WrestleMania 36: The Biggest Moments You Missed

What's up, wrestling fans! Get ready to dive back into the madness that was WrestleMania 36. Now, I know what you're thinking – a WrestleMania without a crowd? Yeah, it was a weird one, guys, but don't let that fool you. This event, spread over two nights, still packed a punch with some truly unforgettable moments. We're talking cinematic matches, shocking upsets, and title changes that had everyone talking. So, grab your favorite snacks, settle in, and let's relive some of the absolute must-see highlights from the Grandest Stage of Them All, even if it was in a unique, socially-distanced setting. This wasn't your typical WrestleMania, that's for sure, but the drama and action were still top-notch. We saw legends step back into the ring, new stars solidify their place, and rivalries reach their explosive conclusions. It was a spectacle that proved, even in challenging times, the show must go on, and WWE delivered a memorable experience that kept us all glued to our screens. The creativity needed to adapt to the circumstances led to some truly innovative match types and settings, making WrestleMania 36 a unique chapter in its storied history.

The Boneyard Match: A Cinematic Masterpiece

Alright guys, let's kick things off with what might be the most talked-about match of WrestleMania 36 highlights: The Boneyard Match between The Undertaker and AJ Styles. This wasn't just a wrestling match; it was a full-blown movie production, and honestly, it was epic. Set in a literal boneyard, complete with eerie lighting, fog, and even some surprise guests (shoutout to The Good Brothers!), this bout was a perfect send-off for The Undertaker, or at least a spectacular way to cap off a legendary career chapter. AJ Styles brought the intensity, but The Undertaker, in his iconic biker attire, looked like he stepped right out of a western. The storytelling here was phenomenal. We saw Undertaker emerge from the ground, Styles getting buried alive (or at least, almost), and a dramatic finish that solidified The Phenom's legacy in a way no standard ring match could. The cinematic approach allowed for creative camera angles, special effects, and a narrative that transcended the usual in-ring action. It was gritty, it was brutal, and it was exactly what the rivalry deserved. This match truly showcased the innovation WWE could bring to the table when faced with unique circumstances. The atmosphere alone was enough to send shivers down your spine, and the physicality of the encounter, combined with the dark, moody setting, made it a standout. It was a gamble, sure, but it paid off in spades, giving fans a memorable and fitting tribute to one of wrestling's greatest icons. The Undertaker's presence in this setting felt so natural, so authentic to his character, that it elevated the entire experience. It wasn't just about the wrestling moves; it was about the atmosphere, the legacy, and the sheer spectacle of it all. This was a testament to wrestling's ability to evolve and entertain, even when the usual playbook is thrown out the window.

Firefly Funhouse Match: A Psychological Thriller

Next up on our WrestleMania 36 highlights journey, we have another cinematic marvel: John Cena vs. "The Fiend" Bray Wyatt in the Firefly Funhouse Match. Guys, this match was wild! It was less about wrestling and more about a psychological deep dive into John Cena's career and Bray Wyatt's twisted psyche. The Firefly Funhouse segments we'd seen leading up to this only hinted at the bizarre and surreal experience that awaited us. We saw Cena confronted with past failures, Hall of Famers questioning his legacy, and even a recreation of his infamous heel turn. "The Fiend" was at his absolute terrifying best, manipulating Cena's mind and pushing him to his limits. The match was a fever dream, a surreal trip through the subconscious of both competitors. It was a brilliant way to showcase Wyatt's character and his ability to push the boundaries of what a wrestling match can be. While it wasn't a traditional wrestling bout, it was a captivating piece of performance art that delved into themes of regret, redemption, and the darkness that can consume a person. The creative use of visuals, sound, and narrative made this match stand out as something truly unique. It blurred the lines between reality and fantasy, forcing Cena to confront his own demons in a way that was both disturbing and compelling. This match was a masterclass in character development and storytelling, proving that wrestling can be so much more than just moves in a ring. It was an experience that stayed with you long after the credits rolled, leaving fans debating and dissecting every symbolic moment. The transition between surreal vignettes and moments of physical confrontation was seamless, creating a narrative flow that was both disorienting and utterly engaging. This was WWE at its most experimental, and for many, it was a highlight of the entire weekend, offering a glimpse into the unhinged brilliance of Bray Wyatt and the internal struggles of John Cena. It challenged conventional wrestling norms and delivered an unforgettable spectacle of psychological warfare and existential dread.

Becky Lynch vs. Shayna Baszler: A Clash of Titans

Now, let's get back to some more traditional, albeit intensely physical, WrestleMania 36 highlights. The Raw Women's Championship match between Becky Lynch and Shayna Baszler was an absolute banger. These two women brought the fight, and it was a brutal, hard-hitting contest that showcased the best of women's wrestling. Shayna Baszler, with her MMA background, was an absolute powerhouse, looking to dismantle "The Man" and take her title. Becky Lynch, ever the resilient champion, fought back with everything she had. The story here was simple: unstoppable force meets immovable object. The physicality was incredible, with both women exchanging stiff strikes and submission attempts. You could feel the intensity with every move. What made this match so compelling was the genuine animosity and the stakes involved. Baszler was portrayed as a legitimate threat, and Lynch had to dig deep to retain her championship. The finish, with Lynch managing to roll up Baszler for the win, was a testament to her fighting spirit. This match proved that even without a live crowd, the sheer intensity and skill of the performers can carry the show. It was a hard-fought victory for Becky and a display of dominance from Shayna that left a lasting impression. This was a clash of two distinct styles, MMA brutality meets WWE grit, and it made for a captivating spectacle. The focus was on the raw power and the determined resilience, creating a narrative of survival and championship defense that resonated with fans. Every slam, every submission hold, every strike felt significant, underscoring the high stakes of the championship bout. The lack of crowd noise meant that the sound of the impact and the grunts of effort were amplified, adding to the raw, visceral nature of the contest. It was a true test of endurance and willpower, and Becky Lynch's victory, though hard-won, solidified her reign as a champion who could overcome any challenge. Shayna Baszler's performance, meanwhile, cemented her status as a top-tier competitor, leaving fans eager for a potential rematch down the line. This was a display of pure, unadulterated combat that highlighted the physical prowess and mental fortitude required to compete at the highest level in WWE.

Drew McIntyre's Rise to the Top

Alright guys, we can't talk about WrestleMania 36 highlights without talking about the crowning of a new WWE Champion: Drew McIntyre. This was the culmination of years of hard work, setbacks, and a truly inspiring comeback story. McIntyre faced Brock Lesnar in the main event of Night 2, and he absolutely delivered. From his incredible entrance to his dominant performance, Drew proved he was ready for the spotlight. The story was simple: the "Scottish Psychopath" finally got his hands on "The Beast Incarnate" and dethroned him. Lesnar is a force of nature, but McIntyre met him head-on, hitting multiple Claymores and ultimately securing the pinfall. The emotion was palpable, even without a roaring crowd. You could see the years of struggle and the sheer joy on his face as he held the WWE Championship. This was a moment that felt earned, a testament to perseverance and believing in yourself. McIntyre's journey from being released by WWE years ago to becoming the top champion is one of the most incredible comeback stories in wrestling history. Winning the title at WrestleMania, against an opponent like Lesnar, was the perfect capstone. It solidified his position as a main-event star and a true champion for the people. This was more than just a match; it was the realization of a lifelong dream for Drew McIntyre, and his victory resonated with fans who had followed his journey. The sheer power and determination he displayed against Lesnar were awe-inspiring, showcasing a level of intensity that demanded respect. The final Claymore kick was a moment of catharsis, not just for McIntyre, but for the fans who had cheered him on throughout his arduous climb. His reign as champion began with a monumental victory, setting the stage for a new era in WWE, an era defined by the resilience and grit of the Scottish Warrior. This triumph was a powerful reminder that in the world of professional wrestling, perseverance and an unwavering belief in one's destiny can lead to the ultimate reward, a testament to the enduring spirit of sports entertainment.

Other Notable Moments

Beyond the main events, WrestleMania 36 highlights offered several other moments worth remembering. Edge's triumphant return to the ring against Randy Orton in a Last Man Standing match was an emotional rollercoaster. "The Rated-R Superstar" proved he still had it, delivering a brutal and captivating performance that silenced any doubters. The NXT Women's Championship match saw Charlotte Flair defeat Rhea Ripley, showcasing the incredible talent coming out of NXT and Charlotte's continued dominance across brands. Even in this unique, crowd-less setting, the passion and skill were undeniable. The Usos defending their SmackDown Tag Team Championships against The New Day and John Morrison also provided high-octane action, proving that tag team wrestling remains a vital part of WWE's landscape. These matches, while perhaps not the headline events, contributed significantly to the overall excitement and unpredictability of WrestleMania 36. They offered different styles of wrestling, from the brutal brawling of Edge and Orton to the high-flying acrobatics of the tag teams, ensuring there was something for every fan. The dedication of the performers to deliver such high-quality matches in an unconventional environment speaks volumes about their commitment to the craft. It was a weekend filled with surprises, triumphs, and moments that solidified legacies, proving that WrestleMania truly is the ultimate spectacle, regardless of the circumstances. These additional bouts were crucial in rounding out the event, offering fans a diverse array of wrestling action and storytelling. The return of Edge, in particular, was a moment of pure joy and inspiration, a testament to his incredible journey of recovery and his enduring love for the sport. Charlotte Flair's victory over Rhea Ripley was another significant moment, highlighting the inter-promotional talent pool and the continued evolution of the women's division. The tag team matches, as always, delivered high energy and exciting sequences, showcasing the chemistry and athleticism of WWE's tag team division. All in all, WrestleMania 36, despite its unique setting, delivered a compelling collection of moments that will be etched in wrestling history, offering a blend of cinematic storytelling, intense competition, and the emergence of new champions.