The Universal Title No Disqualification Match between Kevin Owens and Roman Reigns at the Royal Rumble 2017 was a brutal and chaotic encounter that exemplified the high stakes and drama of WWE’s biggest championship bouts. Owens, the reigning Universal Champion, was determined to prove his dominance, while Reigns sought to reclaim championship gold and solidify his place as a top contender on the road to WrestleMania.
With the added stipulation of No Disqualification, anything and everything was legal, which guaranteed mayhem from the outset. Chris Jericho, Owens’ best friend and ally, played a significant role in the buildup but was suspended high above the ring in a shark cage to ensure a fair contest—or so it seemed.
The match began with both men trading heavy blows, showcasing their raw power and determination. Reigns utilized his powerhouse style, landing a series of Superman Punches and thunderous clotheslines, while Owens relied on his cunning and brawling ability, incorporating steel chairs and other weapons into his offense.
The No Disqualification stipulation allowed the Superstars to push the boundaries. Owens delivered a jaw-dropping Frog Splash onto Reigns through a table outside the ring, leaving both men writhing in pain. Reigns answered back by powerbombing Owens through the announce table, drawing a massive reaction from the crowd.
Despite being confined to the shark cage, Jericho still made his presence felt. At a critical moment, he dropped brass knuckles into the ring, which Owens used to deliver a crushing Superman Punch to Reigns. However, the challenger kicked out, refusing to be denied.
As the match reached its climax, Braun Strowman made a shocking appearance, interfering on Owens’ behalf. The Monster Among Men assaulted Reigns, slamming him through a table in a jaw-dropping display of power. The interference allowed Owens to capitalize, crawling to pin Reigns and retain the Universal Championship.
This hard-hitting encounter remains a highlight of the Royal Rumble 2017. It showcased Owens’ resourcefulness, Reigns’ resilience, and the unpredictability of WWE storytelling, leaving fans buzzing with anticipation for what lay ahead on the road to WrestleMania.
