WrestleMania 36 Highlights: Top Moments & Biggest Surprises

WrestleMania 36, a unique and unforgettable event, took place on April 4 and 5, 2020, at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida. Broadcasted without a live audience due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it presented a surreal yet captivating experience for wrestling fans worldwide. This unusual setting didn't stop the Superstars from delivering memorable moments and matches. Let's dive into some of the most thrilling highlights that defined this historic WrestleMania. From shocking upsets to cinematic masterpieces, WrestleMania 36 had it all. This event proved that even in the face of unprecedented challenges, the spirit of WWE and its performers could shine brightly, offering fans an escape and entertainment when they needed it most. The dedication and creativity displayed during this time set a new standard for wrestling events, proving that the show could indeed go on, no matter the circumstances. WrestleMania 36 will forever be remembered not only for its matches but for the resilience and adaptability it demonstrated in the face of adversity, marking a unique chapter in the history of professional wrestling. The innovations and adjustments made during this event have had a lasting impact on how wrestling events are produced and consumed, influencing the industry for years to come. So, buckle up as we explore the defining moments of this extraordinary event.

The Boneyard Match: The Undertaker vs. AJ Styles

The Boneyard Match between The Undertaker and AJ Styles was a cinematic masterpiece that stole the show. This innovative match took place in a graveyard setting, blending wrestling with movie-like storytelling. The Undertaker, in his "American Badass" persona, faced off against AJ Styles in a no-disqualification, falls count anywhere brawl. The match was filled with dramatic visuals, including tombstones, fire, and even supernatural elements. The Undertaker's entrance was particularly epic, with him riding a motorcycle and exuding an aura of intimidation. AJ Styles, known for his in-ring prowess, played the perfect foil to The Undertaker, using his agility and cunning to try and gain an advantage. The match featured several memorable spots, including AJ Styles being thrown off a roof and The Undertaker rising from the grave. Ultimately, The Undertaker emerged victorious, burying AJ Styles alive to secure the win. The Boneyard Match was widely praised for its creativity and cinematic quality. It offered a refreshing departure from traditional wrestling matches and showcased the potential for storytelling in WWE. This match not only provided a fitting tribute to The Undertaker's legendary career but also demonstrated WWE's ability to adapt and innovate in challenging circumstances. The Boneyard Match set a new standard for cinematic matches in wrestling, influencing future events and inspiring other promotions to experiment with similar formats. The Undertaker's performance in this match was particularly poignant, as it allowed him to showcase a different side of his character and connect with fans in a new and meaningful way. This match remains a highlight of WrestleMania 36 and a testament to the power of storytelling in professional wrestling.

"Firefly Fun House" Match: John Cena vs. Bray Wyatt

The "Firefly Fun House" Match between John Cena and Bray Wyatt was another example of WWE's willingness to experiment with unconventional formats. This match was less about wrestling and more about psychological warfare, taking place entirely within the twisted world of Bray Wyatt's Firefly Fun House. The match took viewers on a surreal journey through John Cena's career, revisiting his past failures and insecurities. Bray Wyatt used puppets and video packages to mock Cena and expose his vulnerabilities. The match featured several bizarre and unsettling moments, including Cena appearing in his "Doctor of Thuganomics" persona and being confronted by his past mistakes. The match culminated in Bray Wyatt defeating John Cena, symbolically erasing Cena from WWE history. The "Firefly Fun House" Match was polarizing among fans, with some praising its creativity and psychological depth, while others found it confusing and unsatisfying. However, it was undeniably a unique and memorable moment in WrestleMania history. This match pushed the boundaries of what a wrestling match could be, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. It also provided a platform for Bray Wyatt to showcase his creative genius and establish himself as one of WWE's most innovative performers. The match's impact extended beyond the ring, sparking conversations and debates about the nature of storytelling in wrestling and the role of psychological elements in matches. Ultimately, the "Firefly Fun House" Match was a bold and ambitious experiment that left a lasting impression on the wrestling world.

Goldberg vs. Braun Strowman for the Universal Championship

In a last-minute change, Braun Strowman replaced Roman Reigns to face Goldberg for the Universal Championship. This match was a classic David vs. Goliath encounter, pitting the powerful Strowman against the veteran Goldberg. The match was short and intense, with Goldberg delivering several spears to Strowman. However, Strowman was able to withstand the onslaught and eventually hit Goldberg with multiple powerslams to win the Universal Championship. The victory marked Strowman's first world title win in WWE. While the match itself was brief, it was a significant moment for Strowman, who had been a consistent performer for years. His championship win was a reward for his hard work and dedication. The match also highlighted Goldberg's willingness to put over younger talent and help elevate them to the next level. The circumstances surrounding the match, with Strowman replacing Reigns at the last minute, added an element of unpredictability to WrestleMania 36. The match may not have been a technical masterpiece, but it was a memorable moment for Strowman and a testament to the ever-changing landscape of WWE. The win propelled Strowman into the main event scene and established him as a credible threat to any opponent. This title reign allowed Strowman to further develop his character and showcase his abilities as a top-tier performer in WWE.

Charlotte Flair vs. Rhea Ripley for the NXT Women's Championship

Charlotte Flair challenged Rhea Ripley for the NXT Women's Championship in what was arguably the best traditional wrestling match of WrestleMania 36. This match was a clash of styles, with Flair's technical prowess pitted against Ripley's raw power and aggression. The match was filled with hard-hitting moves and near falls, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Flair targeted Ripley's leg throughout the match, weakening her and setting her up for the Figure Eight Leglock. Ultimately, Flair was able to lock in the Figure Eight and force Ripley to submit, winning the NXT Women's Championship for the second time. The victory solidified Flair's status as one of the greatest female wrestlers of all time. The match also showcased Ripley's potential as a future star. Despite the loss, Ripley put on a strong performance and proved that she could hang with the best in the world. The match was praised for its technical excellence and compelling storytelling. It was a reminder that traditional wrestling matches could still deliver excitement and drama. Charlotte Flair's win not only added another championship to her already impressive resume but also elevated the prestige of the NXT Women's Championship. This match remains a standout moment from WrestleMania 36, highlighting the skill and athleticism of both Flair and Ripley.

Other Notable Moments

Besides the matches highlighted above, WrestleMania 36 had other notable moments that added to its uniqueness. Kevin Owens and Seth Rollins had a brutal and personal match, culminating in Owens defeating Rollins in a No Disqualification match. This victory was particularly satisfying for Owens, who had been feuding with Rollins for months. Elias and King Corbin also had a brief but entertaining match, with Elias picking up the win. The Miz and John Morrison defended the SmackDown Tag Team Championships against The New Day and The Usos in a Triple Threat Ladder Match. This match was filled with high-flying spots and near misses, keeping fans entertained. While WrestleMania 36 may have been different from previous years, it was still a memorable event filled with exciting moments and surprising outcomes. The wrestlers and staff involved deserve credit for putting on a great show under difficult circumstances. The event showcased the resilience and adaptability of WWE, proving that it could continue to entertain fans even in the face of unprecedented challenges. WrestleMania 36 will forever be remembered as a unique and historic event in the annals of professional wrestling. The creativity and innovation displayed during this event have had a lasting impact on the industry, influencing future events and inspiring other promotions to experiment with new formats and approaches. These other matches and moments, though perhaps not as heavily spotlighted, contributed to the overall atmosphere and excitement of WrestleMania 36, making it a truly unforgettable experience for fans around the world.