Elimination Chamber 2024 served as the final crescendo on The Road to WrestleMania 40, featuring unforgettable moments and brutal encounters within the steel structure. Despite the excitement surrounding the event, there were several missteps that left fans wanting more. Let’s dissect four mistakes made by the company during this premium live event.
- Limited Match Card
One glaring disappointment of Elimination Chamber 2024 was the limited number of matches on the card. With only five matches, including the Women’s Tag Team Championship bout on the Kickoff show, many superstars were left without a chance to shine. Notable names like Shinsuke Nakamura and Bayley were notably absent, depriving fans of potentially captivating showdowns.
- Lack of Surprise in The Grayson Waller Effect
The Grayson Waller Effect segment generated immense hype and anticipation among fans, with many speculating about potential surprises, including a rumored appearance by The Rock. As anticipation reached a fever pitch, fans eagerly awaited the moment, hoping for an unexpected twist that would leave them stunned and exhilarated. However, despite the lofty expectations, the segment concluded in a rather predictable fashion, leaving many feeling underwhelmed.
The lack of surprises and the absence of any unexpected twists dampened the excitement surrounding the segment. Fans had built up anticipation for a potential showdown or surprise appearance, only to be met with a conclusion that failed to deliver on the heightened expectations.
In particular, the segment’s conclusion, featuring Cody Rhodes challenging The Rock, felt like a missed opportunity to introduce a truly unexpected twist or shake things up in a way that would have left fans buzzing with excitement. Instead, it followed a more conventional path, leaving fans disappointed by the lack of creativity and surprise.
While the Grayson Waller Effect segment may have fallen short of delivering the unexpected twist fans were hoping for, it serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional wrestling and the inherent risks involved in building anticipation to such high levels.
- Predictable Match Results
While Elimination Chamber 2024 delivered thrilling in-ring action, the predictability of match outcomes detracted from the excitement. The momentum of Drew McIntyre and Becky Lynch’s recent interactions on RAW foreshadowed their victories in their respective Chamber matches. Predictable results can dampen the excitement and hinder the element of surprise crucial to captivating storytelling.
- Men’s Chamber Match Not Main-Eventing
The Men’s Elimination Chamber match at the PLE undoubtedly delivered a high level of quality and excitement, featuring compelling narratives and unexpected twists that captivated audiences. However, despite its merits, it failed to secure the main-event spot, which was instead occupied by the Women’s Championship bout.
One rationale for the Women’s Championship bout main-eventing could be attributed to Rhea Ripley’s hometown advantage. Ripley’s connection to the local audience and her status as a beloved hometown hero may have justified her match receiving top billing, creating a memorable moment for both Ripley and her fans.
That said, the decision to have the Women’s Championship bout main-event may have overshadowed the Men’s Elimination Chamber match, which offered its own unique storyline and thrilling action. The men competing in the Chamber match likely had their own compelling narratives, with rivalries, alliances, and individual quests for championship glory intertwining within the unforgiving steel structure.
Ultimately, while the Women’s Championship bout may have rightfully earned its place as the main event, the Men’s Elimination Chamber match should not be overlooked or discounted. Its quality, excitement, and unexpected twists still made it a significant and memorable part of the PLE, even if it didn’t close out the event.
While Elimination Chamber 2024 delivered memorable moments and intense competition, these mistakes highlight areas where the company could have improved the overall viewing experience for fans, ensuring a more captivating and unpredictable showcase of talent.