The Elimination Chamber match at SummerSlam 2003 was a brutal and historic contest for the World Heavyweight Championship, featuring six of WWE’s top superstars locked inside a steel structure designed for destruction. The match took place on August 24, 2003, in Phoenix, Arizona, at the America West Arena. This marked only the second Elimination Chamber match in WWE history, following its debut at Survivor Series 2002. The participants in this grueling battle were Triple H (the reigning champion), Goldberg, Chris Jericho, Shawn Michaels, Kevin Nash, and Randy Orton.
The Structure and Rules
The Elimination Chamber is a massive steel structure enclosing the ring, with four glass pods housing individual competitors. The match starts with two superstars in the ring, while the remaining four are locked in the pods. Every five minutes, a pod is randomly opened, releasing another competitor. Elimination occurs via pinfall or submission, and the last remaining superstar is declared the World Heavyweight Champion.
The Match Begins
The match kicked off with Chris Jericho and Shawn Michaels, two of the most technically gifted wrestlers in WWE history. The two engaged in a fast-paced exchange of holds, counter-moves, and high-impact maneuvers. Their long-standing rivalry added intensity to the opening minutes, setting the tone for the match.
The first pod to open released Randy Orton, the youngest and least experienced competitor in the match. Despite this, Orton showcased his athleticism and arrogance, proving he belonged among the elite. He targeted both Jericho and Michaels, looking for an early advantage.
Kevin Nash Enters
Next, Kevin Nash entered the fray, bringing raw power and brute force. He dominated the competition, using his size and strength to wear down his opponents. However, his time in the match was short-lived. Shawn Michaels, his former friend and rival, caught him with a superkick, and Chris Jericho capitalized by pinning Nash, making him the first elimination of the match.
Triple H’s Arrival and Goldberg’s Destruction
The reigning World Heavyweight Champion, Triple H, was released next but was already at a disadvantage, having suffered a serious throat injury prior to the match. He played a strategic game, staying out of the way while others battled.
Finally, the most dominant force in the match, Goldberg, was unleashed from his pod. The crowd erupted as he bulldozed through the competition, eliminating Randy Orton with a Spear and Jackhammer, followed by Chris Jericho and Shawn Michaels in quick succession. The match had transformed into a one-on-one showdown between Goldberg and Triple H.
The Finish
Goldberg had Triple H in his sights, but before he could land the final blow, Ric Flair and Evolution interfered, handing a sledgehammer to Triple H. With a well-timed strike, Triple H pinned Goldberg, retaining his championship in controversial fashion.
This match showcased carnage, betrayal, and resilience, solidifying Triple H’s legacy while setting the stage for an intense feud between him and Goldberg.
