WWE Fastlane 2021: Matches, Results, And Highlights

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WWE Fastlane 2021: A Night of Unexpected Turns and Championship Battles

Hey wrestling fans! Let's rewind the clock and dive headfirst into WWE Fastlane 2021, a pay-per-view event that packed a punch with its surprising twists, captivating matches, and championship drama. Held on March 21, 2021, at the WWE ThunderDome (hosted at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida), Fastlane served as the final stop on the road to WrestleMania 37. Get ready to relive the excitement, as we break down the key moments, match results, and lasting impact of this memorable night. Fastlane 2021 was a rollercoaster of emotions, with its fair share of shockers and stellar performances that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The event was streamed live on the WWE Network, giving wrestling enthusiasts around the world a front-row seat to all the action. From unexpected alliances to intense rivalries reaching their boiling points, Fastlane 2021 set the stage for some significant storylines heading into WrestleMania. So, buckle up, grab your favorite snacks, and let's journey back to the electrifying atmosphere of Fastlane 2021!

The Build-Up: Setting the Stage for Fastlane 2021

Leading up to WWE Fastlane 2021, the storylines were simmering, with several feuds reaching a fever pitch. One of the most prominent was the clash between Roman Reigns, the reigning Universal Champion, and his challenger, Daniel Bryan. Their rivalry was fueled by Bryan's determination to reclaim the Universal Championship and Reigns' relentless dominance. The dynamics between Reigns, his special counsel Paul Heyman, and Jey Uso added layers of intrigue and tension. Another major storyline involved the Women's division, with Sasha Banks defending her SmackDown Women's Championship against Nia Jax. The build-up included heated verbal exchanges, physical altercations, and the ever-present question of whether Banks could overcome Jax's power and aggression. The Intercontinental Championship picture was also heating up, with Big E putting his title on the line against Apollo Crews. Crews, who had undergone a character transformation, aimed to prove himself against the champion. And of course, the ever-entertaining saga of Alexa Bliss and Randy Orton continued to unfold, adding a supernatural element to the event's card. Their feud, marked by mind games and bizarre occurrences, kept fans guessing what would happen next. The weeks leading up to Fastlane were filled with anticipation and speculation, as the WWE Universe eagerly awaited the resolutions of these compelling stories. The creative team did a fantastic job of keeping audiences engaged and invested in the various rivalries, ensuring that the pay-per-view had the potential to deliver unforgettable moments. The anticipation built over several weeks, with each episode of Raw and SmackDown adding fuel to the fire. The stage was well and truly set for a memorable night.

Exploring the Key Match Card of Fastlane 2021

The match card for WWE Fastlane 2021 was a mix of championship battles and personal grudges, promising a night of diverse wrestling action. Let's delve into some of the most anticipated matches:

  • Roman Reigns (c) vs. Daniel Bryan (for the WWE Universal Championship): This match was arguably the most significant of the night. Daniel Bryan, one of the most beloved wrestlers of the modern era, sought to dethrone Roman Reigns, who had firmly established himself as a dominant champion. The match's outcome had huge implications for the road to WrestleMania.
  • Sasha Banks (c) vs. Nia Jax (for the SmackDown Women's Championship): Sasha Banks defended her title against the formidable Nia Jax. Jax's sheer power and size posed a significant challenge for Banks, creating a compelling David vs. Goliath narrative. The championship was at stake and the wrestling universe was anxious.
  • Big E (c) vs. Apollo Crews (for the WWE Intercontinental Championship): Big E, known for his charisma and in-ring prowess, faced a newly aggressive Apollo Crews. Crews' character transformation and his desire to capture the Intercontinental Championship made this match a must-see. The match was a display of strength and strategy.
  • Randy Orton vs. Alexa Bliss: This feud took a supernatural turn with a mix of mind games and the involvement of The Fiend. The match promised to be a unique spectacle, given the unusual nature of their rivalry. The anticipation for this match was high due to the unpredictable nature of the storyline.
  • Other Notable Matches: The event also included matches like Shayna Baszler and **Nia Jax (c) vs. Natalya and Tamina (for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship), and Drew McIntyre vs. Sheamus in a No Disqualification match. These matches added more depth to the card, offering a variety of wrestling styles and further developing ongoing storylines.

The Main Events: Match Results and Unexpected Outcomes

The Universal Championship Showdown

The main event, featuring Roman Reigns defending his Universal Championship against Daniel Bryan, was an absolute spectacle of wrestling. The match showcased both wrestlers' exceptional skills and storytelling abilities. It was a back-and-forth contest, filled with near falls and intense moments. After a grueling battle, Reigns initially retained the title with the assistance of Edge, who was the special enforcer for the match. However, the drama didn't end there. Edge, having earned his WrestleMania title opportunity, had a stare-down with Reigns. This led to a rematch, where Reigns defeated Daniel Bryan again, solidifying his status as champion and setting up a triple threat match between Reigns, Edge, and Daniel Bryan for the WrestleMania main event. The match was a testament to both wrestlers' talent, delivering a high-quality performance that resonated with fans.

SmackDown Women's Championship Clash

In the SmackDown Women's Championship match, Sasha Banks defended her title against Nia Jax. The match was a hard-hitting affair, with both women showcasing their strength and determination. Despite a valiant effort, Banks lost the title to Jax. This outcome surprised many fans, as Banks had been a dominant champion. The match was a showcase of power versus finesse.

Intercontinental Championship Battle

Big E put his Intercontinental Championship on the line against the revitalized Apollo Crews. The match was a display of athleticism and raw power. Crews ultimately defeated Big E, capturing the championship. This victory marked a significant moment for Crews, solidifying his character transformation and cementing his place as a top contender. The match was a showcase of athletic prowess from both competitors.

Orton vs. Bliss: A Supernatural Encounter

The match between Randy Orton and Alexa Bliss was as bizarre as anticipated, with a blend of in-ring action and supernatural elements. Bliss emerged victorious in the match, furthering their unique rivalry. This was one of the most talked-about moments of the night.

Fastlane 2021: Analyzing the Impact and Legacy

WWE Fastlane 2021 served as a pivotal point on the road to WrestleMania 37, shaping the storylines and setting the stage for some of the biggest matches of the year. The event's unexpected outcomes, such as Sasha Banks losing her title and Apollo Crews winning the Intercontinental Championship, created ripples throughout the WWE landscape. These surprises added excitement and anticipation, keeping fans guessing about what would happen next. The event's success in terms of building momentum and generating buzz cannot be overstated. Fastlane 2021 was a night that was all about paving the way for the grandest stage of them all. The main event was a particular highlight, with its twists and turns leading to a triple threat match at WrestleMania. The show's influence extended beyond the immediate storylines, with several matches having a lasting impact on the careers of the wrestlers involved. The event also highlighted the storytelling capabilities of WWE, showcasing its ability to weave complex narratives that resonate with audiences. Overall, Fastlane 2021 was a successful pay-per-view, delivering memorable moments and setting the tone for the upcoming WrestleMania. The event's legacy continues to be felt in the WWE world, with some storylines and feuds still referenced today. The card was crafted in a way to keep fans invested.

WrestleMania 37 Implications

WWE Fastlane 2021 heavily influenced the matches at WrestleMania 37, which added to the overall appeal of the show. The main event of Fastlane resulted in a triple threat match for the Universal Championship at WrestleMania, featuring Roman Reigns, Edge, and Daniel Bryan. This was arguably the most significant outcome of Fastlane, as it set up a highly anticipated main event. Other matches and storylines were directly affected by the events of Fastlane. The outcomes of several matches at Fastlane determined the direction of the championships and feuds going into WrestleMania. The event helped to provide a clear picture of the upcoming matches and storylines that the fans would be invested in.

The Most Memorable Moments of Fastlane 2021

WWE Fastlane 2021 was packed with memorable moments that kept fans talking long after the show ended. Several moments stood out:

  • The Main Event Twist: The ending of the Universal Championship match, with Edge's involvement, was a major talking point. It added a layer of uncertainty and drama to the WrestleMania main event.
  • Apollo Crews' Victory: Apollo Crews' victory over Big E was a significant moment. It marked a turning point in his career and provided a feel-good moment. This match made him a star.
  • Sasha Banks' Loss: Sasha Banks losing the title was a shock for many fans, and the result definitely changed the landscape of the women's division. The surprise factor made the show memorable.
  • The Orton-Bliss Saga: The bizarre nature of the Orton-Bliss match kept everyone entertained. The match was full of unexpected twists and turns. The spectacle of the match made it unforgettable.

Conclusion: Fastlane 2021 – A Night to Remember

In conclusion, WWE Fastlane 2021 was a successful and memorable pay-per-view event that delivered on its promise of thrilling action and unexpected twists. The event played a crucial role in building anticipation for WrestleMania 37, leaving a lasting impact on the WWE landscape. The main event drama, title changes, and unique matches made Fastlane 2021 a must-watch for wrestling fans. The event provided high-quality wrestling action, while the show will be remembered for its surprises. Overall, Fastlane 2021 was an exciting and significant event in the wrestling calendar.