There is no group in WWE history that rose through the ranks as rapidly as The Shield did in their first year on the main roster. From the moment they debuted at the 2012 Survivor Series, Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose tore through the competition, defeating the biggest stars the company. John Cena, Undertaker, Sheamus, Big Show and Randy Orton all fell in defeat as the trio began racking up wins for themselves. At Extreme Rules 2013, their rise culminated in two separate championship matches in which all three Hounds of Justice had the opportunity to leave with gold around their waist. First, Dean Ambrose challenged the dynamic, lightning quick Kofi Kingston for the United States Championship. In his first real opportunity to showcase his singles skills, Ambrose rose to the occasion, seized an opening and defeated Kingston to win the title, a title he holds to this day. Later in the night, Reigns and Rollins knocked off tag team champions Kane and Daniel Bryan in a Tornado match, ending their 245-day reign by pinning future WWE champion Bryan. Ambrose joined Rollins and Reigns in the ring after the match as the Shield stood united and draped in gold. It was the latest step to greatness for the trio, a step that has helped to make them one of the most over acts entering May 4's Extreme Rules and their date with Evolution.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
