Royal Rumble 2017: Reigns Vs. Owens - Epic WWE Showdown!
Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive deep into one of the most talked-about matches in Royal Rumble history: the 2017 clash between Roman Reigns and Kevin Owens. This No Disqualification Match for the WWE Universal Championship was an absolute rollercoaster. It wasn't just a fight; it was a story of resilience, interference, and sheer determination. So, grab your snacks, and let’s get into it!
The Buildup: A Clash of Titans
Before the Royal Rumble, the animosity between Roman Reigns and Kevin Owens was palpable. Kevin Owens, the then-reigning WWE Universal Champion, had held onto the title through cunning tactics and the ever-present assistance of his best friend, Chris Jericho. Roman Reigns, on the other hand, was the powerhouse, the guy management wanted to be the face of the company, constantly battling against both his opponents and a significant portion of the WWE fanbase who felt he was being forced upon them. This clash of personalities and wrestling styles set the stage for an explosive encounter.
The storyline leading up to this match was brilliantly crafted. Owens, portrayed as the wily, opportunistic champion, was always looking for an edge, while Reigns embodied the relentless babyface, overcoming odds and fighting for what he believed was his. The dynamic between Owens and Jericho added another layer of intrigue. Jericho's constant interference in Owens' matches had become a signature of their alliance, making fans wonder just how far he would go to ensure Owens retained his title. This question was central to the buildup, fueling anticipation for the Royal Rumble showdown. The WWE did a fantastic job of highlighting their contrasting journeys and motivations, making their eventual collision at the Royal Rumble feel like an inevitable and monumental event.
Additionally, the stakes were incredibly high. For Reigns, it was about proving himself as the top guy and finally capturing the Universal Championship, a title that had eluded him. For Owens, it was about validating his reign and showing that he could overcome even the toughest opponents, even without Jericho's help (or so he thought!). These high stakes, combined with the intense personal animosity, made their Royal Rumble match one of the most anticipated of the year. Every promo, every backstage brawl, and every in-ring confrontation added fuel to the fire, ensuring that fans were on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the moment these two titans would finally collide in the Royal Rumble arena.
The Match: No Disqualification Mayhem
The Royal Rumble match itself was an absolute spectacle. Being a No Disqualification Match, it was a chaotic brawl from the get-go. Both Reigns and Owens wasted no time in utilizing the stipulation to their advantage. Weapons were introduced early, with Kevin Owens favoring chairs and tables, while Roman Reigns countered with his raw power and agility.
One of the most memorable spots involved Owens using a Pop-Up Powerbomb on Reigns through a table, a move that had become his trademark. However, Reigns showed incredible resilience, kicking out at the last possible second, much to the dismay of Owens and the shock of the audience. The back-and-forth action was relentless, with neither man willing to give an inch. Reigns delivered his signature Superman Punches and Spears, while Owens relied on his cunning and high-impact maneuvers to keep the "Big Dog" down.
The interference by Chris Jericho was, as expected, a major factor in the match. Jericho involved himself at multiple points, distracting Reigns and providing Owens with opportunities to gain the upper hand. However, this interference also set the stage for a dramatic twist. As Jericho was setting up a table, Reigns managed to turn the tables, delivering a Spear to Jericho through the table, incapacitating him and neutralizing his interference.
But the drama didn't end there. In a shocking turn of events, Braun Strowman emerged, attacking Roman Reigns. Strowman had been feuding with Reigns at the time, and his interference added another layer of chaos to the match. Strowman delivered a devastating Running Powerslam to Reigns, taking him out of the equation and allowing Kevin Owens to capitalize. Owens quickly covered Reigns and secured the pinfall victory, retaining his WWE Universal Championship in a controversial and hard-fought battle. The match was a perfect example of how to use the no-disqualification stipulation to tell a compelling story, with twists, turns, and plenty of high-impact action.
The Aftermath: Fallout and Future Feuds
The aftermath of the Royal Rumble match was significant for both Roman Reigns and Kevin Owens. For Owens, the victory, albeit with considerable help, solidified his status as a cunning and resilient champion. However, it also highlighted his reliance on Jericho and outside interference, which would eventually lead to tension and a dramatic split between the two. The cracks in their friendship began to widen, setting the stage for a bitter feud between the former best friends.
For Reigns, the loss was a setback, but it also fueled his determination. The interference by Strowman sparked a heated rivalry that would dominate Monday Night Raw for months. Reigns and Strowman engaged in a series of brutal matches, each trying to one-up the other in terms of physicality and dominance. Their feud became one of the most intense and memorable of the year, showcasing both men's incredible strength and resilience. The attack by Strowman also served to further cement Reigns as a sympathetic figure, someone who was constantly battling against overwhelming odds.
Moreover, the Royal Rumble match had implications for the Universal Championship picture. While Owens continued his reign, the seeds were being sown for new challengers to emerge. The victory over Reigns didn't necessarily make Owens look stronger in the long run, as it was clear that he needed help to win. This vulnerability would eventually be exploited by other contenders, leading to a change in the championship landscape. The Royal Rumble served as a pivotal moment in the careers of both Reigns and Owens, setting the stage for future storylines and rivalries that would captivate WWE fans for months to come.
Why This Match Still Resonates
So why do fans still talk about this match, guys? Several factors make the Royal Rumble 2017 clash between Roman Reigns and Kevin Owens a memorable one. First and foremost, the storytelling was superb. The animosity between Reigns and Owens, the dynamic between Owens and Jericho, and the shocking interference by Strowman all contributed to a narrative that kept fans engaged from start to finish. The match wasn't just a physical contest; it was a chapter in an ongoing saga.
Second, the in-ring action was top-notch. Both Reigns and Owens are incredibly talented performers, and they brought their A-game to this match. The use of weapons, the high-impact moves, and the near-falls created a sense of drama and excitement that is hard to replicate. The No Disqualification stipulation allowed them to push the boundaries and deliver a match that was both brutal and entertaining.
Third, the match had significant implications for the careers of both men. It solidified Owens as a champion who would do anything to win, while it fueled Reigns' determination and set the stage for his epic feud with Strowman. The Royal Rumble match served as a launching pad for future storylines and rivalries, making it a pivotal moment in WWE history. For all these reasons, the Royal Rumble 2017 match between Roman Reigns and Kevin Owens remains a classic, a testament to the power of great storytelling and in-ring action.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Royal Rumble 2017 match between Roman Reigns and Kevin Owens was more than just a title defense; it was a masterclass in storytelling, action, and drama. The buildup, the match itself, and the aftermath all contributed to a memorable moment in WWE history. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the world of wrestling, this match is definitely worth revisiting. It’s a prime example of what makes WWE so captivating: the blend of athleticism, showmanship, and compelling narratives. So, next time you're looking for a great wrestling match to watch, give this one a try. You won't be disappointed!