WWE Extreme Rules 2022: Full Match Results & Analysis
What's up, wrestling fanatics! Get ready to dive deep into all the chaos and carnage that was WWE Extreme Rules 2022! This event, guys, was an absolute banger, packed with some of the most intense and unpredictable matches the WWE has put on in a while. We saw title changes, brutal encounters, and moments that had us all on the edge of our seats. So grab your favorite snacks, settle in, and let's break down everything that went down at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia.
The Undisputed WWE Universal Championship Match: Roman Reigns vs. Logan Paul
Alright, let's kick things off with the main event, the one everyone was buzzing about: Roman Reigns vs. Logan Paul for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. Now, I know what some of you might be thinking – Logan Paul? In the main event? But hear me out, guys. The buildup to this match was absolutely insane. Logan Paul, for all the flak he sometimes gets, really stepped up his game. He brought a different kind of energy, a mainstream appeal, and honestly, he wasn't just there to show up; he came to compete. Roman Reigns, the Tribal Chief, the undisputed king of the WWE, was facing his toughest challenge yet from someone completely outside the usual wrestling bubble. The match itself? Phenomenal. Logan brought his A-game, pulling out moves you wouldn't expect from a celebrity crossover. He had the crowd in the palm of his hand, and for a few moments, you genuinely believed an upset might be brewing. Reigns, as always, was a dominant force, showcasing why he's held that title for so long. The storytelling in this match was top-notch, with Reigns' cousins, The Usos and Solo Sikoa, playing their roles perfectly to ensure the Tribal Chief retained his championship. Despite a valiant effort from Logan Paul, Roman Reigns proved once again why he is the Head of the Table, leaving Philadelphia with his coveted championship still around his waist. This match wasn't just about the in-ring action; it was a spectacle, a testament to WWE's ability to generate buzz and create must-see moments, even with unconventional opponents.
Raw Women's Championship Match: Bianca Belair vs. Bayley
Next up, we had Bianca Belair defending her Raw Women's Championship against Bayley in a Ladder Match. This was a clash of titans, folks! Bianca, the EST of WWE, known for her incredible athleticism and power, going up against the wily and cunning Bayley, a multi-time champion herself. A Ladder Match adds that extra layer of danger and excitement, and these two women delivered. The stakes were incredibly high, and the brutality was evident from the start. Both competitors used the ladders as weapons, delivering devastating blows that left the crowd wincing. Bayley, with her experience and cunning, tried to exploit every opportunity, while Bianca's raw power and resilience were on full display. There were moments where it seemed like Bayley had the match won, using her strategic mind to gain the upper hand. However, Bianca Belair's sheer determination and athleticism proved to be too much. She fought back with incredible ferocity, eventually climbing the ladder to retrieve her championship and retain it. The visual of Bianca standing tall, championship in hand, after such a grueling contest was a powerful statement. This match cemented Bianca Belair's dominance in the Raw women's division and proved that she is more than capable of defending her title against any challenger, no matter how formidable. The storytelling was excellent, showing Bayley's desperation and Bianca's fighting spirit. It was a true display of what the women's division is capable of when given the main event spotlight.
United States Championship Match: Seth "Freakin'" Rollins vs. Matt Riddle
Moving on, we had an absolute barnburner for the United States Championship between Seth "Freakin'" Rollins and Matt Riddle. If you love high-octane, back-and-forth action, this was the match for you. Seth Rollins, as always, brought his showmanship and incredible in-ring prowess, while Matt Riddle, the "Original Bro," brought his unique style and submission game. This was a personal rivalry, guys, and you could feel the animosity from the moment they stepped into the ring. The match was a masterclass in wrestling, with both competitors showcasing a wide array of moves, counters, and near-falls that had the audience on their feet. Riddle came out aggressive, looking to prove a point and finally capture that United States Championship. Rollins, never one to back down, met him head-on, unleashing his arsenal of strikes and high-flying maneuvers. The pace was relentless, with neither man giving an inch. You saw incredible athleticism from both sides, with sequences that were simply breathtaking. The crowd was heavily invested, chanting for both competitors, adding to the electric atmosphere. In the end, Seth Rollins managed to outlast Riddle, hitting his iconic Stomp to secure the victory and retain his United States Championship. This win further solidified Rollins' claim as one of the top performers in WWE, and while Riddle put on a fantastic performance, it wasn't enough to dethrone the "Freakin'" champion. The intensity of this match made it a standout moment of the night, proving that the United States Championship is in excellent hands with Seth Rollins leading the charge.
SmackDown Women's Championship Match: Liv Morgan vs. Ronda Rousey
Now, let's talk about the SmackDown Women's Championship match where Liv Morgan defended her title against Ronda Rousey. This was a highly anticipated bout, pitting the resilient champion Liv Morgan against the Baddest Woman on the Planet. Liv had been on a roll, showing incredible heart and determination since cashing in her Money in the Bank briefcase. Ronda, on the other hand, was looking to reclaim the championship she felt was rightfully hers. The match started with Ronda Rousey dominating, using her Olympic-level judo and striking skills to control the early going. Liv, however, showed incredible grit and resilience, weathering the storm and looking for opportunities to counter. The match took a dangerous turn when Liv Morgan, in a display of incredible toughness, landed awkwardly on her shoulder, appearing to injure herself. This added a layer of drama and concern, as fans worried about her ability to continue. Despite the apparent injury, Liv fought on, showing immense courage. Ronda, seeing the opportunity, targeted the injured shoulder, applying her signature armbar. In a shocking turn of events, Liv Morgan tapped out, and Ronda Rousey became the new SmackDown Women's Champion. While a tough loss for Liv, it showcased her incredible fighting spirit. Ronda's victory marked her return to championship glory, and the question now is, what's next for both these incredible women?
Intercontinental Championship Match: Gunther vs. Sheamus
And then there was the absolute war for the Intercontinental Championship between Gunther and Sheamus. If you wanted a pure, hard-hitting, old-school wrestling match, this was it. These two men, guys, went to battle. Gunther, the "Ring General," known for his devastating chops and sheer power, against Sheamus, the "Celtic Warrior," one of the toughest competitors in WWE history. From the opening bell, it was clear this was going to be a slugfest. The intensity was off the charts, with both men trading brutal chops that echoed through the arena. You could almost feel the impact from your seats! Sheamus, with his immense strength and resilience, gave Gunther everything he could handle. He dished out his own brand of punishment, showcasing his power and determination. Gunther, unfazed by Sheamus's onslaught, continued to press forward, his stoic demeanor masking the incredible power he possesses. This wasn't just a match; it was a test of wills, a display of raw masculinity and championship pedigree. The crowd was absolutely captivated, appreciating the physicality and the sheer effort put forth by both warriors. Every move, every chop, every slam felt significant. In the end, after an epic, grueling contest that felt like it could go either way, Gunther managed to retain his Intercontinental Championship. This match was a modern classic, a testament to the prestige of the Intercontinental Championship and the incredible talent of both Gunther and Sheamus. It reminded everyone that sometimes, the most compelling wrestling is simply two tough guys beating the hell out of each other for a championship.
The Undercard and Other Notable Moments
Beyond the championship matches, WWE Extreme Rules 2022 delivered some other fantastic performances and moments that deserve a shout-out. We saw The Brawling Brutes (Sheamus, Ridge Holland, and Butch) take on Imperium (Gunther, Ludwig Kaiser, and Giovanni Vinci) in a six-man tag team match that was as chaotic and physical as you'd expect. The intensity and camaraderie of The Brawling Brutes were on full display, while Imperium showcased their dominant faction. It was a hard-hitting affair that perfectly set the stage for the later Intercontinental Championship match. Edge also faced Finn Bálor in an "I Quit" match, which was a brutal and personal encounter that pushed both men to their limits. The match was filled with weapons, high-risk spots, and a definitive end to a long-standing rivalry. The storytelling here was crucial, with Edge ultimately being forced to utter the words "I Quit" after interference from Judgment Day, leading to Finn Bálor standing tall. Another highlight was the Strap Match between Drew McIntyre and Karrion Kross. This match was billed as a brutal encounter, and it certainly lived up to the hype. Both men used the strap effectively, creating a unique dynamic. McIntyre showed his power, while Kross displayed his cunning and ruthless aggression. The match was a wild brawl that kept the audience engaged from start to finish. These matches, while not for the top championships, added significant value to the show, showcasing the depth of talent on the WWE roster and providing a variety of match types and storylines for the fans to enjoy. Extreme Rules truly lived up to its name, offering a diverse range of high-stakes, intense matchups.
Final Thoughts on Extreme Rules 2022
So, there you have it, guys! WWE Extreme Rules 2022 was a night of unforgettable action, shocking moments, and incredible performances. From the main event showdown between Roman Reigns and Logan Paul to the brutal encounters for the various championships, this event delivered on all fronts. The WWE continues to prove that they can create compelling narratives and deliver high-quality wrestling that keeps fans coming back for more. Whether you were cheering for your favorites or gasping at the unexpected twists, Extreme Rules 2022 was a wrestling PPV that will be talked about for a long time. Keep tuning in, and we'll keep breaking down all the action for you!