Sometimes we make wrestling too complicated. We, the IWC, in all of our smarky glory, get so caught up in what we feel should have or could have been that we forget to appreciate what is in front of our eyes. In our desire for everything to be exactly as we want them, we forgot how to just have a good time and be encased by the magic and wonderment that the WWE consistently provides if we just open our eyes to it. Such is the case with WWE's annual extravaganza, WrestleMania. I poured through review after review from the pessimistic and jaded fans who wanted what they felt was best for the company and the fact that the WWE did not give it to them led to a generally negative view of the show. These people have forgotten what wrestling truly is about, and I feel the need to rectify it. With that in mind, here is the complete unbiased and optimistic review of the best day of every year: WrestleMania, a show that I absolutely loved. The show began with a well-put-together video package about the Sandy Relief efforts. Truly a class act, though the length of the video led several of my friends at my viewing party to grow anxious for the wrasslin' to begin. After the video, which seemed to surprisingly take the place of a performance of "America the Beautiful", we were given what we had been waiting all year for. It was WrestleMania time, baby!
The Shield vs Randy Orton, Sheamus, and The Big Show
It is no secret that I am one of the biggest Shield marks on the planet. I think Rollins, Reigns, and especially Ambrose are all incredible performers who will be major drawing factors in the near future, though Rollins seems more suited to a face role. Nevertheless, the decision to open the show with this match was a little puzzling at first, but the reasoning became very clear as soon as the bell rang, as six of the upper-midcard's best put on a performance worthy of being the first match on the huge stage. A back and forth encounter featuring Orton not looking mind-numbingly bored for the first time since his feud with Christian in 2011, Sheamus reverting back to the ass-kicking brute he seemed to have lost as soon as his Show feud was over, and Big Show of all people playing the face-in-peril as he was on the receiving end of a merciless beating courtesy of The Shield from injustice. This match also succeeded in putting over each member of Shield remarkably well, with Ambrose coming across as a devious and cunning lunatic, Reigns looking like an absolute monster, and Rollins portraying the smaller-but-tough-as-nails flyer who will take any punishment and come out somewhat alive. While not capturing the manic energy of Shield's first two PPV encounters, this was still a very fun ride, though a little short considering the participants. Shield extends their undefeated streak to 5-0 after Dean Ambrose pins Randy Orton. Let that sink in. John Moxly pinned Randy Orton in the opening match of WrestleMania. Awesome! ***1/2