WWE Extreme Rules 2019: Match Card & Analysis
Hey wrestling fanatics! Let's dive deep into the WWE Extreme Rules 2019 match card! This pay-per-view (PPV) event, which took place on July 14, 2019, at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was a night filled with some seriously brutal and unforgettable matches. We're talking steel cages, extreme stipulations, and enough drama to keep you on the edge of your seat. So, grab your popcorn, and let's break down the card, match by match, giving you the lowdown on what went down and why it mattered. Trust me, it was a wild ride!
The Build-Up: What Made Extreme Rules 2019 Special?
Before we jump into the matches, let's talk about what made WWE Extreme Rules 2019 so special. The event promised, and boy, did it deliver, a night of no-holds-barred action. The concept of Extreme Rules is all about embracing the chaos, right? It's about matches with stipulations that allow for weapons, interference, and a level of violence that's usually off-limits on regular WWE shows. This year was no exception. Leading up to the event, WWE did a fantastic job of building anticipation. The rivalries felt personal, the stakes were high, and the storylines were captivating. We had grudges to settle, championships to defend, and careers on the line. The creative team put a lot of effort into making each match feel significant, with compelling narratives that drew fans in and kept them invested. The use of social media and WWE's weekly shows, like Raw and SmackDown, were crucial in hyping up the event. They provided the necessary background information, revealed the stipulations, and highlighted the intensity between the superstars. This gave fans plenty of reasons to tune in and watch the drama unfold. The result? A PPV that felt truly important, a must-see event for any wrestling enthusiast. From the promos to the backstage segments, everything was geared towards creating a sense of excitement and anticipation that paid off big time on the night of Extreme Rules. This event was a masterclass in how to build a wrestling PPV. The storytelling, the character development, and the choice of matches all contributed to a memorable experience. It was a perfect blend of high-flying action, technical wrestling, and pure, unadulterated brutality. So, yeah, WWE Extreme Rules 2019 was a big deal, and if you missed it, you missed out!
The Match Card: A Detailed Breakdown
Alright, folks, it's time to get to the good stuff: the matches! Here’s a detailed breakdown of the WWE Extreme Rules 2019 match card, with a sprinkle of analysis and some insider info.
1. WWE Cruiserweight Championship Match: Drew Gulak (c) vs. Tony Nese
We kicked off the night with a Cruiserweight Championship match between Drew Gulak and Tony Nese. This match was a solid start to the show, showcasing the incredible athleticism and technical prowess of the cruiserweight division. Gulak, the then-champion, brought his ground-and-pound style, while Nese relied on his high-flying abilities and explosive offense. The match was a fast-paced display of impressive moves and near falls. The crowd was into it, and both wrestlers did a great job of telling a story within the match. Gulak ultimately retained his title, but Nese certainly made him work for it. This match set the tone for the night. The WWE Universe always welcomes a high-flying and fast-paced match to open the card of a PPV. Their performances set the tone for the rest of the night, indicating that we were in for a long night of action. Both wrestlers showed great sportsmanship and mutual respect, which is always nice to see, particularly at the beginning of an event that promises to be extreme.
2. **The Miz vs. Elias (with Shane McMahon) - With Falls Count Anywhere
The Miz took on Elias in a Falls Count Anywhere match. This match was all about the drama. The stipulation allowed the match to spill outside the ring and all over the arena, leading to some fun spots. It was entertaining, with Elias and The Miz using the environment to their advantage. Shane McMahon, as usual, got involved, which added to the storyline. The Miz, fueled by the desire for revenge, delivered a solid performance. The match had its moments of comedy as well as moments of excitement and action. The storyline between the Miz and Shane McMahon had been brewing for a while, and this match was a culmination of their feud. The Falls Count Anywhere stipulation amplified the match's intensity, as the wrestlers used their surroundings, like the crowd, the backstage area, and the equipment, to their advantage. Ultimately, the Miz emerged victorious, providing a satisfying conclusion to the rivalry. The crowd loved it, and it was a fun match to watch. This match showed how the storylines can truly elevate a match. The emotion, the involvement of the crowd, and the use of the environment made this match memorable.
3. **SmackDown Tag Team Championship Match: Daniel Bryan & Rowan (c) vs. The New Day (Big E & Xavier Woods & Kofi Kingston)
Next up, we had a SmackDown Tag Team Championship match. Daniel Bryan and Rowan defended their titles against The New Day. The New Day, a crowd favorite, put up a good fight. Daniel Bryan and Rowan's chemistry and teamwork were on full display, but the crowd's energy favored The New Day, making the match even more exciting. The match was filled with great tag team wrestling, with both teams showcasing their signature moves and teamwork. The storyline between the two teams was well-developed, adding depth to their performance. The New Day's connection with the fans, and their ability to generate excitement, was undeniable. The match went back and forth, with several near falls that had the audience on the edge of their seats. The champions retained their titles, but the match highlighted the high quality of the tag team division on SmackDown. The match was a testament to the talent and dedication of all four wrestlers involved. The audience felt they were watching a high-quality match. The storytelling, the action, and the involvement of the crowd created a match that will be remembered for its quality.
4. **WWE United States Championship Match: Ricochet (c) vs. AJ Styles (with The O.C.)
Ricochet defended the United States Championship against AJ Styles. This match was a clash of styles, with Ricochet's high-flying abilities going up against AJ Styles' experience and technical prowess. The O.C. (Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson) played their role to perfection, adding a layer of drama and interference to the match. This match was all about the athleticism, and both wrestlers did not disappoint. The action was fast-paced, filled with breathtaking moves and near falls that kept the crowd invested. The crowd's reaction showed that they were thoroughly enjoying the match. AJ Styles won the title in a thrilling contest, showcasing his veteran experience and his ability to perform under pressure. The involvement of The O.C. added an element of unpredictability, making the match more thrilling to watch. This match was proof of AJ Styles' exceptional ability, showing why he is considered one of the best wrestlers of all time.
5. SmackDown Women's Championship Match: Bayley (c) vs. Alexa Bliss & Nikki Cross - Handicap Match
Bayley defended her SmackDown Women's Championship in a handicap match against Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross. This match was an interesting dynamic, with Bayley having to face two opponents. The storyline between these three was solid, and the match delivered on the drama. The crowd was behind Bayley, who fought with courage and resilience. The stipulation of a handicap match made the match more challenging for Bayley, but it also presented opportunities for exciting spots and near falls. This match's pace was fast, and the action was entertaining, with all three women giving it their all. Bayley ultimately retained her title, showcasing her fighting spirit and her ability to overcome adversity. The dynamic between Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross made this match unique. Their collaboration and partnership, despite their past history, added an intriguing layer to the match. The audience was involved from the start, showing their support for their favorites.
6. **Steel Cage Match: Roman Reigns vs. Drew McIntyre
This match saw Roman Reigns and Drew McIntyre battle inside a steel cage. The steel cage stipulation promised a brutal and intense encounter, and the two wrestlers did not disappoint. The match was physical and action-packed, with both Reigns and McIntyre delivering impactful offense. The crowd was completely absorbed in the match. The steel cage added a layer of excitement, preventing outside interference and forcing the wrestlers to rely solely on their skill and strength. The atmosphere was electrifying, and the fans were vocal in their support for their favorites. This match was a test of strength, endurance, and strategy. Reigns and McIntyre put on a performance that had the audience glued to their seats. This match was a testament to their professionalism and their commitment to providing the audience with a memorable experience. The crowd's response showed their appreciation for the physical and emotional investment of the wrestlers, making it a highlight of the night.
7. **WWE Championship Match: Kofi Kingston (c) vs. Samoa Joe
Kofi Kingston defended the WWE Championship against Samoa Joe. This match was a clash of styles, with Kingston's high-flying agility against Joe's brute force. The match was an emotional one for Kingston, who had worked so hard to achieve his dream of becoming WWE Champion. Samoa Joe brought his signature intensity and dominant presence to the ring. The match was technically sound, and the two delivered a strong performance that showcased their individual strengths. The crowd's reaction was enthusiastic, and their support for Kingston was palpable. Kingston retained his title, proving his resilience and dedication. The victory was meaningful for Kingston and the fans who had supported him on his journey. This match was a testament to the story and the connection with the fans, making it one of the most memorable of the night.
