WrestleMania, the grandest stage of them all in the world of professional wrestling, returned for its 38th edition with a two-night extravaganza on April 2 and 3, 2022. Held at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, WrestleMania 38 delivered memorable moments, thrilling matches, and surprises that left fans around the globe in awe. The event showcased the athletic prowess, storytelling, and entertainment value that have made WrestleMania an annual tradition for wrestling enthusiasts.
WrestleMania 38: A Spectacle of Wrestling Entertainment
Night 1: A Phenomenal Start
The Return of Cody Rhodes One of the most anticipated moments of WrestleMania 38 was the return of Cody Rhodes to WWE. After a six-year absence, Rhodes made a triumphant comeback, facing Seth Rollins in a high-stakes match. The bout lived up to its hype, with both competitors delivering an intense and emotionally charged performance. Rhodes emerged victorious, solidifying his return to WWE with a memorable win.
SmackDown Women’s Championship Charlotte Flair defended her SmackDown Women’s Championship against Ronda Rousey, marking Rousey’s first WrestleMania match since her return to WWE. The match was a hard-hitting affair, with both women showcasing their combat skills. Flair managed to retain her title, delivering a surprise victory that added another chapter to her storied career.
Stone Cold’s Stunning Return The first night of WrestleMania 38 concluded with the much-anticipated return of “Stone Cold” Steve Austin. Austin stepped back into the ring for a No Holds Barred match against Kevin Owens. The Texas Rattlesnake, despite his years away from active competition, showed that he still had what it takes to deliver a memorable performance. Austin’s victory was celebrated by fans as a nostalgic nod to the Attitude Era.
Night 2: An Electrifying Conclusion
Roman Reigns vs. Brock Lesnar The main event of WrestleMania 38 was a blockbuster clash between Universal Champion Roman Reigns and WWE Champion Brock Lesnar. Touted as “The Biggest WrestleMania Match of All Time,” this encounter was a unification match for both titles. The match was a brutal, hard-hitting affair that saw Reigns emerge victorious, cementing his status as the top star in WWE.
Women’s Tag Team Championship Night 2 also featured a Fatal 4-Way match for the Women’s Tag Team Championship. Sasha Banks and Naomi emerged victorious, capturing the titles in a match filled with high-energy action and impressive teamwork. Their win was a highlight of the night, showcasing the depth of talent in WWE’s women’s division.
Edge vs. AJ Styles In a battle of legends, Edge took on AJ Styles in a match that had fans on the edge of their seats. The bout was a technical masterpiece, with both veterans displaying their in-ring prowess. Edge’s victory came after a surprise interference by Damian Priest, hinting at a potential new alliance and storyline development.
Memorable Moments and Surprises
Johnny Knoxville vs. Sami Zayn One of the most unique and entertaining matches of WrestleMania 38 featured Johnny Knoxville of “Jackass” fame taking on Sami Zayn. The match was a wild, comedic spectacle filled with outrageous stunts and props. Knoxville’s victory, aided by his fellow “Jackass” cast members, provided a lighthearted and fun diversion from the more serious bouts.
Pat McAfee’s In-Ring Debut WrestleMania 38 also saw the in-ring debut of commentator Pat McAfee, who faced Austin Theory in a highly anticipated match. McAfee impressed with his athleticism and charisma, securing a win over Theory. Following the match, McAfee had an impromptu encounter with Vince McMahon, which led to an unexpected and entertaining sequence.
Legacy and Impact
WrestleMania 38 continued the tradition of blending athletic competition with entertainment, creating moments that will be remembered for years to come. The event highlighted the diverse range of talent in WWE, from established superstars to returning legends and newcomers making their mark. The two-night format allowed for a more expansive and varied card, giving each match its moment to shine.
Conclusion
WrestleMania 38 was a celebration of professional wrestling, bringing together fans from around the world to witness the spectacle and drama that only WWE can provide. From the return of Cody Rhodes to the unification match between Roman Reigns and Brock Lesnar, the event delivered on its promise of creating unforgettable moments. As the WWE Universe looks forward to WrestleMania 39, the legacy of WrestleMania 38 will undoubtedly continue to influence and inspire the world of professional wrestling.