Eddie Guerrero: 2006 Royal Rumble Win?
The tragic passing of Eddie Guerrero in November 2005 sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, leaving fans and industry insiders alike mourning the loss of a true icon. Eddie's charisma, in-ring talent, and ability to connect with audiences made him one of the most beloved figures in WWE history. In the wake of his death, many questions arose about what WWE had planned for Eddie in the months leading up to his passing. One persistent rumor revolves around whether Eddie Guerrero was slated to win the 2006 Royal Rumble. This article delves into the speculation, examining the available evidence and considering the potential storylines that might have unfolded had Eddie still been with us.
The Rumored Plans for Eddie Guerrero
The circumstances surrounding Eddie Guerrero's death were undeniably heartbreaking, leaving a void in the wrestling world that's still felt today. Beyond the grief, his passing sparked intense speculation about WWE's plans for him, particularly regarding the 2006 Royal Rumble. For years, rumors have circulated that Eddie was penciled in to win the prestigious match, earning himself a main event spot at WrestleMania 22. Let's dive deeper into why this rumor gained traction and what evidence, if any, supports it.
One of the primary reasons the rumor persists is the storyline Eddie was involved in prior to his death. He was embroiled in a heated feud with Batista over the World Heavyweight Championship. Although Eddie wasn't initially successful in winning the title, the storyline maintained a high level of intensity, suggesting that WWE had significant plans for him moving forward. The rivalry was personal, with Eddie resorting to deceitful tactics, blurring the lines between heel and face and showcasing his incredible ability to generate both sympathy and animosity from the audience. This complex character arc made him a compelling figure, and many believed it was leading to a major WrestleMania moment.
Adding fuel to the fire were reports from wrestling news outlets and backstage sources suggesting that WWE officials saw Eddie as a top star capable of carrying the company. He had proven his ability to draw ratings and sell tickets, and his popularity with fans was undeniable. A Royal Rumble victory would have been the perfect way to solidify his position as a main event player and set the stage for a memorable WrestleMania showdown. Furthermore, the landscape of WWE at the time seemed to align perfectly with a potential Eddie Guerrero victory. John Cena and Kurt Angle were established stars, but Eddie offered a fresh and exciting alternative in the main event scene. His journey to the top had been filled with challenges and setbacks, making him an relatable and inspiring figure for fans who had followed his career for years.
However, it's essential to acknowledge that much of this remains speculation. While the rumors are intriguing, there's no definitive confirmation from WWE officials or individuals directly involved in the creative process. The wrestling industry is often shrouded in secrecy, and plans can change rapidly due to various factors, including injuries, creative decisions, and personal circumstances. Therefore, while the possibility of Eddie winning the 2006 Royal Rumble is certainly plausible, it's crucial to approach the topic with a degree of skepticism.
Examining the Potential Storylines
Okay guys, let's think about this: If Eddie Guerrero had won the 2006 Royal Rumble, what could have happened next? What kind of storylines would have been possible? The possibilities are really interesting and exciting to think about.
One of the most likely scenarios would have been a WrestleMania 22 rematch between Eddie Guerrero and Batista for the World Heavyweight Championship. Their feud in the months leading up to Eddie's death was intense and personal, filled with drama and intrigue. A Royal Rumble victory for Eddie would have provided the perfect opportunity to reignite their rivalry on an even grander stage. Imagine the promos, the in-ring confrontations, and the sheer emotion that would have been on display. It had the potential to be a classic WrestleMania main event.
Another intriguing possibility would have been a match against Kurt Angle for the WWE Championship. Angle was one of the top heels in the company at the time, and his technical wrestling prowess would have provided a fascinating contrast to Eddie's more flamboyant and unpredictable style. Their clash of personalities and in-ring styles could have created a highly compelling storyline, with Eddie playing the role of the underdog fighting against Angle's arrogant and dominant persona. This match would have been a wrestling purist's dream, showcasing the talents of two of the most skilled performers in the industry.
Alternatively, WWE could have gone in a completely different direction and had Eddie face John Cena for the WWE Championship. Cena was the top babyface in the company at the time, and a match against Eddie would have presented a unique dynamic. Eddie's ability to play both a heel and a face would have allowed for a complex and nuanced storyline, with the fans torn between supporting the established hero and the charismatic anti-hero. This match could have explored themes of loyalty, ambition, and the price of success, adding depth and meaning to the rivalry.
Regardless of the specific opponent, an Eddie Guerrero Royal Rumble victory would have undoubtedly led to a compelling and memorable WrestleMania storyline. His charisma, in-ring skills, and ability to connect with the audience made him a natural fit for the main event scene. It's a true tragedy that we never got to see what he could have accomplished on that stage.
The Impact of Eddie's Passing
Eddie Guerrero's untimely death had a profound impact on the wrestling world, both personally and professionally. His loss was felt deeply by his family, friends, and colleagues, and it left a void in the industry that can never be truly filled. Beyond the personal tragedy, Eddie's passing also forced WWE to make significant changes to their storylines and plans.
The immediate aftermath of Eddie's death saw WWE dedicate several shows to his memory, celebrating his life and career. These tributes were filled with emotional speeches, memorable matches, and heartfelt stories from those who knew him best. It was a testament to the impact he had on the wrestling world and the love and respect he had earned from his peers.
In terms of storylines, Eddie's death forced WWE to scrap their original plans for the 2006 Royal Rumble and WrestleMania 22. As we've discussed, there's a strong possibility that Eddie was slated to win the Royal Rumble, but his passing obviously changed those plans. Instead, Rey Mysterio, Eddie's close friend, won the match and went on to defeat Kurt Angle and Randy Orton in a triple threat match at WrestleMania 22 to win the World Heavyweight Championship. This victory was seen as a tribute to Eddie, with Mysterio dedicating his win to his fallen friend. It was a bittersweet moment, filled with both joy and sadness.
Eddie's death also had a broader impact on the wrestling industry, leading to increased awareness of the health risks associated with professional wrestling. His passing served as a reminder of the toll that the sport can take on the human body, and it prompted discussions about the need for better health and wellness programs for wrestlers. In the years since his death, WWE has implemented stricter drug testing policies and increased its focus on the overall health and well-being of its performers.
Conclusion
So, was Eddie Guerrero supposed to win the 2006 Royal Rumble? While there's no definitive answer, the evidence suggests that it was a distinct possibility. The storylines he was involved in, the reports from backstage sources, and the overall landscape of WWE at the time all point to the fact that he was being considered for a major push. Ultimately, we'll never know for sure what WWE had planned for Eddie, but his legacy as one of the greatest performers of all time remains intact. His charisma, in-ring skills, and ability to connect with the audience made him a true icon, and his memory will continue to inspire wrestlers and fans for years to come. Even though we can only speculate about what might have been, Eddie Guerrero's impact on the wrestling world is undeniable and will never be forgotten. His contributions to the sport will continue to be celebrated, and his influence will continue to be felt for generations to come. Viva la Raza!