WWE WrestleMania 21
WrestleMania 21 was the twenty-first annual WrestleManiaPPV. It was presented by Snickers and took place on April 3, 2005 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. The main match on the Raw brand was Triple H versus Batista for the World Heavyweight Championship. The predominant match on the SmackDown brand was John "Bradshaw" Layfield versus John Cena for the WWE Championship. Another primary match was an interpromotional match between The Undertaker versus Randy Orton. The featured matches on the undercard were Kurt Angle versus Shawn Michaels and a Money in the Bank ladder match. The event also featured the return of Stone Cold Steve Austin who started his part-time appearances with WWE at this event. The event drew a Staples Center record attendance of 20,193 people and grossed more than $2.1 million in ticket sales.
Insights
Plot Summary
WrestleMania 21, subtitled 'The Ultimate Challenge', showcased a stacked card featuring dream matches and career-defining moments. The event culminated in Batista defeating Triple H for the World Heavyweight Championship and John Cena defeating JBL for the WWE Championship, marking the rise of two new top stars. It also featured a legendary encounter between Shawn Michaels and the returning The Undertaker, and a blockbuster tag team match with Hulk Hogan and Shawn Michaels facing off against Kane and The Rock.
Critical Reception
WrestleMania 21 was widely regarded as one of the strongest WrestleManias of the era, praised for its blend of star power, compelling storylines, and the crowning of new champions. The event is often cited for its iconic matches and the successful transition of the company's top stars.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its main events, particularly the Batista vs. Triple H and Cena vs. JBL title changes.
- The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels match was hailed as an instant classic.
- Feast for fans of Attitude Era and Ruthless Aggression Era stars.
Google audience: Google user reviews were overwhelmingly positive, celebrating the event's star power and the significant championship changes that signaled a new era for WWE.
Awards & Accolades
Considered one of the best WrestleManias in the event's history. Notable for Batista and John Cena winning their first WWE World Championships at the event.
Fun Fact
This event marked the only time Hulk Hogan and The Rock faced off in a tag team match at WrestleMania.
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