WrestleMania 21, held on April 3, 2005, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, was a landmark event in WWE history. Before the main show began, fans in attendance were treated to an exciting and chaotic Pre-Show Battle Royal, a tradition designed to give numerous WWE superstars a chance to shine on the grandest stage of them all. While the main card focused on major marquee matchups, this battle royal served as an opportunity for mid-carders and rising talents to make an impact.
As the pre-show kicked off, the Staples Center buzzed with anticipation. The ring was packed with over 20 superstars, each vying for a victory that, while unofficial in WrestleMania history books, carried significant momentum for the winner’s career. Competitors included veterans, up-and-coming talents, and fan favorites from both RAW and SmackDown, making the match an unpredictable free-for-all.
The battle royal adhered to the standard over-the-top-rope elimination rules: a superstar had to be thrown over the top rope with both feet touching the floor to be eliminated. The match began with an all-out brawl, as alliances formed and dissolved in mere moments. Powerhouses like Kane and Mark Henry dominated early, sending multiple opponents over the top rope with sheer strength. Meanwhile, technical wrestlers such as William Regal and Charlie Haas strategically picked their moments, attempting to survive the mayhem.
The action was intense, with high-flying superstars like Paul London and Funaki showcasing their agility to evade elimination. In contrast, veterans like Hardcore Holly and Val Venis relied on experience and ring awareness to avoid being thrown out. A dramatic moment occurred when The Big Show, a clear favorite, was targeted by a group of superstars who managed to topple the giant over the ropes after a collective effort, stunning the crowd.
As the match dwindled down to the final four competitors, the atmosphere grew even more electric. The remaining superstars—Booker T, Chris Masters, Rob Van Dam, and Carlito—each had a legitimate chance to win. Carlito attempted to use underhanded tactics, raking eyes and holding onto the ropes for dear life. Masters, known for his strength and the devastating Master Lock, overpowered opponents but was eventually caught off guard by a well-timed Van Daminator from RVD, sending him over the top rope.
The final three showcased a thrilling mix of experience and athleticism. Booker T delivered a signature Spinaroonie to a loud ovation before eliminating Carlito, leaving him and RVD as the last two competitors. A fast-paced sequence followed, with both men exchanging near-eliminations. Van Dam, looking to cap off his return from injury with a win, went for a flying kick, but Booker dodged and used his veteran instincts to leverage Van Dam over the top rope, winning the match.
Booker T celebrated his victory, a well-earned triumph that set the stage for a promising year ahead. While this battle royal wasn’t part of the official WrestleMania 21 card, it thrilled the fans and provided an exciting prelude to an unforgettable night of wrestling action.
