The WWE Universe was treated to a spectacle at the Mohammed Abdu Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as the superstars of WWE clashed in a series of high-octane matches at WWE Crown Jewel 2023.
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the night’s events.
Kickoff Match: Sami Zayn vs. JD McDonagh
The evening began with a thrilling encounter between Sami Zayn and JD McDonagh. McDonagh tried to get into Zayn’s head with mind games, but Zayn was having none of it.
The two exchanged a series of holds and counters, with McDonagh showing his aggressive side by targeting Zayn’s neck.
However, Zayn’s resilience shone through as he delivered his signature moves, the Helluva Kick and the Blue Thunder Bomb, to secure the win.
WWE World Heavyweight Championship: Seth Rollins (c) vs. Drew McIntyre
In a match that had the WWE Universe on the edge of their seats, Seth Rollins defended his WWE World Heavyweight Championship against Drew McIntyre.
The two superstars showcased their strength, agility, and technical prowess. Rollins, known for his aerial moves, took the fight to McIntyre, but the Scottish Superstar responded with his raw power.
The match saw a series of near falls, with both superstars coming close to victory. However, after a gruelling battle, Rollins managed to hit his finisher, The Curb Stomp, to retain his title.
But the drama didn’t end there. After the match, Damian Priest made a surprise appearance, seemingly to cash in his MITB Briefcase, only for Sami Zayn to intervene and make off with the briefcase.
WWE Women’s World Championship: Fatal Five-Way Match
The Women’s division saw a chaotic Fatal Five Way match for the WWE Women’s World Championship. Rhea Ripley defended her title against Nia Jax, Shayna Baszler, Raquel Rodriguez, and Zoey Stark. With alliances forming and breaking, each superstar had their moments of dominance.
However, it was Ripley who emerged victorious, pinning her opponents after delivering a devastating Avalanche Rip Tide.
John Cena vs. Solo Sikoa
The legendary John Cena took on the formidable Solo Sikoa in a match that was a clash of styles. Cena, with his experience and technical skills, tried to ground Sikoa, focusing on his hand.
However, Sikoa’s raw power and aggressive style posed a significant challenge for Cena. The two superstars went back and forth, with Sikoa coming close to victory on several occasions.
Sikoa would eventually take the win with a series of Samoan Spikes.
Cody Rhodes vs. Damian Priest
The arena was electrified as Cody Rhodes took on Damian Priest. Both superstars showcased their athleticism and wrestling acumen. Priest, known for his agility, tried to keep Rhodes off balance with a series of high-flying moves.
However, Rhodes, with his experience, managed to counter most of Priest’s attacks. After a series of misfired clotheslines, Rhodes ducked a clothesline from Priest and connected with three consecutive CrossRhodes to secure the victory.
WWE Undisputed Universal Championship: Roman Reigns (c) w/Paul Heyman vs. LA Knight
The main event of the evening saw the “Head of the Table”, Roman Reigns, defending his WWE Undisputed Universal Championship against LA Knight. With Paul Heyman by his side, Reigns entered the arena with confidence.
Both superstars gave it their all, with LA Knight trying to dethrone the champion. After a ton of interference from Jimmy Uso and Solo Sikoa appearing on the ramp, Reigns would end up taking the win with a Spear.
In Other News:
- WarGames is set to return for Survivor Series in Chicago on 11/25.
- Kairi Sane made a triumphant return to WWE, assisting IYO SKY in retaining the Women’s Title at Crown Jewel 2023.
- Logan Paul captured the United States Championship at WWE Crown Jewel 2023.
- A special segment at WWE Crown Jewel featured actor Ibrahim Al Hajjaj.
- John Cena faced Solo Sikoa at WWE Crown Jewel, with the Saudi Arabia audience giving Cena a standing ovation post-match.
