The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)

[Arcademan]

1 -- RANDY ORTON & SHEAMUS & BIG SHOW vs. THE SHIELD (SETH ROLLINS & DEAN AMBROSE & ROMAN REIGNS) -- six-man tag match

WrestleMania started with Sheamus and Reigns battling in the ring. Sheamus had enough of battling Reigns, so he tagged in Orton, who teed off on Rollins, who also tagged into the match. Orton got the crowd fired up, then Orton tagged in Sheamus as Big Show sold slight frustration not receiving the tag. Ambrose tagged in next for The Shield, then walked into a powerslam from Sheamus.

Show had enough of waiting on the outside, so he slapped Sheamus to make a tag. Orton and Sheamus tried to remain calm, then Show welcomed Ambrose to WrestleMania by opening up his protective vest and chopping away at his chest. But, Ambrose came back with a dropkick to the knee to take down Show. Shield then began exchanging tags working on Show.

Show eventually broke free and tagged in Sheamus, who cleaned house on Shield. Sheamus then ripped off Rollins's protective vest to open up his chest for the Ten Forearm Strikes in the corner. He followed with ten forearms to Ambrose's already-exposed chest. Back in the ring, Sheamus dropped Ambrose and Rollins with rolling drops before climbing to the top rope. But, Reigns knocked down Sheamus to the floor. This brought over Orton to battle, then Rollins went flying through the ropes for an attempted suicide dive, but he missed Orton and ate the guardrail.

Back in the ring, Shield set up Sheamus for the triple powerbomb and Reigns delivered it simultaneous to Show re-entering the scene to spear Ambrose. Bodies everywhere in the ring. After a reset, Sheamus crawled across the ring to tag Show, but Orton tapped Sheamus on the head to enter the match before Show got the tag. Orton cleaned house on Shield as the camera focused on Show trying to remain calm. Orton then stalked Ambrose for the RKO, but he turned to RKO Rollins in mid-air. But, Orton ate a spear from Reigns a split-second later. Ambrose then covered Orton for the pin and the win.

On the apron, Show just watched in frustration as Orton slowly rolled out of the ring. JBL said this could be the greatest three-man team in history. Shield then left the ring and disappeared through the crowd while the face trio regrouped. Show asked Orton what he was thinking, then started jawing. Sheamus then entered the ring to play peacemaker, but Show awkwardly jabbed Sheamus with the KO Punch. Orton asked what he's doing, then Show took out Orton.

WINNERS: Shield at 10:35. Basic storytelling of Team Show unable to work together as individuals on one team. Meanwhile, Shield continues to pick up impressive wins. (**1/4)

[Arcademan]

2 -- MARK HENRY vs. RYBACK

As the sun set on MetLife Stadium, the two big-men came together for a face-to-face greeting. The crowd was buzzing for the match-up before the two men collided mid-ring. They started trading bombs, with more boos than cheers for Ryback. Henry then destroyed Ryback with a body-press splash that put Ryback on the mat. Henry then delivered a running powerslam for a one count.

After a reset, Ryback tried to suplex Henry, but Henry blocked and lifted Ryback over the top rope onto the ring apron. Henry then ran Ryback shoulder-first into the ringpost. Back in the ring, Henry targeted Ryback's lower back to slow down the pace as various crowd signs became the focal point, including a "Win for Ware" sign referring to Louisville basketball player Kevin Ware who went Sid Justice in the Elite Eight last Sunday. Henry had enough of the bearhug and rammed Ryback to the floor. "That's what I do!" Henry shouted as Ryback recovered on the floor.

Ryback re-entered the ring and Henry re-engaged the bearhug. Ryback tried to escape, but Henry continued to punish his back. Henry then scoop-slammed Ryback before reapplying the bearhug, drawing boos from a restless crowd. Ryback finally broke free and drove Henry to the corner to escape. Ryback then shoulder-shrugged the crowd in a Feed Me More chant before smashing Henry with a clothesline.

Ryback wanted to finish Henry and he delivered Shell-Shock, but appeared to injure himself. They went to a finish where Henry fell on top of Ryback, squashing his head. Ryback sold unconsciousness, then Henry rolled over Ryback and pinned him for a clean win, shocking the crowd.

Post-match, trainers checked on Ryback, then Henry decided he wasn't done and tried to punish Ryback some more, but Ryback clotheslined him. Ryback then delivered Shell-Shock to save face and get his heat back. It appeared Ryback was on the verge of tears as he leaned against the ropes trying to celebrate for the crowd.

WINNER: Henry at 8:03. It's time for Henry to get back in the World Title picture after this victory. Meanwhile, Ryback continues to carry the label of "Can't Win The Big One." Slow at times, but an overall good big-man battle. (**1/4)

[Arcademan]

3 -- WWE tag champions DANIEL BRYAN & KANE vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER & BIG E. LANGSTON (w/A.J. Lee) -- WWE Tag Title match

After the bell sounded, Ziggler asked for A.J. to hop on the ring apron for a good-luck kiss as D-Bryan watched. They played off Bryan's 18-second World Title loss to Sheamus at last year's Mania, then Ziggler turned around and ate a kick to the head from Bryan. Bryan covered, but Ziggler kicked out just before three. Great 23-second intro. After they played off WM28, Big E. tagged in to start displaying his power. Big E. and Ziggler then began exchanging tags working on Kane. Meanwhile, Lawler cracked a Civil War joke that A.J.'s family is so crazy that she fought for the East. Cole and JBL let that sit, no-sold, and went back to calling the match.

Kane made a comeback against Ziggler as Cole tried an "air-traffic control" line before Kane crashed to the mat when Ziggler ducked. Ziggler then tried a top-rope move, but Kane intercepted with a smash to the face. Kane tried to cover Ziggler, but Big E. flew onto Kane with a big splash to his back. Big E. dropped his straps and wanted a power-move on Kane, but Kane flung him to the outside, where Bryan knee-smashed Big. Back in the ring, Ziggler surprised Kane with the Zig-Zag, but Kane kicked out.

After a reset, A.J. tried to get involved, but she didn't help. Kane then chokeslammed Ziggler before tagging in Bryan, who came off the top with a diving headbutt as A.J. freaked out ringside. Bryan covered Ziggler and it was good for the win, with the timekeeper ringing the bell in-between two and three for good measure.

Ringside, A.J. freaked out, then tried to help her men recover as Bryan and Kane stood triumphantly in the ring, now on the same page and still tag champions. WWE then went to a slow-motion replay of Kane's chokeslam, with Ziggler having a terrific facial expression selling the move.

WINNERS: Kane & Bryan at 6:18. No break-up and no title change. Team Hell No must continue. Big E. was impressive in his limited role, while Ziggler submitted another rent check in his enhancement spot. Whether it's a misdirection for Ziggler to cash in MITB tonight or tomorrow remains to be seen. (**1/2)

[Arcademan]

4 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. FANDANGO

After the bell sounded, Fandango danced and strutted around the ring. Jericho had enough and speared Fandango for a quick two count. Fandango then did a back-flip over Jericho, posed, and Jericho codebroke him out of the ring. Jericho then splashed Fandango on the outside and rolled him back into the ring. Back in the ring, Fandango surprised Jericho with a kick to the face. Fandango then did a dance-pose over Jericho, prompting JBL to cut a promo on Fandango for posing at WrestleMania when facing a future Hall of Famer.

At 5:00, Jericho made his comeback. Jericho with a Thesz Press, then repeated punches to the face. Jericho lost control, though, and Fandango made a comeback. Fandango climbed to the top rope and nailed the surfboard leg drop, but Jericho kicked out in-time. JBL said that's got to be it for Fandango's upset attempt. Jericho then tripped Fandango on the top rope, causing Fandango to drop to the mat.

Jericho reset, then placed Fandango on the top turnbuckle. Jericho wanted a superplex, but Fandango headbutted Jericho to the mat. Fandango then went for a second surfboard leg drop, but Jericho moved. Jericho wanted the Lionsault, missed, and sold that he tweaked his knee. But, Jericho tried to go for the Walls of Jericho, but Fandango rolled him up and scored a clean three count.

Post-match, Fandango rolled out of the ring, shocked with his victory as JBL said this is a huge upset. Fandango danced with his dancer as Jericho recovered in the ring, then limped across the ring, selling the knee injury.

WINNER: Fandango at 9:10. Fandango held his own and looked good in the ring. Good use of Jericho to establish a new star if WWE follows through. Overall, lots of surprising outcomes tonight, trying to plant seeds that Punk can beat Taker's Streak tonight.

[Arcademan]

5 -- World Hvt. champion ALBERTO DEL RIO (w/Ricardo Rodriguez) vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Zeb Colter) -- World Title match

Del Rio knocked Swagger to the outside after the opening bell, then kicked him into the announce table. Back in the ring, Swagger took control and tried to run Del Rio into the ringpost, but Del Rio kicked him away, targeting the shoulder. Del Rio then kicked Swagger in the head repeatedly. But, Swagger kicked Del Rio in the left knee to slow him down. Moments later, Del Rio came back with a release German Suplex. The crowd, restless, began chanting for something they wanted - either Ziggler, Ryder, or something else.

At 7:00, Swagger found an opening to slap on the Patriot Lock. The crowd didn't buy the teaser of Del Rio submitting, then Del Rio countered into the cross arm-breaker. Swagger pushed Del Rio away, then countered into the Patriot Lock, which got a reaction this time. Del Rio reached the bottom rope for a break, then tried to re-apply, but Del Rio remained in the ropes.

Swagger wanted a Swagger Bomb, but Del Rio slipped out and kicked Swagger in the head. Both men recovered on the mat, then Del Rio delivered an enziguiri kick, but Colter put Swagger's foot on the bottom rope to break up the three count. This brought over Ricardo, who Colter kicked. Colter then grabbed one of Ricardo's crutches and Del Rio grabbed the other. This allowed Swagger to sneak-attack Del Rio before blasting him into the guardrail.

Swagger took his time rolling Del Rio back into the ring, then Swagger took his time re-entering the ring. This allowed Del Rio to pounce on Swagger with the cross arm-breaker. Swagger tried to fight it, but eventually tapped. They cut to former N.Y. Giants player Michael Strahan celebrating the victory, then cut to Colter freaking out with a great facial expression ringside. Back to Strahan, along with Michelle Beadle, for a celebration before Del Rio was shown celebrating in the ring.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 10:29. Perfectly fine singles match, but never really reached the next level. Another two-star match on a two-star undercard. (**1/4)

[Arcademan]

6 -- THE UNDERTAKER vs. C.M. PUNK (w/Paul Heyman) -- Taker's Undefeated Streak On The Line

Punk entered the ring, the bell sounded, and Taker went after Punk as if they were in an MMA fight. Punk then ducked a right and slapped Taker, who chased Punk out of the ring. Punk re-entered and slapped Taker, then walked into a big-boot from Taker. Big buzz in the stadium for this match. Taker had enough of this and chucked Punk to the outside, where he ran Punk into the ringpost. Taker measured Punk for strikes as a dueling chant picked up of "Under-taker / C.M. Punk." Taker then did his old-school leg drop across Punk's throat on the ring apron.

Back in the ring, Taker went to work on Punk's shoulder as Cole said Taker is not only fighting for Paul Bearer's honor, but the memory a lot of the WWE Family has of Bearer. Taker then went for an Old-School walk-the-ropes, but Punk countered with an armdrag across the ring. Punk smirked, then hopped to his feet and punched and kicked Taker on the mat. Punk then went Old-School by walking the ropes before dropping a fist to Taker's arm. Punk smirked to himself as the crowd cheered, then covered Taker for a nearfall.

Punk went to work on Taker as Heyman held out the urn a la Paul Bearer. Taker had an opening, but then missed a corner attack and ate the turnbuckle knee-first. The match then moved to the floor, where Punk landed a double-axehandle smash to Taker. Back in the ring, Punk went to work on Taker, but Taker dumped Punk to the floor. Taker then wanted to fly over the top rope, but Heyman hopped on the ring apron to block. Taker teased chokeslamming Heyman, but Punk came flying off the ropes to splash Taker for a nearfall.

They reset, then Punk dropped Taker to the mat and climbed to the top rope. Punk wanted a Macho Man elbow drop, and he connected. Punk covered, but Taker kicked out. Heyman sold exasperation with Punk being very close. Punk felt it, calmed himself down, and then called for the GTS. Punk got Taker in the air, but Taker slipped out and delivered a super-chokeslam. Taker covered, but Punk kicked out.

At 12:00, Taker slowly recovered, then the two men came to their feet and traded bombs. Taker then delivered a big corner splash before snake-eying Punk, but Punk intercepted the big boot with a flying kick for a two count. The dueling chant picked up, then Taker took Punk to the outside. Taker cleared the Spanish announce table, then wanted a Last Ride Powerbomb, but Punk escaped and kicked Taker in the head. Taker rested on the announce table, then Punk climbed to the top rope. "This is about history," JBL whispered. Punk wanted a flying elbow drop onto the table, but he came up just a bit short, landing with a thud. Actually, on another replay, Punk landed the move, but the table didn't break and he only grazed Taker. After the replay, Punk re-entered the ring and Taker made it back in at nine.

They reset and Heyman told Punk to do whatever he has to do to win. Punk sold a knee injury, then slowly crawled toward Taker, who sprung on him with the Hell's Gate submission. But, Punk countered into a jackknife pin for a nearfall. Punk then flowed into the Vice. He tried to pin Taker out of the Vice, but Taker sat up and flashed The Eyes to Taker. Punk tried to ignore it and nailed GTS, but Taker bounced off the ropes into a Tombstone on Punk. Big reaction as Taker hit the Tombstone, then the crowd exploded when Punk kicked out just before three.

The crowd buzzed as the two men reset before trading bombs from their knees. Punk headbutted Taker, but Taker absorbed a kick to the chest, no-sold, and the ref was bumped. Heyman distracted Taker, then Punk kicked Taker into the corner. Punk nailed the running knee, but Taker positioned him for the Last Ride. In the background, Heyman handed Punk the urn, which Punk blasted Taker with before he could hit the Tombstone. Punk then did the Taker pin, the ref slowly counted, but Taker kicked out. Heyman just fell down to the ground on his knees. "Why?!" Heyman said with hands on head.

At 21:25, the match reset, then Punk did the Taker throat-slash. Punk wanted the GTS, but Taker elbowed out. Punk again teased the GTS, but Taker blocked. Taker took a deep breath, flipped Punk onto his shoulders, steadied themselves, and delivered another Tombstone. Taker covered and this time it was good for the three count. You just can't kill the dead at WrestleMania.

After the match, Taker rolled out of the ring, grabbed the urn, and brought it into the ring. After a replay of the great sequences during the match, they cut back to Taker with tears in his eyes standing in the ring. Taker then knelt down as 21-0 flashed on the video screen. Taker then knelt down and posed before the urn as fireworks shot off in the stadium. "One of the greatest things I've ever seen, guys," JBL said. The camera pulled back from the top of the stadium as 21-0 lingered on the scoreboard, then WWE cut back to Taker leaving the ring with the urn in-hand. Smoke then filled the rampway as Taker slowly made his way to the stage, where he did his customary one-arm pose before lightning flashed. Taker then disappeared to the back.

WINNER: Taker at 22:07 to retain The Streak. They were so good at making people believe The Streak was in jeopardy. Even if people were 100 percent sure Taker was winning, they told such a good story that the journey to see how Taker would continue The Streak was worth a full investment. (****1/4)

[Arcademan]

8 -- TRIPLE H (w/Shawn Michaels) vs. BROCK LESNAR (w/Paul Heyman) -- No Holds Barred, Anything Goes -- Triple H's career on the line

Lesnar attacked Hunter, who then took the match to the floor. On the floor, Lesnar picked up a chair, but Hunter clotheslined Lesnar off the guardrail to the floor, with the back of Lesnar's head bouncing off the floor. That didn't look good. Back in the ring, Hunter tried to use the chair, but Heyman yanked it away from the outside. The match then moved back to the floor, where Hunter ran Lesnar into the ring steps, opening up a slight cut. Not much heat on this through the first four minutes. Then, Lesnar measured Hunter and suplexed him through the previously-indestructible Spanish Announce table, which was obviously rigged in-between matches so that it would break.

After the table spot, Lesnar tossed HUnter into the table scraps, bouncing the back of Hunter's head off the floor. The announcers stressed the match story to this point of Lesnar enjoying destroying Hunter. Lesnar then chased off Michaels when he got a little too close. Back in the ring, Lesnar held up his arms for a reaction, which drew a mix of cheers and boos. The audience just doesn't seem to know how to react to Lesnar. Lesnar then continued the assault as Heyman shouted from ringside that it's only a matter of time.

At 8:20, Lesnar grappled Hunter and delivered a release German Suplex. Heyman shouted at Hunter to put an end to the beating, but Hunter fought back. Lesnar then dumped Hunter clear over the top rope to the floor as the crowd remained quiet. On the outside, Lesnar stalked Michaels, who stood his ground before Hunter waited for Lesnar to turn around so that he could clothesline him. Hunter then clotheslined Lesnar over the guardrail into the front row.

Back in the ring at 11:00, Lesnar came back with a German Suplex for a two count. Heyman got on the ring apron, then Michaels got on the ring apron from the other side, so Lesnar smashed Michaels in the mouth. Lesnar smirked, then walked back to Hunter, who delivered a spinebuster. Hunter tried to re-gather himself, then wanted the Pedigree, but Lesnar countered. Suddenly, Michaels entered the ring, Lesnar blocked Sweet Chin Music, and Lesnar gave him the F5. Lesnar then turned around and took a Pedigree to little heat, but Lesnar kicked out before three.

After they replayed the nearfall, Hunter was shown returning to the ring with Sledgehammer in-hand. But, Lesnar blocked a sledgehammer shot and hit the F5. Lesnar covered, but Hunter kicked out just before three. Tit-for-tat kicking out of finishers. The match returned to the floor, where Lesnar popped Hunter with a chair shot before throwing him into the ring steps. As Lesnar paced the ringside area, one fan's audio was picked up: "C'mon, Brock, just end his career," almost pleading for the match to end. Lesnar then bashed Hunter with the ring steps before chucking the ring steps into the ring.

Lesnar rolled Hunter back into the ring, then throat-slashed the hard-camera. Lesnar grabbed the ring steps, then popped Hunter in the shoulder before covering for a nearfall. "Torture him all night long!" Heyman shouted audibly from ringside. Lesnar was slow to follow up, which gave Hunter an opening. But, Lesnar slapped on the kimura lock. Hunter fought the hold, then Lesnar sat on the second rope to apply more pressure to the arm. But, Hunter lifted Lesnar into the air and slowly transitioned to a spinebuster to break the hold.

Hunter and Lesnar reset, then Hunter crotch-chopped Lesnar, who ate the ringpost going for a corner charge. Hunter followd with a low-blow, then he wrapped Lesnar's arm around the ringpost. Hunter grabbed a chair as Michaels was spotted passed out/reclining/taking a nap leaning against the guardrail in the background.

Back in the ring, Hunter slapped on the kimura lock. Heyman, desperate, decided to enter the ring and grab a chair, but Michaels entered the ring and superkicked Heyman. They re-focused on the kimura lock, which Lesnar teased tapping out to. But, he refused to tap as the crowd came to life, then lifted Hunter into the air to slam him onto the ring steps. But, Lesnar couldn't follow up, so Hunter re-applied the submission, only to have Lesnar slam him onto the steps again. After a pause, Hunter re-applied and this time Lesnar twisted the arm back a la how Lesnar "broke" Hunter's arm in 2012. Lesnar waved his hand up and down teasing tapping, but Lesnar summoned power to slam Hunter onto the ring steps again. Or, did Hunter DDT Lesnar on the way down? Apparently he did.

At 23:00, they reset away from the ring steps. Hunter then grabbed the sledgehammer and measured Lesnar to pop him in the head. Hunter wobbled around the ring, then forced the energy to do his Triple H Pose. Hunter grabbed Lesnar and dragged him onto the ring steps for the Pedigree onto the steps. Lesnar bounced down to the mat, Hunter recovered, and pinned Lesnar for the pin and the win.

Post-match, Shawn Michaels entered the ring and the camera focused on Michaels having a bloody lip/nose. Michaels and Hunter embraced, then Hunter cleared the ring before WWE replayed high-points from the match.

WINNER: Hunter at 23:58. This one of those matches where the audience knew the result of the journey and didn't feel like taking the ride, unlike Taker-Punk. And, similar to Summerslam when the first match occurred. They had a great final two minutes with Lesnar teasing tapping out for a long time, but it wasn't enough to save it. (**3/4)

[Arcademan]

8 -- WWE champion THE ROCK vs. JOHN CENA -- WWE Title match

Rock and Cena went through an early feeling-out process as the announcers talked about what would happen if each man won and lost. JBL said for Cena, he would carry the label of "Can't Win The Big One," and be the Jim Kelly of WWE - four-time Super Bowl-playing QB Hall of Famer, but never won the Super Bowl.

At 7:00, Rock slapped on a sleeperhold to take control of the match. A light "boring" chant started, then faded out. Cena escaped, then dropped Rock and smirked toward the crowd. Lawler claimed, "This crowd is split 50/50," trying to play up the narrative even though it was 90/10 for Rock. Or, 70 Rock/10 Cena/20 disinterested. Cena then delivered a shoulder tackle, audibly shouted, "Drop down," to Rock, then Rock dropped down, and Cena airballed Rock. After a weak mid-ring exchange, Rock applied the Sharpshooter, but Cena escaped and hit a sit-out slam.

Cena stood up and smirked, then very slowly leaned down over Rock and hand-waved him. Cena slowly bounced the ropes, but missed the fist drop. Rock then DDT'ed Cena and cussed out Cena, who very slowly reached his feet. Rock wanted Rock Bottom, but Cena countered with the STF. Cena visibly whispered in Rock's ears some instructions for the next spot, which Lawler claimed was Cena "talking smack." Cena then slingshot Rock into the corner, then delivered the Five-Knuckle Shuffle.

Cena wanted an Attitude Adjustment, but Rock countered with a spinebuster. Rock wanted the People's Elbow, but Rock grabbed Rock's leg and flowed into the STF. The crowd didn't buy it as a potential finish, then Rock broke free. Rock then hit Rock Bottom center-ring. Rock covered, but Cena kicked out. Rock then casually walked around the ring before walking into the Attitude Adjustment. It was only good for a two count, though.

Cena then took his time climbing to the top rope, where he missed with a guillotine leg drop. Rock followed with the People's Elbow, then covered for a two count. Cena rolled to the ring apron, then rolled clear down to the floor. Rock then slowly scooped up Cena on the floor and rolled him back into the ring. In the ring, they traded bombs before Cena went for a flying cross-body splash, but Cena intercepted, then powerlifted into the AA, but Rock countered with Rock Bottom. Again, though, Cena kicked out. (It's worth noting Cena's kick-outs have been a beat too early, killing the drama of the nearfall.)

Rock and Cena reset at 18:30 with Rock stalking Cena, then wanting the People's Elbow again, only turning it into You Can't See Me. Rock then wanted the Shuffle, but Cena popped to his feet and hit the AA, reversing roles from the finish of Cena-Rock last year, but Rock kicked out of this pin attempt. Cole noted the role-reversal, but it didn't cost Rock the match, unlike Cena last year.

At 20:00, they slowly reached their feet. Cena jabbed Rock, then again. Rock responded and they traded bombs. Teased finishers, then Cena hit Rock Bottom for a close nearfall. Cena entered Actor Mode reacting with his face to the nearfall. Cena then slowly unfolded two fingers to the ref, asking, "Only two?" Next, Cena stood up, checked his hand, looked down at Rock, then decided to tease the People's Elbow, just like last year. Cena mockingly did Rock's pose, then Rock stood up. Only, this time, Cena held the ropes when Rock popped up. Cena, thinking he suckered in Rock, then wanted AA, but got too cocky posing for the hard camera, and Rock countered with Rock Bottom. But, Cena kicked out. Great sequence.

They reset at 23:00 with another AA tease from Cena. But, Rock intercepted. Another tease. Another one. More blocks. Rock then hit a DDT center-ring. Rock then stood up and waited for Cena to get up, which took a while. Rock wanted another Rock Bottom, but Cena ducked and hit the Attitude Adjustment. Cena immediately covered and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Cena at 23:58 to capture the WWE Title.

[Arcademan]

1 -- TRIPLE H (w/Stephanie McMahon) vs. DANIEL BRYAN -- winner advances to the WWE World Title main event

Hunter continued to sneer at Bryan, then smirk toward the crowd as the two wrestlers felt out the crowd. Hunter then walked toward Bryan and extended his hand, but Bryan responded with a kick to the hand. A roll-up produced a two count, freaking out Hunter. Bryan followed with rapid-fire kicks in the corner, sending Hunter scampering to the floor for a breather. As Steph tried to help Hunter calm down, Bryan extended his hand in the ring. Nice opening.

Back in the ring, Hunter tried to work on Bryan's shoulder, but Bryan responded with a take-down into a side headlock. Hunter responded with a take down, but Bryan responded with uppercuts. Meanwhile, Lawler said he thinks Hunter put this match on first so that if he wins, he could rest up for the main event. Bryan went for kick strikes, but Hunter grabbed Bryan's foot and leg-wrenched him. Hunter thought he was in control again, but Bryan knocked him to the floor. Steph checked on Hunter, then Bryan came off the top turnbuckle with a flip dive aimed for Hunter, but Bryan seemed to take the worst of it.

Back in the ring, Bryan covered Hunter for a two count. "You're never going to win!" Steph shrieked from ringside. On the floor, Hunter took Bryan to the announce table and yanked Bryan shoulder-first down onto the announce table. "Yes!" Steph mockingly shouted. Back in the ring, Hunter went to work on Bryan's shoulder as the announcers said this looks like all of Bryan's hard work coming to an end. But, Bryan responded with a strike that sent Hunter to the floor. Bryan prepared for a suicide dive, but Hunter responded with a strike to the face. Hunter then smashed Bryan across the ring apron.

Bryan made it back into the ring just before ten, then Hunter applied a cross-face chicken wing. "Daniel Bryan" chant as Bryan tried to fight off the hold. Hunter then flowed into a cross-face submission, looking to avenge WM20. Bryan made it to the bottom rope, though, to get a rope break. Hunter then yanked down on Bryan's shoulder to keep working on the injury. Suddenly, Bryan fought back with strikes. Hunter responded, then Bryan knocked down Hunter with a flying attack.

Reset at 13:30. Bryan followed with a German Suplex for a nearfall. Then a second with a bridge for another two count. Bryan tried a third German, but Hunter blocked and nailed a German of his own. Both men sold the effects of the sequence, then Hunter covered for a two count. The match then moved to the top turnbuckle, where Bryan fed off "Yes!" chants to block Hunter and deliver a big sunset flip powerbomb. Both men sold on the mat.

At 16:30, Bryan got up and delivered two running knee strikes in the corner, but Hunter responded to the third attempt with a big lariat. Both men sold on the mat as Steph exclaimed, "Yeaaaah!" Hunter was slow to his feet and approached Bryan for the Pedigree, but Bryan blocked and jack-knifed Hunter for a two count. Kick strike to the head and the crowd rallied hard behind Bryan. Bryan climbed to the top for a diving headbutt, but Hunter got his leg up to block. Hunter immediately went to the cross-face submission, Bryan crawled across the ring, but Hunter rolled them over to the center of the ring. Bryan managed to escape and also reverse into a cross-face of his own, popping the crowd. Hunter flailed his arm, but Bryan locked it on tighter as Steph sold concern ringside. Hunter teased tapping, but finally reached the bottom rope for a break.

Hunter rolled to the floor for a breather, then Bryan got up and delivered a suicide dive. Then, a second suicide dive to the outside. Bryan took Hunter back into the ring and followed with a top-rope missile dropkick. Bryan kipped up like Shawn Michaels, then delivered one Yes! Kick. A second. A third. A fourth. Big wind-up for a fifth to the head. But, Hunter kicked out just before three as Steph seemed to be out of energy ringside.

Bryan wanted to end it with the big running knee, but Hunter responded with a spinebuster. Hunter flowed right into a Pedigree, but Bryan kicked out at two. The crowd popped, then erupted into "Yes!" chants as Steph sold concern that maybe she underestimated Bryan. Steph tried to give Hunter a pep talk, but Bryan caught Hunter with a roll-up for a close two count. Hunter responded by unloading on Bryan with right hand strikes. He then went for a second Pedigree, but Bryan countered with a bridge pin for a close two count. Hunter maintained the Pedigree grip, though, and Bryan blocked a second Pedigree attempt. So, Hunter drove knees to Bryan's head.

Hunter again gripped Bryan for a Pedigree, but Bryan reversed into a wind-up kick to the face. Bryan tried a big kick, but Hunter blocked. Bryan blocked a follow-up from Hunter, created separation, and smashed Hunter with a big running knee. Cover and a three count. Clean win for Bryan.

Post-match: The crowd erupted in "Yes!" chants as Bryan and Hunter recovered on the mat. Bryan stood up and celebrated by holding up one finger that he's got one more to go. Suddenly, Steph entered the ring and slapped Bryan. Bryan smiled, so Steph kept slapping him. Hunter then attacked Bryan from behind and posted him. Hunter grabbed a chair and smashed it across Bryan's shoulder, creating questions over whether Bryan can make the main event. Hunter and Steph then left the ring as Bryan was tended to by the ringside doctor.

WINNER: Bryan at 25:58. Very good WrestleMania match. The post-match attack now sets up the show-long question of whether Bryan will make the main event. Well done all-around. (****)

[Arcademan]

2 -- THE SHIELD (U.S. champion DEAN AMBROSE & ROMAN REIGNS & SETH ROLLINS) vs. NEW AGE OUTLAWS (ROAD DOGG & BILLY GUNN) & KANE -- six-man tag match

 Hot start to the match with the match time likely cut down due to the length of the first hour. Reigns stood out early delivering double spears to the Outlaws, then Shield nailed a triple powerbomb to both Outlaws at the same time. Shield covered the Outlaws for the win.

 WINNERS: Shield at 2:56. That was quick and decisive.

 3 -- ANDRE THE GIANT BATTLE ROYAL

 Big Show's music played and WWE revealed a host of individuals were already in the ring. Sheamus got a ring entrance, then the bell sounded. Yoshi Tatsu, who was not part of the original list, was the first elimination. Raw GM Brad Maddox was out next. Brodus Clay was eliminated by Khali and Khali was eliminated next. Zack Ryder was cut next as bodies started flying.

 Darren Young was eliminated, then Mark Henry eliminated all of 3MB. Big Show then eliminated Henry. Chaos everywhere, then Titus was eliminated. Santino pulled out his Cobra and took out the cameraman instead of Miz. He adjusted and took out Miz anyways. Del Rio then eliminated Santino to re-create the Royal Rumble 2011 ending.

 Cody Rhodes eliminated his former partner, Damien Sandow, then Big E. pressed Justin Gabriel clear over the top rope to the floor. Big E. eliminated David Otunga next and Cole said he can go sue somebody now. Lawler commented that this is like fireworks going all different directions. Fandango suddenly eliminated Big E., setting off "Fandango'ing" in the crowd. Fandango danced on the ring apron, which drew over Sheamus to deliver about 25 clubbing forearms to the chest. He then playfully shoved Fandango off the apron to the floor.

 Big Show scooped up R-Truth and tossed him over the top rope to the floor. Cesaro, who was pulled from the battle royal in favor of the pre-show Tag Title match, emerged as a candidate to win as the sea of bodies cleared out. "I didn't even know Cesaro was in this thing," JBL observed. Del Rio then eliminated Goldust. He followed by eliminating Cody Rhodes.

 Rey Mysterio got a brief spotlight, then Cesaro suddenly eliminated him with a big European Uppercut. Ziggler tried to go after Cesaro, but he took a big pop-up uppercut. Suddenly, Kofi was dumped out of the ring, but his feet landed on the ring steps, avoiding elimination in a unique manner. Kofi hit the ring and springboard off the top with a cross-body to Ziggler. Trouble in Paradise to Big Show, but Cesaro grabbed Kofi and put him in the Big Swing. JBL asked if he could Big Swing Kofi over the top rope, but Cesaro just kept going on the Big Swing.

 Reset at 11:00 with Big Show grabbing Cesaro to deliver a big chokeslam, drawing boos from the crowd. Sheamus then Brogue Kicked Kofi off the ring apron to eliminate him. Ziggler followed with a snap DDT to Sheamus, then Del Rio whiffed on a superkick that eliminated Ziggler. Boos from the crowd.

 The Final Four was Sheamus, Del Rio, Big Show, and Cesaro. Sheamus and Del Rio then eliminated each other battling against the ropes. It was down to Cesaro and Show, who went for a chokeslam, but Cesaro blocked. Cesaro then tried big clotheslines to eliminate Show, but Show chucked Cesaro over the top rope. Cesaro held on, then climbed to the top rope, but Show nailed him with a KO Punch to boos. Show tried to eliminate Cesaro, but Cesaro slipped out, then nailed uppercuts after uppercuts. Suddenly, Cesaro had his Hogan bodyslamming Andre moment by lifting Show into the air and bodyslamming Show over the top rope to the floor to win, popping the crowd.

 Post-match: Cesaro collected himself as Show stood stunned ringside. Show then reached through the ropes with a hand and Cesaro accepted it for a handshake. Cesaro took his spotlight in the ring, then five referees brought the Andre trophy into the ring. Cesaro lifted the entire trophy into the ring, standing tall victorious.

 WINNER: Cesaro at 13:25. And Cesaro's star has been made. Rough battle royal early on, but huge ending for Cesaro's career.

[Arcademan]

4 -- JOHN CENA vs. BRAY WYATT (w/Luke Harper and Erick Rowan)

 The bell sounded and Bray knelt down before Cena to give Cena a chance to finish him right now. "Get up!" Cena said instead. Bray got tired of waiting, so he charged Cena, but Cena ran him into the ringpost. Bray then took control and taunted Cena while being on the offensive for a sustained period.

 Suddenly, Cena got a look in his eyes and charged out of the corner with a big clothesline to Bray. Cena held himself on the top turnbuckle and got a monster look in his eyes. He jumped Bray with an attack, prompting Bray to laugh at this playful aggression from Cena. Cena almost got himself DQ'ed, then Harper and Rowan hit the ring apron. Bray told them to back down as Bray smiled in the corner and the crowd chanted, "Cena Sucks."

 Cena delivered a running boot to Bray's face, then continued to hold his angry facial expression and body language. Cena pounded on Bray as ref John Cone asked Cena what's wrong with him. Suddenly, Cena knelt down and tried to collect himself, processing what he was turning into. Bray smiled and lifted up Cena, who responded with a dropkick. Cena then audibly called for a sleeper spot, shot Bray off to the ropes, and Bray responded with a sleeper.

 Cena broke free at 9:00 and dropped Bray with shoulder tackles, then he stood up and smiled, turning back into regular John Cena. Cena smiled at the boos that followed and went for the Five Knuckle Shuffle, but Bray responded with his crab pose that freaked out Cena. Great "counter" from Bray. Bray then suplexed Cena after Rowan provided a distraction. Suddenly, the floor section broke into choreographed swaying to the Wyatts's theme music.

 At 10:45, Cena sprung on Bray with a swinging DDT for a two count. Cena then climbed to the top rope and went for a guillotine leg drop, but Bray stood up and caught Cena for a sit-down powerbomb resulting in a two count. Bray went back to taunting Cena, who suddenly responded with a sit-out slam into the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena wanted the AA, but Bray slipped out and nailed an odd-looking gutbuster across his knee for a two count. "Ugly, but effective," JBL said.

 At 13:00, Cena and Bray moved to the ring apron, where Bray delivered half of a DDT onto the edge of the ring. Suddenly, the crowd broke into singing, "He's got the whole world in his hands," because it was written on the back of Bray's jacket, which he discarded on the way back into the ring. In the ring, Cena blocked a top-rope move, then he twisted his body to splash the henchmen on the floor. But, that move allowed Bray to attack from behind as Cena recovered from the attack.

 On the outside, Bray placed Cena on the ring steps and tried to smash him with the other half of the ring steps, but Cena popped up and blocked. Cena went back to being the monster and lifted
 the ring steps in the air. He wanted to end Bray with the steps, but couldn't do it, so he tossed the steps aside. Back in the ring, Bray ran over Cena with a big body smash, then he held Cena in his hands and sang, "He's got the whole world in his hands." Bray then got up and tried a running senton, but Cena moved. Cena then dropped Bray with an AA, but Bray kicked out just before three.

 Reset at 18:00. Bray threw Cena down on the floor in front of Arnold Skaaland's widow on the front row. Suddenly, Cena sprung onto Harper with a big spear through the gimmicked guardrail in front of the timekeeper's area. Bray freaked out in the ring, then beat up Cena ringside before checking on Harper. Back in the ring, Harper hung upside down in the corner to pop the crowd, then he stalked Cena for Sister Abigail, but Cena countered into the STF. Bray reached the bottom rope for a break, though.

 At 20:00, Bray caught Cena out of nowhere with Sister Abigail, but Cena kicked out just in time. The match then moved to the floor, where Bray started re-arranging the ringside area. Bray brought a chair into the ring, then he tossed the chair to Cena and challenged him to use it. Bray told Cena to be the monster and finish him. Cena pulled himself up, got a crazy look in his eyes, and smashed Rowan off the ring apron with the chair. Bray tried to catch Cena with Sister Abigail, but Cena flipped into an AA. Cena pinned Bray for the pin and the win.

 Post-match: Cole said Cena stayed true to himself and the Cenation tonight. Cena then left the ring to hug a boy on the second row sporting Cena gear. As the Wyatts helped Bray away from the ringside area, Cena posed in the ring as Cole continued to hype Cena staying true to himself.

 WINNER: Cena at 22:25. That epitomized a roller-coaster match. Good at times, not so good at other times, mainly when Cena was asked to act and step out of his comfort zone. But, Bray had a big-match performance in defeat and it sets up for the next chapter with the Wyatts becoming more ruthless and angry after Cena beat Bray. (**3/4)

[Arcademan]

5 -- THE UNDERTAKER vs. BROCK LESNAR (w/Paul Heyman) -- Undertaker's Undefeated Streak at WrestleMania on the line

 Taker and Lesnar felt each other out early on. A big early spot was Lesnar clotheslining Taker over the top rope and Taker landing on his feet, stunning Lesnar. Taker and Lesnar went to early chokeslam and F5 teases, but easily avoided the finishers. Meanwhile, the crowd was a bit subdued, a combination of patiently watching the match play out and worn out from a roller-coaster WrestleMania thus far.

 Lesnar built sustained offense targeting the knee, then they moved to the floor, where Lesnar sent Taker into the guardrail. Back in the ring, Lesnar put the knees to Taker, putting him on the mat. Heyman cackled to himself as Cole dejectedly said Taker looks almost mortal here. He said it's almost a mis-match thus far. Lesnar lit up Taker with rights and lefts to the mid-section, then to the face. Suddenly, Taker responded with a DDT off the ropes to buy some time.

 Reset at 12:00. Taker with Snake Eyes into a big boot, then he dropped a leg for a two count. Taker followed with a big chokeslam, then he covered Lesnar for another nearfall. Taker tried to follow with a Tombstone, but Lesnar countered into an F5. Taker kicked out and the crowd didn't buy the nearfall this early in the sequence. The crowd then came to life with an "Undertaker" chant as Heyman told Lesnar to finish Taker.

 At 15:00, Taker suddenly reached up and put Lesnar in the Hell's Gate submission. Lesnar fought, then offered a feat of strength suddenly lifting Taker into the air for a powerbomb to break free. Lesnar was again slow to follow up, allowing Taker to apply his submission again. Lesnar teased tapping, but again powered to his feet for a powerbomb to break the hold.

 At 18:00, the two men were slow to reach other, then Lesnar sprung on Taker with the kimura lock. Lesnar held onto the hold, but didn't wrench it like he did to Triple H to "break his arm." Taker then reversed into a kimura lock of his own. Lesnar cried out in pain, then reached the ropes for a break. Lesnar was the aggressor coming out of the ropes, delivering punishment to Taker's mid-section.

 Taker came back with an Old-School walk-the-ropes teaser, but Lesnar pulled Taker off the rope into an F5. Lesnar covered Taker, but Taker kicked out again. Heyman freaked out ringside, then told Lesnar that this is his legacy. "He's taking this away from you!" he shouted to Lesnar. Lesnar followed up on Taker with right hands, but suddenly found himself in Last Ride position. Taker couldn't get Lesnar all the way up in the air, so he simply dropped him to the mat to complete the powerbomb.

 Taker followed up with the Tombstone Piledriver. Taker folded Lesnar's arms, but Lesnar kicked out at two. Taker sat up, stared down at Heyman, and pulled himself to his feet for a throat-slash. Taker wanted a second Tombstone, but Lesnar reversed into a Tombstone of his own. Lesnar then transitioned into a third F5. Lesnar covered and, yes, a three count was rendered as Taker kicked out.

 The crowd sat stunned and shocked as the unthinkable 21-1 record flashed on the screen. Lesnar sat stunned, too, and Heyman freaked out as it sunk in, too. WWE showed people with their mouths wide open in disbelief since no one thought Taker's Streak would ever end, especially not after the weak build-up of Lesnar for this match. No music played as WWE let the sound of a stunned crowd be the soundtrack.

 Lesnar gathered himself in the corner, smiled, then left the ring to his music playing. Lesnar and Heyman hit the stage to heel boos, then left to the back. Back in the ring, Taker gathered himself and sold gathering his thoughts. "21-1" remained on the videoboard over Taker's shoulder as JBL said he thought he would never see this happen. Taker tried to collect himself one more time as the announcers were shown standing up and applauding from ringside. Lawler said it's like the wind has been taken out of his sails. Taker seemed to tear up as he finally reached his feet. Taker stood in the ring and looked down at the ground, then looked around the Superdome. Taker then left the ring to the ring steps as Lawler said he's about to take a walk that he never thought he would have to talk.

 WWE cut to a wide shot of Taker walking up the entrance ramp. Cole said it's a sad day in WWE, but they will celebrate what Taker has done at WrestleMania. Taker's music played and Cole gave a big speech about Taker's contributions to WWE and going down swinging at WrestleMania. "Congratulations to Brock Lesnar, but ultimate respect to The Undertaker," Cole said. Lawler said he thinks it was the end of an era. Taker stopped on the entrance stage, kept walking, and disappeared into the fog.

 WINNER: Lesnar at 25:12 to end The Streak. The story of this match was Taker looked old and worn down, which seemed to set up for Taker to make the annual comeback to prove he's still immortal, but Lesnar suddenly won. Not what I expected to analyze tonight. I suppose it sets up Lesnar back on-track to get in the WWE Title picture (sticking around with a feud vs. Daniel Bryan after this?), but how does it affect a possible Taker vs. Cena WM match? Or, was this it for Taker? Lots to process here. (**1/2)

[Arcademan]

6 -- VICKIE GUERRERO INVITATIONAL -- 14-Divas match for the Divas Title

 All of the challengers were in the ring after the announcers reset following The Undertaker's Streak ending. A.J. Lee then got a ring entrance to defend the Divas Title. The announcers tried to engage in the match, but sold as if they couldn't concentrate because their thoughts were on Taker's Streak ending. The crowd had a similar response. There were a handful of multiple-Divas spots during the match, which worked to take out competitors and allow A.J. to put Naomi in a submission for the victory to retain her title.

 WINNER: A.J. via submission at 6:48 to retain the Divas Title.

The Championship Match between Orton, Batista and Bryan is the last match of the night.

[Arcademan]

7 -- WWE World Hvt. champion RANDY ORTON vs. 2014 Royal Rumble winner BATISTA vs. DANIEL BRYAN -- three-way WWE World Hvt. Title match

 Once the bell sounded, Bryan ran across the ring to dropkick Orton. Batista watched, then tried a powerbomb, but Bryan countered with a huracanrana that sent Batista stumbling across the ring and through the ropes to the floor. But, the heels went after Bryan's injured shoulder moments later to momentarily neutralize him. Jerry Lawler went for the early dejection that he has the same feeling about Bryan's chances as Undertaker earlier tonight.

 Orton and Batista battled ringside without a count applied, reminding everyone that there's no count-out or DQ in a WWE three-way match. The match moved into the ring for Bryan and Batista to battle while Orton hung out ringside. Orton then re-entered the ring and Bryan ran across the ring with flying dropkicks to both Orton and Batista back and forth. Bryan caught Orton in the Yes! Lock moments later when Stephanie McMahon and Triple H suddenly showed up ringside. Hunter, appearing to be sporting a neckbrace, yanked the ref out of the ring to prevent a decision from being rendered. Check that, it was a towel wrapped around Hunter's neck like a neckbrace.

 After the distraction, Batista dropped Bryan, then gave him a Batistabomb. Crooked ref Scott Armstrong then showed up and counted one, two, kick-out. This woke up the crowd, which had to be taken way down to get back up. Bryan then side-stepped a charging Batista and kicked ref Armstrong in the face. Cole said it's No DQ. Ringside, Hunter and Steph helped up Armstrong, then Bryan came flying through the ropes to take out Hunter, Steph, and Scott.

 Reset at 11:00. Hunter went under the ring and retrieved a sledgehammer. But, Bryan kicked it away from Hunter. Bryan then picked up the Sledgehammer and jabbed Hunter with it. Bryan then rolled up Batista, the original ref entered to count, but Orton broke up the pin.

 Ringside, Orton and Bryan battled as the crowd tried to rally behind Bryan. Batista then helped Orton take out Bryan. Meanwhile, refs helped Hunter and Steph away from ringside to boos. Back to ringside, Orton smashed Bryan with the ring steps. Batista and Orton shared a moment, then looked down at Bryan and decided to end him. Batista and Orton cleared the multiple announce tables ringside, then Batista smashed Bryan with a TV monitor.

 At 14:00, Batista put Bryan on a table as the crowd chanted for C.M. Punk. Batista then positioned Bryan for a Batistabomb and Orton readied for an RKO, which led to a combo RKOBomb through the Spanish announce table. That hurt Orton as much as it hurt Bryan, while Batista stood tall on the English table. The ringside medic came down to ringside to check on both Bryan and Orton, who had a gash on his lower back. Batista made no effort to make a pin here as more medics spilled out to check on Bryan. Batista then picked up Orton and clotheslined him as medics continued to check on Bryan.

 The crowd sat hushed, contemplating whether this was the end of Bryan's title shot. As Orton and Batista returned to the ring, the crowd picked up a "Daniel Bryan" chant. The crowd watched Bryan be wheeled away from ringside while Orton dropped Batista with a DDT off the ring apron to the floor. Suddenly, Bryan ripped off the neckbrace and fell off the stretcher. "Yes!" chants from the crowd. Bryan vowed to keep fighting, but Orton grabbed Bryan and sent him into the ring steps.

 Back in the ring, Orton thought things over as the crowd chanted for Bryan. Orton taunted the crowd, then called for the RKO. Cole dejectedly said this is it, but Bryan blocked the RKO and wrestled Orton to the ground for the Yes! Lock. Orton fought the hold, then Batista came out of nowhere to break up the submission. So, Bryan put Batista in the Yes! Lock. This time, Orton broke it up. Orton threw Bryan across the ring, then went after Batista. But, Batista blocked an RKO. Batista tried to spear Batista, but Orton moved and Bryan took the spear. Orton then snapped on Batista with an RKO, but Batista kicked out just before three.

 At 22:00, Orton stalked Batista for his next move. It was a Punt. Orton measured Batista, but Bryan came out of nowhere with a flying knee. Batista chucked Bryan out of the ring, then he covered Orton, but Orton kicked out just before three. Batista, frustrated, went for a Batistabomb, and he connected. But, Bryan came out of nowhere with a flying knee to Batista. He then put Batista in the Yes! Lock. Batista fought the hold, but had to tap out. Bryan is the new WWE World Hvt. champion and the crowd went nuts.

 Post-match: The crowd exploded in excitement as Bryan's win redeemed WrestleMania following The Streak ending. Bryan took both top title belts and celebrated on the announce table as Cole called this an incredible performance defeating Hunter, Batista, and Orton on the same night. Confetti fell and fireworks shot off, then family members joined Bryan in the ring. Make that a lot of confetti. Bryan soaked in the moment and stood tall in the corner with both title belts as the crowd continued to celebrate. Bryan eventually knelt down in the ring with both title belts laid out before him. "Only at WrestleMania," Lawler declared. Bryan then got up with possession of both title belts and continued the "Yes!" celebration as WM30 signed off at 9:56 p.m.

 WINNER: Bryan at 23:20 to capture the WWE World Hvt. Title. That was a very good WWE Main Event style main event with tons of ups and downs taking the crowd through the entire six-month journey in one match before paying off Bryan's journey with the ultimate victory. Bryan vs. Brock Lesnar as a potential feud coming out of this could be huge. Before that, though, Orton is in-line for a title shot since (a) he didn't lose the match and (b) he would have his title re-match clause. (***1/2)

[Arcademan]

Ultimate Warrior: One-Third Of WrestleMania VI Competitors Now Dead

The death of the Ultimate Warrior was just the latest grim reminder that professional wrestlers continue to drop dead from something other than old age at an alarming rate.

The pinnacle of the Warrior's career was WrestleMania VI on April 1, 1990, at SkyDome in Toronto. Warrior defeated Hulk Hogan in the main event to win the championship. Warrior is the 12th wrestler who competed at WrestleMania VI to have died -- one-third of the card's working roster. The oldest was just 63.

As a point of reference, of the 44 starting players from that year's Super Bowl between the 49ers and Broncos, only one has died: Denver defensive end Ron Holmes, who was 48 when he passed away in 2011 from diabetes and coronary issues.

Reasons for wrestlers' dying early -- grueling travel schedules, painkiller abuse, steroid use -- have been well-documented. The passing of the Warrior at age 54 from what is suspected to be a heart attack just days after his induction to WWE's Hall of Fame only underscores the issue.

[Arcademan]

WrestleMania XXXI results will be posted Sunday starting at 7:30 pm EDT here. Thank you.

[Arcademan]

Pre-show results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's report),

A -- WWE tag champions OAKLAND RAIDERS (TYSON KIDD & CESARO w/Natalya) vs. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (THE USOS w/Naomi) vs. LOS MATADORES (DIEGO & FERNANDO w/El Torito) vs. NEW DAY (KOFI KINGSTON & BIG E. w/Xavier Woods) -- four-team match for the WWE Tag Titles

The Usos started things off and Jey Uso sold a shoulder injury. The trainer escorted Jey away from ringside, leaving Jimmy by himself. Kidd & Cesaro then combined for a Big Swing/dropkick on Kofi for a two count. Of note, interesting sightlines facing the hard camera. Instead of that long, panoramic stadium look, it was more like a rectangular box with "WRESTLEMANIA" text backdrop.

Jimmy Uso tagged in and cleaned house by himself. Uso set up four opponents in each corner. Butt splash Rikishi-style to one corner, then a second, a third, and all four corners. Chaos with all teams in the ring. Kingston scored a close nearfall on Cesaro, then they set up a Tower of Doom spot. Instead, Cesaro just suplexed Big E. clear over the top rope into the ring. The ref lost control of the match trying to figure out who was legal. Meanwhile, Kidd used Natalya to take out Los Matadores. Torito suddenly entered the ring and flew onto Xavier on the outside. Natalya then put Torito in the Sharpshooter, tapping out Torito on the floor. Suddenly, Naomi was in the ring and she flew over the top rope with Uso to splash people on the floor. It came down to Natalya and Naomi on the floor, leading to Natalya delivering Rear View to Natalya. Complete chaos.

Back in the ring, Big E. hit the Big Ending on un Matador, but other teams broke up the pin. The ref tried to figure out who was legal as Big E. and un Matador remained in the ring. Other teams re-entered the ring, then Cesaro delivered a big uppercut to un Matador. More chaos as the crowd sat quietly with too much happening. They set up another Tower of Doom spot, bringing fans to their feet as bodies crashed to the mat. Uso hit a top-rope splash on Big E., but Cesaro tagged in Usos's foot in mid-air. So, Cesaro discarded Uso and pinned Big E. for the win.

WINNERS: Cesaro & Kidd at 9:58 to retain the Tag Titles. Hard work aise, this was a giant clustermess. Goodness. WWE tried to get in the Natalya-Naomi feud, Natalya-Torito deal, Uso injury angle, and four teams battling for the Tag Titles with no sense of order in ten over-booked minutes. Just too much for a pre-show match. (**1/2)

B -- ANDRE THE GIANT MEMORIAL BATTLE ROYAL

Curtis Axel parted the Red Sea to get his moment ripping his shirt going wild with Axel-Mania. So, the entire roster dumped Axel over the top rope for the first elimination. NXT star Hideo Itami was in there battling Cesaro, who was not advertised after being in the Tag Title match, while Show worked on Titus O'Neil in the corner. Adam Rose and Fandango then spilled to the outside as JBL hyped Show never winning a battle royal. Show targeted Itami, then Miz and Damien Sandow teamed up to fight Alex Riley, who was also not advertised. They eliminated Riley, and Miz took the credit.

Zack Ryder was then eliminated by a returning Bo Dallas, now with a goatee. Bo was so excited that he ran out of the ring, then ran back in, and was eliminated by Itami. "Itami" chant from the crowd. Itami kicked Kidd around, then found himself face-to-nipple with Show. Itami went after Show with kicks, but Show punched Itami off the ring apron to the floor to boos from the crowd.

Los Matadores were eliminated, then Cesaro slammed Sin Cara onto Los Matadores. Henry then press-slammed Kidd over the top rope onto the eliminated trio. The Ascension then dumped Henry over the top rope, ending Lawler's pick. "Let's Go Mizdow" chants as the ring continued to clear out via Ryback eliminating The Ascension. Ryback then chucked Darren Young over the top rope. Heath Slater air-guitared in Ryback's face, so Ryback tossed him next. Ryback then tossed Titus O'Neil.

New Day ganged up on Big Show, but Show kind of skinned the cat going over the top rope. So, Kofi and Xavier double-dropkicked Show. No elimination with Show holding onto the top rope, then Show grabbed Big E. and eliminated him. He followed with eliminations on Xavier and Kofi Kingston. Quite the babyface move valiantly surviving three guys trying to eliminate him. Show then tossed Erick Rowan after catching his breath.

Ryback tossed Goldust as the match came down to seven or eight wrestlers. Ryback wanted to Shell-Shock Big Show, but Kane smashed him in the face before choke-slamming Miz and Sandow. Kane tried to eliminate 2014 winner Cesaro, but he hung on. And he eliminated Kane with power offense. Show then chucked Uso over the top rope.

The Final Five was Show, Cesaro, Miz, Sandow, and Ryback. Cesaro offered a big Feat of Strength on Show, but he couldn't hold him and Show tossed Cesaro over the top rope to the floor. So, it's Show, Ryback, Miz, and Sandow in the Final Four. Ryback wanted the Meathook Clothesline on show, but Show intercepted and chucked him over the top rope to the floor.

Show turned around to stand opposite Miz and Sandow as the crowd came to life cheering for Sandow. Miz pointed to himself, saying he's got this. Miz talked strategy, then walked toward Show, figured out it was Big Show, and stopped. Cole freaked out about something on commentary while all three guys stood in the ring setting up the finish. Miz talked strategy with Sandow again, but Sandow shook his head "no" on Miz's instructions. Miz berated Sandow, who remained standing still. Miz pushed Sandow one too many times, so Sandow grabbed Miz and chucked him over the top rope to a big pop.

Ringside, Miz freaked out while Sandow yelled that he's not taking this anymore. But, Sandow turned his back on Big Show. JBL predicted Big Show about to win, but Show did not take advantage of Sandow being distracted by eliminating Miz, just sitting in the corner. Show and Sandow eventually came face-to-face as the last two standing. Show tossed Sandow, but Sandow skinned the cat back into the ring. Sandow punched Show over and over, but could not get him over the top rope. Show then shoulder-blocked Sandow to the mat to boos.

Show smiled, stalked Sandow, and got low-bridged over the top rope. Show held on, though. Sandow tried to bite Show's fingers, but Show blocked and absorbed right hands from Sandow. Sandow ran at Show, but Show grabbed him by the throat. Sandow then found himself on the ring apron trying to drag Show over the top rope to the floor. But, Show lifted Sandow in the air and tossed him down to the mat, getting the win.

Post-match, Show left the ring to pick up the giant Andre the Giant trophy. Show then patted the Andre figurine on the head and posed like Andre.

WINNER: Show at 18:05. That was a good battle royal. They cleared people out early on, spotlighted key wrestlers, got in Sandow's big moment ending his alliance with Miz, and gave Show his gold watch winning the battle royal. The booking almost babyfaced Show (although the crowd sure did not want him to win) with Show trying to get his first battle royal win, overcoming stacked odds during the match, and showing endurance getting the win. (***1/2)

[Arcademan]

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's real-time report)

1 -- IC champion BAD NEWS BARRETT vs. DANIEL BRYAN vs. LUKE HARPER vs. R-TRUTH vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. DEAN AMBROSE vs. STARDUST -- seven-man Intercontinental Title ladder match

Chaos early on with wrestlers flying out of the ring. Dean eventually climbed a ladder and splashed everyone except for R-Truth, who entered the ring and tried to conquer his fear of heights, but Barrett cut him off before he could climb. Bryan then entered the ring and landed corner dropkicks on Stardust and Barrett, but Harper smashed him with a ladder. Bryan shook it off moments later and smashed Harper as he hung upside down on a ladder. Stardust then took control, drawing "Cody" chants taunting him. Suddenly, Stardust left the ring and grabbed his own ladder, which was covered in glitter. Barrett proceeded to smash and break the ladder.

Back in the ring, Ambrose and Harper had a ladder war that turned into a fist fight. They were cleared from the ring, then Stardust tried to climb a giant ladder, but Barrett cut him and delivered a superplex from the top of the ladder. Barrett sold great tipping over onto his stomach after executing the move. Suddenly, Bryan, Ziggler, and Ambrose battled on top of the ladder. Ambrose tipped them over, then clotheslined Harper. But, Harper grabbed Ambrose and chucked him over the top rope with a powerbomb through a collapsable ladder down at ringside. The ringside doctor checked on Ambrose as Ziggler returned to the ring. Ziggler climbed on Harper's back as Harper climbed the ladder, then Harper bodyslammed both of them down to the mat below. Reset with bodies everywhere.

Ziggler was the first man up and got his hands on the IC Title belt, but Barrett cut him off. Bullhammers around the horn, but Bryan prevented Barrett from grabbing the ladder. Bryan got his hands on the belt, but Barrett and Ziggler desperately pulled him down. Barrett, frustrated, tossed the ladder out of the way, then turned around and took a running knee from Bryan.

Bryan reset the ladder and started climbing, but Ziggler ran back into the ring to battle Bryan. Big right hand strikes back and forth. Headbutt to Ziggler. Another one. Double headbutt battle, then Bryan got the final headbutt, knocking Ziggler down to the mat. Bryan was left alone on the ladder and he unhooked it for the win. Big crowd reaction and celebration. Cole said they begin Mania the way they ended last year.

WINNER: Bryan at 13:47 to become new IC champion. Good ladder match. WWE protected Bryan not involved in dangerous spots and they kept the focus on a few stories and feuds to build to the finish book-ending the last two WrestleManias. Simple, effective booking and relatively safe match that did not make viewers cringe throughout. Now perhaps WWE can re-focus on the Smackdown brand with Bryan and the IC Title as center of the show. (***1/2)

[Arcademan]

2 -- RANDY ORTON vs. SETH ROLLINS (w/Jamie Noble and Joey Mercury)

 After a brief feeling-out process, Orton landed a dropkick, then teased the RKO, but Seth slid out of the ring to avoid. Back in the ring, Seth blocked corner punches and went for a Bucklebomb, but Orton rebounded off the turnbuckles and clotheslined Seth hard to the mat. J&J felt uncomfortable with how the match was going, so they got involved. Orton wasn't going to let them stay involved, though, so he delivered a trademark Double DDT from the ring apron ... onto the floor. "Those are human beings!" JBL shouted on commentary. Seth used the distraction to take control, though, back in the ring.

 Seth got cocky in control of the match, allowing Orton to come back with a corner clothesline into a trademark snap powerslam. Orton then lit up Seth with corner uppercuts, nearly getting himself DQ'ed by the referee. No matter, as Orton gripped Seth for a t-bone suplex, which sent Seth sliding to the ring apron. Orton wanted a second-rope DDT, but Seth blocked and kicked Orton in the head down to the floor where J&J were recovering. Seth measured Orton, then delivered an Asai Moonsault, rocking Orton.

 Back in the ring at 8:00, Seth wanted a top-rope move, but Orton crotched him just in time. Orton then wanted Papa Orton's superplex, but Seth blocked, only to take a back body drop. Orton followed with a cross-body splash from the top rope, bringing out something new from the toolbox. Orton covered for a two count, then wanted the RKO, firing up the crowd. Orton set up for the RKO in Seth's face, but Seth blocked with a roll-up for a two count into a kick to the face. Seth then flipped over Orton, but landed right in an RKO. Seth kicked out just before three, though, surprising the crowd.

 Orton set up for The Punt to try to finish Seth, but J&J hit the ring, took RKOs from Orton, and Seth surprised Orton with a Curb Stomp. But, Orton kicked out of the pin. Lawler said they're kicking out of finishers because it's WrestleMania. After a replay of the sequence, Seth approached Orton for his next move. Seth wanted a big corkscrew splash from the top rope, but Orton rolled out of the way and tried an RKO, but Seth blocked. Seth then ran toward Orton for a Curb Stomp, but he ended up running into the air, where Orton intercepted him with a mid-air RKO, popping and wowing the crowd. Orton emphatically covered Seth for the win. Amazing visual on a slow-motion replay.

 WINNER: Orton at 13:15. Very good singles match. The finish makes a lot of sense if Seth is cashing in MITB tonight or tomorrow on Raw. Hypothetically, Orton gets the win here, Seth gets the title, and Orton has a claim to a title shot, setting up the next stage of the feud post-Mania. (***1/2)

[Arcademan]

3 -- STING vs. TRIPLE H -- The Monday Night War

 After all the elaborate introductions, it was time for the bell and a big staredown. Hunter paused to look around the stadium while Sting kept his eyes locked on Hunter. Lock-up and it's on. Sting ran over Hunter with a shoulder tackle, then he pounded his chest and howled at Hunter. Howls for the crowd. Hunter delivered a shoulder tackle, but Sting came back with a hip toss and big dropkick, stunning Hunter. Loud "You Still Got It" chant from the crowd.

 Reset and another mid-ring lock-up. Sting drove Hunter to the corner, but Hunter landed a blow to the face. Hunter followed with more offense, then landed a kneelift, but Sting no-sold. Howl. Pound the chest. Hunter was stunned. Sting dropped Hunter and teased the Scorpion Deathlock, but Hunter slithered out of the ring to get a breather. Hunter continued to sell being surprised by Sting matching and bettering him early on.

 Hunter returned to the ring at 4:40 as Sting continued to lock eyes. Another lock-up. Hunter drove Sting to the corner, but Sting reversed a whip and sent Hunter flying over the top rope to the floor. Cole said it might be too early to say this, but Sting has been pretty dominant. Sting followed to the outside, but made a mistake going for the Stinger Splash, as Hunter moved and Sting crashed into the guardrail. Hunter then chucked Sting into the ring steps.

 Back in the ring, Hunter worked over Sting as the crowd continued to buzz about the match thus far. Hunter stood up and smiled as JBL continued the narrative of WCW being below WWE. Hunter then whipped Sting into the corner turnbuckle and Sting fell down at Hunter's feet. Hunter crotch-chopped the crowd, then dropped a knee for a two count. Hunter followed with a reverse chinlock as the camera focused on a giant welt running down the back of Hunter's left leg. Sting powered out of the hold, then managed to get Hunter in the Scorpion Deathlock.

 Suddenly, DX's music played. Out came Billy Gunn, Road Dogg, and Sean Waltman. Sting cleared them from the ring, but Triple H got up and teased the Pedigree, only to have Sting back body drop him over the top rope to the floor. Sting recovered, climbed to the top turnbuckle, and big-splashed all four men down on the floor. Sting stood to his feet as the crowd saluted him.

 Sting rolled Hunter back into the ring, but Gunn went after him. Sting then turned around and took a Pedigree from Hunter. Hunter covered, but Sting kicked out of the Pedigree, wowing the crowd. "Let's Go Sting" chant as Hunter slid out of the ring and retrieved a sledgehammer. Suddenly, the NWO theme music played. Out came Hulk Hogan, Kevin Nash, and Scott Hall in NWO t-shirts. Are they all going to take out Sting? DX flipped out ringside as Hogan, Hall, and Nash slowly made their way down to ringside. JBL played Dusty Rhodes wondering what side the NWO is on.

 Suddenly, NWO and DX came to blows on the entrance ramp. Hogan and Nash stood tall, then Sting grabbed Hunter from behind and delivered a Scorpion Death Drop. Sting covered, but Hunter kicked out. Another big crowd reaction. Sting then put Hunter in the Scorpion Deathlock as the NWO watched ringside. Hunter tried to crawl toward the sledgehammer, but Hogan pulled it away. JBL yelled about Hogan making his name here. Suddenly, Waltman posted Hogan, so Nash took out Waltman. A big brawl broke out ringside. Meanwhile, Sting still had Hunter in the Scorpion. The focus went back to the move as Sting sat down on Hunter's back. But, Hunter powered to his stomach and reached the bottom rope for a break.

 Sting went for the Scorpion Deathlock again, but Shawn Michaels was suddenly in the ring sporting a DX t-shirt. Michaels superkicked Sting for the real WCW vs. WWE dream match that never happened, then stood over Sting as the crowd booed. HBK crotch-chopped the crowd, then Hunter draped an arm over Sting, who rolled a shoulder to escape the pin. The crowd roared again. Michaels could not believe it was not the finish.

 Another situation broke out ringside with Hunter receiving the sledgehammer from DX. Hunter stalked Sting, but Hall pulled out the baseball bat and handed it to Sting, who sold being stunned by the NWO helping him. Sting and Hunter circled each other with weapons in-hand, then Sting jabbed Hunter in the gut with his bat. That giant bruise on Hunter's leg is turning colors. Sting suddenly broke Hunter's sledgehammer in half, sending Hunter begging off. Sting delivered right hands and kicks in the corner. Big strikes, big slows. Big moment. Sting pounded his chest, then went for the Stinger Splash and connected. Hunter slumped down to the mat, then Sting stalked him for another one. But, Hunter bashed him with the head of the sledgehammer. Hunter covered, and it was good for the pin and the win.

 WINNER: Hunter at 18:36.