WWE WrestleMania 24: Relive The Epic Full Matches!

WrestleMania 24, held on March 30, 2008, at the Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Florida, was an unforgettable night for WWE fans. This grand spectacle featured a series of matches that have become legendary, showcasing the pinnacle of sports entertainment. From championship clashes to grudge matches, WrestleMania 24 delivered non-stop action and memorable moments. Let's dive into some of the most epic full matches from that night, reliving the excitement and drama that captivated audiences worldwide. For wrestling enthusiasts, these matches aren't just bouts; they're narratives woven with athleticism, rivalry, and the relentless pursuit of glory. The buildup to WrestleMania 24 was intense, with storylines meticulously crafted to ignite passions and set the stage for explosive confrontations. Superstars like Edge, Randy Orton, John Cena, and The Undertaker were at the height of their careers, and their performances on this grand stage cemented their legacies. The atmosphere in the Citrus Bowl was electric, with tens of thousands of fans roaring with every near-fall, high-flying move, and devastating blow. WrestleMania is more than just a wrestling event; it's a cultural phenomenon that brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate the spectacle of professional wrestling. WrestleMania 24 was no exception, offering a diverse card that catered to every taste, from hardcore wrestling to celebrity appearances. As we revisit these matches, we'll explore the key moments, the strategies employed by the wrestlers, and the overall impact of these contests on the landscape of WWE history. So, buckle up and get ready to experience the thrill of WrestleMania 24 all over again!

The Main Event: Randy Orton vs. John Cena vs. Triple H for the WWE Championship

The WWE Championship match at WrestleMania 24 was a triple threat showdown for the ages, pitting Randy Orton, John Cena, and Triple H against each other. This match was a culmination of months of intense rivalry and featured three of the biggest names in WWE history. Randy Orton, the then-WWE Champion, was at the height of his “Legend Killer” persona, portraying a cocky and ruthless champion who believed in his own invincibility. John Cena, ever the resilient hero, was determined to reclaim the title he had lost due to injury, while Triple H, the cerebral assassin, sought to add another WWE Championship to his illustrious career. The animosity between these three superstars was palpable, with each man having a legitimate claim to the throne. The match itself was a chaotic and unpredictable affair, with all three wrestlers delivering their signature moves and pushing each other to the limit. Orton’s calculated strikes and cunning tactics were matched by Cena’s relentless energy and Triple H’s strategic prowess. The crowd was on the edge of their seats, witnessing a clash of titans that could end at any moment. There were near-falls aplenty, with each wrestler coming close to securing the victory. Cena’s “Attitude Adjustment,” Triple H’s “Pedigree,” and Orton’s “RKO” were all delivered with devastating impact, but none could secure the definitive pinfall. The tension in the arena was thick enough to cut with a knife as the match reached its climax. In the end, it was Randy Orton who emerged victorious, capitalizing on a moment of chaos to pin John Cena and retain his WWE Championship. This win solidified Orton’s reign as champion and further cemented his status as one of the top heels in the industry. The match was a testament to the skill and athleticism of all three wrestlers and remains a highlight of WrestleMania 24.

Edge vs. The Undertaker for the World Heavyweight Championship

The World Heavyweight Championship match between Edge and The Undertaker was a battle of contrasting styles and personalities. Edge, known as the “Rated-R Superstar,” was a crafty and opportunistic heel who would stop at nothing to retain his title. The Undertaker, on the other hand, was the legendary “Deadman,” an imposing and supernatural force with an undefeated streak at WrestleMania. This match was built on Edge’s attempts to break The Undertaker’s streak and claim his place in history. The Undertaker's WrestleMania streak was a monumental achievement, casting a shadow of invincibility over him at the event. Edge, however, was determined to defy the odds and tarnish that legacy. The match was a masterclass in storytelling, with Edge using every trick in the book to try and gain an advantage over The Undertaker. He employed distractions, utilized weapons, and even brought out his “Edgeheads” (Curt Hawkins and Zack Ryder) to interfere on his behalf. However, The Undertaker weathered the storm, absorbing Edge’s attacks and mounting his own offense. The match was filled with near-falls and dramatic moments, keeping the audience guessing until the very end. The Undertaker delivered his signature moves, including the “Tombstone Piledriver,” but Edge managed to kick out, showing his resilience and determination. In the end, it was The Undertaker who emerged victorious, forcing Edge to submit with the “Hell’s Gate” submission hold. This victory extended The Undertaker’s WrestleMania streak to 16-0 and marked another chapter in his legendary career. The match was a testament to the enduring appeal of The Undertaker’s character and his ability to deliver memorable performances on the grandest stage of them all. Edge's performance also shone, proving his ability to hang with the very best and craft a compelling narrative in the ring. Their clash was a highlight of WrestleMania 24, blending drama, suspense, and high-impact action seamlessly.

Shawn Michaels vs. Ric Flair

The match between Shawn Michaels and Ric Flair at WrestleMania 24 was more than just a wrestling match; it was an emotional and poignant farewell to a legend. Ric Flair, known as the “Nature Boy,” was nearing the end of his illustrious career, and this match was billed as his official retirement match. Shawn Michaels, a close friend of Flair, was chosen to be his opponent, adding an extra layer of emotion to the contest. The storyline leading up to the match was incredibly touching, with Michaels struggling with the prospect of ending Flair’s career. Flair, despite his age, was determined to go out on his own terms, and Michaels respected his wishes. The match itself was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both wrestlers delivering their signature moves and showcasing their incredible skills. Flair, despite being past his prime, showed glimpses of his former glory, delivering his trademark chops and strutting around the ring with his signature swagger. Michaels, on the other hand, was conflicted, torn between his respect for Flair and his desire to win. The crowd was incredibly invested in the match, chanting for both wrestlers and creating an electric atmosphere. The climax of the match was particularly heart-wrenching, with Michaels mouthing the words “I’m sorry, I love you” before delivering the “Sweet Chin Music” to Flair for the victory. The post-match scene was equally emotional, with Michaels embracing Flair and paying his respects to the legendary wrestler. The entire arena gave Flair a standing ovation, acknowledging his contributions to the sport. This match was a fitting tribute to Ric Flair’s career and a testament to the power of wrestling to evoke genuine emotions. It remains one of the most memorable and touching moments in WrestleMania history, transcending the boundaries of sports entertainment.

Other Notable Matches

While the aforementioned matches were the headliners, WrestleMania 24 also featured other notable contests that added to the overall excitement of the event. The “Money in the Bank” ladder match was a chaotic and high-flying affair, with superstars like CM Punk, Chris Jericho, and Jeff Hardy risking it all for a chance to win a guaranteed championship match. The match was filled with death-defying stunts and memorable moments, ultimately won by CM Punk. Kane defeated Chavo Guerrero in an ECW Championship match, showcasing his dominant strength. The “BunnyMania” match, featuring women from WWE and Playboy, added a touch of entertainment and celebrity appeal to the show. These matches, while not as high-profile as the main events, contributed to the overall diversity and appeal of WrestleMania 24, ensuring that there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Conclusion

WrestleMania 24 was a night of unforgettable moments, showcasing the best that WWE had to offer. From championship clashes to emotional farewells, the event delivered non-stop action and drama. The matches between Randy Orton, John Cena, and Triple H, Edge and The Undertaker, and Shawn Michaels and Ric Flair were particularly memorable, cementing their place in WrestleMania history. The event was a testament to the enduring appeal of professional wrestling and its ability to captivate audiences worldwide. WrestleMania 24 remains a beloved chapter in WWE history, and its matches continue to be watched and celebrated by fans around the globe. Whether you're a longtime wrestling enthusiast or a casual viewer, WrestleMania 24 is an event that deserves to be remembered and appreciated for its contribution to the world of sports entertainment.