BY MICHAEL GOODPASTER
(FOUR) THE UNDERTAKER
(2007) – I really liked this Rumble. I don’t think anyone really expected Undertaker to take the win here. He was often one of those guys who would set up their feud at Rumble. Be it the time Yokozuna and company burnt his coffin while he was in it or any of his other “Streak Matches”. Taker didn’t need to win this, but it was still a cool nod to his career that he did win it. There aren’t many accomplishments in WWE that Taker hasn’t already won or hasn’t put himself on a level higher than. I don’t think we’ll ever see Undertaker win Money In The Bank, but still. This was cool.
(THREE) BRET HART/LEX LUGER
(1994) – This was my favorite Rumble because of the atmosphere. It was the first time WWF had a chance to really build something that wasn’t related to “Hulk Hogan”. I remember those in my apartment that night all laid down a dollar on their picks. I picked Mabel. THAT is how awesome wrestling was in 1994. I’m still pissed I didn’t win.
(TWO) SHAWN MICHAELS
(1995/1996) - I really wanted to go with Shawn Michaels because the two times he won was insane for me as a kid. I was at that right age that wrestling was at its most awesome. With Michaels being my favorite of all time, it’s easy to get jumpy about it. The first time in 95 he did that shocked the world. Everyone thought Bulldog had it, but no… Michaels hangs on! Then the next year he wins again? Good stuff. He would go on to go 50/50 with winning the WWF Title. The first time, Michaels lost and then the second time Michaels won. Of course, the second time was against Hart in the Iron Man Match. Shawn Michaels winning Royal Rumbles is what made wrestling what it is today. Professional wrestling is better because of these two wins.
(ONE) STEVE AUSTIN
(1997/1998/2001) – As much as I wanted to go with HBK, I can’t deny “Stone Cold” his dues. The first time he won it was so cool and crazy. “Austin 316” was just starting to run rampant in wrestling and he was still fresh. He was eliminated, but being an “SOB” that he is… he broke all rules and came back in and stole the win. Then back to back and then again in 2001. In the late 90’s, which most would say was wrestling’s biggest peak, Steve Austin ruled all. These Rumble wins prove that without a doubt.
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