The Last Man to Beat The Undertaker at WrestleMania: Roman Reigns vs. Brock Lesnar
In the history of professional wrestling, few characters have left as indelible a mark asspm The Undertaker. Known for his unparalleled WrestleMania streak, his defeat by Roman Reigns and Brock Lesnar represent milestones in his illustrious career. This article delves into these defining moments, providing insights and detailed analysis.
The Undertaker's Unbreakable Streak
The Undertaker's undefeated WrestleMania streak of 23 years (1991-2014) was one of the most fascinating narratives in WWE history. This streak was halted twice, both times by formidable opponents - first by Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania XXX, and then by Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 33. These victories not only broke the record but also showcased the athletic prowess and unpredictability of WWE events.
Brock Lesnar and the First In-Ring Beatdown
Let's start with Brock Lesnar, the unexpected hero who interrupted The Undertaker's perfect record. At WrestleMania XXX in 2014, the prediction of a victory seemed highly improbable. However, the WWE Universe was treated to one of the most exciting matches in WrestleMania history as Lesnar, who had already made a name for himself in MMA, emerged victorious. This match broke all expectations and set the stage for future events.
Roman Reigns: The Ultimate Iron Man
The second and final person to defeat The Undertaker came in the form of Roman Reigns. Ironically, this occurred at WrestleMania 33 in 2017, a match believed to be The Undertaker's last due to the character's storyline. The match was intense, with Reigns showcasing his strength and determination. Despite The Undertaker's legendary durability, Roman Reigns managed to dethrone the road warrior, marking the end of an era.
Impact: Beyond the Ring
This victory by Roman Reigns had a profound effect not just on The Undertaker's character but also on the WWE Universe. The match at WrestleMania 33 was so shocking that it led to widespread applause and recognition for Reigns. However, the crowd's support quickly turned into boos and jeers the following night on Monday Night Raw. This reaction was so intense that Roman stood silently in the ring for about five minutes as the audience continued to berate him. It was a testament to the emotional investment fans had in The Undertaker's character.
Aftermath: The Undertaker's Retirement
Following his WrestleMania 33 defeat, The Undertaker retired. He did not make an appearance at WrestleMania 34 in 2018, though he returned later that year for a match against John Cena. This match, unlike previous encounters, was not controversial. Brock Lesnar had already proven himself, but the John Cena storyline aimed at rejuvenating The Undertaker's career.
Conclusion: Legacy of Between Two Icons
Roman Reigns and Brock Lesnar will forever be remembered as the two men who stood up to The Undertaker, each in their unique way. Their victories at WrestleMania 33 and 30 respectively captured the essence of the match - strength, determination, and a moment of truth for all wrestling fans. These victories not only wrote new chapters in the careers of Reigns and Lesnar, but also added to the legacy of WWE and The Undertaker's unmatched stature in professional wrestling.