WWE Fastlane 2021: A Nostalgic Blast Or A Missed Opportunity?
Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive headfirst into WWE Fastlane 2021, a show that promised high-octane action and a final stop on the road to WrestleMania. Did it deliver? Well, buckle up, because we're about to break it all down, from the thrilling highs to the head-scratching lows. Was it a nostalgic trip down memory lane, or did it stumble as a mere pit stop? Let's find out!
A Look Back at the Matches
So, what exactly went down at Fastlane 2021? Let's jog our memory and recap the matches that filled the card. The event featured a blend of established rivalries reaching their boiling points and some last-minute additions to spice things up. We witnessed championship defenses, personal grudges playing out in the ring, and of course, the obligatory dose of WWE drama that keeps us all hooked. Some matches were undoubtedly more memorable than others, and the outcomes certainly set the stage for some intriguing WrestleMania showdowns. From the opening bell to the final curtain, Fastlane aimed to provide a rollercoaster of emotions for the WWE Universe. Whether it succeeded in that endeavor is what we're here to dissect.
Roman Reigns vs. Daniel Bryan for the Universal Championship
The main event, Roman Reigns versus Daniel Bryan for the Universal Championship, had the most anticipation. Guys, this wasn't just another title defense; it was a clash of ideologies, a battle between the dominant Tribal Chief and the resilient underdog. The match was a masterclass in storytelling, with Bryan's technical prowess and never-say-die attitude clashing against Reigns' brute force and calculated dominance. The involvement of Edge as the special enforcer added another layer of intrigue, hinting at the looming WrestleMania main event.
The action was intense, with both men exchanging brutal blows and showcasing their signature moves. Bryan's submission attempts had the crowd on the edge of their seats, while Reigns' power moves threatened to end the match in an instant. The ending, however, was controversial, with Edge's interference playing a crucial role in the outcome. This finish not only protected Bryan but also added fuel to the fire for the upcoming WrestleMania triple threat match. Overall, the match was a compelling chapter in the ongoing saga of Roman Reigns' dominance and Daniel Bryan's unwavering pursuit of the Universal Championship. The match was a whirlwind of emotions, and it left fans buzzing with anticipation for what's to come.
Nia Jax and Shayna Baszler vs. Sasha Banks and Bianca Belair for the Women's Tag Team Championship
Next up, we had Nia Jax and Shayna Baszler defending their Women's Tag Team Championship against Sasha Banks and Bianca Belair. This match was all about the dynamics between the teams, with the champions looking to assert their dominance and the challengers aiming to prove their worth as a cohesive unit. The contrasting styles of Jax and Baszler, with their power and technical expertise respectively, made them a formidable force. However, Banks and Belair possessed the speed, agility, and undeniable chemistry to potentially dethrone the champions. The match itself was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams showcasing their strengths. Jax's power moves were on full display, while Baszler's submission attempts kept Banks and Belair on their toes. The challengers, in turn, used their speed and teamwork to create openings and gain the upper hand. The ending saw some miscommunication between Banks and Belair, leading to Jax and Baszler capitalizing and retaining their titles. This outcome further fueled the tension between Banks and Belair heading into their WrestleMania showdown, adding another layer of intrigue to their rivalry. The match was a solid display of tag team wrestling, with both teams showcasing their skills and contributing to the overall narrative.
Big E vs. Apollo Crews for the Intercontinental Championship
Big E defended his Intercontinental Championship against Apollo Crews. This match was a showcase of athleticism and intensity, with both men leaving it all in the ring. Big E, known for his power and charisma, aimed to continue his reign as a fighting champion. Crews, on the other hand, sought to finally capture the Intercontinental Championship and establish himself as a top-tier competitor. The match was a hard-hitting affair, with both men exchanging brutal blows and showcasing their impressive strength. Big E's signature moves, such as the Big Ending, were met with Crews' innovative offense and high-flying maneuvers. The ending came when Crews surprisingly pinned Big E after a distraction, finally achieving his goal of becoming Intercontinental Champion. This victory marked a significant turning point in Crews' career, solidifying his status as a force to be reckoned with. The match was a memorable encounter, with both men delivering a performance that captivated the audience and left them wanting more.
The Highs and Lows of Fastlane 2021
Okay, now for the juicy part – the highs and lows of Fastlane 2021. What worked? What didn't? Let's break it down. Some of the highs included the compelling storytelling in the main event, the solid in-ring action throughout the card, and the surprising title change in the Intercontinental Championship match. These moments provided excitement and intrigue, keeping fans engaged and invested in the product. However, there were also some lows, such as the controversial finish to the Universal Championship match, which left some fans feeling unsatisfied. Additionally, some of the matches felt rushed or lacked proper build-up, which detracted from their overall impact. By examining both the positives and negatives, we can gain a better understanding of the event's strengths and weaknesses.
What Worked Well
Compelling Storytelling: The main event was a masterclass in storytelling, with the clash of ideologies between Roman Reigns and Daniel Bryan creating a captivating narrative. The involvement of Edge added another layer of intrigue, setting the stage for a highly anticipated WrestleMania showdown. The match itself was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both men showcasing their skills and leaving it all in the ring.
Solid In-Ring Action: Throughout the card, the in-ring action was consistently solid, with the wrestlers delivering impressive performances. The matches were well-paced and featured a variety of styles, keeping the audience engaged and entertained. From high-flying maneuvers to brutal power moves, the wrestlers showcased their athleticism and skill.
Surprising Title Change: The Intercontinental Championship match saw a surprising title change, with Apollo Crews finally capturing the gold. This victory marked a significant turning point in Crews' career, solidifying his status as a top-tier competitor. The match was a memorable encounter, with both men delivering a performance that captivated the audience.
What Didn't Work
Controversial Finish: The controversial finish to the Universal Championship match left some fans feeling unsatisfied. The interference from Edge detracted from the overall impact of the match, leaving some viewers questioning the outcome. While the finish did add fuel to the fire for the upcoming WrestleMania triple threat match, it also created a sense of frustration among some fans.
Rushed Matches: Some of the matches felt rushed or lacked proper build-up, which detracted from their overall impact. These matches felt like filler, failing to capture the audience's attention or create any lasting memories. Without proper build-up, the matches lacked the necessary emotional investment to truly resonate with fans.
Final Verdict: Was Fastlane 2021 Worth Watching?
So, the million-dollar question: Was Fastlane 2021 worth watching? The answer, like most things in wrestling, is subjective. If you're a fan of compelling storytelling and solid in-ring action, then there were definitely elements to enjoy. The main event, despite its controversial finish, was a captivating display of drama and athleticism. However, if you're looking for a show without any hiccups, then you might have been disappointed by some of the rushed matches and questionable booking decisions. Overall, Fastlane 2021 was a mixed bag, with some highs and some lows. It served its purpose as a final stop on the road to WrestleMania, but it wasn't a show that will be remembered for years to come. But hey, that's wrestling, right? You win some, you lose some, and you always keep tuning in to see what happens next!
