Elimination Chamber 2005: Full Match Review

Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive deep into one of the most brutal and memorable Elimination Chamber matches in WWE history: the New Year's Revolution 2005 Elimination Chamber. This match was a chaotic blend of power, strategy, and sheer will, featuring some of the biggest names in the industry all vying for the World Heavyweight Championship. Buckle up, because we're about to break down every thrilling moment.

Setting the Stage

The Elimination Chamber match at New Year's Revolution 2005 was set up with a compelling backstory. The reigning World Heavyweight Champion, Triple H, had to defend his title against five other top contenders: Randy Orton, Batista, Chris Benoit, Chris Jericho, and Edge. The animosity between these superstars was palpable, each with their own reasons for wanting to dethrone The Game. Randy Orton, fresh off his Evolution split, was looking to prove he could stand on his own. Batista, Triple H’s own stablemate, was on the cusp of breaking free and claiming his destiny. Chris Benoit and Chris Jericho, known for their technical prowess and relentless determination, were perennial contenders hungry for championship gold. And Edge, the Rated-R Superstar, was always looking for an opportunity to stir the pot and capitalize on any weakness.

The Participants

• Triple H (c): The Cerebral Assassin, always calculated and cunning, entered as the champion. His reign was marked by dominance and strategic alliances, primarily with Evolution. Entering as the champion, Triple H had a huge target on his back. Everyone in the chamber wanted to take down the king, and he knew he had to be at his absolute best to survive. His experience and ring IQ were key assets, but the odds were stacked against him.
• Randy Orton: The Legend Killer, young and ambitious, sought to cement his place as the face of WWE. Orton’s rivalry with Triple H had reached a fever pitch, making him a prime contender to walk out with the title. Freshly turned face, Randy Orton was riding a wave of momentum. His athleticism and natural talent made him a threat to anyone, and he had a score to settle with Triple H after being ousted from Evolution.
• Batista: The Animal, powerful and imposing, was on the verge of his main event breakthrough. His simmering tension with Triple H added an extra layer of intrigue to the match. Batista was the wildcard in this match. His immense strength and growing frustration with Triple H made him a dangerous opponent for everyone involved. The match was a crucial stepping stone in his journey to superstardom.
• Chris Benoit: The Rabid Wolverine, known for his technical skills and unyielding intensity, was a threat to anyone. Benoit’s determination and wrestling acumen made him a formidable opponent. Chris Benoit brought a level of intensity and technical skill that was unmatched. His crossface chicken wing was a submission hold that could end any match in an instant, and his relentless style made him a tough opponent to deal with.
• Chris Jericho: Y2J, the Ayatollah of Rock 'n' Rolla, brought his charisma and wrestling expertise to the Chamber. Jericho’s ability to adapt and innovate made him a constant threat. Chris Jericho, ever the showman, added a layer of unpredictability to the match. His innovative offense and ability to play mind games made him a dangerous opponent, and he was always looking for a way to steal the show.
• Edge: The Rated-R Superstar, always looking for an edge (pun intended), was ready to capitalize on any opportunity. Edge’s cunning and willingness to bend the rules made him a dark horse in the match. Edge, the ultimate opportunist, was always looking for an opening to exploit. His Rated-R Superstar persona meant he was willing to do whatever it took to win, and he wasn't afraid to push the boundaries of the rules.

The Match Unfolds

The match began with Chris Benoit and Chris Jericho locked inside the chamber, kicking off a technical masterclass. Their back-and-forth action showcased their incredible skills, setting a high bar for the rest of the competitors. Benoit's relentless aggression clashed with Jericho's strategic maneuvers, creating a compelling opening sequence. The intensity was palpable as both men tried to gain an early advantage.

Early Exchanges

Benoit and Jericho wasted no time in unleashing their arsenals. Chops, suplexes, and submission attempts filled the opening minutes, with neither man giving an inch. The steel chains of the chamber added a dangerous element, as both wrestlers used the environment to their advantage. The crowd was on the edge of their seats, captivated by the raw intensity of the battle.

The Entrants

As the clock ticked down, the tension in the arena grew. The first pod to open unleashed Triple H, who immediately targeted both Benoit and Jericho. His calculated attacks and strategic positioning allowed him to take control of the match. The Game's experience in high-pressure situations was evident as he methodically dismantled his opponents.

Next out was Edge, bringing his Rated-R Superstar tactics into play. He introduced weapons into the match, using chairs and the steel structure to inflict damage. Edge’s chaotic style added another layer of brutality to the contest, as he sought to exploit any weakness he could find.

Randy Orton was the fourth entrant, and he came in with a burst of energy. His rivalry with Triple H fueled his attacks, and he quickly became a major player in the match. Orton's agility and striking ability allowed him to take the fight to both Triple H and Edge, evening the odds.

Finally, Batista entered the fray, unleashing his raw power on everyone in sight. His imposing presence and devastating offense made him an immediate threat, and he quickly cleared the ring. Batista's dominance signaled a shift in the match, as he began to assert his dominance over the other competitors.

Eliminations and Turning Points

The first elimination came when Chris Benoit fell victim to Edge's cunning. A well-placed spear onto the steel grating sealed Benoit's fate, marking a significant moment in the match. Benoit's departure left the remaining competitors wary of Edge's opportunistic tactics.

Edge himself was soon eliminated after a brutal RKO from Randy Orton. Orton's quick thinking and explosive offense caught Edge off guard, sending him crashing out of the Chamber. The crowd erupted as Orton continued to build momentum.

Chris Jericho was the next to be eliminated, falling prey to Triple H's pedigree. The Game's calculated precision proved too much for Jericho to overcome, ending his night. Triple H's experience in the Elimination Chamber was clearly paying off.

The match then reached its climax as Randy Orton and Batista set their sights on Triple H. The two former Evolution members teamed up to take down their common enemy, leading to a series of intense exchanges. The tension was palpable as the crowd sensed a potential changing of the guard.

The Final Showdown

In the end, it came down to Triple H and Batista. The mentor and protégé faced off in a battle of strength and strategy. Triple H, weakened but determined, fought valiantly against Batista's overwhelming power. The crowd was on its feet, chanting and cheering as the two titans clashed.

After a grueling back-and-forth, Batista finally managed to hit the Batista Bomb on Triple H, securing the victory and the World Heavyweight Championship. The arena exploded as Batista stood tall, the new champion. This win marked the beginning of Batista's reign and solidified his status as a top-tier superstar.

The Aftermath

Batista's victory at New Year's Revolution 2005 was a pivotal moment in his career. It set the stage for his main event run and his eventual departure from Evolution. The tension between Batista and Triple H had been building for months, and this win was the culmination of that storyline.

The match itself was a testament to the brutality and excitement of the Elimination Chamber concept. The combination of steel, glass, and high-impact moves created a spectacle that fans would remember for years to come. The match also showcased the talents of all six participants, each of whom played a crucial role in the overall narrative.

Impact on WWE

Batista's win had a ripple effect throughout WWE. It led to a highly anticipated feud with Triple H, culminating in a series of memorable matches. The victory also solidified Batista's position as a top draw, paving the way for future championship reigns and main event appearances.

The Elimination Chamber match itself continued to be a staple of WWE programming, with each iteration adding its own unique twists and turns. The concept remained popular due to its inherent drama and the opportunity for unexpected outcomes.

Final Thoughts

The Elimination Chamber match from New Year's Revolution 2005 remains a classic example of what makes wrestling so captivating. The blend of athleticism, storytelling, and sheer brutality created a memorable spectacle that stands the test of time. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the sport, this match is definitely worth revisiting.

So, there you have it, guys! A deep dive into the Elimination Chamber 2005. What are your favorite moments from this match? Let me know in the comments below!