WrestleMania 31 Main Event: What Really Happened?

WrestleMania 31, held on March 29, 2015, at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, was a landmark event in WWE history, and its main event remains etched in the memories of wrestling fans worldwide. The unexpected twists and the sheer drama of the closing moments have made it a subject of constant discussion and analysis. In this article, we're diving deep into what really happened in the WrestleMania 31 main event, exploring the buildup, the key moments, and the aftermath.

The main event featured Brock Lesnar, the then-WWE World Heavyweight Champion, defending his title against Roman Reigns. The narrative leading up to the match was compelling. Lesnar had ended The Undertaker's undefeated streak at WrestleMania 30 the previous year and had dominated John Cena to win the title. He was portrayed as an unstoppable force, a beast incarnate, who seemed unbeatable. Roman Reigns, on the other hand, was being positioned as the next top star in WWE. He had won the 2015 Royal Rumble, earning the right to challenge Lesnar at WrestleMania. However, many fans felt that Reigns was being pushed too hard, too soon, and wasn't ready to take on such a dominant champion.

The match itself was a brutal, physical contest. Lesnar delivered multiple German suplexes and F5s, while Reigns fought back with Superman punches and spears. Both men took an incredible amount of punishment, and the match was a testament to their toughness and resilience. Just when it seemed like one of them was about to win, Seth Rollins' music hit, and he cashed in his Money in the Bank contract, turning the match into a triple threat. Rollins pinned Reigns to win the title, in what is considered one of the greatest Money in the Bank cash-ins of all time. The crowd went wild, and the wrestling world was left in shock. It was a truly unpredictable and unforgettable moment.

The Buildup to WrestleMania 31

The road to WrestleMania 31 was paved with intrigue and controversy, primarily surrounding the perception of Roman Reigns as the chosen successor. Brock Lesnar's aura of invincibility made the challenge even steeper. Let's break down the key elements:

• Brock Lesnar's Dominance: Entering WrestleMania 31, Brock Lesnar was not just a champion; he was a conquering force. His decimation of John Cena at SummerSlam 2014, followed by his relentless reign, established him as an almost superhuman figure. Lesnar's matches were not mere contests; they were showcases of brute strength and unmatched aggression. This dominance set a high bar for anyone looking to dethrone him, making the prospect of Roman Reigns stepping up to the plate all the more daunting in the eyes of many fans.
• Roman Reigns' Rise: Roman Reigns' ascent to the main event picture was meteoric, but it wasn't without its turbulence. His victory in the 2015 Royal Rumble was met with mixed reactions, as many fans felt other contenders, such as Daniel Bryan, were more deserving. Reigns' character, while physically imposing, was perceived by some as lacking the depth and charisma needed to connect with the audience on a deeper level. Despite WWE's efforts to position him as the next big thing, a significant portion of the fanbase remained unconvinced, creating a palpable sense of discontent heading into WrestleMania.
• Fan Expectations and Doubts: The wrestling community is known for its passionate and discerning nature. Fans invest emotionally in the storylines and characters, and they're not afraid to voice their opinions. In the case of WrestleMania 31, there was a clear divide in expectations. Some fans were excited to see Reigns finally reach the top, while others felt he was being unfairly pushed ahead of more deserving wrestlers. This undercurrent of doubt added a layer of tension to the buildup, making the outcome of the main event anything but certain. The uncertainty surrounding Reigns' acceptance as a top-tier star created an atmosphere of anticipation and anxiety, setting the stage for a potentially explosive climax at WrestleMania.

The Match: A Rollercoaster of Emotions

The WrestleMania 31 main event was far from predictable. The intensity, the near-falls, and the unexpected twist at the end created a narrative that had fans on the edge of their seats. Here’s a closer look:

• Brutal Offense: The match started with an explosive exchange of devastating moves. Brock Lesnar immediately unleashed a series of German suplexes, a maneuver that had become his trademark. Each suplex echoed through the stadium, emphasizing Lesnar's dominance and raw power. Roman Reigns, known for his resilience, absorbed the punishment and fired back with Superman punches and spears. The early part of the match was a display of unbridled aggression, with both men leaving it all on the line. The physicality of the encounter set the tone for a grueling battle of attrition.
• Resilience and Near-Falls: As the match progressed, both Lesnar and Reigns showed incredible determination and refusal to stay down. Despite taking a beating, Reigns continued to fight back, showcasing his toughness and never-say-die attitude. There were several near-falls that had the crowd gasping and cheering, as it seemed like either man could win at any moment. The back-and-forth action created a sense of suspense and excitement, making it impossible to predict the outcome. The resilience displayed by both wrestlers added to the drama and made the match a captivating spectacle.
• Seth Rollins' Unforgettable Cash-In: The game-changing moment came when Seth Rollins' music hit, and he sprinted to the ring with his Money in the Bank briefcase. The crowd erupted as Rollins cashed in his contract, turning the match into a triple threat. The sudden shift in dynamics caught everyone off guard, including Lesnar and Reigns. Rollins seized the opportunity, hitting Reigns with a Curb Stomp and pinning him to win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. The shocking conclusion sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, solidifying Rollins' status as a cunning and opportunistic champion. The cash-in was executed perfectly, making it one of the most memorable moments in WrestleMania history.

The Aftermath: A New Era Begins

The aftermath of WrestleMania 31 was just as significant as the event itself. Seth Rollins' victory changed the landscape of WWE, and the ripple effects were felt for months to come. Let's explore the key consequences:

• Seth Rollins' Championship Reign: Seth Rollins' championship reign was marked by devious tactics and calculated maneuvers. As a member of The Authority, Rollins had the backing of Triple H and Stephanie McMahon, which allowed him to get away with questionable actions. He became known for his ability to weasel his way out of tough situations, often relying on interference from his allies. Rollins' reign was entertaining and controversial, as he embraced his role as a heel (villain) and played it to perfection. His championship run established him as a top-tier star in WWE and solidified his reputation as a master strategist.
• Roman Reigns' Journey: For Roman Reigns, the loss at WrestleMania 31 was a setback, but it didn't derail his push to the top. He continued to be a prominent figure in WWE, feuding with top stars and winning multiple championships. Reigns eventually won the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, silencing many of his critics. His journey was one of perseverance and growth, as he worked hard to improve his skills and connect with the audience. Reigns' resilience and determination made him a respected and admired figure in the wrestling world.
• Brock Lesnar's Continued Dominance: Despite losing the title, Brock Lesnar remained a force to be reckoned with in WWE. He continued to dominate his opponents, winning key matches and maintaining his aura of invincibility. Lesnar's appearances were always highly anticipated, as fans knew they were in for a spectacle of destruction. His sporadic appearances made him feel like a special attraction, adding to his mystique and appeal. Lesnar's continued dominance ensured that he remained one of the biggest stars in WWE for years to come.

Why the WrestleMania 31 Main Event Still Matters

The WrestleMania 31 main event wasn't just a match; it was a storytelling masterpiece. The unpredictability, the emotional investment, and the long-term consequences made it a truly unforgettable moment in wrestling history. Here’s why it still resonates with fans today:

• Unpredictability: In an era where wrestling storylines often feel predictable, the WrestleMania 31 main event was a breath of fresh air. The ending caught everyone off guard, creating a sense of excitement and surprise that is rare in modern wrestling. The unexpected twist reminded fans that anything can happen in WWE, making them eager to tune in each week to see what would unfold next. The unpredictability of the match added to its legendary status and ensured that it would be talked about for years to come.
• Emotional Investment: The match tapped into the emotional investment that fans had in the characters and storylines. Whether they were rooting for Roman Reigns to finally reach the top or hoping to see Brock Lesnar continue his reign of terror, fans were deeply invested in the outcome. Seth Rollins' cash-in added another layer of emotion, as it was a calculated and opportunistic move that generated both excitement and controversy. The emotional investment in the match made it more than just a physical contest; it was a narrative with real stakes.
• Long-Term Impact: The WrestleMania 31 main event had a lasting impact on WWE. It helped establish Seth Rollins as a top-tier star, solidified Roman Reigns' position as a main event player, and allowed Brock Lesnar to maintain his aura of invincibility. The match also set the stage for future storylines and rivalries, shaping the direction of WWE for years to come. The long-term consequences of the main event demonstrated its significance and cemented its place in wrestling history.

In conclusion, the WrestleMania 31 main event was a perfect storm of storytelling, athleticism, and unpredictability. It was a match that had fans on the edge of their seats from beginning to end, and its impact is still felt in WWE today. Whether you're a longtime wrestling fan or a newcomer to the sport, the WrestleMania 31 main event is a must-see moment that showcases the best of professional wrestling.