WrestleMania, the grandest stage of all, has featured numerous memorable, iconic, and exhilarating opening matches throughout its history.
WrestleMania, the grandest stage of all, has featured numerous memorable, iconic, and exhilarating opening matches throughout its history. While the opening matches may not always receive the same level of attention as the main events, they often set the tone for the rest of the show. These ten WrestleMania openers represent a mix of technical excellence, high-flying action, emotional storytelling, and memorable moments that have become synonymous with WWE’s grandest event. Each match set the tone for the rest of the night and left a lasting impact on WrestleMania’s storied history.
In the world of wrestling, WWE and its fans have seen numerous iconic opening matches at WWE WrestleMania. Throughout history, there have been quite a lot of entertaining matches with unique plots and we will be looking at 10 of the best WWE WrestleMania openers:
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At WrestleMania, three teams (The Hardy Boyz, Edge and Christian, and The Dudley Boyz) revolutionized the ladder match concept. The high-risk spots and jaw-dropping stunts performed by all three teams made this opening match an instant classic, solidifying the TLC (Tables, Ladders, and Chairs) match as a future staple in WWE.
In a match featuring two top talents, Randy Orton faced Seth Rollins in an intense bout at WrestleMania 31. The clash showcased the athleticism and in-ring abilities of both competitors. Orton ultimately won the match with a spectacular RKO out of nowhere.
WrestleMania 2 saw The British Bulldogs (Davey Boy Smith and The Dynamite Kid) take on The Dream Team (Greg Valentine and Brutus Beefcake) in a classic tag team encounter. The Bulldogs showcased their technical skills and high-flying abilities, securing a memorable victory and leaving a lasting impact.
In a match fueled by personal animosity, Rey Mysterio and CM Punk collided in a captivating encounter. The bout featured fast-paced action and thrilling near-falls, with Mysterio ultimately triumphing over his Straight Edge Society adversary.
The high-flying tag team known as The Rockers, consisting of Shawn Michaels and Marty Jannetty, faced off against The Orient Express (Sato and Tanaka) in a fast-paced opener. The match showcased the athleticism and innovative tag team maneuvers of The Rockers, leaving the crowd energized for the rest of the event.
WrestleMania 21 introduced the Money in the Bank ladder match, which quickly became a fan-favorite tradition. This inaugural bout featured stars like Chris Jericho, Chris Benoit, Shelton Benjamin, Edge, Christian, and Kane, all vying for the opportunity to claim a championship contract. The high-risk spots and innovative ladder spots set the tone for future Money in the Bank matches.
This match served as the gateway for Daniel Bryan’s incredible journey at WrestleMania 30. Bryan faced the powerful authority figure, Triple H, in a highly intense and physical encounter. Bryan’s victory send him into the main event later in the evening, where he won the WWE World Heavyweight Championship.
In a match that represented the lucha libre style, Rey Mysterio and Eddie Guerrero delivered an emotionally charged encounter. The high-flying maneuvers and storytelling between the two masked wrestlers captivated the audience. Mysterio won the match as a tribute to his late friend, Eddie Guerrero.
Known for their technical abilities, Jericho and Regal put on a clinic in this opening match. They engaged in a hard-hitting contest that showcased their grappling skills and ring abilities. Jericho emerged victorious, solidifying his place as a top-tier performer.
This sibling rivalry match kicked off WrestleMania X with a bang. The technical prowess of both Bret and Owen was on full display as they delivered a high-energy, back-and-forth encounter. Owen Hart shocked the world by defeating his older brother Bret, setting the stage for an unforgettable night.
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