Roman Reigns Vs. Drew McIntyre: WrestleMania 35 Full Match
What's up, wrestling fans! Get ready to dive deep into one of the most talked-about matchups from WrestleMania 35: Roman Reigns versus Drew McIntyre. This wasn't just any match; it was a clash of titans, a battle for supremacy that had the whole WWE Universe buzzing. We're going to break down this epic encounter, from the build-up to the final bell, and see what made it such a memorable WrestleMania moment. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's relive the intensity of Reigns vs. McIntyre at The Grandest Stage of Them All!
The Road to WrestleMania 35: Setting the Stage for a Collision
Before we get to the main event fireworks, it's crucial to understand the context that led Roman Reigns and Drew McIntyre to face off at WrestleMania 35. This wasn't a match born out of nowhere; it was the culmination of simmering tension and a strategic power play. Roman Reigns, the perennial main eventer, the Undisputed Champion, was coming off a grueling battle with leukemia, making his return to the ring a triumphant, albeit emotionally charged, moment. His presence alone was enough to electrify any arena, and at WrestleMania, he was set to prove he was still at the top of his game. On the other side of the ring stood Drew McIntyre, a man on a mission. Since his return to WWE, McIntyre had been on a destructive path, showcasing a raw power and an intimidating aura that screamed 'main event'. He had aligned himself with Mr. McMahon, becoming the enforcer of sorts, doling out punishment and asserting dominance. This alliance positioned McIntyre as a formidable threat, someone who could legitimately challenge the established order, and who better to challenge than the Big Dog himself, Roman Reigns? The narrative was perfectly crafted: the beloved hero returning from adversity against the dominant, unstoppable force. The contrast in their personas and their paths to this match made the anticipation sky-high. Fans were eager to see if Reigns could overcome the physical and emotional toll of his recent health struggles to defeat the rampaging Scot. Conversely, many were curious to see if McIntyre's undeniable momentum would finally culminate in a WrestleMania victory over one of the company's biggest stars. The promos leading up to the match were intense, with both men exchanging heated words, each emphasizing their own journey and determination. Reigns spoke of fighting for his family and his legacy, while McIntyre boasted of his newfound power and his destiny to conquer. This personal animosity, coupled with their contrasting styles—Reigns' resilience and fighting spirit versus McIntyre's brute strength and calculated aggression—promised a match that would deliver both hard-hitting action and compelling storytelling. The stage was set for a true WrestleMania classic, a showdown that would define careers and etch itself into the annals of WWE history. The question on everyone's mind was simple: could the returning hero overcome the mountain of a man who seemed unstoppable?
The Match Itself: A Brutal and Intense Encounter
When the bell finally rang for Roman Reigns vs. Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 35, the energy in the stadium was palpable. This wasn't a match filled with flashy high spots and intricate sequences; it was a pure, unadulterated war. From the opening moments, both men went at each other with a ferocity that showcased the stakes involved. McIntyre immediately established his physical dominance, using his size and strength to overpower Reigns. He landed brutal chops, powerful slams, and menacing strikes, dictating the pace and trying to break Reigns down. You could feel the impact of every blow as McIntyre seemed determined to make a statement. However, what we've come to expect from Roman Reigns is his incredible resilience, and this match was no exception. Despite absorbing a tremendous amount of punishment, Reigns refused to stay down. He absorbed McIntyre's best shots, grit his teeth, and kept fighting back. His signature moves, the Superman Punch and the Spear, were telegraphed, but the anticipation of them landing kept the crowd on the edge of their seats. The match saw shifts in momentum, with both men having periods of control. There were moments where it looked like McIntyre had Reigns on the ropes, ready to deliver the decisive blow. Then, just when you thought Reigns was finished, he'd find a second wind, roaring back with his characteristic determination. The crowd played a massive role, their cheers for Reigns and their boos for McIntyre fueling the intensity. This was a physical battle, a test of wills as much as a test of strength. McIntyre’s power moves were designed to wear Reigns down, while Reigns’ comebacks were fueled by the crowd’s energy and his own unyielding spirit. The physicality was evident in their expressions, their movements, and the way they sold each other's offense. It was a masterclass in storytelling through in-ring action, with every slam and every near-fall adding to the drama. The match wasn't just about who was stronger; it was about who wanted it more, who could endure more, and who had the championship pedigree to walk out victorious. The strategy was clear: McIntyre aimed to dominate with power, while Reigns relied on his ability to absorb punishment and strike when the opportunity arose. The near-falls were agonizing, making the outcome feel uncertain until the very end. This brutal exchange truly lived up to the hype, delivering the hard-hitting action that fans had anticipated.
The Climax and Aftermath: A Surprising Finish
As the Roman Reigns vs. Drew McIntyre match at WrestleMania 35 neared its climax, the tension was thicker than ever. Both men had given their all, leaving everything they had in the ring. McIntyre had landed some devastating moves, and Reigns, true to form, had kicked out of everything thrown his way. The crowd was absolutely electric, sensing that a monumental moment was on the horizon. Reigns, battered but unbowed, started to rally. He connected with a thunderous Superman Punch, and the crowd erupted, believing the tide had turned. The visual of Reigns preparing for his signature Spear sent shockwaves through the arena. He charged, ready to seal the victory and prove his resilience once again. However, in a moment that still gets replayed and discussed, Drew McIntyre caught Reigns mid-Spear. This was a crucial turning point. Instead of Reigns delivering his finisher, McIntyre powered Reigns up, showcasing his immense strength. He then hit Reigns with his own devastating finisher, the Claymore Kick. The impact was brutal, and the sound echoed through the stadium. The referee started the count, and the WWE Universe held its breath. One... Two... Three. Drew McIntyre had done it. He had defeated Roman Reigns at WrestleMania. The aftermath was a mix of shock and admiration. McIntyre stood tall, the undisputed victor, having overcome one of WWE's biggest stars on its grandest stage. His dominant performance and his victory over Reigns cemented his status as a true main-event player. For Reigns, it was a tough loss, but his performance, especially coming back from his health issues, earned him immense respect. This match wasn't just about the win or the loss; it was about the statement Drew McIntyre made. He had arrived as a top-tier threat, proving that his power and determination were unmatched. The finish was decisive and impactful, leaving no doubt about who was the superior force on that night. It was a defining moment for McIntyre's career, a true testament to his hard work and his journey back to the top. The result might have been surprising to some, but it solidified McIntyre's place in the WrestleMania history books and left the WWE Universe eager to see what came next for the 'Scottish Psychopath'. It was a victory that legitimized him as a force to be reckoned with, and a loss that, while disappointing for Reigns' fans, underscored Reigns' incredible fighting spirit.
Why This Match Was a WrestleMania Classic
So, why do we consider Roman Reigns vs. Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 35 a classic? Well, guys, it checks all the boxes for an unforgettable WrestleMania encounter. First off, the storytelling was on point. You had Roman Reigns, the beloved hero, returning from a life-threatening illness, fighting for his legacy and his family. Then you had Drew McIntyre, the physically imposing, unstoppable force who had climbed his way back to the top with sheer power and determination. This narrative of the returning hero against the dominant challenger is a recipe for instant drama. The crowd was completely invested, cheering for Reigns' resilience and booing McIntyre's aggression, creating an electric atmosphere that amplified every moment of the match. Secondly, the in-ring action was exactly what you’d expect from two powerhouses. It wasn't about fancy flips; it was about raw, hard-hitting physicality. Both men laid it all on the line, delivering punishing blows and absorbing incredible amounts of damage. You could feel the intensity and the impact of every move. The near-falls were absolutely agonizing, keeping everyone on the edge of their seats, wondering if Reigns would pull off another miraculous comeback or if McIntyre would finally crush him. The climax was perfectly executed. McIntyre catching Reigns mid-Spear and hitting the Claymore was a shocking and definitive finish that instantly cemented McIntyre's status. It was a visual representation of McIntyre overcoming the seemingly insurmountable odds and conquering the Big Dog. This match provided a defining moment for Drew McIntyre, showcasing his growth and validating his position as a top-tier superstar. For Reigns, despite the loss, his performance was a testament to his fighting spirit and his incredible journey back to the ring. It was a match that delivered on its promise of a titanic clash, showcasing the best of what WWE has to offer: compelling characters, intense rivalries, and a physical, hard-fought battle. It wasn't just a match; it was an experience that left a lasting impression on fans and solidified its place in WrestleMania history. The combination of emotional investment, physical intensity, and a powerful conclusion makes this bout a standout memory from WrestleMania 35. It's the kind of match that wrestling fans talk about for years to come, a true testament to the power of sports entertainment when done right. The sheer grit and determination displayed by both competitors made it a must-watch event.