Cena Vs. Styles: Epic WWE Title Clash At Royal Rumble 2017
Get ready to dive into one of the most talked-about WWE Championship matches in recent history: John Cena versus AJ Styles at the Royal Rumble 2017. This wasn't just another wrestling match; it was a clash of titans, a battle of generations, and a showcase of pure skill and determination. For wrestling fans, this event remains a highlight, and we're going to break down exactly why.
The Road to Royal Rumble: Setting the Stage
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the Royal Rumble match, let's rewind a bit and see how this epic rivalry came to be. John Cena, a name synonymous with WWE, had been a cornerstone of the company for over a decade. His 'Never Give Up' mantra and incredible resilience had won him millions of fans worldwide. On the other side, AJ Styles, the 'Phenomenal One,' had made a massive impact since his WWE debut in 2016. Styles, already a legend in the wrestling world, quickly proved his worth in WWE, capturing the WWE Championship and delivering unforgettable performances.
The feud between Cena and Styles had been brewing for months. Their contrasting styles – Cena's power and determination versus Styles' agility and technical prowess – made for a compelling narrative. They had already faced each other in several high-profile matches, each time pushing the other to their limits. The Royal Rumble 2017 showdown was set to be the ultimate tie-breaker, with the WWE Championship on the line, adding even more fuel to the fire. The anticipation was palpable, guys! Everyone knew this match would be something special, and boy, did it deliver.
Key Moments Leading Up to the Match
- SummerSlam 2016: Styles defeats Cena in a clean, shocking victory, establishing himself as a major threat.
- Money in the Bank 2016: Styles initially defeats Cena with help from The Club, adding a layer of animosity.
- Several Smackdown clashes: Numerous confrontations and tag team matches kept the rivalry fresh and intense.
The Match: A Blow-by-Blow Account
When the Royal Rumble 2017 finally arrived, the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, was buzzing with excitement. The crowd was electric, split between fans of Cena and Styles. As the bell rang, both competitors wasted no time. Cena, with his signature intensity, went right after Styles, trying to establish dominance early. Styles, however, was ready for him, using his speed and agility to evade Cena's attacks and land some quick blows of his own.
Early Exchanges
The opening minutes were a fast-paced back-and-forth. Cena tried to ground Styles with his power moves, while Styles used his technical skills to keep Cena off balance. We saw Styles hitting his signature strikes, like the Pele Kick, and Cena responding with his powerful shoulder tackles and slams. The crowd was on the edge of their seats, chanting for both wrestlers, creating an incredible atmosphere.
Mid-Match Intensity
As the match progressed, the intensity only increased. Both wrestlers started pulling out all the stops. Styles hit a phenomenal forearm that sent Cena reeling, but Cena kicked out just in the nick of time. Cena then locked in the STF, his signature submission hold, but Styles managed to reach the ropes, narrowly avoiding defeat. The near-falls and close calls kept the audience guessing, and you could feel the tension in the air. Both Cena and Styles showed incredible resilience, absorbing each other's best shots and refusing to stay down.
The Climactic Finish
The final moments of the match were nothing short of epic. Styles hit the Styles Clash, his devastating finisher, but incredibly, Cena kicked out! The crowd erupted in disbelief. Cena then mustered all his strength and hit not one, but two Attitude Adjustments (AA). Styles somehow managed to kick out as well. Finally, Cena hit a third AA, a Super AA from the second rope, and this time, Styles couldn't recover. Cena pinned Styles to win the WWE Championship, tying Ric Flair's record of 16 world championships. The Alamodome exploded with cheers and applause, marking a historic moment in WWE history.
Why This Match Was So Special
This match wasn't just about the title; it was about legacy, respect, and the culmination of a heated rivalry. Several factors made this encounter a standout classic:
- In-Ring Chemistry: Cena and Styles displayed incredible chemistry, executing moves seamlessly and telling a compelling story in the ring.
- High Stakes: With the WWE Championship on the line and Cena's pursuit of his 16th world title, the stakes couldn't have been higher.
- Unpredictability: The near-falls and kick-outs kept fans guessing until the very end, making for a thrilling and unpredictable contest.
- Historical Significance: Cena's victory tied Ric Flair's record, adding a layer of historical importance to the match.
Fan Reactions and Critical Acclaim
The match received rave reviews from fans and critics alike. Many praised the in-ring action, the storytelling, and the overall intensity of the encounter. It was hailed as one of the best matches of 2017 and a true classic in WWE history. Social media was abuzz with positive reactions, with fans expressing their excitement and appreciation for the incredible performance put on by Cena and Styles. Wrestling news outlets and blogs also lauded the match, highlighting its importance and impact on the wrestling world.
The Aftermath: What Happened Next?
Following his victory, John Cena went on to defend the WWE Championship at Elimination Chamber, eventually losing it to Bray Wyatt. The feud between Cena and Styles, however, wasn't quite over. They continued to cross paths in various storylines, each encounter adding another chapter to their storied rivalry. Styles would eventually regain the WWE Championship later in the year, solidifying his status as one of the top stars in WWE.
Impact on Both Wrestlers' Careers
This match had a significant impact on both Cena and Styles. For Cena, it was a defining moment in his career, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest WWE Superstars of all time. Tying Ric Flair's record was a monumental achievement, further solidifying his place in wrestling history. For Styles, despite the loss, the match proved that he belonged at the top of WWE. He had gone toe-to-toe with one of the company's biggest stars and delivered an unforgettable performance, earning the respect of fans and peers alike.
Legacy of the Match
The John Cena vs. AJ Styles WWE Championship match at Royal Rumble 2017 remains a benchmark for wrestling excellence. It's a match that fans will continue to talk about for years to come, and for good reason. It had everything you could want in a wrestling match: compelling storytelling, incredible athleticism, high stakes, and a historic moment. If you haven't seen it, do yourself a favor and check it out. You won't be disappointed!
Lessons Learned from This Classic
- Storytelling Matters: A great wrestling match is more than just moves and athleticism; it's about telling a compelling story that resonates with the audience.
- Chemistry is Key: The chemistry between wrestlers can make or break a match. Cena and Styles demonstrated incredible chemistry, making their encounter all the more memorable.
- High Stakes Enhance the Experience: When there's something significant on the line, like a championship or a personal vendetta, the match becomes even more exciting.
- Respect Your Opponent: Even in the heat of battle, showing respect for your opponent can elevate the match and make it more meaningful.
Conclusion: A Timeless Classic
So, there you have it, guys! The John Cena versus AJ Styles WWE Championship match at Royal Rumble 2017 is a true classic that deserves all the praise it gets. From the intense buildup to the unforgettable match itself, it was a masterclass in wrestling storytelling and athleticism. Whether you're a longtime wrestling fan or just getting into it, this match is a must-see. It's a reminder of why we love wrestling and the incredible moments it can create. Thanks for joining me on this trip down memory lane, and I hope you enjoyed reliving this epic encounter as much as I did! This match is a testament to the enduring appeal of professional wrestling and the unforgettable moments it provides. The clash between John Cena and AJ Styles at Royal Rumble 2017 will undoubtedly remain a cherished memory for wrestling enthusiasts for years to come.