WWE Crown Jewel 2024: Winners, Grades, Analysis
The desert heat of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, once again played host to WWE's Crown Jewel event, a spectacle of high-stakes matches and captivating storylines. With the Saudi Arabian market growing in importance for WWE, this year's Crown Jewel delivered a night of thrilling action and surprising outcomes. Let's delve into the winners, grades, and analysis of each match, dissecting the event's highs and lows.
Undisputed WWE Universal Championship: Roman Reigns (c) vs. Cody Rhodes
This dream match finally arrived in the Kingdom, with Cody Rhodes seeking to dethrone the "Tribal Chief" and reclaim his rightful place as the face of WWE. Reigns, with his imposing presence and the support of The Usos, defeated Rhodes in a brutal encounter. The match was a technical marvel, showcasing the best of both men's abilities. Despite the loss, Rhodes showed immense resilience and determination, hinting at a long-term feud between the two.
Grade: A+
Analysis: This match was the main event for a reason. It delivered on the hype and delivered a memorable story for fans. The finish was controversial, and the potential for a rematch is palpable. The battle between these two titans continues, setting the stage for future WWE storylines.
Women's World Championship: Rhea Ripley (c) vs. Bayley
In a clash of former allies turned bitter rivals, the dominant Rhea Ripley successfully defended her title against the cunning Bayley. Ripley's power and aggression proved too much for Bayley, who despite a valiant effort, couldn't overcome the champion's relentless offense. This match showcased the raw talent of both women and highlighted the depth of the WWE women's division.
Grade: A
Analysis: Ripley continues to dominate the Women's division, proving herself as a true force to be reckoned with. Bayley's loss sets her up for a potential shift in focus, potentially setting up a new feud or a return to the tag team division.
Intercontinental Championship: Gunther (c) vs. Sheamus
The Intercontinental Championship has been a hotbed of action in recent months, and this match lived up to the hype. Gunther, the reigning champion, retained his title against the veteran Sheamus in a hard-hitting, back-and-forth brawl. Both men showed impressive strength and endurance, demonstrating their dedication to the championship. The match showcased the prestige and significance of the IC title.
Grade: A-
Analysis: This match served as a reminder that the Intercontinental Championship holds a special place in WWE history. It also highlighted the importance of the strong, hard-hitting style that both Gunther and Sheamus embody.
The Judgment Day (Finn Bálor, Damian Priest, and Dominik Mysterio) vs. The O.C. (AJ Styles, Luke Gallows, and Karl Anderson)
The O.C. emerged victorious in this six-man tag team match against The Judgment Day. This match provided high-flying action and a compelling narrative, showcasing the rivalry between the two factions. The O.C. capitalized on their team work and experience, while The Judgment Day showed their ruthless and unpredictable side.
Grade: B+
Analysis: The feud between these two factions is far from over. The win for the O.C. is likely to reignite their momentum, while The Judgment Day will likely seek revenge. This rivalry is poised to continue to produce entertaining and unpredictable results.
Overall Grade: A
Analysis: WWE Crown Jewel 2024 delivered on its promise of high-stakes action and compelling storytelling. The event highlighted the strengths of WWE's top stars and showcased the depth of the company's talent pool. With a blend of thrilling matches and unpredictable outcomes, Crown Jewel 2024 solidified its place as one of the most memorable events on the WWE calendar.
Key Takeaways:
- Roman Reigns remains the dominant force in WWE, solidifying his status as the "Tribal Chief."
- Rhea Ripley's reign as Women's World Champion continues, proving her as a dominant force in the division.
- The Intercontinental Championship remains a prestigious title, with Gunther demonstrating his strength and resilience.
- The rivalry between The Judgment Day and The O.C. is far from over, setting the stage for future encounters.
WWE Crown Jewel 2024 was a spectacle that exceeded expectations, providing a captivating night of entertainment for fans around the world. As the dust settles, the storylines that emerged from this event will undoubtedly shape the future of WWE, setting the stage for exciting encounters and rivalries in the months to come.