Revision as of 18:05, 9 June 2008 edit86.168.98.62 (talk) →Results← Previous edit | Latest revision as of 09:25, 20 December 2024 edit undo5.215.127.217 (talk) →Results | ||
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{{short description|2008 World Wrestling Entertainment pay-per-view event}} | |||
{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2021}} | |||
{{Infobox Wrestling event | {{Infobox Wrestling event | ||
|name=WrestleMania XXIV | |name = WrestleMania XXIV | ||
|image= |
|image = WrestleManiaXXIV.jpg | ||
|alt = | |||
|promotion=] | |||
|caption = Promotional poster featuring various WWE wrestlers and boxer ] | |||
|brand=]<br>]<br>] | |||
|tagline = "The Biggest WrestleMania Under the Sun"<ref name="WrestleMania XXIV Tagline">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/planwrestlemania24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070705173523/http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/planwrestlemania24|archive-date=July 5, 2007|title=WrestleMania 24 Tagline|publisher=]|access-date=June 27, 2007}}</ref> | |||
|date=] ] | |||
|promotion = ] | |||
|city=] | |||
|brand = ]<br />]<br />] | |||
|venue=] | |||
|date = March 30, 2008 | |||
|attendance=74,635 | |||
|city = ] | |||
|lastevent=] | |||
|venue = ] | |||
|nextevent=] | |||
|attendance = 74,635<ref name="PWH">{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/supercards/usa/wwf/mania.html#24|title=WrestleMania 24 at Pro Wrestling History results|access-date=September 26, 2008|publisher=Pro Wrestling History|archive-date=September 10, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190910025120/http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/supercards/usa/wwf/mania.html#24|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|event=] | |||
|buyrate = 1,041,000<ref>{{cite web|url=https://wrestlenomics.com/resources/wwe-pay-per-view-buys-wwf-ppv-buyrate/|title=WWF Pay-Per-View Buys (1993-2015)|work=Wrestlenomics|date=March 25, 2020|access-date=January 22, 2021}}</ref> | |||
|lastevent2=] | |||
|lastevent = ] | |||
|nextevent2=] | |||
|nextevent = ] | |||
|event = ] | |||
|lastevent2 = ] | |||
|nextevent2 = ] | |||
}} | }} | ||
'''WrestleMania XXIV''' was the 24th annual ] ] ] (PPV) ] produced by ] (WWE). It was held for wrestlers from the promotion's ], ], and ] ]. The event took place on March 30, 2008, at the ] in ] and was the first WrestleMania to be held in the state of Florida. It was also the second WrestleMania to be held outdoors (the first was ] in April 1993). American socialite ] served as the hostess of the event. | |||
Nine professional wrestling matches were scheduled for the event, which featured a ], a scheduling of more than one main event. In the final match of the event, which was the main match from SmackDown, ] defeated ] to win the ]. Raw's main match was a ], in which ] defeated ] and ] to retain the ]. The main match from the ECW brand was a ] in which ] defeated ] to win the ]. From the six scheduled bouts on the ], three received more promotion than the others. In a ], professional boxer ] defeated ]. The other featured undercard matches saw ] win the inter-promotional ] and a ] in which ] defeated ], leading to Flair's departure from the WWE and a period of retirement from active wrestling. | |||
'''WrestleMania XXIV''' was the twenty-fourth annual ] ] ] event produced by ] (WWE). It took place on ] ] at the ] in ]. It was the first WrestleMania to be held in the ] of ],<ref name="WrestleMania 24 announced">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/wmxxivfacts|title= What you need to know about WrestleMania XXIV|publisher=WWE|date=2007-10-01|accessdate=2007-10-13}}</ref> and the second WrestleMania to be held entirely outdoors, the first being ]. The official theme songs were "]" by ] and "]" by the ].<ref name="WrestleMania 24 site">{{cite web|url= http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/|title=WrestleMania XXIV website| publisher=WWE|accessdate=2008-02-06}}</ref> The tagline was "''The Biggest WrestleMania Under the Sun''."<ref name="WrestleMania 24 Tagline">{{cite web|url= http://web.archive.org/web/20070705173523/http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/planwrestlemania24|title=WrestleMania 24 Tagline| accessdate=2007-06-27}}</ref> | |||
Tickets for the event commenced sale to the public on November 3, 2007.<ref name="WrestleMania info">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/wmxxivfacts|title=What you need to know about WrestleMania XXIV|publisher=]|access-date=October 1, 2007|archive-date=March 10, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160310130813/http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/wmxxivfacts|url-status=live}}</ref> WWE and the City of Orlando hosted festivities that spanned a five-day period within the central Florida region.<ref name="Orlando">{{cite web|url=http://www.cfnews13.com/Entertainment/HeyJohn/2007/3/19/wrestlemania_24.html|title=WrestleMania 24 Coming To Orlando|publisher=Central Florida News 13|access-date= March 20, 2007 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070321220059/http://www.cfnews13.com/Entertainment/HeyJohn/2007/3/19/wrestlemania_24.html |archive-date = March 21, 2007}}</ref> For the second consecutive year, WrestleMania broke the record for the highest-] pay-per-view in WWE history. It also set a gate record for the Citrus Bowl, grossing US$5.85 million in ticket sales. According to a study by Enigma Research Corporation of Toronto, the Citrus Bowl's record-breaking attendance brought an estimated $51.5 million – surpassing the projected $25 million – into the local economy and generated $1.8 million in local tax revenue.<ref name="corporate">{{cite web|url=http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/orl-tourism0108dec01,0,259821.story|title=WrestleMania XXIV brought more than the Undertaker to Central Florida.|work=Orlando Sentinel|date=December 1, 2008|access-date=December 1, 2008|archive-date=May 27, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120527125930/http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2008-12-01/business/tourism01_1_central-florida-orange-county-citrus-bowl|url-status=live}}</ref> The Central Florida Sports Commission reported that the event created jobs and brought approximately 60,000 visitors to the city. Over one million people ordered the event on pay-per-view, grossing $23.8 million in revenue. It was also the first WrestleMania PPV broadcast in ].<ref name="buyrate24">{{cite web|url=http://corporate.wwe.com/documents/1Q2008PressRelease_000.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090225215906/http://corporate.wwe.com/documents/1Q2008PressRelease_000.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-date=February 25, 2009|page=3|title=WWE Reports 2008 First Quarter Results|date=May 6, 2008|access-date=May 6, 2008|publisher=]}}</ref> | |||
The event was a ] pay-per-view, featuring performers from the ], ], and ] brands. The ] and primary match for the SmackDown brand was ] versus ] for the ], which Undertaker won by forcing Edge to submit with the ].<ref name="undertakerwin" /> The main match on the Raw brand was a ] for the ] between ], ], and ], which Orton won by ] Cena after Triple H delivered a ] to Cena.<ref name="ortonretain" /> The predominant match on the ECW brand was ] versus ] for the ], which Kane won by pinfall after performing a ].<ref name="KaneChavoTime">{{cite web|date=2008-04-08|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/ecw/articles/6349672/contractsigning|title=Backlash pre-lash|first=Louie|last=Dee|publisher=WWE|accessdate=2008-04-10|quote=After all, he did defeat Chavo in eight seconds at WrestleMania to win the gold}}</ref> The featured matches on the ] included ] versus ] in a ],<ref name="Mayweather/Show">{{cite web|date=2008-03-28|url=http://corporate.wwe.com/news/2008/2008NewsRelease.jsp|title=Mayweather vs. Big Show – "There Is Going To Be A Winner"|publisher=WWE Corporate|accessdate=2008-03-29}}</ref> an interpromotional ],<ref name="MITBResult"/> and ] versus ] in a ].<ref name="flairover">{{cite web|first=Bryan|last=Robinson|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6464438/results/|title=The End|accessdate=2008-03-30|date=2008-03-30|publisher=WWE}}</ref> | |||
==Production== | |||
Tickets went on sale to the public on ] ].<ref name="WrestleMania info">{{cite web|url= http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/wmxxivfacts|title=What you need to know about WrestleMania XXIV|publisher=WWE|accessdate=2007-10-01}}</ref> For the second year in a row, WrestleMania broke the record for the highest-] pay-per-view in WWE history as well as for the Citrus Bowl, grossing in ]5.85 million in ticket sales. The record-breaking Citrus Bowl attendance record of 74,635 consisting of people from twenty-one countries, all fifty states, and five Canadian provinces, pumped an estimated $30 million into the local economy.<ref name="corporate">{{cite web|url=http://corporate.wwe.com/news/2008/WrestleManiaXXIVCrushesRecordsCareers.jsp |title=WrestleMania® XXIV Crushes Records, Careers|publisher=WWE|date=2008-03-30|accessdate=2008-03-31}}</ref> The Central Florida Sports Commission estimated that the event created numerous jobs, and brought around 60,000 visitors to the city for the event.<ref name=" Orlando To Host WrestleMania 24 At Citrus Bowl In 2008.">{{cite web|url= http://www.cityoforlando.net/elected/mayor/pressreleases/07_03_21_wrestlemania.htm|title=Orlando To Host WrestleMania 24 At Citrus Bowl In 2008|accessdate=2007-10-27}}</ref> WWE and the city of Orlando hosted festivities that spanned a five-day period within the central Florida region, bringing numerous branding opportunities and television coverage, leading up to the event at the Citrus Bowl.<ref name="Orlando">{{cite web|url=http://www.cfnews13.com/Entertainment/HeyJohn/2007/3/19/wrestlemania_24.html|title= WrestleMania 24 Coming To Orlando|publisher=Central Florida News 13|accessdate=2007-03-20}}</ref> 1,058,000 people ordered the event, grossing $23.8 million in revenue.<ref name="buyrate24">{{cite web|url=http://corporate.wwe.com/documents/1Q2008PressRelease_000.pdf|pages=3|title=WWE Reports 2008 First Quarter Results|date=2008-05-06|accessdate=2008-05-06|publisher=WWE}}</ref> | |||
==Report== | |||
===Background=== | ===Background=== | ||
] was placed over the ring at WrestleMania XXIV]] | |||
], who put his career on the line in a match against ]]] | |||
] is considered ]'s (WWE) flagship ] (PPV) event, having first been held in ]. It has become the longest-running professional wrestling event in history and is held annually between mid-March to mid-April.<ref>{{cite web|title=WrestleMania 29 press conference brings WWE to Radio City Music Hall|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/29/wrestlemania-press-conference-radio-city-music-hall-26103938|publisher=WWE|access-date=March 31, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130407015228/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/29/wrestlemania-press-conference-radio-city-music-hall-26103938|archive-date=April 7, 2013|quote=... WWE's flagship event lights up MetLife Stadium ... WrestleMania}}</ref> It was the first of WWE's original four pay-per-views, which includes ], ], and ], referred to as the "Big Four".<ref>Ian Hamilton. ''Wrestling's Sinking Ship: What Happens to an Industry Without Competition'' (p. 160)</ref> WrestleMania XXIV featured wrestlers from the ], ], and ] ].<ref name="WrestleMania XXIV announced">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/wmxxivfacts|title=What you need to know about WrestleMania XXIV|publisher=]|date=October 1, 2007|access-date=October 13, 2007|archive-date=March 10, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160310130813/http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/wmxxivfacts|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=" Orlando To Host WrestleMania XXIV At Citrus Bowl In 2008.">{{cite web|access-date=October 27, 2007|url=http://www.cityoforlando.net/elected/mayor/pressreleases/07_03_21_wrestlemania.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071015115334/http://cityoforlando.net/elected/mayor/pressreleases/07_03_21_wrestlemania.htm|archive-date=October 15, 2007|title=Orlando To Host WrestleMania XXIV At Citrus Bowl In 2008|publisher=CityofOrlando}}</ref> | |||
The main ] heading into WrestleMania on the ] brand was between ], ], and ], with the three feuding over the ]. At the ] in January, John Cena won the ], last eliminating Triple H, to become the number one contender to the WWE Championship at WrestleMania XXIV. Instead of challenging Randy Orton for the title at WrestleMania, he decided to challenge him at ]. At No Way Out, Orton got himself intentionally ] by hitting the referee, thus retaining the WWE Championship.<ref name="OrtonCenaHHH2">{{cite web|first=Bryan|last=Robinson|url= http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/matches/6235888/results/|title=Robbery on the Strip: 'Mania Gamble Goes Bust|publisher=WWE| date=2008-02-17|accessdate=2008-03-10}}</ref> Also at No Way Out, Triple H became the new number one contender to the WWE Championship at WrestleMania by defeating five other men in an ].<ref name="OrtonCenaHHH3">{{cite web|first=Corey|last=Clayton|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/matches/5908216/results/|title=The Game gets his title match at WrestleMania|publisher=WWE|date=2008-02-17|accessdate=2008-03-10}}</ref> The night after on ''Raw'', after Cena argued that he deserved another WWE Championship match, Raw ] ] announced that Cena would face Orton later in the night with the stipulation being if Cena won, he would be added to the WrestleMania match between Triple H and Orton, making it a ]. If Orton won, however, the main event would stay as Orton versus Triple H. Cena won the match, pinning Orton after executing an ]. After the match, Triple H, who was the ], executed a ] to both Cena and Orton.<ref name="OrtonCenaHHH4">{{cite web|first=Bryan|last=Robinson|url= http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/02182008/articles/triplegauntlet|title=Triple the Threat, Double the Gauntlet|publisher= WWE|date=2008-02-18|accessdate=2008-03-10}}</ref> | |||
On March 21, 2007, a press conference was held at City Hall in ], formally announcing that WrestleMania XXIV would be held in Orlando at the ] on March 30, 2008, which would be the first WrestleMania held in Florida.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://corporate.wwe.com/news/2007/2007_03_21_02.jsp|title=Orlando to host WrestleMania 24 at Citrus Bowl in 2008|publisher=]|date=March 21, 2007|access-date=October 4, 2009|archive-date=August 3, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120803031757/http://corporate.wwe.com/news/2007/2007_03_21_02.jsp|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="McMahonInterview">{{cite web|url=http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/Opinion/Columnists/Angle/colJAW032207.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070609095734/http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/Opinion/Columnists/Angle/colJAW032207.htm|title=Wrestlemania 24 in Orlando|first=Jeff|last=Wilen|publisher=Daytona Beach News-Journal Online|date=March 22, 2007|archive-date=June 9, 2007 |access-date=October 4, 2009}}</ref> According to an interview with '']'' at the press conference, WWE chairman ] mentioned Orlando being one of three front-runners to host the event, the other two being ] and Paris. McMahon explained that Orlando was chosen as geographically, a WrestleMania was never held in the ] before.<ref name="McMahonInterview" /> | |||
As the second WrestleMania to be held entirely outdoors (after ]), McMahon also announced that the event would have taken place regardless of the weather conditions.<ref name="WrestleMania XXIV will go on, even if it rains.">{{cite web|url= http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/Opinion/Columnists/Angle/colJAW032708.htm |title=It's time for WrestleMania XXIV|author=Jeff Wilen Jawbreaker|publisher=Daytona Beach News-Journal Online (archived by ])|date= March 27, 2008|access-date=April 25, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080512040655/http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/Opinion/Columnists/Angle/colJAW032708.htm|url-status= dead |archive-date=May 12, 2008}}</ref> In the March 2008 issue of '']'', WWE ] Jason Robinson revealed that a steel rig with a ] roof would be built above the ring itself to prevent rain from falling on the ring;<ref name="WWEMagazine">{{cite journal|date=March 2007|title=WrestleMania XXIV Set Design|journal=WWE Magazine|pages=34–35}}</ref><ref name="roof">{{cite web|url=http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orl-wrestling1608mar16,0,5091124.story|access-date=March 15, 2008|title=Countdown to WrestleMania: Citrus Bowl's transformation is already underway|last=Adelson|first=Andrea|work=]|date=March 16, 2008|archive-date=May 23, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120523180618/http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2008-03-16/sports/wrestling16_1_steel-structures-wwe-wrestlemania|url-status=live}}</ref> during the ], it rained briefly.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/wwe-forces-of-nature|title=WWE's Forces of Nature|publisher=WWE|last=Clayton|first=Corey|date=August 27, 2011|access-date=June 18, 2021|archive-date=June 29, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210629003438/https://www.wwe.com/wwe-forces-of-nature|url-status=live}}</ref> In that same issue, an initial design of the ring setup was revealed showing a larger rig surrounding the tarpaulin rig, with ] and two giant screens attached.<ref name="WWEMagazine"/> The final design had the lighting and video screens on the tarpaulin rig, as well as the sound system.<ref name="finaldesign">{{cite web|url= http://www.cfnews13.com/Entertainment/HeyJohn/2008/3/28/the_stage_is_set_for_wrestlemania_xxiv.html|access-date=March 29, 2008|first= John|last=Handiboe|title=The Stage Is Set For WrestleMania XXIV|publisher=Central Florida News|date=March 28, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080330131345/http://www.cfnews13.com/Entertainment/HeyJohn/2008/3/28/the_stage_is_set_for_wrestlemania_xxiv.html|archive-date=March 30, 2008}}</ref> During an interview, WWE production manager Brian Petree mentioned that video reinforcement should prevent anyone's view from being obstructed by the steel structure. Up to seven ] were used to power up the event.<ref name="roof"/> | |||
The ] for the entrance stage was at the north end of the stadium and consisted of another steel structure with various video screens hanging from it.<ref name="roof"/><ref name="finaldesign"/> The steel beams for the structure were custom built in Belgium and shipped over to Orlando.<ref name="roof"/> According to ''WWE Magazine'', the amount of ] used would be ten times that of the amount used on ''Raw''.<ref name="WWEMagazine"/> Without the restriction of a roof, the pyrotechnics for the show shot as high as {{convert|2000|ft|m|lk=on}} as compared to ]'s height of {{convert|150|ft|m}}.<ref name="pyro">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/exclusives/sundaynightlights|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080402234931/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/exclusives/sundaynightlights|archive-date=April 2, 2008|access-date=March 30, 2008|first=Aubrey|last=Sitterson|title=Sunday night lights|publisher=]|date=March 30, 2008}}</ref> The fireworks were set off from boats on one of the lakes nearby the stadium. WWE has been said to have spent an estimated $300,000 on the fireworks alone.<ref name="fireworks">{{cite web|url=http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/custom/wrestling/orl-wrestlemania3008mar30,0,3096674.story|access-date=March 30, 2008|title=Tonight, WrestleMania makes Citrus Bowl center of the professional wrestling world|first=Andrea|last=Adelson|date=March 30, 2008|work=Orlando Sentinel|archive-date=April 2, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080402232413/http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/custom/wrestling/orl-wrestlemania3008mar30,0,3096674.story|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
] for WrestleMania XXIV]] | |||
With the Citrus Bowl's locker rooms on the south side and the entrance set on the north side, a tented {{convert|40000|ft2|m2|lk=on}} mini-city outside the north end served as the show's backstage area and included air conditioning, trailers, VIP areas, showers and restrooms.<ref name="roof"/> As a consequence, the road next to the north end zone, W. Church Street, was closed down until a day after the event.<ref name="road1">{{cite web|url=http://www.cfnews13.com/Traffic/OnTheMove/2008/3/23/wrestlemania_festivities_to_close_roads_downtown.html|access-date=March 23, 2008|title=WrestleMania Festivities To Close Roads Downtown|publisher=Central Florida News|date=March 27, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080324205242/http://www.cfnews13.com/Traffic/OnTheMove/2008/3/23/wrestlemania_festivities_to_close_roads_downtown.html|archive-date = March 24, 2008}}</ref> Numerous other roads were also closed to allow trucks and forklifts to move in mega equipment for the event.<ref name="road2">{{cite web|url=http://www.cfnews13.com/Entertainment/HeyJohn/2008/3/24/wrestlemania_construction_under_way_at_citrus_bowl.html|access-date=March 24, 2008|first=John|last=Handiboe|title=WrestleMania Construction Under Way At Citrus Bowl|publisher=Central Florida News|date=March 27, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080328195125/http://www.cfnews13.com/Entertainment/HeyJohn/2008/3/24/wrestlemania_construction_under_way_at_citrus_bowl.html|archive-date=March 28, 2008}}</ref> The ring itself was built on the ] of the Citrus Bowl to give the best view for fans.<ref name="WWEMagazine"/> Heavy-duty plastic flooring had been put over the field, to protect the turf, provide seating, and serve as the steel structures' foundation.<ref name="roof"/> | |||
Development on the set design began in the middle of 2007.<ref name="WWECitrusBowl">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/exclusives/citrusbowl|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080309211422/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/exclusives/citrusbowl|archive-date=March 9, 2008|access-date=March 17, 2008|title=WrestleMania XXIV: A Logistical Challenge|last=Zeigler|first=Zack|publisher=]|date=November 9, 2007}}</ref> The building of the actual set began in the middle of March 2008. 100 people worked 16 hours a day to construct the set for the event. The construction finished on March 29.<ref name="roof"/><ref name="road2"/> WrestleMania XXIV was the first WrestleMania event to be filmed in ]. It was also the first WWE show and sports related title to be released on the ] format by ].<ref name="Blu-Ray">{{cite web|url=http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/WWE/Disc_Announcements/WWE_Comes_to_Blu-ray_with_Wrestlemania_XXIV/1586|access-date=March 27, 2008|title=WWE Comes to Blu-ray with 'WrestleMania XXIV'|publisher=High-Def Digest|date=March 25, 2008|archive-date=March 24, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120324140621/http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/WWE/Disc_Announcements/WWE_Comes_to_Blu-ray_with_Wrestlemania_XXIV/1586|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Blu-Ray2">{{cite web|url=http://corporate.wwe.com/news/2008/2008_04_24.jsp|access-date=April 26, 2008|title=WrestleMania XXIV On Hi-Definition Blu-ray Disc|publisher=]|date=April 24, 2008|archive-date=May 2, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080502191406/http://corporate.wwe.com/news/2008/2008_04_24.jsp|url-status=dead}}</ref> WrestleMania also led to an increase in sales for musical artists related to the event, including the ]' album '']'', ]'s album ''Live from Philadelphia'', ]'s single "]", and ]'s single "]", which was used as part of a tribute to ].<ref name="Music">{{cite web|url=http://corporate.wwe.com/news/2008/2008_04_09a.jsp|access-date=April 9, 2008|title=WWE's WrestleMania Rocks Music Sales|publisher=]|date=April 24, 2008|archive-date=April 14, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080414134457/http://corporate.wwe.com/news/2008/2008_04_09a.jsp|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
===Storylines=== | |||
WrestleMania XXIV featured nine ] with wrestlers involved in pre-existing ] feuds, ]s, and ]. Wrestlers were portrayed as either ] or ] as they followed a series of tension-building events, which culminated in a wrestling match or series of matches. All wrestlers belonged to either the ], ], or ] brand – ] in which WWE assigned its employees to different programs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/pro-wrestling.htm|title=How Pro Wrestling Works|last=Grabianowski|first=Ed|date=January 13, 2006 |publisher=HowStuffWorks|access-date=December 2, 2008|archive-date=October 22, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161022202331/http://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/pro-wrestling.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
] defended his WWE Championship.]] | |||
The predominant ] scripted into WrestleMania on the Raw brand was between ], ], and ], over the ]. At the ] pay-per-view event in January, Orton successfully defended the WWE Championship against ] and later that night, Cena returned from an injury and won the ] when he last eliminated Triple H. Instead of challenging Orton for the title at WrestleMania, Cena decided to challenge him at ], where Orton got himself intentionally ] by ] the referee, thus retaining the WWE Championship.<ref name="OrtonCenaHHH2">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/matches/6235888/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080319105036/http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/matches/6235888/results/|archive-date=March 19, 2008|title=Robbery on the Strip: 'Mania Gamble Goes Bust|publisher=]|date=February 17, 2008|first=Bryan|last=Robinson|access-date=March 10, 2008}}</ref> Later, Triple H also became a top contender to the WWE Championship by defeating five other men in an ].<ref name="OrtonCenaHHH3">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/matches/5908216/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080313180121/http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/matches/5908216/results/|archive-date=March 13, 2008|title=The Game gets his title match at WrestleMania|first=Corey|last=Clayton|publisher=]|date=February 17, 2008|access-date=March 10, 2008}}</ref> The next night on '']'', Cena argued that he deserved another WWE Championship match. Raw ] ] then announced that Cena would face Orton later in the night, where if Cena won, he would be added to the WrestleMania match between Triple H and Orton, making it a ]. If Orton won, the main event would remain as Orton versus Triple H in a ]. However, Cena won the match and was added to the bout at WrestleMania. After the match, Triple H, who was the ], executed a Pedigree on both Cena and Orton.<ref name="OrtonCenaHHH4">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/02182008/articles/triplegauntlet|title=Triple the Threat, Double the Gauntlet|first=Bryan|last=Robinson|publisher=WWE|date=February 18, 2008|access-date=March 10, 2008|archive-date=October 20, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121020164002/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/02182008/articles/triplegauntlet|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
The predominant |
The predominant rivalry on the SmackDown brand was between ] and ], over the ]. On the February 1 episode of '']'', ] ] announced that at No Way Out, an Elimination Chamber match would be held to determine the number one contender to the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania.<ref name="EdgeTaker1">{{cite web|first=Lennie|last=DiFino|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/02012008/|title=Chamber Mates|publisher=]|date=February 1, 2008|access-date=March 10, 2008|archive-date=April 27, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150427011047/http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/02012008|url-status=live}}</ref> The Undertaker won the match by last eliminating Batista.<ref name="EdgeTaker2">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/matches/6364982/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080310020822/http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/matches/6364982/results/|archive-date=March 10, 2008|title=The Deadman doubles down|publisher=]|first=Louie|last=Dee|date=February 17, 2008|access-date=March 10, 2008}}</ref> On the following episode of ''SmackDown'', Edge predicted that The Undertaker's 15–0 undefeated streak at WrestleMania would come to an end once he defeated him.<ref>{{cite web|first=Lennie|last=DiFino|date=February 22, 2008|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/02222008/|title=Two roads diverge|publisher=]|access-date=April 26, 2008|quote="You think I'm afraid", Edge asked our fans, only to vehemently state: "I'm not afraid. Undertaker is an opportunity to cement my legacy." The Rated-R Superstar then made the boldest statement of his career, telling our fans and The Deadman that "The Streak" would be broken this year. "I will not fall like those before me."|archive-date=October 20, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121020180728/http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/02222008/|url-status=live}}</ref> Two weeks later on the March 7 episode of ''SmackDown'', the team of Edge and ] defeated The Undertaker in a ] after Edge pinned The Undertaker.<ref>{{cite web|first=Mitch|last=Passero|date=March 7, 2008|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/03072008/|title=Fired-up for Florida|publisher=]|access-date=April 26, 2008|archive-date=October 20, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121020181024/http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/03072008/|url-status=live}}</ref> The following week, ] (], Edge, Hawkins and Ryder) defeated ] and ] in a ]. During the match, Undertaker interfered and attacked La Familia. However, Edge escaped the cage to win the match for his team.<ref>{{cite web|first=Louie|last=Dee|date=March 14, 2008|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/03112008/articles/runningnumbers|title=Running the numbers|publisher=]|access-date=April 26, 2008|archive-date=October 20, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121020181339/http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/03112008/articles/runningnumbers|url-status=live}}</ref> Two weeks later on ''SmackDown'', Edge, along with ], Hawkins and Ryder, held a mock burial entitled "Burial of The Undertaker's WrestleMania Undefeated Streak", to celebrate Edge's early victory over The Undertaker. During the "burial", however, The Undertaker emerged from a casket, which was inside the ring, and attacked Edge, Hawkins, and Ryder, knocking Hawkins and Ryder outside the ring and chokeslamming Edge through the casket.<ref>{{cite web|first=Mitch|last=Passero|date=March 28, 2008|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/03282008/articles/livingdead1|title=Night of the living dead|publisher=]|access-date=April 26, 2008|archive-date=October 20, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121020181451/http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/03282008/articles/livingdead1|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
] ], who took on ] in a ] |
] ], who took on ] in a ]]] | ||
At No Way Out, |
At No Way Out, Big Show made a return to the company after taking time off for injuries beginning in December 2006.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/ecw/news/bigshowtimeoff|title=Show's over|last=Tello|first=Craig|date=December 6, 2006|publisher=]|access-date=December 4, 2008|archive-date=December 8, 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061208143929/http://www.wwe.com/shows/ecw/news/bigshowtimeoff|url-status=live}}</ref> In his return promotional interview, Big Show threatened to give ] a chokeslam. ] and ] ], who was in attendance and a close friend of Mysterio's, came to his aid and confronted Big Show. After Big Show dropped to his knees, Mayweather attacked him with a combination of punches, which caused Big Show to bleed from the nose and mouth.<ref name="ShowMayweather1">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/exclusives/showtimeinvegas|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080310020516/http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/exclusives/showtimeinvegas|archive-date=March 10, 2008|title=Showtime in Vegas|publisher=]|first=Lennie|last=DiFino|date=February 17, 2008|access-date=March 10, 2008}}</ref> The following night on ''Raw'', Big Show challenged Mayweather to a wrestling match, which Mayweather accepted.<ref name="ShowMayweather2">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/02182008/articles/mayweatherbigshow|title='I Accept!': Mayweather Accepts Big Challenge|first=Corey|last=Clayton|publisher=]|date=February 18, 2008|access-date=March 10, 2008|archive-date=October 19, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121019073038/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/02182008/articles/mayweatherbigshow|url-status=live}}</ref> As part of the storyline, Big Show arranged an exhibition match with fighter Brandon Hill, who was similar in size and stature to Mayweather. Unimpressed with Big Show's display of dominance over Hill, Mayweather told Big Show that "at WrestleMania, I'm going to break your jaw". At their weigh-in for their WrestleMania match, Big Show threw Mayweather into a crowd of wrestlers to emphasise the disparity in size. | ||
] before his last WWE match at WrestleMania XXIV]] | |||
On the ] edition of ''Raw'', ] Ric Flair challenged Shawn Michaels to a match at WrestleMania.<ref name="FlairHBK1">{{cite web|first=Corey|last=Clayton|url= http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/02252008/|title=A Showstopper for Orlando|publisher=WWE|date=2008-02-25|accessdate=2008-03-10}}</ref> Michaels accepted after some reluctance, knowing that due to a previous announcement from WWE chairman ] the next match Flair loses would result in a forced retirement for Flair.<ref name="FlairHBK2">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/11262007/articles/spacemountainopen|title=Win or go home - for good|date=2007-11-26|last=Robinson|first=Bryan|date=2007-11-26|accessdate=2008-04-10|publisher=WWE}}</ref><ref name="FlairHBK1" /> Flair also said that "It would be an honor for him to retire at the hands of Shawn Michaels."<ref name="FlairHBK1" /> During a press conference before his induction into the Hall of Fame, Flair mentioned that he was asked about having his match as the main event for the show. However, Flair refused and insisted that "the world champions go on last."<ref name="flairmainevent">{{cite video |people= |date2=2008-03-31|title= Ric Flair Hall of Fame Press Conference|url=http://www.betweentheropes.com/content/view/237/39/ |publisher=Between the Ropes|accessdate=2008-04-29 |time=7:04-7:46 |quote=I've been asked that a thousand times too. The world champions go on last, as it would be. If I were the world champion and they tried to put someone before me, I wouldn't care who it was, I wouldn't be going on. The world champions go on last and I'm very happy to be where I'm at on the card."}}</ref> | |||
On the February 25 episode of ''Raw'', ] Ric Flair challenged Shawn Michaels to a match at WrestleMania.<ref name="FlairHBK1">{{cite web|first=Corey|last=Clayton|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/02252008/|title=A Showstopper for Orlando|publisher=]|date=February 25, 2008|access-date=March 10, 2008|archive-date=July 7, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120707182544/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/02252008|url-status=live}}</ref> Michaels accepted after some reluctance, knowing that due to a previous announcement from WWE chairman ] the next match Flair lost would result in his forced retirement.<ref name="FlairHBK1"/><ref name="FlairHBK2">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/11262007/articles/spacemountainopen|title=Win or go home – for good|last=Robinson|first=Bryan|date=November 26, 2007|access-date=April 10, 2008|publisher=]|archive-date=December 7, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071207153620/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/11262007/articles/spacemountainopen|url-status=live}}</ref> Flair said that "it would be an honor for to retire at the hands of Shawn Michaels."<ref name="FlairHBK1"/> | |||
On |
On February 18, WWE announced via its website that the fourth annual ] would take place at WrestleMania XXIV, a match where the objective is to retrieve a briefcase suspended in the air using a ladder. The match involved wrestlers from all three WWE brands. The winner would earn a contract to challenge for any of the three WWE ] (the WWE Championship of Raw, the World Heavyweight Championship of SmackDown, or the ] of ECW) at any time and any place over a one-year period. Qualifying matches occurred to determine the participants in the match at WrestleMania, starting on that night's ''Raw'' with ] and ] defeating ] and ] respectively to qualify. ] became the third participant when he defeated ] on the following episode of ''SmackDown''. During the next two weeks on ''Raw'', ] defeated Hardy, and ] defeated ] to qualify. At a non-televised SmackDown/ECW ] held on March 8, ] qualified when he defeated ]. On the March 11 episode of '']'', ] became the seventh entrant when he defeated ]. ] was the final person to qualify when he beat ] on the March 14 episode of ''SmackDown''. Hardy was later removed from the match after a ] suspension by WWE for a drug violation of the company's ]. WWE decided not to add another superstar in his place, making that year's Money in the Bank ladder match the first year to have seven participants.<ref name="Hardy">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/jeffhardysuspended|access-date=March 11, 2008|title=Jeff Hardy Suspended|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment|date=March 11, 2008|archive-date=May 21, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120521233109/http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/jeffhardysuspended|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
==Event== | |||
{| class=wikitable style="font-size:90%; margin: 0.5em 0 0.5em 1em; float: right; clear: right;" | {| class=wikitable style="font-size:90%; margin: 0.5em 0 0.5em 1em; float: right; clear: right;" | ||
|+Other on-screen |
|+Other on-screen personnel<ref name="CompleteWWE">{{cite web|title=WrestleMania XXIV results|url=http://www.hoffco-inc.com/wwe/ppv/ppv/wm24.html|publisher=CompleteWWE.com|access-date=April 10, 2008|archive-date=October 1, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181001052228/http://www.hoffco-inc.com/wwe/ppv/ppv/wm24.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
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|rowspan=6|English ] | |||
|rowspan=8|Commentator | |||
|] {{small|( |
|] {{small|(Raw)}} | ||
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|] {{small|( |
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|rowspan=2|Interviewer | |rowspan=2|] | ||
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|Hostess | |] | ||
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|Master of Ceremonies | |||
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|] | |||
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|rowspan=7|]s | |||
|] {{small|(ECW)}} | |] {{small|(ECW)}} | ||
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|] {{small|(SmackDown)}} | |] {{small|(SmackDown/Money in the Bank match)}} | ||
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|rowspan=10|] | |||
|rowspan=9|Referees | |||
|] {{small|(ECW)}} | |] {{small|(ECW)}} | ||
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|Mike Posey {{small|(ECW)}} | ||
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|Marty Elias {{small|(Raw)}} | |Marty Elias {{small|(Raw)}} | ||
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|Chad Patton {{small|(Raw)}} | |Chad Patton {{small|(Raw)}} | ||
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|} | |} | ||
Before the show aired live on ], ] won a ] ] to win an ] match against ] later that night.<ref name="BattleRoyal">{{cite web|first=Lennie|last=DiFino|title=Big Red challenger|url= http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6625174/results/|publisher=WWE|date=2008-03-30|accessdate=2008-04-08}}</ref> The event officially began with ] singing a rendition of "]."<ref name="Legend">{{cite web|url= http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/exclusives/legendarymania|accessdate=2008-03-10|first=Lennie|last=DiFino|title=A Legend-ary 'Mania|publisher=WWE|date=2008-03-03}}</ref> The first match that aired live on pay-per-view was a ] between ] and ]. Finlay was accompanied to the ring by his ] son, ], who was returning from a kayfabe injury suffered by JBL.<ref name="FinlayJBLResult">{{cite web|first=Ben|last=Zoldan|title=JBL picks up brutal win in Belfast Brawl|url= http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6515958/results/|publisher=WWE|date=2008-03-30|accessdate=2008-04-08}}</ref> The match featured several ], which included JBL hitting Finlay with a ] lid when the latter was about to perform a suicide dive on him through the ropes on the outside.<ref name="slam">{{cite web|first=Dale|last=Plummer|title=Mayweather, Orton survive Mania; Edge, Flair don't|url= http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/WrestleMania24/2008/03/31/5148416.html|publisher=SLAM! Sports|date=2008-03-30|accessdate=2008-04-08}}</ref> Later on, Finlay tossed JBL through the ] that he had set up earlier on the turnbuckle. Hornswoggle would also get involved during the match, hitting JBL's with a ] while later on he would get attacked by JBL with a trash can thrown at him. Attacking Finlay's knee with a kendo stick, JBL then quickly hit a ] to score a successful pinfall.<ref name="FinlayJBLResult" /> | |||
===Pre-show=== | |||
The next match of the evening was the fourth-annual ], featuring ], ] and ] from the ] brand; ], ] and ] from the ] brand; and ] (MVP) from the ] brand. The match featured many dangerous spots. Early in the match, Morrison climbed a turnbuckle and performed a ] on others outside while holding a ladder against his chest. Later, Mr. Kennedy and Morrison did battle on top of a ladder; Benjamin climbed another ladder placed adjacent to the first one, and performed a ] on Kennedy, who in turn ] Morrison from the top of the ladder. Later, Carlito and Kennedy flipped Benjamin off a ladder, sending him crashing through another ladder set-up between the ] and the ring apron.<ref name="slam" /> When MVP was close to retrieving the contract briefcase, ] returned to action through the crowd, entered the ring and delivered the ] to MVP off the ladder.<ref name="MITBResult">{{cite web|first=Corey|last=Clayton|title=Perseverance makes Punk ‘Mr. Money’ in Orlando|url= http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6464426/results/|publisher=WWE|date=2008-03-30|accessdate=2008-04-08}}</ref> As soon as Morrison started to climb a ladder, ]ing with another ladder, Jericho flipped the other one and Morrison landed on the ring-ropes ]-first. In the end, Jericho and Punk fought each other on a ladder, but Punk trapped Jericho's one leg in the ladder's steps and himself retrieved the contract briefcase to win the match.<ref name="about">{{cite web|first=Eric|last=Cohen|title=WrestleMania XXIV Recap|url= http://prowrestling.about.com/b/2008/03/30/wrestlemania-xxiv-recap-results.htm|publisher=About.com|date=2008-03-30|accessdate=2008-04-08}}</ref> | |||
] | |||
Before the show aired live on ], ] won a ] ], an elimination style match where the last person remaining was the winner, to win an ] match against ] later that night.<ref name="BattleRoyal">{{cite web|first=Lennie|last=DiFino|title=Big Red challenger|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6625174/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080402235117/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6625174/results/|archive-date=April 2, 2008|publisher=]|date=March 30, 2008|access-date=April 8, 2008}}</ref> The event officially began with ] singing a rendition of "]".<ref name="Legend">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/exclusives/legendarymania|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080308134633/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/exclusives/legendarymania|archive-date=March 8, 2008|access-date=March 10, 2008|first=Lennie|last=DiFino|title=A Legend-ary 'Mania|publisher=]|date=March 3, 2008}}</ref> | |||
===Preliminary matches=== | |||
The next match which was billed as a "Battle for Brand Supremacy", was between SmackDown's ] and Raw's ]. Early in the match, both Batista and Umaga exchanged blows and Batista threw Umaga outside with a ]. Umaga later delivered a ] to Batista, which caused him to fall back-first outside the ring from the ring-apron.<ref name="cawthon">{{cite web|url=http://www.angelfire.com/wrestling/cawthon777/wm24review.htm|first=Alexander|last=Settee|title=WrestleMania XXIV review|date=2008-04-08|accessdate=2008-04-10|publisher=The History of WWE}}</ref> Hence, Umaga started targeting Batista's injured back. But in the end, when Umaga tried to go for a ], Batista countered the attempt and delivered a ] to Umaga. Batista won the match by pinning Umaga after hitting him with his ].<ref name="batistawin">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6515946/results/|first=Michael|last=Dinan|title=Animalistic bulldozing|date=2008-03-30|accessdate=2008-04-10|publisher=WWE}}</ref> The fourth match for the event featured Chavo Guerrero defending his ECW Championship against Kane. Kane surprised Chavo by emerging from underneath the ring instead of from the entrance stage.<ref name="KaneChamp">{{cite web|first=Ryan|last=Murphy|title=Big Red champion|url= http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6514336/results/|publisher=WWE|date=2008-03-30|accessdate=2008-04-10}}</ref> Kane instantly pinned Chavo after a ] and won the ECW Championship in eight seconds.<ref name="KaneChavoTime" /><ref name="KaneChamp" /> | |||
The first match was a ] between ] and ] (JBL), a match in which there were no disqualifications or countouts and the match outcomes could have occurred anywhere. Finlay was accompanied to the ring by his ] son, ], who was returning from a scripted injury suffered at the hands of JBL.<ref name="FinlayJBLResult">{{cite web|first=Ben|last=Zoldan|date=March 30, 2008|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6515958/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080402210238/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6515958/results/|archive-date=April 2, 2008|title=JBL picks up brutal win in Belfast Brawl|access-date=April 8, 2008|publisher=]}}</ref> During the match, JBL hit Finlay with a ] lid when the latter was about to perform a suicide dive on him through the ropes on the outside.<ref name="slam">{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/WrestleMania24/2008/03/31/5148416.html|date=March 30, 2008|title=Mayweather, Orton survive Mania; Edge, Flair don't|publisher=SLAM! Sports|first=Dale|last=Plummer|access-date=April 8, 2008|archive-date=October 18, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151018055136/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/WrestleMania24/2008/03/31/5148416.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> Later on, Finlay tossed JBL through a ] that he had set up earlier on the turnbuckle. Hornswoggle also got involved during the match by hitting JBL with a ], while later on JBL threw a trash can at him. Attacking Finlay's knee with a ], JBL delivered a ] to Finlay to score a successful ]. This was an interpromotional match.<ref name="FinlayJBLResult"/> | |||
] put his career on the line next against ]. At the start of the match, both superstars engaged in a series of counters, and then Flair shoved Michaels in a corner, making "]" comments to him. In retaliation, Michaels ]ped Flair in the face, which caused him to start bleeding from the mouth. Later, Flair performed a ] onto Michaels from the top rope for a two count. Then, in a very dangerous spot, when Flair was on the outside, Michaels performed an ] onto Flair, but missed and landed hard on the Raw announcers' table rib-first. With Flair later on outside the ring again, Michaels successfully attempted another moonsault from the top-rope onto Flair.<ref name="slam" /> Back in the ring, Michaels tried to go for his ], but stopped in the process and Flair capitalized by trapping him in his ].<ref name="about" /> Afterwards, Michaels finally delivered a Sweet Chin Music to Flair, but the latter kicked out to the pinfall attempt. Michaels then, trapped Flair in his ], but Flair delivered a ] to Michaels to break the submission. As Flair was delivering ] to Michaels, the latter hit a second Sweet Chin Music.<ref name="slam" /> After getting up on his feet with a worried face, Michaels said to Flair "I'm sorry, I love you", before nailing a final Sweet Chin Music and thus pinning Flair to end his 35-year long wrestling career.<ref name="flairover" /> After the match, Michaels left quickly and Flair got a standing ovation from the crowd. An emotional Flair embraced his family at ringside and then, as he proceeded to go backstage, thanked the crowd for their support.<ref name="slam" /><ref name="flairover" /> | |||
The next match of the evening was the fourth-annual ], in which there were no disqualifications or countouts, and the only way to win the match was to climb a ladder in the ring and retrieve a contract briefcase hanging above. The match featured ], ], and ] from the ] ]; ], ] and ] from the ] brand; and ] (MVP) from the ] brand. ] was supposed to be in the match, but he violated the wellness program and was taken out of the match. Early in the match, Morrison climbed a ] and performed a ] onto other competitors outside the ring while holding a ladder against his chest. Later, while Kennedy and Morrison were battling on top of a ladder, Benjamin climbed another ladder placed adjacent to the first one and performed a ] on Kennedy, who in turn ] Morrison from the top of the ladder. Later, Carlito and Kennedy flipped Benjamin off a ladder in the ring, sending him crashing through another ladder set-up between the ] and the ring apron.<ref name="slam"/> When MVP was close to retrieving the contract briefcase, ] (returning to action after suffering a ] injury), entered the ring from the crowd, climbed the ladder, and delivered a ] to MVP off that ladder.<ref name="MITBResult">{{cite web|first=Corey|last=Clayton|title=Perseverance makes Punk 'Mr. Money' in Orlando|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6464426/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080405163828/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6464426/results/|archive-date=April 5, 2008|publisher=]|date=March 30, 2008|access-date=April 8, 2008}}</ref> As soon as Morrison started to climb a ladder, ]ing with another ladder, Jericho flipped the other one and Morrison landed on the ring-ropes ]-first. Jericho even performed a ] on Punk using a ladder. In the end, Jericho and Punk fought each other on a ladder, but Punk trapped Jericho's one leg in the ladder's steps and retrieved the briefcase to win the match. This was an interpromotional match.<ref name="slam"/> | |||
The sixth match was the ] ], in which ] and ] faced ] and ], who were accompanied to the ring by ]. ] ] served as the official "]" for this match.<ref name="playboy">{{cite web|url= http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6522694/results/|first=Michael|last=Burdick|title=Santino tamed by rabid Dogg|publisher=WWE|accessdate=2008-03-30|date=2008-03-30|publisher=WWE}}</ref> Due to some technical difficulties, the lights at Citrus Bowl temporarily went out during the match.<ref name="about" /> Near the end, a pin attempt by Maria was prevented when Santino pulled Maria's leg. In response, Raw commentator ] approached and knocked Marella down with a punch. With a ], Phoenix pinned Maria to win the match. After the match, Snoop Dogg clotheslined Marella in the ring and kissed Maria, before leaving with her and Ashley.<ref name="playboy" /> | |||
Next after that match, ] introduced the ] class: ] and ], ] (represented by his family), ], ] (represented by his wife Lia and daughter Ata), ] (represented by his son Mike), ], and ] (represented by his family). | |||
] defended his ] against ] and ] in a ] next. For his entrance, Cena had the ] ] perform an instrumental version of his theme song "]" live.<ref name="about" /><ref name="marchingband">{{cite web|url=http://www.flickr.com/photos/seekingmuses/2382324954/|title=Picture of marching band|date=2008-03-30|accessdate=2008-03-30|publisher=FlickR}}</ref> During the match, when Triple H had held Orton in a ], Cena picked up both Orton and Triple H for an ], but Triple H dropped down and ] him. Orton dominated the match for some time. One hightlight of the match featured Orton performing a ] from the top rope on Cena, while the latter was held on Triple H's shoulders in an ] position. Also, Orton delivered a ] from the second rope to both Cena and Triple H simultaneously. Orton then tried to ] Cena, but he countered and threw Orton onto Triple H. Then, Triple H started targeting Orton's legs and using some submissions on him.<ref name="slam" /> The match came to an end when Cena had Triple H on his shoulders for the FU but was countered into a ]. As Triple H was in the pin, Orton come across and ] Triple H in the head and pinned Cena to win the match and retain the WWE Championship.<ref name="ortonretain">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6199854/results/|first=Bryan|last=Robinson|title=One-Man Dynasty Indeed?|date=2008-03-30|accessdate=2008-03-30|publisher=WWE}}</ref> | |||
The next match, which was billed as a "Battle for Brand Supremacy", was between ''SmackDown's'' ] and ''Raw's'' ]. Early in the match, both Batista and Umaga exchanged blows and Batista knocked Umaga outside with a ]. Umaga later ] Batista in the face, which caused him to fall back-first outside the ring from the ring-apron. As a result, Umaga started targeting Batista's injured back. In the end, however, when Umaga tried to perform his ], Batista countered the attempt and gave him a ]. Batista won the match by pinning Umaga after a ].<ref name="batistawin">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6515946/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080405163849/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6515946/results/|archive-date=April 5, 2008|title=Animalistic bulldozing|first=Michael|last=Dinan|date= March 30, 2008|access-date=April 10, 2008|publisher=]}}</ref> | |||
], who defended the ] against ].]] | |||
The next match was the ] between ] and ]. Early in the match, Mayweather repeatedly escaped Big Show's grasp and delivered body shots to him. Soon, Mayweather applied a ] on Big Show, but the latter escaped out of it before passing out and ]ed on Mayweather's hand.<ref name="slam" /> Mayweather and his accomplices tried to "walk out" of the match, but Big Show walked up the ramp and brought Mayweather back in the ring. As Big Show was about to ] Mayweather, one of Mayweather's accomplices struck a ] on Big Show's back, and the latter chokeslammed him in retaliation. Capitalizing from this distraction, Mayweather grabbed that chair and hit Big Show multiple times on the head with it. Finally, Mayweather removed his right glove and put on a pair of ] to hit Big Show in the face. Thus, Big Show was ] as he could not answer the referee's ten count and Mayweather was declared the winner.<ref name="mayweatherwin">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6464482/results/|first=Louie|last=Dee|title=Show-n up|date=2008-03-30|accessdate=2008-04-10|publisher=WWE}}</ref> | |||
The fourth match for the event featured Chavo Guerrero defending his ECW Championship against Kane. Kane surprised Chavo by emerging from underneath the ring instead of from the entrance stage during his ring entrance.<ref name="KaneChamp">{{cite web|url= http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6514336/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080405163844/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6514336/results/|archive-date=April 5, 2008|publisher=]|first=Ryan|last=Murphy|title=Big Red champion|date=March 30, 2008|access-date= April 10, 2008}}</ref> Kane instantly pinned Chavo after a ] and won the ECW Championship in eleven seconds.<ref name="Guerrero/Kane">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/29/fastest-wrestlemania-matches/page-11|title=A monstrous 11 seconds|author=Clapp, John|date=April 3, 2012|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment|access-date=April 5, 2012|archive-date=August 14, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160814042023/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/29/fastest-wrestlemania-matches/page-11|url-status=live}}</ref> This was the only ECW match on the show and the only ECW Championship match in WrestleMania history.<ref name="KaneChamp"/> | |||
The ] of the night had ] putting his ] on the line against ]. The early going in this match was slow-paced with some counters by both men. One high point had Undertaker run and leap over the top rope from the ring onto Edge on the outside.<ref name="slam" /> Near the end, Edge was able to counter numerous signature moves of The Undertaker's including the Chokeslam and the ]. Although, The Undertaker was able to land both these moves, both Edge was able to kick out of both.<ref name="undertakerwin">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6208634/results/|first=Craig|last=Tello|title=Sweet Sixteen|date=2008-03-30|accessdate=2008-04-10|publisher=WWE}}</ref> Referee ] was hit by The Undertaker inadvertently which gave Edge the opportunity to nail Undertaker with a video camera.<ref name="slam" /> An attempt by Edge to perform a ] was reversed into Undertaker's own Tombstone Piledriver.<ref name="undertakerwin" /> Referee ] sprinted down to the ring to replace the hurt Korderas and began the three count, but Edge kicked out.<ref name="slam" /> ] came to the ring for Edge's aid. Because of their distraction, Edge was able to hit a ] on The Undertaker, followed by an unsuccessful pin attempt. Soon after Edge hit the Spear for a second time, Undertaker locked in the ] submission hold and forced Edge to tap out to become the new World Heavyweight Champion and improve his WrestleMania record to 16-0.<ref name="undertakerwin" /> | |||
=== |
===Main event matches=== | ||
{{further|]}} | |||
About 1,058,000 people ordered WrestleMania XXIV, grossing $23.8 million in revenue. This was less than the 1,188,000 buys that ] achieved.<ref name="buyrate24" /><ref name="buyrate23">{{cite web|url=http://corporate.wwe.com/news/documents/PressReleaseAugust18pmweb.pdf|pages=3|title=World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. Reports 2007 Second Quarter Results|date=2007-08-02|accessdate=2008-05-06|publisher=WWE}}</ref> | |||
]'s ] against ] was next, which stipulated that Flair would have to retire from ] if he had lost. At the start of the match, both superstars engaged in a series of counters, and then Flair shoved Michaels in a corner, making "]" comments to him. In retaliation, Michaels slapped Flair in the face, which caused him to start bleeding from the mouth. Later, Michaels attempted ], but stopped in the process and Flair capitalized by trapping him in his ].<ref name="slam"/> Afterward, Michaels finally delivered the Sweet Chin Music to Flair for a near-fall. Michaels then trapped Flair in his ], but Flair delivered a ] to Michaels to break the submission. As Flair was delivering ] to Michaels' chest, Michaels executed a second Sweet Chin Music.<ref name="slam"/> After getting up on his feet with a worried face, Michaels said to Flair "I'm sorry, I love you", before nailing a final Sweet Chin Music and thus pinning Flair to end his 35-year-long wrestling career.<ref name="flairover">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6464438/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080402210202/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6464438/results/|archive-date=April 2, 2008|title=The End|first=Bryan|last=Robinson|access-date=March 30, 2008|date=March 30, 2008|publisher=]}}</ref> After the match, Michaels left quickly and Flair got a standing ovation from the crowd. An emotional Flair embraced his family at ringside and then, as he proceeded to go backstage, he thanked the crowd for their support.<ref name="slam"/><ref name="flairover"/> | |||
On the following episode of ''Raw'', ] made his farewell speech, which led to ] introducing various people from Flair's past, such as the ], ], and others, each coming out to give an emotional farewell. Afterwards, the entire WWE roster came out to say thank you to Flair. ], who was clearly upset about retiring Flair, was forgiven by Flair.<ref name="raw0331">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/03312008/articles/longgoodbye|first=Greg|last=Adkins|title=The Long Goodbye|date=2008-03-31|accessdate=2008-04-11|publisher=WWE}}</ref> Despite this, Flair's former protégé ] later started a feud with Michaels, citing Michaels' "selfishness" at WrestleMania for not laying down for Flair.<ref name="smackdown0404">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/04042008/|first=Mitch|last=Passero|title=Mixed Emotions|date=2008-04-04|accessdate=2008-04-11|publisher=WWE}}</ref><ref name="raw0407">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/04072008/|first=Lennie|last=DiFino|title=For honor or ego?|date=2008-04-07|accessdate=2008-04-11|publisher=WWE}}</ref> The two had a match booked at ] and after a confrontation between Michaels and ], Jericho was later into the match as a ].<ref name="raw0414">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/04072008/|first=Lennie|last=DiFino|title=Intercontinental interjections|date=2008-04-14|accessdate=2008-04-28|publisher=WWE}}</ref> Michaels won after Sweet Chin Music.<ref name="BLHBKBatista">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/matches/6826876/results/|title=Play It Again, Shawn|first=Greg|last=Adkins|publisher=WWE|date=2008-04-27|accessdate=2008-04-28}}</ref> | |||
] at WrestleMania XXIV with ] and tag team partner ]]] | |||
The feud between ], ] and Triple H continued after WrestleMania with the added involvement of ] leading to a ] match between all four at Backlash. At the event, Triple H won his seventh ] by last pinning Orton.<ref name="BLWWETitle">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/matches/6803660/results/|title=Twelfth Knight|first=Craig|last=Tello|publisher=WWE|date=2008-04-27|accessdate=2008-04-28}}</ref> With ]'s return at WrestleMania, his feud with ] over the ] that started since last July was revived with a match booked at Backlash which Hardy won.<ref name="BLHardyMVP">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/matches/6842240/results/|title=Better than the Baller|first=Lennie|last=DiFino|publisher=WWE|date=2008-04-27|accessdate=2008-04-28}}</ref> The feud between ] and ] and the feud between ] and ] both continued with successful title defenses at Backlash, however on the ] edition of ''Smackdown'', General Manager ] stripped The Undertaker of the ] because of his continued use of his illegal chokehold claiming she did it to protect the Superstars.<ref name="BLTakerEdge">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/matches/6347966/results/|title=Second verse, same as the first|first=Louie|last=Dee|publisher=WWE|date=2008-04-27|accessdate=2008-04-28}}</ref><ref name="BLKaneChavo">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/matches/6752876/results/|title=Flames continue to fly in ECW|first=Andrew|last=Rote|publisher=WWE|date=2008-04-27|accessdate=2008-04-28}}</ref> | |||
The sixth match was the '']'' ], in which ] and ] (the latter who replaced ] due to injury) faced ] and ], who were accompanied to the ring by ]. ] ] served as the official "]" for the match. In the match, several ]s surrounded the ring and were able to interfere in the match without disqualifications.<ref name="playboy">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/history/2008/matches/6522694/results/|title=Santino tamed by rabid Dogg|first=Michael|last=Burdick|access-date=March 30, 2008|date=March 30, 2008|publisher=]|archive-date=May 30, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160530051614/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/history/2008/matches/6522694/results/|url-status=live}}</ref> Due to some technical difficulties, the lights at Citrus Bowl temporarily went out during the match.<ref name="slam"/> Near the end, a pin attempt by Maria was prevented when Marella pulled Maria's leg. In response, Raw commentator ] approached and knocked Marella down with a punch. Phoenix executed a ] and pinned Maria to win the match. After the match, Snoop Dogg executed a Clothesline on Marella and kissed Maria, before leaving with her and Ashley.<ref name="playboy"/> | |||
Next was ] defending his ] against ] and ] in a ], which is a standard match involving three wrestlers with no disqualifications. For his entrance, Cena had the ] ] perform an instrumental version of his theme song "]" live.<ref name="slam"/> During the match, when Triple H had held Orton in a ], Cena picked up both Orton and Triple H for an ], but Triple H dropped down and ] him. Orton then dominated the match for some time; one highlight of the match featured Orton performing a ] from the top rope on Cena, while the latter was held on Triple H's shoulders in a ] position. Orton also performed a ] to both Cena and Triple H simultaneously. Orton then tried to perform an ] on Cena, but he countered and threw Orton onto Triple H. Triple H then started targeting Orton's legs and using some submissions on him.<ref name="slam"/> The match came to an end when Cena had Triple H on his shoulders for the FU, but was countered into a ]. As Triple H was in the pin, Orton ] Triple H and pinned Cena to win the match and retain the WWE Championship.<ref name="ortonretain">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6199854/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080402205956/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6199854/results/|archive-date=April 2, 2008|title=One-Man Dynasty Indeed?|first=Bryan|last=Robinson|date=March 30, 2008|access-date=March 30, 2008|publisher=]}}</ref> | |||
==Production== | |||
] was placed over the ring at WrestleMania XXIV]] | |||
As the second WrestleMania to be held entirely outdoors, WWE chairman ] early on announced that the show will go on, regardless of the weather risks.<ref name="WrestleMania 24 will go on, even if it rains.">{{cite web|url=http://www.webcitation.org/query?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.news-journalonline.com%2FNewsJournalOnline%2FOpinion%2FColumnists%2FAngle%2FcolJAW032708.htm&date=2008-04-25|title=It's time for Wrestlemania XXIV |author=Jeff Wilen Jawbreaker|publisher=Daytona Beach News-Journal Online (archived by ])|date=2008-03-27|accessdate=2008-04-25}}</ref> In the March 2008 issue of ], WWE ] Jason Robinson revealed that a steel rig with a ] roof would be built above the ring itself to prevent rain.<ref name="WWEMagazine">{{cite journal|year=2007|month=March|title=WrestleMania XXIV Set Design|journal=WWE Magazine|pages=34–35}}</ref><ref name="roof">{{cite web|url=http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orl-wrestling1608mar16,0,5091124.story|accessdate=2008-03-15|title=Countdown to WrestleMania: Citrus Bowl's transformation is already underway|last=Adelson|first=Andrea|publisher=The Orlando Sentinel|date=2008-03-16}}</ref> In that same issue, an initial design of the ring setup was revealed showing a larger rig surrounding the tarpaulin rig, with ] and two giant screens attached.<ref name="WWEMagazine" /> The larger rig was dropped from the final design with the lighting and video screens now featuring on the tarpaulin rig as well as the sound system.<ref name="finaldesign">{{cite web|url=http://www.cfnews13.com/Entertainment/HeyJohn/2008/3/28/the_stage_is_set_for_wrestlemania_xxiv.html|accessdate=2008-03-29|first=John |last=Handiboe|title=The Stage Is Set For WrestleMania XXIV|publisher=Central Florida News|date=2008-03-28}}</ref> During an interview, WWE production manager Brian Petree mentioned that video reinforcement should prevent anyone from being obstructed by the steel structure. Up to seven ] were used to power up the show.<ref name="roof" /> | |||
] lost the ] to ]]] | |||
The ] for the entrance stage was at the north end of the stadium and consisted of another steel structure with various video screens hanging from it.<ref name="roof" /><ref name="finaldesign" /> The steel beams for the structure were custom built in ] and shipped over to Orlando.<ref name="roof" /> According to WWE Magazine, the amount of ] used would be ten times that of the amount used on ''Raw''.<ref name="WWEMagazine" /> Without the restriction of a roof, the pyrotechnics for the show shot as high as 2,000 ] as compared to ]'s height of 150 ft.<ref name="pyro">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/exclusives/sundaynightlights |accessdate=2008-03-30|first=Aubrey|last=Sitterson|title=Sunday night lights|publisher=WWE|date=2008-03-30}}</ref> The fireworks were set off from boats on one of the lakes nearby the stadium. WWE has been said to have spent an estimated $300,000 on the fireworks alone.<ref name="fireworks">{{cite web|url=http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/custom/wrestling/orl-wrestlemania3008mar30,0,3096674.story |accessdate=2008-03-30|first=Andrea|last=Adelson|title=Tonight, WrestleMania makes Citrus Bowl center of the professional wrestling world|publisher=Orlando Sentinel|date=2008-03-30}}</ref> After the show, WWE was criticized for a malfunction in the pyrotechnics during The Undertaker's victory celebration. During the celebration, a hot cable for pyrotechnics was sent flying into audience members in the upper seating bowl of the stadium, leaving 45 injured with some hospitalized. The accident was apparently due to a cable which fireworks were travelling across snapping, thus resulting in the fireworks exploding into the top rows of the upper bowl of the stadium.<ref name="injury">{{cite web|url=http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23877310/ |accessdate=2008-03-31|title=45 Injured During WrestleMania Fireworks|publisher=]|date=2008-03-31}}</ref><ref name="injury2">{{cite web|url=http://www.wftv.com/news/15748647/detail.html|accessdate=2008-03-31|title=Dozens Injured At WrestleMania When Fireworks, Cables Fall On Crowd|publisher=]|date=2008-03-31}}</ref> WWE's corporate website released a statement afterwards stating that they will investigate the incident.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://corporate.wwe.com/news/2008/200_03_31.jsp| title=WWE® Statement On Fireworks| publisher=WWE| date=2008-03-31| accessdate=2008-03-31}}</ref> | |||
The next match was the ] between Big Show and Floyd Mayweather Jr. Early in the match, Mayweather repeatedly escaped Big Show's grasp and delivered body shots to him.<ref name="slam"/> Mayweather and his accomplices tried to "walk out" of the match, but Big Show walked up the ramp and brought Mayweather back in the ring. As Big Show was about to chokeslam Mayweather, one of Mayweather's accomplices struck a ] on Big Show's back, and the latter chokeslammed him in retaliation. Capitalizing from this distraction, Mayweather grabbed that chair and hit Big Show multiple times on the head with it. Finally, Mayweather removed his right glove and put on a pair of ] to hit Big Show in the face. As a result, Big Show was ] as he could not answer the referee's ], and Mayweather was declared the winner.<ref name="Mayweather/Show">{{cite web|date=March 28, 2008|url=http://corporate.wwe.com/news/2008/2008NewsRelease.jsp|title=Mayweather vs. Big Show – "There Is Going To Be A Winner"|publisher=] Corporate|access-date=March 29, 2008|archive-date=August 10, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120810102625/http://corporate.wwe.com/news/2008/2008NewsRelease.jsp|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="mayweatherwin">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6464482/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080405163839/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6464482/results/|archive-date=April 5, 2008|title=Show-n up|date= March 30, 2008|first=Louie|last=Dee|access-date=April 10, 2008|publisher=]}}</ref> | |||
The ] of the night saw ] putting his ] on the line against ]. This was The Undertaker's first WrestleMania main event in 11 years, last main eventing against ] at ]. The early going of the match was slow-paced, in which both superstars countered each other's maneuvers. During the match, Undertaker ran and leapt over the top rope from the ring onto Edge on the outside.<ref name="slam"/> Then throughout the match, Edge was able to counter Undertaker's numerous signature moves, including the ], ] and the ], a variation of the powerbomb.<ref name="undertakerwin">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6208634/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080405163823/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6208634/results/|archive-date=April 5, 2008|title=Sweet Sixteen|date=March 30, 2008|first=Craig|last=Tello|access-date=April 10, 2008|publisher=]}}</ref> Near the end, Edge hit Undertaker with a television camera while the referee was knocked down. When he proceeded to deliver a ] to Undertaker, Undertaker countered it into his own version and successfully delivered it to Edge for a two-count. ] came to the ring for Edge's aid, but Undertaker took them out. Because of their distraction, Edge was able to execute a ] on Undertaker, but was unable to pin him. When Edge delivered another spear to Undertaker, Undertaker applied ] and forced Edge to submit to win the World Heavyweight Championship, improving his WrestleMania record to 16–0.<ref name="undertakerwin"/> | |||
] for WrestleMania XXIV]] | |||
With the Citrus Bowl's locker rooms on the south side and the entrance set on the north side, a tented 40,000 ] mini-city outside the north end served as the show's backstage area and included air conditioning, trailers, VIP areas, showers and restrooms.<ref name="roof" /> As a consequence, the road next to the north end zone, W. Church Street, was closed down until a day after the event.<ref name="road1">{{cite web|url=http://www.cfnews13.com/Traffic/OnTheMove/2008/3/23/wrestlemania_festivities_to_close_roads_downtown.html|accessdate=2008-03-23|title=WrestleMania Festivities To Close Roads Downtown|publisher=Central Florida News|date=2008-03-27}}</ref> Numerous other roads were also closed to allow trucks and fork lifts to move in mega equipment for the event.<ref name="road2">{{cite web|url=http://www.cfnews13.com/Entertainment/HeyJohn/2008/3/24/wrestlemania_construction_under_way_at_citrus_bowl.html|accessdate=2008-03-24|first=John |last=Handiboe|title=WrestleMania Construction Under Way At Citrus Bowl|publisher=Central Florida News|date=2008-03-27}}</ref> The ring itself was built on the ] of the Citrus Bowl to give the best view for fans.<ref name="WWEMagazine" /> Heavy-duty plastic flooring had been put over the field, to protect the turf, provide seating and serve as the steel structures' foundation.<ref name="roof" /> | |||
==Reception== | |||
Development on the set design began in the middle of 2007.<ref name="WWECitrusBowl">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/exclusives/citrusbowl|accessdate=2008-03-17|title=WrestleMania XXIV: A Logistical Challenge|last=Zeigler|first=Zack|publisher=WWE|date=2007-11-09}}</ref> The building of the actual set began in the middle of March. 100 people worked 16 hours a day to construct the set for the event. The construction finished on ].<ref name="roof" /><ref name="road2" /> | |||
Approximately 1,058,000 people ordered WrestleMania XXIV, grossing $23.8 million in revenue. ]'s professional wrestling section gave the entire event 9 out of 10 stars. The rating was higher than WrestleMania 23 which received 8 out of 10 stars. The main event between The Undertaker and Edge for the World Heavyweight Championship was rated a 9.5 out of 10 stars. The Career Threatening match between Ric Flair and Shawn Michaels was rated a perfect 10 out of 10. Big Show vs. Floyd "Money" Mayweather Jr. was rated 7 out of 10 stars, and the Triple Threat match for the WWE Championship between Randy Orton, Triple H and John Cena was rated 8.5 out of 10 stars.<ref name="slam"/> | |||
==Aftermath== | |||
WrestleMania XXIV was the first WrestleMania event to be filmed in ]. It will also be the first WWE show and sports related title to be released on the ] format by ].<ref name="Blu-Ray">{{cite web|url=http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/WWE/Disc_Announcements/WWE_Comes_to_Blu-ray_with_Wrestlemania_XXIV/1586|accessdate=2008-03-27|title=WWE Comes to Blu-ray with 'Wrestlemania XXIV'|publisher=High-Def Digest|date=2008-03-25}}</ref><ref name="Blu-Ray2">{{cite web|url=http://corporate.wwe.com/news/2008/2008_04_24.jsp|accessdate=2008-04-26|title=WrestleMania XXIV On Hi-Definition Blu-ray Disc|publisher=WWE|date=2008-04-24}}</ref> | |||
] at WrestleMania XXIV]] | |||
After the show, WWE was criticized for a malfunction in the pyrotechnics during The Undertaker's victory celebration. During the celebration, a hot cable for pyrotechnics was sent flying into audience members in the upper seating bowl of the stadium, leaving 45 injured, with some hospitalized. The accident was apparently due to a cable which fireworks were traveling across snapping, thus resulting in the fireworks exploding into the top rows of the upper bowl of the stadium.<ref name="injury">{{cite web|url=http://www.ajc.com/news/content/news/stories/2008/03/31/wrestlemania_0331.html|date=March 31, 2008|access-date=December 3, 2008|title=Pyrotechnics malfunction hurts WrestleMania fans|publisher=Atlanta Journal-Constitution|archive-date=June 29, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629052857/http://www.ajc.com/news/content/news/stories/2008/03/31/wrestlemania_0331.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="injury2">{{cite web|url=http://www.wftv.com/news/15748647/detail.html|access-date=March 31, 2008|title=Dozens Injured At WrestleMania When Fireworks, Cables Fall On Crowd|publisher=]|date=March 31, 2008|archive-date=August 13, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120813101937/http://www.wftv.com/news/news/dozens-injured-at-wrestlemania-when-fireworks-cabl/nJj8s/|url-status=dead}}</ref> WWE's corporate website released a statement afterward stating that they would investigate the incident, but the results of the investigation were never released.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://corporate.wwe.com/news/2008/200_03_31.jsp|title=WWE Statement On Fireworks|publisher=]|date=March 31, 2008|access-date=March 31, 2008|archive-date=August 10, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120810085202/http://corporate.wwe.com/news/2008/200_03_31.jsp|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
On the following episode of ''Raw'', Ric Flair made his farewell speech, which led to Triple H introducing various people from Flair's past, such as ], ], and others, each coming out to give an emotional farewell. Afterward, the entire WWE roster came out to say thank you to Flair (Including Undertaker, who came out after Raw went off the air and hugged Flair and did his kneeling stance). Shawn Michaels, who was clearly upset about retiring Flair, was forgiven by Flair.<ref name="raw0331">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/03312008/articles/longgoodbye|title=The Long Goodbye|first=Greg|last=Adkins|date=March 31, 2008|access-date=April 11, 2008|publisher=]|archive-date=October 25, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121025054508/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/03312008/articles/longgoodbye|url-status=live}}</ref> Despite Flair's forgiveness, his former protégé Batista later started a feud with Michaels, citing Michaels' "selfishness" at WrestleMania for not lying down for Flair.<ref name="smackdown0404">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/04042008/|title=Mixed Emotions|date=April 4, 2008|access-date=April 11, 2008|first=Mitch|last=Passero|publisher=]|archive-date=April 29, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150429140030/http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/04042008|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="raw0407">{{cite web|first=Lennie|last=DiFino|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/04072008/|title=For honor or ego?|date=April 7, 2008|access-date=April 11, 2008|publisher=]|archive-date=July 7, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120707182819/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/04072008|url-status=live}}</ref> The two had a match booked at ], and after a confrontation between Michaels and Chris Jericho, Jericho was later added into the match as a ].<ref name="raw0414">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/04072008/|title=Intercontinental interjections|date=April 14, 2008|first=Lennie|last=DiFino|access-date=April 28, 2008|publisher=]|archive-date=July 7, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120707182819/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/04072008|url-status=live}}</ref> Michaels won with a superkick.<ref name="BLHBKBatista">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/matches/6826876/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501113926/http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/matches/6826876/results/|archive-date=May 1, 2008|title=Play It Again, Shawn|first =Greg|last=Adkins|publisher=]|date=April 27, 2008|access-date=April 28, 2008}}</ref> | |||
WrestleMania also led to an increase in sales for musical artists related to the event, including the ]' album '']'', ]'s album ''Live from Philadelphia'', ]'s single "]", and ]'s single "]" (which was used in tribute to ]).<ref name="Music">{{cite web|url=http://corporate.wwe.com/news/2008/2008_04_09a.jsp|accessdate=2008-04-09|title=WWE’s WrestleMania Rocks Music Sales|publisher=WWE|date=2008-04-24}}</ref> | |||
The feud between Randy Orton, John Cena and Triple H continued after WrestleMania with the added involvement of John "Bradshaw" Layfield (JBL) leading to a ] match between all four at Backlash. At Backlash, Triple H won his seventh WWE Championship by last pinning Orton.<ref name="BLWWETitle">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/matches/6803660/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501113921/http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/matches/6803660/results/|archive-date=May 1, 2008|title=Twelfth Knight|first=Craig|last=Tello|publisher=]|date=April 27, 2008|access-date=April 28, 2008}}</ref> With Matt Hardy's return at WrestleMania, his feud with Montel Vontavious Porter over the ], that had started in July 2007, was revived with a match booked at Backlash, which Hardy won.<ref name="BLHardyMVP">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/matches/6842240/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501113931/http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/matches/6842240/results/|archive-date=May 1, 2008|title=Better than the Baller|first=Lennie|last=DiFino|publisher=]|date=April 27, 2008|access-date=April 28, 2008}}</ref> The rivalries between The Undertaker and Edge and the one between Kane and Chavo Guerrero both continued with successful title defenses at Backlash. On the May 2 episode of ''SmackDown'', General Manager ] stripped The Undertaker of the World Heavyweight Championship because of his continued use of his illegal chokehold, claiming she did it to protect the other wrestlers.<ref name="BLTakerEdge">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/matches/6347966/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501113911/http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/matches/6347966/results/|archive-date=May 1, 2008|title=Second verse, same as the first|first=Louie|last=Dee|publisher=]|date=April 27, 2008|access-date=April 28, 2008}}</ref><ref name="BLKaneChavo">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/matches/6752876/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501113916/http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/matches/6752876/results/|archive-date=May 1, 2008|title=Flames continue to fly in ECW|first=Andrew|last=Rote|publisher=]|date=April 27, 2008|access-date=April 28, 2008}}</ref> | |||
===DVD / Blu-ray release=== | |||
The event was released on ] and ] by ] in the U.S. on May 20, 2008, after it had completed broadcast on ]. It was also released on ] on August 23 2008. It was the first WWE PPV event to be released via the Blu-ray and UMD format. As well as the event, the DVD/BD release features bonus material in the form of the 2008 Hall of Fame ceremony in its entirety and the battle royal that took place before the event.<ref name="WWEDVD">{{cite web|url=http://www.wweshop.com/product_detail.asp?productId=35-00613|title=WrestleMania 24 DVD 3-Disc Set|publisher=]|access-date=December 22, 2008|archive-date=June 8, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080608013247/http://www.wweshop.com/Product_detail.asp?productId=35-00613|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="SunCoast DVD">{{cite web|url=http://www.suncoast.com/WWE--Wrestlemania-24--Blu-ray---2-Discs--Sports_stcVVproductId41358221VVcatId460062VVviewprod.htm|title=WWE: WrestleMania XXIV|publisher=]|access-date=December 22, 2008|archive-date=May 10, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130510094100/http://www.fye.com/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="FirstWWEBluRay">{{cite web|date=March 25, 2008|url=http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=1145|title=WWE Announces First Blu-ray Title|publisher=Blu-ray.com|access-date=March 11, 2010|archive-date=February 25, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120225044511/http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=1145|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
==Results== | ==Results== | ||
{{Pro Wrestling results table | |||
], who was the ] heading into WrestleMania]] | |||
| times = <ref name="slam"/> | |||
{{small|Numbers in parentheses indicate the match length.}} | |||
| note1 = pre | |||
* WWE.com match: ] won a ] ] (6:50)<ref name="BattleRoyal" /><ref name="PWH">{{cite web|url= http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/supercards/usa/wwf/mania.html#24|title=WrestleMania XXIV|publisher=Pro Wrestling History |accessdate=2008-04-15}}</ref> | |||
| match1 = ] won by last eliminating ]<ref group=Note>Order of elimination: ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ]. </ref> | |||
**Kane won by last eliminating ] to gain a ] match against ] later that night. | |||
| stip1 = ] to determine the #1 contender for the ] | |||
**The other participants were: ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ] and ].<ref name="OWW">{{cite web|date=2008-03-30|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/wweppv/wrestlemania24.html|title=WrestleMania 24 results|publisher=Online World of Wrestling|accessdate=2008-03-31}}</ref> | |||
| time1 = 06:22 | |||
**This match was held before WrestleMania, ] live as a "FreeView" on WWE's website. | |||
| match2 = ] defeated ] (with ])<ref name="FinlayJBLResult"/> | |||
| stip2 = ] | |||
**Finley pinned John "Bradshaw" Layfield after a Celtic Cross. | |||
| time2 = 08:43 | |||
*] defeated ], ], ], ] (MVP), ] and ] in a ] (19:55)<ref name="MITBResult"/><ref name="PWH" /> | |||
| match3 = ] defeated ], ], ], ], ] and ]<ref name="MITBResult"/> | |||
**Punk won by retrieving the briefcase suspended above the ring. | |||
| stip3 = ] | |||
**During the match, ] returned to action and knocked Chris Jericho off a ladder with a ]. | |||
| time3 = 15:12 | |||
**Originally ] was suppose to be a participant in this match but due to his violation of the Wellness Program he was removed from the match. | |||
| match4 = ] (SmackDown) defeated ] (Raw)<ref name="batistawin"/> | |||
| stip4 = 'Battle for Brand Supremacy' ] | |||
**Batista pinned Umaga after five ]. | |||
| time4 = 07:03 | |||
*Kane defeated Chavo Guerrero to win the ECW Championship (0:03)<ref name="KaneChamp" /><ref name="KaneChavoTime"/> | |||
| match5 = ] defeated ] (c)<ref name="KaneChamp"/> | |||
**Kane pinned Guerrero after a ]. | |||
| stip5 = Singles match for the ] | |||
*] defeated ] in a ] (20:23)<ref name="flairover"/><ref name="PWH" /> | |||
| time5 = 00:11<ref name="Guerrero/Kane" /> | |||
**Michaels pinned Flair after hitting Sweet Chin Music. | |||
| match6 = ] defeated ]<ref name="flairover"/> | |||
**Per the pre-match stipulation, Flair was forced to retire. | |||
| stip6 = ]<ref group=Note>Since ] lost, he had to retire from in-ring competition (though he would later wrestle more matches outside WWE.)</ref> | |||
*] and ] (w/]) defeated ] and ] in a ] ] (8:56)<ref name="playboy" /><ref name="PWH" /> | |||
| time6 = 21:34 | |||
**Phoenix pinned Maria after a ]. | |||
| match7 = ] and ] (with ]) defeated ] and ] (with ])<ref name="playboy"/><ref>{{cite web|title=WrestleMania attracts Snoop Dogg|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/entertainmentNews/idUSN0610836020080306|work=Reuters|date=March 6, 2008|access-date=March 7, 2008|archive-date=April 29, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140429134748/http://www.reuters.com/article/2008/03/06/us-wrestle-idUSN0610836020080306|url-status=live}}</ref><ref group=Note>The lumberjills were: ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ] and ]</ref><ref group=Note>] replaced ], who could not participate due to injury</ref> | |||
**] served as the ] for the match.<ref>{{cite web|title=WrestleMania attracts Snoop Dogg|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/entertainmentNews/idUSN0610836020080306 |publisher=]|date= 2008-03-06 |accessdate=2008-03-07}}</ref> | |||
| stip7 = '']'' ] | |||
**] was originally scheduled to be Maria's partner, but suffered a ] ] injury and was replaced by Ashley. | |||
| time7 = 05:00 | |||
**Lumberjacks: ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ] and ].<ref name="OWW" /> | |||
| match8 = ] (c) defeated ] and ]<ref name="ortonretain"/> | |||
| stip8 = ] for the ] | |||
**Cena pinned Orton after a ] from Triple H. | |||
| time8 = 15:10 | |||
*] defeated ] in a ] (17:36)<ref name="mayweatherwin" /><ref name="PWH" /> | |||
| match9 = ] defeated ] by ]<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/24/wrestlemaniaxxivphotos/mayweathervsshow |title=There Must be a Winner: Floyd Mayweather vs. Big Show {{!}} WWE<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=March 28, 2012 |archive-date=April 26, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160426151116/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/24/wrestlemaniaxxivphotos/mayweathervsshow |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
**Mayweather won via ] when Big Show failed to answer a ten-count after being hit with ]. | |||
| stip9 = ] | |||
*] defeated ] to win the ] (29:50)<ref name="undertakerwin" /><ref name="PWH" /> | |||
| time9 = 11:40 | |||
**Undertaker forced Edge to submit with the ]. | |||
| match10 = ] defeated ] (c) by ]<ref name="undertakerwin"/> | |||
**Edge died following the match after he suffered eternal bleeding from the mouth when Undertaker applied the Gogoplata. | |||
| stip10 = Singles match for the ] | |||
| time10 = 24:03 | |||
}} | |||
<references group=Note/> | |||
==References== | ==References== | ||
{{ |
{{Reflist}} | ||
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==External links== | ||
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{{Commons category|WrestleMania XXIV}} | ||
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{{2008 WWE pay-per-view events}} | |||
{{Portal|Professional wrestling|break=yes}} | |||
{{WWEPPV|WrestleMania}} | {{WWEPPV|WrestleMania}} | ||
{{Floyd Mayweather}} | |||
{{good article}} | |||
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Latest revision as of 09:25, 20 December 2024
2008 World Wrestling Entertainment pay-per-view event
WrestleMania XXIV | |||
---|---|---|---|
Promotional poster featuring various WWE wrestlers and boxer Floyd "Money" Mayweather | |||
Promotion | World Wrestling Entertainment | ||
Brand(s) | Raw SmackDown ECW | ||
Date | March 30, 2008 | ||
City | Orlando, Florida | ||
Venue | Florida Citrus Bowl | ||
Attendance | 74,635 | ||
Buy rate | 1,041,000 | ||
Tagline(s) | "The Biggest WrestleMania Under the Sun" | ||
Pay-per-view chronology | |||
| |||
WrestleMania chronology | |||
|
WrestleMania XXIV was the 24th annual WrestleMania professional wrestling pay-per-view (PPV) event produced by World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). It was held for wrestlers from the promotion's Raw, SmackDown, and ECW brand divisions. The event took place on March 30, 2008, at the Florida Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Florida and was the first WrestleMania to be held in the state of Florida. It was also the second WrestleMania to be held outdoors (the first was WrestleMania IX in April 1993). American socialite Kim Kardashian served as the hostess of the event.
Nine professional wrestling matches were scheduled for the event, which featured a supercard, a scheduling of more than one main event. In the final match of the event, which was the main match from SmackDown, The Undertaker defeated Edge to win the World Heavyweight Championship. Raw's main match was a triple threat match, in which Randy Orton defeated Triple H and John Cena to retain the WWE Championship. The main match from the ECW brand was a singles match in which Kane defeated Chavo Guerrero to win the ECW Championship. From the six scheduled bouts on the undercard, three received more promotion than the others. In a No Disqualification match, professional boxer Floyd "Money" Mayweather defeated Big Show. The other featured undercard matches saw CM Punk win the inter-promotional Money in the Bank ladder match and a retirement match in which Shawn Michaels defeated Ric Flair, leading to Flair's departure from the WWE and a period of retirement from active wrestling.
Tickets for the event commenced sale to the public on November 3, 2007. WWE and the City of Orlando hosted festivities that spanned a five-day period within the central Florida region. For the second consecutive year, WrestleMania broke the record for the highest-grossing pay-per-view in WWE history. It also set a gate record for the Citrus Bowl, grossing US$5.85 million in ticket sales. According to a study by Enigma Research Corporation of Toronto, the Citrus Bowl's record-breaking attendance brought an estimated $51.5 million – surpassing the projected $25 million – into the local economy and generated $1.8 million in local tax revenue. The Central Florida Sports Commission reported that the event created jobs and brought approximately 60,000 visitors to the city. Over one million people ordered the event on pay-per-view, grossing $23.8 million in revenue. It was also the first WrestleMania PPV broadcast in high definition.
Production
Background
WrestleMania is considered World Wrestling Entertainment's (WWE) flagship pay-per-view (PPV) event, having first been held in 1985. It has become the longest-running professional wrestling event in history and is held annually between mid-March to mid-April. It was the first of WWE's original four pay-per-views, which includes Royal Rumble, SummerSlam, and Survivor Series, referred to as the "Big Four". WrestleMania XXIV featured wrestlers from the Raw, SmackDown, and ECW brands.
On March 21, 2007, a press conference was held at City Hall in Orlando, Florida, formally announcing that WrestleMania XXIV would be held in Orlando at the Florida Citrus Bowl on March 30, 2008, which would be the first WrestleMania held in Florida. According to an interview with The Daytona Beach News-Journal at the press conference, WWE chairman Vince McMahon mentioned Orlando being one of three front-runners to host the event, the other two being Las Vegas and Paris. McMahon explained that Orlando was chosen as geographically, a WrestleMania was never held in the southeast before.
As the second WrestleMania to be held entirely outdoors (after WrestleMania IX), McMahon also announced that the event would have taken place regardless of the weather conditions. In the March 2008 issue of WWE Magazine, WWE set designer Jason Robinson revealed that a steel rig with a tarpaulin roof would be built above the ring itself to prevent rain from falling on the ring; during the Money in the Bank ladder match, it rained briefly. In that same issue, an initial design of the ring setup was revealed showing a larger rig surrounding the tarpaulin rig, with lighting and two giant screens attached. The final design had the lighting and video screens on the tarpaulin rig, as well as the sound system. During an interview, WWE production manager Brian Petree mentioned that video reinforcement should prevent anyone's view from being obstructed by the steel structure. Up to seven generators were used to power up the event.
The set design for the entrance stage was at the north end of the stadium and consisted of another steel structure with various video screens hanging from it. The steel beams for the structure were custom built in Belgium and shipped over to Orlando. According to WWE Magazine, the amount of pyrotechnics used would be ten times that of the amount used on Raw. Without the restriction of a roof, the pyrotechnics for the show shot as high as 2,000 feet (610 m) as compared to WrestleMania 23's height of 150 feet (46 m). The fireworks were set off from boats on one of the lakes nearby the stadium. WWE has been said to have spent an estimated $300,000 on the fireworks alone.
With the Citrus Bowl's locker rooms on the south side and the entrance set on the north side, a tented 40,000 square feet (3,700 m) mini-city outside the north end served as the show's backstage area and included air conditioning, trailers, VIP areas, showers and restrooms. As a consequence, the road next to the north end zone, W. Church Street, was closed down until a day after the event. Numerous other roads were also closed to allow trucks and forklifts to move in mega equipment for the event. The ring itself was built on the 50-yard line of the Citrus Bowl to give the best view for fans. Heavy-duty plastic flooring had been put over the field, to protect the turf, provide seating, and serve as the steel structures' foundation.
Development on the set design began in the middle of 2007. The building of the actual set began in the middle of March 2008. 100 people worked 16 hours a day to construct the set for the event. The construction finished on March 29. WrestleMania XXIV was the first WrestleMania event to be filmed in high-definition. It was also the first WWE show and sports related title to be released on the Blu-ray Disc format by WWE Home Video. WrestleMania also led to an increase in sales for musical artists related to the event, including the Red Hot Chili Peppers' album Stadium Arcadium, John Legend's album Live from Philadelphia, Rev Theory's single "Light It Up", and Fuel's single "Leave the Memories Alone", which was used as part of a tribute to Ric Flair.
Storylines
WrestleMania XXIV featured nine professional wrestling matches with wrestlers involved in pre-existing scripted feuds, plots, and storylines. Wrestlers were portrayed as either villains or fan favorites as they followed a series of tension-building events, which culminated in a wrestling match or series of matches. All wrestlers belonged to either the Raw, SmackDown, or ECW brand – storyline divisions in which WWE assigned its employees to different programs.
The predominant rivalry scripted into WrestleMania on the Raw brand was between Randy Orton, John Cena, and Triple H, over the WWE Championship. At the Royal Rumble pay-per-view event in January, Orton successfully defended the WWE Championship against Jeff Hardy and later that night, Cena returned from an injury and won the Royal Rumble match when he last eliminated Triple H. Instead of challenging Orton for the title at WrestleMania, Cena decided to challenge him at No Way Out, where Orton got himself intentionally disqualified by slapping the referee, thus retaining the WWE Championship. Later, Triple H also became a top contender to the WWE Championship by defeating five other men in an Elimination Chamber match. The next night on Raw, Cena argued that he deserved another WWE Championship match. Raw general manager William Regal then announced that Cena would face Orton later in the night, where if Cena won, he would be added to the WrestleMania match between Triple H and Orton, making it a triple threat match. If Orton won, the main event would remain as Orton versus Triple H in a singles match. However, Cena won the match and was added to the bout at WrestleMania. After the match, Triple H, who was the special guest referee, executed a Pedigree on both Cena and Orton.
The predominant rivalry on the SmackDown brand was between Edge and The Undertaker, over the World Heavyweight Championship. On the February 1 episode of SmackDown, assistant general manager Theodore Long announced that at No Way Out, an Elimination Chamber match would be held to determine the number one contender to the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania. The Undertaker won the match by last eliminating Batista. On the following episode of SmackDown, Edge predicted that The Undertaker's 15–0 undefeated streak at WrestleMania would come to an end once he defeated him. Two weeks later on the March 7 episode of SmackDown, the team of Edge and Curt Hawkins and Zack Ryder defeated The Undertaker in a Handicap match after Edge pinned The Undertaker. The following week, La Familia (Chavo Guerrero, Edge, Hawkins and Ryder) defeated Ric Flair and Shawn Michaels in a steel cage match. During the match, Undertaker interfered and attacked La Familia. However, Edge escaped the cage to win the match for his team. Two weeks later on SmackDown, Edge, along with Vickie Guerrero, Hawkins and Ryder, held a mock burial entitled "Burial of The Undertaker's WrestleMania Undefeated Streak", to celebrate Edge's early victory over The Undertaker. During the "burial", however, The Undertaker emerged from a casket, which was inside the ring, and attacked Edge, Hawkins, and Ryder, knocking Hawkins and Ryder outside the ring and chokeslamming Edge through the casket.
At No Way Out, Big Show made a return to the company after taking time off for injuries beginning in December 2006. In his return promotional interview, Big Show threatened to give Rey Mysterio a chokeslam. Professional boxer and WBC Welterweight Champion Floyd "Money" Mayweather, who was in attendance and a close friend of Mysterio's, came to his aid and confronted Big Show. After Big Show dropped to his knees, Mayweather attacked him with a combination of punches, which caused Big Show to bleed from the nose and mouth. The following night on Raw, Big Show challenged Mayweather to a wrestling match, which Mayweather accepted. As part of the storyline, Big Show arranged an exhibition match with fighter Brandon Hill, who was similar in size and stature to Mayweather. Unimpressed with Big Show's display of dominance over Hill, Mayweather told Big Show that "at WrestleMania, I'm going to break your jaw". At their weigh-in for their WrestleMania match, Big Show threw Mayweather into a crowd of wrestlers to emphasise the disparity in size.
On the February 25 episode of Raw, 2008 WWE Hall of Fame Inductee Ric Flair challenged Shawn Michaels to a match at WrestleMania. Michaels accepted after some reluctance, knowing that due to a previous announcement from WWE chairman Mr. McMahon the next match Flair lost would result in his forced retirement. Flair said that "it would be an honor for to retire at the hands of Shawn Michaels."
On February 18, WWE announced via its website that the fourth annual Money in the Bank ladder match would take place at WrestleMania XXIV, a match where the objective is to retrieve a briefcase suspended in the air using a ladder. The match involved wrestlers from all three WWE brands. The winner would earn a contract to challenge for any of the three WWE World Championships (the WWE Championship of Raw, the World Heavyweight Championship of SmackDown, or the ECW Championship of ECW) at any time and any place over a one-year period. Qualifying matches occurred to determine the participants in the match at WrestleMania, starting on that night's Raw with Jeff Hardy and Mr. Kennedy defeating Snitsky and Val Venis respectively to qualify. Shelton Benjamin became the third participant when he defeated Jimmy Wang Yang on the following episode of SmackDown. During the next two weeks on Raw, Chris Jericho defeated Hardy, and Carlito defeated Cody Rhodes to qualify. At a non-televised SmackDown/ECW house show held on March 8, Montel Vontavious Porter qualified when he defeated Jamie Noble. On the March 11 episode of ECW, CM Punk became the seventh entrant when he defeated Big Daddy V. John Morrison was the final person to qualify when he beat The Miz on the March 14 episode of SmackDown. Hardy was later removed from the match after a legitimate suspension by WWE for a drug violation of the company's Wellness Policy. WWE decided not to add another superstar in his place, making that year's Money in the Bank ladder match the first year to have seven participants.
Event
Role: | Name: |
---|---|
English commentators | Jim Ross (Raw) |
Jerry Lawler (Raw) | |
Michael Cole (SmackDown) | |
Jonathan Coachman (SmackDown) | |
Joey Styles (ECW) | |
Tazz (ECW) | |
Spanish commentators | Carlos Cabrera |
Hugo Savinovich | |
Interviewer | Mike Adamle |
Todd Grisham | |
Hostess | Kim Kardashian |
Master of Ceremonies | Snoop Dogg |
Ring announcers | Tony Chimel (ECW) |
Armando Estrada (ECW Championship) | |
Howard Finkel (WWE Hall of Fame) | |
Lilian Garcia (Raw) | |
Theodore Long (Raw vs. SmackDown) | |
William Regal (Raw vs. SmackDown) | |
Justin Roberts (SmackDown/Money in the Bank match) | |
Referee | Scott Armstrong (ECW) |
Mike Posey (ECW) | |
John Cone (Raw) | |
Mike Chioda (Raw) | |
Jack Doan (Raw) | |
Marty Elias (Raw) | |
Mickie Henson (SmackDown) | |
Jim Korderas (SmackDown) | |
Chad Patton (Raw) | |
Charles Robinson (SmackDown) |
Pre-show
Before the show aired live on pay-per-view, Kane won a 24-man Interpromotional Battle Royal, an elimination style match where the last person remaining was the winner, to win an ECW Championship match against Chavo Guerrero later that night. The event officially began with John Legend singing a rendition of "America the Beautiful".
Preliminary matches
The first match was a Belfast Brawl between Finlay and John "Bradshaw" Layfield (JBL), a match in which there were no disqualifications or countouts and the match outcomes could have occurred anywhere. Finlay was accompanied to the ring by his storyline son, Hornswoggle, who was returning from a scripted injury suffered at the hands of JBL. During the match, JBL hit Finlay with a trash can lid when the latter was about to perform a suicide dive on him through the ropes on the outside. Later on, Finlay tossed JBL through a table that he had set up earlier on the turnbuckle. Hornswoggle also got involved during the match by hitting JBL with a kendo stick, while later on JBL threw a trash can at him. Attacking Finlay's knee with a kendo stick, JBL delivered a Clothesline from Hell to Finlay to score a successful pinfall. This was an interpromotional match.
The next match of the evening was the fourth-annual Money in the Bank ladder match, in which there were no disqualifications or countouts, and the only way to win the match was to climb a ladder in the ring and retrieve a contract briefcase hanging above. The match featured Chris Jericho, Mr. Kennedy, and Carlito from the Raw brand; CM Punk, Shelton Benjamin and John Morrison from the ECW brand; and Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) from the SmackDown brand. Jeff Hardy was supposed to be in the match, but he violated the wellness program and was taken out of the match. Early in the match, Morrison climbed a turnbuckle and performed a moonsault onto other competitors outside the ring while holding a ladder against his chest. Later, while Kennedy and Morrison were battling on top of a ladder, Benjamin climbed another ladder placed adjacent to the first one and performed a sunset flip powerbomb on Kennedy, who in turn superplexed Morrison from the top of the ladder. Later, Carlito and Kennedy flipped Benjamin off a ladder in the ring, sending him crashing through another ladder set-up between the barricade and the ring apron. When MVP was close to retrieving the contract briefcase, Matt Hardy (returning to action after suffering a legitimate injury), entered the ring from the crowd, climbed the ladder, and delivered a Twist of Fate to MVP off that ladder. As soon as Morrison started to climb a ladder, see-sawing with another ladder, Jericho flipped the other one and Morrison landed on the ring-ropes groin-first. Jericho even performed a Codebreaker on Punk using a ladder. In the end, Jericho and Punk fought each other on a ladder, but Punk trapped Jericho's one leg in the ladder's steps and retrieved the briefcase to win the match. This was an interpromotional match.
Next after that match, Howard Finkel introduced the 2008 WWE Hall of Fame class: Jack and Gerald Brisco, Gordon Solie (represented by his family), Rocky Johnson, High Chief Peter Maivia (represented by his wife Lia and daughter Ata), Eddie Graham (represented by his son Mike), Mae Young, and Ric Flair (represented by his family).
The next match, which was billed as a "Battle for Brand Supremacy", was between SmackDown's Batista and Raw's Umaga. Early in the match, both Batista and Umaga exchanged blows and Batista knocked Umaga outside with a shoulder block. Umaga later kicked Batista in the face, which caused him to fall back-first outside the ring from the ring-apron. As a result, Umaga started targeting Batista's injured back. In the end, however, when Umaga tried to perform his Samoan Spike, Batista countered the attempt and gave him a spinebuster. Batista won the match by pinning Umaga after a Batista Bomb.
The fourth match for the event featured Chavo Guerrero defending his ECW Championship against Kane. Kane surprised Chavo by emerging from underneath the ring instead of from the entrance stage during his ring entrance. Kane instantly pinned Chavo after a chokeslam and won the ECW Championship in eleven seconds. This was the only ECW match on the show and the only ECW Championship match in WrestleMania history.
Main event matches
Ric Flair's "Career Threatening" match against Shawn Michaels was next, which stipulated that Flair would have to retire from wrestling if he had lost. At the start of the match, both superstars engaged in a series of counters, and then Flair shoved Michaels in a corner, making "Old Yeller" comments to him. In retaliation, Michaels slapped Flair in the face, which caused him to start bleeding from the mouth. Later, Michaels attempted Sweet Chin Music, but stopped in the process and Flair capitalized by trapping him in his figure four leglock. Afterward, Michaels finally delivered the Sweet Chin Music to Flair for a near-fall. Michaels then trapped Flair in his modified figure four leglock, but Flair delivered a thumb to the eye to Michaels to break the submission. As Flair was delivering chops to Michaels' chest, Michaels executed a second Sweet Chin Music. After getting up on his feet with a worried face, Michaels said to Flair "I'm sorry, I love you", before nailing a final Sweet Chin Music and thus pinning Flair to end his 35-year-long wrestling career. After the match, Michaels left quickly and Flair got a standing ovation from the crowd. An emotional Flair embraced his family at ringside and then, as he proceeded to go backstage, he thanked the crowd for their support.
The sixth match was the Playboy BunnyMania Lumberjack match, in which Maria and Ashley (the latter who replaced Candice Michelle due to injury) faced Beth Phoenix and Melina, who were accompanied to the ring by Santino Marella. Rapper Snoop Dogg served as the official "Master of Ceremonies" for the match. In the match, several WWE Divas surrounded the ring and were able to interfere in the match without disqualifications. Due to some technical difficulties, the lights at Citrus Bowl temporarily went out during the match. Near the end, a pin attempt by Maria was prevented when Marella pulled Maria's leg. In response, Raw commentator Jerry Lawler approached and knocked Marella down with a punch. Phoenix executed a Fisherman Suplex and pinned Maria to win the match. After the match, Snoop Dogg executed a Clothesline on Marella and kissed Maria, before leaving with her and Ashley.
Next was Randy Orton defending his WWE Championship against Triple H and John Cena in a triple threat match, which is a standard match involving three wrestlers with no disqualifications. For his entrance, Cena had the Jones High School Marching Tigers marching band perform an instrumental version of his theme song "The Time Is Now" live. During the match, when Triple H had held Orton in a sleeper hold, Cena picked up both Orton and Triple H for an FU, but Triple H dropped down and low blowed him. Orton then dominated the match for some time; one highlight of the match featured Orton performing a crossbody from the top rope on Cena, while the latter was held on Triple H's shoulders in a seating position. Orton also performed a DDT to both Cena and Triple H simultaneously. Orton then tried to perform an RKO on Cena, but he countered and threw Orton onto Triple H. Triple H then started targeting Orton's legs and using some submissions on him. The match came to an end when Cena had Triple H on his shoulders for the FU, but was countered into a Pedigree. As Triple H was in the pin, Orton punted Triple H and pinned Cena to win the match and retain the WWE Championship.
The next match was the No Disqualification match between Big Show and Floyd Mayweather Jr. Early in the match, Mayweather repeatedly escaped Big Show's grasp and delivered body shots to him. Mayweather and his accomplices tried to "walk out" of the match, but Big Show walked up the ramp and brought Mayweather back in the ring. As Big Show was about to chokeslam Mayweather, one of Mayweather's accomplices struck a steel chair on Big Show's back, and the latter chokeslammed him in retaliation. Capitalizing from this distraction, Mayweather grabbed that chair and hit Big Show multiple times on the head with it. Finally, Mayweather removed his right glove and put on a pair of brass knuckles to hit Big Show in the face. As a result, Big Show was knocked out as he could not answer the referee's ten count, and Mayweather was declared the winner.
The main event of the night saw Edge putting his World Heavyweight Championship on the line against The Undertaker. This was The Undertaker's first WrestleMania main event in 11 years, last main eventing against Sycho Sid at WrestleMania 13. The early going of the match was slow-paced, in which both superstars countered each other's maneuvers. During the match, Undertaker ran and leapt over the top rope from the ring onto Edge on the outside. Then throughout the match, Edge was able to counter Undertaker's numerous signature moves, including the Chokeslam, Old School and the Last Ride, a variation of the powerbomb. Near the end, Edge hit Undertaker with a television camera while the referee was knocked down. When he proceeded to deliver a Tombstone Piledriver to Undertaker, Undertaker countered it into his own version and successfully delivered it to Edge for a two-count. Curt Hawkins and Zack Ryder came to the ring for Edge's aid, but Undertaker took them out. Because of their distraction, Edge was able to execute a spear on Undertaker, but was unable to pin him. When Edge delivered another spear to Undertaker, Undertaker applied Hell's Gate and forced Edge to submit to win the World Heavyweight Championship, improving his WrestleMania record to 16–0.
Reception
Approximately 1,058,000 people ordered WrestleMania XXIV, grossing $23.8 million in revenue. Canadian Online Explorer's professional wrestling section gave the entire event 9 out of 10 stars. The rating was higher than WrestleMania 23 which received 8 out of 10 stars. The main event between The Undertaker and Edge for the World Heavyweight Championship was rated a 9.5 out of 10 stars. The Career Threatening match between Ric Flair and Shawn Michaels was rated a perfect 10 out of 10. Big Show vs. Floyd "Money" Mayweather Jr. was rated 7 out of 10 stars, and the Triple Threat match for the WWE Championship between Randy Orton, Triple H and John Cena was rated 8.5 out of 10 stars.
Aftermath
After the show, WWE was criticized for a malfunction in the pyrotechnics during The Undertaker's victory celebration. During the celebration, a hot cable for pyrotechnics was sent flying into audience members in the upper seating bowl of the stadium, leaving 45 injured, with some hospitalized. The accident was apparently due to a cable which fireworks were traveling across snapping, thus resulting in the fireworks exploding into the top rows of the upper bowl of the stadium. WWE's corporate website released a statement afterward stating that they would investigate the incident, but the results of the investigation were never released.
On the following episode of Raw, Ric Flair made his farewell speech, which led to Triple H introducing various people from Flair's past, such as the Four Horsemen, Ricky Steamboat, and others, each coming out to give an emotional farewell. Afterward, the entire WWE roster came out to say thank you to Flair (Including Undertaker, who came out after Raw went off the air and hugged Flair and did his kneeling stance). Shawn Michaels, who was clearly upset about retiring Flair, was forgiven by Flair. Despite Flair's forgiveness, his former protégé Batista later started a feud with Michaels, citing Michaels' "selfishness" at WrestleMania for not lying down for Flair. The two had a match booked at Backlash, and after a confrontation between Michaels and Chris Jericho, Jericho was later added into the match as a Special Guest Referee. Michaels won with a superkick.
The feud between Randy Orton, John Cena and Triple H continued after WrestleMania with the added involvement of John "Bradshaw" Layfield (JBL) leading to a Fatal Four-Way Elimination match between all four at Backlash. At Backlash, Triple H won his seventh WWE Championship by last pinning Orton. With Matt Hardy's return at WrestleMania, his feud with Montel Vontavious Porter over the WWE United States Championship, that had started in July 2007, was revived with a match booked at Backlash, which Hardy won. The rivalries between The Undertaker and Edge and the one between Kane and Chavo Guerrero both continued with successful title defenses at Backlash. On the May 2 episode of SmackDown, General Manager Vickie Guerrero stripped The Undertaker of the World Heavyweight Championship because of his continued use of his illegal chokehold, claiming she did it to protect the other wrestlers.
DVD / Blu-ray release
The event was released on DVD and Blu-ray Disc by WWE Home Video in the U.S. on May 20, 2008, after it had completed broadcast on pay-per-view. It was also released on UMD on August 23 2008. It was the first WWE PPV event to be released via the Blu-ray and UMD format. As well as the event, the DVD/BD release features bonus material in the form of the 2008 Hall of Fame ceremony in its entirety and the battle royal that took place before the event.
Results
- Order of elimination: Deuce, Domino, Jim Duggan, Stevie Richards, Elijah Burke, The Miz, Shannon Moore, Jimmy Wang Yang, Jesse, Val Venis, Trevor Murdoch, Festus, The Brian Kendrick, Lance Cade, Kofi Kingston, Cody Rhodes, Jamie Noble, Chuck Palumbo, The Great Khali, Hardcore Holly, Tommy Dreamer, Snitsky, Mark Henry.
- Since Flair lost, he had to retire from in-ring competition (though he would later wrestle more matches outside WWE.)
- The lumberjills were: Eve Torres, Cherry, Jillian Hall, Maryse, Katie Lea Burchill, Layla, Kelly Kelly, Michelle McCool, Mickie James and Victoria
- Ashley Massaro replaced Candice Michelle, who could not participate due to injury
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