The revival of WWE's iconic Saturday Night's Main Event on December 14, 2024, brought fans back to the nostalgia of wrestling's golden era. Held at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, this event reignited memories of classic matches and familiar faces, showcasing contemporary talent with the spirit of the past.
With four championship matches on the card and guest commentary from Jesse "The Body" Ventura, the show packed excitement for the viewers. The Undisputed WWE Championship match saw Cody Rhodes defend his title against Kevin Owens, setting the stage for high drama mixed with old-school flair.
The first contest featured Drew McIntyre and Sami Zayn. Zayn initiated the fight before the bell, establishing immediate tension with his aggressive start, including impressive aerial maneuvers. Nevertheless, McIntyre's experience and resilience shone through as he executed his signature Claymore for the win, demonstrating his prowess as he climbs the ranks.
Next came the Women’s World Championship clash between Liv Morgan and Iyo Sky. Morgan managed to retain her title following intensely competitive exchanges. Both women exhibited impressive athleticism, with Morgan hitting her finishing move, Oblivion, to secure the victory. Tension mounted post-match as Rhea Ripley confronted Morgan, hinting at future confrontations.
Then, the spotlight moved to the World Heavyweight Championship triple threat match featuring Gunther, Damian Priest, and Finn Balor. The momentum fluctuated among all competitors, culminating with Gunther delivering hard-hitting offense and resilient counters to retain his title. Gunther, needing to regain his dominant form after previous challenges, executed impeccable maneuvers to emerge victorious, solidifying his status as champion.
History was made with the debut of the Women's United States Championship. Chelsea Green faced Michin for the honor. After back-and-forth exchanges and interference from Piper Niven, Green secured the win to become the inaugural champion. This victory marked a significant milestone for Green after facing various setbacks throughout 2024.
Finally, the event culminated with the main event: Cody Rhodes defending the Undisputed WWE Championship against Kevin Owens. Clad in the historical Winged Eagle championship belt, Rhodes showcased his wrestling grit throughout the match. Owens seemed to gain the upper hand at times, but the complexity of the match unfolded as both men engaged intensely. A series of referee bumps and strategic chair use led to Rhodes retaining his title, albeit with some controversy gripping the result. Rhodes’ tactics have stirred debate among fans, shaping his character as he balances between hero and anti-hero.
This revival of Saturday Night's Main Event not only provided thrilling matches but also celebrated wrestling history through its presentation and match cards. The night's blend of nostalgia and high-stakes competition excited fans, establishing its place as pivotal for WWE. With the stories and rivalries weaving through this event, the anticipation for future broadcasts continues to grow, promising more compelling narratives and thrilling action from WWE.