-time world champion, a global icon, and the epitome of a WWE Superstar, was making a rare appearance. His presence alone electrifies any arena, and for Theory, this was the ultimate test. It was a passing-of-the-torch moment, a chance for the new generation to prove itself against the established legend. Theory's entire gimmick revolved around wanting to be a bigger star than Cena ever was, making this bout deeply personal for him. The build-up was filled with Theory's taunts and Cena's characteristic charisma, setting the stage for a clash between ambition and legacy. Could Austin Theory prove he truly is the future by defeating John Cena on the grandest stage of them all? Or would Cena, even in a part-time capacity, remind everyone why he's considered one of the greatest, adding another major victory to his unparalleled career? This match wasn't just about a championship; it was about proving a point, about legacy, and about the continuous evolution of WWE. The sheer star power involved, combined with the generational storyline, made this a must-see attraction, promising a captivating blend of wrestling action and iconic WWE storytelling. The anticipation was immense, as fans debated whether Theory's bold claims would be validated or if Cena would once again steal the show.
Intercontinental Championship: Gunther vs. Drew McIntyre vs. Sheamus
This triple-threat match for the Intercontinental Championship was an absolute banger in the making. Gunther, "The Ring General," had been on an unprecedented run as Intercontinental Champion, dominating opponents with his sheer power and intensity. His reign was a throwback to the legendary champions of the past, emphasizing physical dominance and a no-nonsense attitude. He had established himself as one of the most feared and respected champions in recent memory, a true force of nature. His opponents were no slouches either. Drew McIntyre, a former WWE Champion, brought his incredible strength, resilience, and a burning desire to reclaim championship gold. McIntyre's presence always signals a main event caliber match, and his journey had been one of overcoming significant obstacles. Then there was Sheamus, "The Celtic Warrior." Known for his brawling style, his incredible toughness, and his unforgettable "Banger After Banger" matches, Sheamus was a fan favorite and a warrior through and through. This triple-threat stipulation guaranteed chaos and a physical war. It was a collision of three of WWE's toughest and most physically imposing superstars. The story here was about brute force, resilience, and who wanted the prestigious Intercontinental Championship more. Gunther aimed to continue his historic reign, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest IC champions ever. McIntyre and Sheamus, on the other hand, were driven by their desire to end Gunther's reign and add another significant championship to their impressive resumes. The anticipation for this match was immense, as fans expected a hard-hitting, physical contest filled with brutal chops, powerful slams, and a level of intensity rarely seen. The dynamic of three powerhouses battling for one title promised an unforgettable spectacle of pure, unadulterated wrestling action. It was a match built on toughness, grit, and the sheer will to dominate, making it a highlight of the WrestleMania 39 card.
Women's Tag Team Championship Match: Becky Lynch & Lita vs. Raquel Rodriguez & Liv Morgan
In the Women's Tag Team Championship match, the legendary Becky Lynch teamed up with the Hall of Famer Lita to take on the formidable duo of Raquel Rodriguez and Liv Morgan. Becky "The Man" Lynch needed no introduction. A multi-time champion and a cornerstone of the women's division, her presence alone elevates any match she's in. Teaming her with Lita, one of the pioneers of women's wrestling and a true icon, created a powerhouse team that radiated star power and experience. Their combined legacy and impact on the women's division were undeniable, making them a formidable challenge for any team. Facing them were Raquel Rodriguez and Liv Morgan. Rodriguez, a powerhouse with incredible strength and athleticism, brought a dominant presence to the team. Morgan, a fan favorite known for her infectious energy and never-say-die attitude, provided the spark and resilience. Together, they represented a blend of power and heart, aiming to prove that they could overcome even the most legendary opponents. This match was a fascinating clash of generations and styles. It was about the established legends, the pillars of the division, facing off against the hungry, rising stars who are eager to make their mark. The narrative explored whether Lynch and Lita's experience and star power would be enough to overcome the youthful exuberance and raw power of Rodriguez and Morgan. The anticipation was for a competitive match where both teams had a legitimate shot at walking away with the gold. The fans were excited to see Lita back in action at WrestleMania and to witness the chemistry between Lynch and Lita against the dynamic duo of Rodriguez and Morgan. This bout was set to be a thrilling encounter, showcasing the depth and talent within the WWE's women's tag team division and providing an exciting opening to the festivities.
Rey Mysterio vs. Dominik Mysterio
This was more than just a match; it was a deeply personal family feud that had been simmering for months. The legendary masked luchador, Rey Mysterio, faced off against his own son, Dominik Mysterio. Rey, a global icon and a beloved figure in wrestling history, was forced to confront the son who had betrayed him, turning his back on his father to join the Judgment Day faction. Dominik, once the eager tag team partner and protector of his father, had transformed into a cocky, arrogant heel, fueled by resentment and a desire to prove himself outside of Rey's shadow. This animosity had spilled over into undeniable physical confrontations, making their WrestleMania encounter an emotional and highly anticipated affair. The story was heartbreaking: a father forced to face his own flesh and blood in the ring, a son driven by a twisted sense of rebellion and a quest for his father's validation through destruction. The narrative explored themes of betrayal, family dynamics, and the dark side of ambition. Fans were divided, with many sympathizing with Rey's plight while others were captivated by Dominik's shocking heel turn and his relentless pursuit of his father. The anticipation for this match was immense, not just for the in-ring action but for the emotional weight it carried. Would Rey be able to overcome the emotional turmoil and defeat his own son? Or would Dominik finally assert his dominance, proving that he could stand on his own two feet, even if it meant destroying his legendary father in the process? This bout promised a captivating blend of high-flying action, emotional storytelling, and the intense drama that only a family feud of this magnitude could deliver, making it a standout match on the WrestleMania 39 card.
Final Thoughts
WrestleMania 39 truly lived up to the hype, delivering an unforgettable night of wrestling action and compelling storytelling. From the blockbuster main event between Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes to the deeply personal rivalry of Rey and Dominik Mysterio, every match offered something special for the WWE Universe. The "WrestleMania Goes Hollywood" theme was perfectly embodied by the star power, the drama, and the sheer spectacle of it all. Guys, this was a WrestleMania for the ages, a night where legends were made and careers were defined. What were your favorite moments? Let us know in the comments below!