Crown Jewel 2024: Match Results & Grades
The dust has settled on another spectacular Crown Jewel event, leaving fans buzzing about the incredible matches and unforgettable moments. From electrifying title defenses to shocking upsets, this year's show delivered on its promise of high-stakes action and captivating storylines. Let's take a closer look at the results and give each match a grade based on its entertainment value, storytelling, and overall impact.
Match Results & Grades:
1. Undisputed WWE Universal Championship: Roman Reigns (c) vs. Cody Rhodes
- Result: Roman Reigns defeats Cody Rhodes to retain the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.
- Grade: A+
This match was the main event everyone was waiting for, and it delivered in spades. Reigns and Rhodes put on a clinic, showcasing their incredible technical skill and undeniable charisma. The story of Rhodes' quest for redemption against the "Tribal Chief" resonated deeply with fans, culminating in a thrilling finish that left the crowd on their feet.
2. Women's World Championship: Rhea Ripley (c) vs. Becky Lynch
- Result: Rhea Ripley defeats Becky Lynch to retain the Women's World Championship.
- Grade: A
The rivalry between Ripley and Lynch has been brewing for months, and their match at Crown Jewel was a testament to their intense chemistry. Both women brought their A-game, showcasing their power and athleticism in a hard-hitting encounter. The crowd was fully invested in the match, creating a truly electric atmosphere.
3. Tag Team Match: The Usos (c) vs. The New Day
- Result: The Usos defeat The New Day to retain the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship.
- Grade: B+
This match was a classic example of tag team wrestling at its finest. The Usos and The New Day have a long and storied history, and their familiarity with each other resulted in a fast-paced and exciting match. While the outcome was predictable, the high-flying maneuvers and strategic tag team wrestling kept the crowd engaged throughout.
4. Intercontinental Championship: Gunther (c) vs. Sheamus
- Result: Gunther defeats Sheamus to retain the Intercontinental Championship.
- Grade: A-
Gunther and Sheamus are two of the most physically dominant wrestlers on the WWE roster, and their match was a brutal display of power and endurance. The crowd was on the edge of their seats as these two titans battled it out, showcasing their immense strength and resilience. The finish was a little predictable, but the overall match was a true spectacle.
5. United States Championship: Austin Theory (c) vs. AJ Styles
- Result: Austin Theory defeats AJ Styles to retain the United States Championship.
- Grade: B
The match between Theory and Styles was a solid encounter that showcased the contrasting styles of these two performers. Theory's youthful exuberance contrasted with Styles' veteran savvy, resulting in a match full of innovative moves and exciting sequences. The crowd was engaged throughout, despite the predictability of the result.
6. World Heavyweight Championship: Seth Rollins (c) vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
- Result: Seth Rollins defeats Shinsuke Nakamura to retain the World Heavyweight Championship.
- Grade: B+
Rollins and Nakamura delivered a match that was both technically sound and entertaining. The story of Nakamura's relentless pursuit of the title added a layer of drama to the match, while their contrasting styles kept the crowd guessing. The match was a little predictable, but the high-flying maneuvers and exciting near-falls kept the fans on the edge of their seats.
7. Tag Team Match: The Judgment Day (Finn Balor & Damian Priest) vs. The O.C. (Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson)
- Result: The Judgment Day defeats The O.C.
- Grade: C+
This match was a bit underwhelming, as it felt like a throwaway match meant to set up future storylines. While the O.C. and The Judgment Day have a history of animosity, the match lacked the intensity and excitement of other encounters on the card. The match was decent, but it failed to stand out from the rest of the show.
Overall Thoughts:
Crown Jewel 2024 was a memorable event that showcased the best of WWE talent and storytelling. While the overall card was predictable, the matches themselves were consistently entertaining and well-executed. The show had a clear focus on building towards future storylines and showcasing the dominant forces in WWE, leaving fans eager to see what's next for their favorite superstars.