At Royal Rumble 2008, Edge defended his World Heavyweight Championship against Rey Mysterio in a high-stakes showdown. This match had personal stakes, as Edge, the ultimate opportunist, had been using underhanded tactics to maintain his championship reign, often aided by his faction, La Familia, including his then-girlfriend Vickie Guerrero, Chavo Guerrero, and the Edgeheads (Curt Hawkins & Zack Ryder).
Rey Mysterio, the high-flying underdog, was determined to reclaim the World Heavyweight Championship he once held, despite the numbers game being stacked against him.
From the opening bell, Mysterio used his lightning-fast offense to keep Edge off balance, delivering a series of kicks and aerial maneuvers. The challenger’s speed gave him the early advantage, as he countered Edge’s power with quick counters and hurricanranas. However, the champion was as crafty as ever, slowing the pace with technical holds and targeting Mysterio’s surgically repaired knee.
As the match progressed, Edge’s allies at ringside played a crucial role. Vickie Guerrero, acting as the SmackDown General Manager, constantly distracted the referee, allowing Edge to take advantage. The interference continued as the Edgeheads attempted to get involved, but Mysterio fought them off with his signature resilience.
The turning point of the match came when Mysterio set up Edge for the 619, but Vickie Guerrero stepped into harm’s way, shielding her fiancé. This hesitation allowed Edge to recover, and as Mysterio leaped for a springboard attack, Edge caught him mid-air with a devastating spear, securing the three-count to retain his World Heavyweight Championship.
Despite the loss, Mysterio’s performance showcased his heart and determination, while Edge once again proved why he was one of WWE’s most cunning champions. The victory further solidified Edge’s reign, but controversy continued to surround his championship run, leading to more heated rivalries in the months to come.
The match at Royal Rumble 2008 was a prime example of classic storytelling—Mysterio, the valiant underdog, fighting against the odds, and Edge, the opportunistic villain, using every trick in the book to remain on top.
