Which is the Best WrestleMania: An In-Depth Look at WM 17, 19, 21, and 30
Introduction
WrestleMania, one of the most anticipated events in professional wrestling, has a rich history filled with iconic matches and memorable moments. Over the years, fans have debated which WrestleMania stands out as the best, with particular attention given to WrestleMania 17, 19, 21, and 30. In this article, we will explore the merits of each, providing a comprehensive analysis to help determine the best WrestleMania ever.
The Overrated WM 17
WrestleMania 17, also known as Backlash, is often overrated by fans and critics. While the event was exciting, it fails to deliver the sheer impact that some of its competitors do. Many matches were predetermined and lacked the shock factor that fans look for in a WrestleMania event. Ultimately, WM 17 is seen as more of a throwback rather than a standout. This is not to say it was a bad event; it just falls short of being one of the very best.
The Underrated WM 19
WrestleMania 19 is often overlooked and underappreciated in professional wrestling circles. For many, it is a forgotten event, given more attention than it may deserve. However, WM 19 features some of the most memorable matches in the franchise, including illustrious headliners such as Stone Cold Steve Austin against Triple H and edges John Cena against The Rock. The Legends vs. Superstars bout, featuring Shawn Michaels and Chris Jericho, is a testament to the event's quality, even if it is not as hyped as some of its contemporaries.
The Iconic WM 21: The Enigma of Legacy
WrestleMania 21 is often seen as the enigma of WrestleMania's legacy. While it is certainly memorable, it is often overshadowed by the greater events that followed. Batista and John Cena both won their respective Money in the Bank ladder matches, adding an additional layer of prestige to the concept. Additionally, the infamous Ladder Match between Shawn Michaels and Kurt Angle remains one of the most hyped and talked-about moments in professional wrestling history. The match was so intense that it overshadowed much of the rest of the show, but the overall event is still a fantastic one to watch, with the Angle vs. Michaels match alone making it a must-see.
The Controversial WM 30: A Mixed Bag
WrestleMania 30 is one of the most controversial events in WrestleMania history. While the night is notable for Ric Flair's WWE championship reign, it is primarily remembered for the unexpected outcomes and the emotional retirement of Kane. The event is often criticized for several predetermined matches and storylines. While The Rock vs. Roman Reigns and The Undertaker vs. Brock Lesnar were both highly anticipated, the overall feel of the night is often seen as less impactful compared to other WrestleManias. The night Bryan was crowned the King of WrestleMania further fueled the controversy, as many fans felt it detracted from the main event.
My Answer: The Unveiled Excellence of WM 21
After a thorough analysis, it is my opinion that the best WrestleMania, among the four discussed, is indeed WrestleMania 21. The combination of historical significance, iconic matches, and sheer entertainment value makes it stand out. The reign of both Batista and John Cena as Money in the Bank winners, the intense Angle vs. Michaels match, and the overall nostalgic and entertaining atmosphere of the event are just a few reasons it deserves the top spot. It is a WrestleMania that not only entertained but also left a lasting impact on the wrestling community.
Conclusion
Although each WrestleMania analyzed here has its unique charm, it is clear that WM 21 stands out as the best among the four. It combines historical significance with memorable matches and a strong entertainment factor, making it a true masterpiece of the WWE calendar.