WrestleMania & Royal Rumble Winners: Complete List
Hey wrestling fans! Ever wondered who has the bragging rights of winning the Royal Rumble and headlining WrestleMania? You've come to the right place! We're diving deep into the history books to give you a comprehensive list of WrestleMania and Royal Rumble winners. Whether you're a die-hard wrestling enthusiast or just getting into the sport, this guide will be your go-to resource for all things WrestleMania and Royal Rumble. From the shocking upsets to the legendary victories, we'll cover it all. So, grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let's get ready to rumble through wrestling history!
Royal Rumble Winners: A Historic Overview
The Royal Rumble is one of WWE's most exciting events, and the winners often go on to have iconic WrestleMania moments. This match, featuring 30 wrestlers (historically, though the number has varied), competing for a championship opportunity at WrestleMania, is a true test of endurance, strategy, and sheer luck. Winning the Royal Rumble is not just about outlasting 29 other competitors; it’s about earning a golden ticket to the main event of WrestleMania. The energy, the surprises, the near-miss eliminations – it's what makes the Royal Rumble so captivating. Over the years, we've seen incredible feats of athleticism, shocking betrayals, and the rise of new stars, all within the confines of this single match type. The Royal Rumble is more than just a match; it's a launching pad for legends and a showcase of the unpredictability that makes wrestling so thrilling. Each year, fans tune in with bated breath, wondering who will emerge victorious and secure their place in WrestleMania history. The Royal Rumble truly embodies the spirit of competition, where underdogs can become champions and where the road to WrestleMania begins. So, let’s delve deeper into the legacy of this iconic match and explore some of its most memorable moments.
Men's Royal Rumble Winners
The Men’s Royal Rumble has a rich history, filled with memorable moments and career-defining victories. From the inaugural winner to the modern-day champions, each Royal Rumble match has added a unique chapter to WWE’s storied legacy. Winning the Royal Rumble is not just a personal achievement; it’s a moment that etches a wrestler’s name into the annals of wrestling history. The anticipation of who will be the last man standing is what makes this event so special. Each year, fans eagerly await the surprises, the intense battles, and the crowning of a new challenger for the championship at WrestleMania. The Royal Rumble match is a microcosm of wrestling itself – a blend of drama, athleticism, and the constant struggle for dominance. The winners have come from all walks of wrestling, from established main eventers to up-and-coming stars, showcasing the democratic nature of the Rumble where anyone has a chance to shine. It’s a tradition that continues to captivate audiences, making the Royal Rumble a cornerstone of WWE’s calendar and a must-see event for wrestling fans worldwide. So, let's take a look at the list of champions who have etched their names in history.
| Year | Winner |
|---|---|
| 1988 | Jim Duggan |
| 1989 | Big John Studd |
| 1990 | Hulk Hogan |
| 1991 | Hulk Hogan |
| 1992 | Ric Flair |
| 1993 | Yokozuna |
| 1994 | Bret Hart |
| 1994 | Lex Luger |
| 1995 | Shawn Michaels |
| 1996 | Shawn Michaels |
| 1997 | Stone Cold Steve Austin |
| 1998 | Stone Cold Steve Austin |
| 1999 | Vince McMahon |
| 2000 | The Rock |
| 2001 | Stone Cold Steve Austin |
| 2002 | Triple H |
| 2003 | Brock Lesnar |
| 2004 | Chris Benoit |
| 2005 | Batista |
| 2006 | Rey Mysterio |
| 2007 | The Undertaker |
| 2008 | John Cena |
| 2009 | Randy Orton |
| 2010 | Edge |
| 2011 | Alberto Del Rio |
| 2012 | Sheamus |
| 2013 | John Cena |
| 2014 | Batista |
| 2015 | Roman Reigns |
| 2016 | Triple H |
| 2017 | Randy Orton |
| 2018 | Shinsuke Nakamura |
| 2019 | Seth Rollins |
| 2020 | Drew McIntyre |
| 2021 | Edge |
| 2022 | Brock Lesnar |
| 2023 | Cody Rhodes |
| 2024 | Cody Rhodes |
Women's Royal Rumble Winners
The Women’s Royal Rumble, introduced in 2018, has quickly become a highlight of the wrestling calendar, showcasing the incredible talent and athleticism of WWE's female superstars. This match not only provides a platform for women to shine but also creates historic moments that resonate with fans worldwide. The introduction of the Women’s Royal Rumble was a significant step in the evolution of women’s wrestling, giving female wrestlers the same opportunities as their male counterparts to compete on a grand stage. Each year, the Women’s Royal Rumble delivers drama, surprises, and unforgettable performances, solidifying its place as a must-watch event. The winners have gone on to main event WrestleMania, proving that women’s wrestling has reached new heights of popularity and recognition. These matches are not just about winning; they are about making a statement, inspiring future generations, and demonstrating the strength and skill of female athletes. The excitement surrounding the Women’s Royal Rumble continues to grow, and it remains a crucial part of WrestleMania’s road. So, guys, let's check out the champions who have made history in this event!
| Year | Winner |
|---|---|
| 2018 | Asuka |
| 2019 | Becky Lynch |
| 2020 | Charlotte Flair |
| 2021 | Bianca Belair |
| 2022 | Ronda Rousey |
| 2023 | Rhea Ripley |
| 2024 | Bayley |
WrestleMania Main Event Winners: A Legacy of Champions
WrestleMania, WWE's premier event, is the stage where legends are made and championship dreams become reality. Winning the main event at WrestleMania is the pinnacle of a wrestler’s career, a testament to their hard work, dedication, and connection with the fans. These matches are more than just wrestling contests; they are epic battles that define eras and create lasting memories. From the early WrestleManias to the modern spectacles, the main event winners have included some of the biggest names in sports entertainment history. Each victory is a chapter in the ongoing saga of WWE, adding to the rich tapestry of storylines and rivalries. The pressure, the stakes, and the sheer magnitude of the event make winning the main event an achievement that few can claim. It’s a moment of glory, a celebration of athleticism, and a recognition of the impact these performers have on the wrestling world. The WrestleMania main event is where legacies are cemented, and the winners are forever remembered as champions. So, guys, let's take a look at the elite group of wrestlers who have conquered the main event at WrestleMania.
WrestleMania Main Event Winners List
| WrestleMania | Year | Main Event | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | 1985 | Hulk Hogan & Mr. T vs. Roddy Piper & Paul Orndorff | Hulk Hogan & Mr. T |
| 2 | 1986 | Hulk Hogan (c) vs. King Kong Bundy (Steel Cage Match for WWF Championship) | Hulk Hogan |
| 3 | 1987 | Hulk Hogan (c) vs. André the Giant (WWF Championship) | Hulk Hogan |
| 4 | 1988 | Randy Savage vs. Ted DiBiase (WWF Championship Tournament Final) | Randy Savage |
| 5 | 1989 | Randy Savage (c) vs. Hulk Hogan (WWF Championship) | Hulk Hogan |
| 6 | 1990 | Hulk Hogan (c) vs. The Ultimate Warrior (c) (WWF Championship) | The Ultimate Warrior |
| 7 | 1991 | Sgt. Slaughter (c) vs. Hulk Hogan (WWF Championship) | Hulk Hogan |
| 8 | 1992 | Hulk Hogan vs. Sid Justice | Hulk Hogan |
| 9 | 1993 | Yokozuna vs. Bret Hart (WWF Championship) | Yokozuna |
| 10 | 1994 | Yokozuna (c) vs. Bret Hart (WWF Championship) | Bret Hart |
| 11 | 1995 | Lawrence Taylor vs. Bam Bam Bigelow | Lawrence Taylor |
| 12 | 1996 | Bret Hart (c) vs. Shawn Michaels (WWF Championship - Iron Man Match) | Shawn Michaels |
| 13 | 1997 | Sycho Sid (c) vs. The Undertaker (WWF Championship) | The Undertaker |
| 14 | 1998 | Shawn Michaels (c) vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin (WWF Championship) | Stone Cold Steve Austin |
| 15 | 1999 | The Rock (c) vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin (WWF Championship) | Stone Cold Steve Austin |
| 2000 | 2000 | Triple H (c) vs. The Rock vs. Mick Foley vs. Big Show (WWF Championship) | Triple H |
| X-Seven | 2001 | The Rock (c) vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin (WWF Championship - No DQ) | Stone Cold Steve Austin |
| X8 | 2002 | Chris Jericho (c) vs. Triple H (Undisputed WWF Championship) | Triple H |
| XIX | 2003 | Kurt Angle (c) vs. Brock Lesnar (WWE Championship) | Brock Lesnar |
| XX | 2004 | Triple H (c) vs. Chris Benoit vs. Shawn Michaels (World Heavyweight Title) | Chris Benoit |
| 21 | 2005 | Triple H (c) vs. Batista (World Heavyweight Championship) | Batista |
| 22 | 2006 | Kurt Angle (c) vs. Rey Mysterio vs. Randy Orton (World Heavyweight Title) | Rey Mysterio |
| 23 | 2007 | John Cena (c) vs. Shawn Michaels (WWE Championship) | John Cena |
| XXIV | 2008 | Randy Orton (c) vs. Triple H vs. John Cena (WWE Championship) | Randy Orton |
| 25 | 2009 | Triple H (c) vs. Randy Orton (WWE Championship) | Triple H |
| XXVI | 2010 | Sheamus (c) vs. John Cena (WWE Championship) | John Cena |
| XXVII | 2011 | The Miz (c) vs. John Cena (WWE Championship) | The Miz |
| XXVIII | 2012 | John Cena vs. The Rock | The Rock |
| 29 | 2013 | The Rock (c) vs. John Cena (WWE Championship) | John Cena |
| XXX | 2014 | Randy Orton (c) vs. Batista vs. Daniel Bryan (WWE World Heavyweight Title) | Daniel Bryan |
| 31 | 2015 | Brock Lesnar (c) vs. Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins (WWE World Title) | Seth Rollins |
| 32 | 2016 | Triple H (c) vs. Roman Reigns (WWE World Heavyweight Championship) | Roman Reigns |
| 33 | 2017 | Goldberg (c) vs. Brock Lesnar (WWE Universal Championship) | Brock Lesnar |
| 34 | 2018 | Brock Lesnar (c) vs. Roman Reigns (WWE Universal Championship) | Brock Lesnar |
| 35 | 2019 | Ronda Rousey (c) vs. Charlotte Flair (c) vs. Becky Lynch (Raw, SD Women's) | Becky Lynch |
| 36 | 2020 | Brock Lesnar (c) vs. Drew McIntyre (WWE Championship) | Drew McIntyre |
| 37 | 2021 | Roman Reigns (c) vs. Edge vs. Daniel Bryan (WWE Universal Championship) | Roman Reigns |
| 38 | 2022 | Brock Lesnar (c) vs. Roman Reigns (WWE Universal Championship) | Roman Reigns |
| 39 | 2023 | Roman Reigns (c) vs. Cody Rhodes (Undisputed WWE Universal Championship) | Roman Reigns |
| 40 | 2024 | Roman Reigns (c) vs. Cody Rhodes (Undisputed WWE Universal Championship) | Cody Rhodes |
Dual Winners: Royal Rumble and WrestleMania Main Event
Some exceptional wrestlers have achieved the rare feat of winning both the Royal Rumble and the main event at WrestleMania. This dual accomplishment places them in an elite category, showcasing their dominance and impact on the sport. These wrestlers have not only proven their ability to outlast 29 other competitors in the Royal Rumble but also to perform on the grandest stage of them all, WrestleMania. Their names are etched in wrestling history, symbolizing the pinnacle of success in WWE. Winning both events requires a combination of skill, strategy, and the ability to rise to the occasion when the stakes are highest. It’s a testament to their resilience, their connection with the audience, and their ability to deliver unforgettable moments. These wrestlers represent the very best of WWE, and their dual victories serve as inspiration for future generations. So, who are these legends who have conquered both the Royal Rumble and the WrestleMania main event? Let's find out!
List of Wrestlers Who Won Both Royal Rumble and WrestleMania Main Event
| Wrestler | Royal Rumble Win Year(s) | WrestleMania Main Event Win Year(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Hulk Hogan | 1990, 1991 | 1985, 1986, 1987, 1989, 1991 |
| Shawn Michaels | 1995, 1996 | 1996 |
| Stone Cold Steve Austin | 1997, 1998, 2001 | 1998, 1999, 2001 |
| Triple H | 2002, 2016 | 2000, 2002, 2009 |
| Chris Benoit | 2004 | 2004 |
| Batista | 2005, 2014 | 2005 |
| John Cena | 2008, 2013 | 2007, 2013 |
| Randy Orton | 2009, 2017 | 2008 |
| The Rock | 2000 | 2013 |
| Brock Lesnar | 2003, 2022 | 2003, 2017 |
| Drew McIntyre | 2020 | 2020 |
| Roman Reigns | 2015 | 2016, 2021, 2022, 2023 |
| Cody Rhodes | 2023, 2024 | 2024 |
Conclusion
So there you have it, guys! A complete rundown of WrestleMania and Royal Rumble winners, highlighting the legends and iconic moments that have defined these events. Whether it's the thrill of the Royal Rumble or the spectacle of WrestleMania, these events continue to captivate wrestling fans around the world. These winners have not only achieved personal glory but have also contributed to the rich history and legacy of WWE. From Hulk Hogan's dominance in the early years to the modern-day triumphs of stars like Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes, the tradition of excellence continues. The Royal Rumble and WrestleMania are more than just wrestling events; they are cultural phenomena that bring people together, create lasting memories, and showcase the very best of sports entertainment. The stories, the rivalries, and the sheer athleticism on display make these events must-see for any wrestling fan. As we look forward to future WrestleManias and Royal Rumbles, we can only imagine the new stars who will rise and the unforgettable moments that will be created. The legacy of these events is a testament to the enduring appeal of professional wrestling, and the winners will forever be remembered as champions.
We hope this guide has been informative and entertaining! Keep checking back for more wrestling insights and updates. Until next time, keep wrestling!