WrestleMania stands as WWE’s premier event, drawing fans globally. This year, the spectacle will unfold on April 18 and April 19 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Headlining Night One will be Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton, while CM Punk vs. Roman Reigns will take center stage on Night Two.
Throughout the years, The Showcase of Immortals has served as the climax for numerous high-profile storylines, meticulously built over various durations. Some narratives have captivated audiences, while others have not met expectations.
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Memorable storylines such as Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. The Rock, Cody Rhodes vs. Roman Reigns, and Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker are forever part of WWE lore, known for delivering outstanding matches after intense build-ups. However, certain high-profile feuds that initially appeared promising have ultimately let fans down.
This article examines four thrilling WWE WrestleMania storylines that ultimately fell flat.
Brock Lesnar vs. Dean Ambrose at WrestleMania 32
The feud between Brock Lesnar and Dean Ambrose began when Ambrose interfered in Lesnar’s match against Roman Reigns at Fastlane 2016. In retaliation, Lesnar launched a brutal assault on Ambrose, leading to Ambrose’s hospitalization.
Paul Heyman, representing Lesnar, issued an open challenge for WrestleMania 32 on RAW. In a dramatic twist, Ambrose returned via ambulance to accept the challenge, setting up a No Holds Barred Match against Lesnar at the event.
In the weeks leading up to the match, Mick Foley and Terry Funk made appearances, gifting Ambrose a barbed wire-wrapped bat and a chainsaw. With these legendary figures involved, expectations were high for this showdown. Fans were eager to see Ambrose and Lesnar showcase their unique styles on the grand stage.
Despite the exciting build-up, the match between Lesnar and Ambrose did not meet expectations. While kendo sticks, steel chairs, and a barbed wire bat were used, the match lacked memorable moments. Ambrose’s attempt to use the chainsaw failed, and the overall chemistry between the two was lacking, resulting in a disappointing storyline.
Randy Orton vs. Triple H at WrestleMania 25
Randy Orton secured a world title shot at WrestleMania 25 by winning the 2009 Men’s Royal Rumble Match. Known for being a ruthless heel, Orton targeted Vince and Shane McMahon before delivering an RKO to Stephanie McMahon, Triple H’s wife.
Enraged by Orton’s actions, Triple H convinced Orton to face him at WrestleMania. The feud escalated when Triple H invaded Orton’s home, leading to a brawl where Triple H threw Orton out of a window, creating a memorable moment for the PG Era.
Despite the personal nature of the feud, WWE opted for a standard one-on-one match instead of a No Holds Barred Match. This decision limited the potential of the match, which, combined with its slow pace, left viewers disappointed. Following the legendary Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker match didn’t help either.
Bray Wyatt vs. Randy Orton at WrestleMania 33
In 2017, Randy Orton won the Men’s Royal Rumble Match again. Meanwhile, Bray Wyatt claimed the WWE Championship at Elimination Chamber. To avoid tension within The Wyatt Family, Orton relinquished his title shot.
A contender’s match was set between AJ Styles and Luke Harper to face Wyatt. Styles emerged victorious, but Orton had other plans. He betrayed Wyatt and set fire to the Wyatt Family compound.
Orton then defeated Styles to reclaim his shot at WrestleMania. The storyline, filled with betrayal and supernatural elements, generated significant hype. However, the match fell short as Orton quickly defeated Wyatt, and the supernatural elements hindered the match’s flow. Fans were also unhappy with the abrupt end to Wyatt’s title reign.
Randy Orton vs. Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 42
The rivalry between Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes is unique as the two have not yet faced off at WrestleMania. They are set to clash next Saturday at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. The storyline initially held great promise, but recent developments have reportedly tarnished it.
Orton and Rhodes share a rich history, with Orton mentoring Rhodes during their time in The Legacy. Upon Rhodes’ return to WWE, Orton helped him in various battles. However, the dynamics shifted when Orton betrayed Rhodes on the Road to WrestleMania 42.
Orton, after winning the 2026 Men’s Elimination Chamber Match, turned against Rhodes in pursuit of his 15th WWE World Title. He later teamed up with Pat McAfee in a joint effort to “save” pro wrestling.
McAfee’s involvement drastically altered the storyline. Fans anticipated a clash between two iconic superstars over the Undisputed WWE Champion, but McAfee’s return shifted the narrative to TKO vs. Cody Rhodes. The storyline’s potential was undermined by McAfee’s inclusion, as he had no apparent reason to side with Orton, and was not an active WWE superstar. As a result, the narrative faltered before the match could take place.
Edited by Pratik Singh
