411 PPV Roundtable Preview: WWE WrestleMania XXV (Part I)

Posted by Stephen Randle on 04.04.2009

The 25th edition of WWE's crown jewel kicks off this Sunday, and the 411 Staff has their predictions for all the matches on the card inside!


Introduction:

Once a year, every year, WWE shifts into its highest gear and presents its crown jewel. It is the show that started it all, the PPV that made Vince McMahon and his New York-based promotion a worldwide phenomenon, and it is the yearly event that all storylines build towards, the one that every wrestler gets into the business dreaming about being a part of. Yes, indeed, it is WrestleMania, and it is that time of year again.

As always, the 411 Staff has their own thoughts on how the WWE's biggest show should play out for their own enjoyment. And if you want to play along, you should really think about hitting up StableWars so you can match wits with some of the biggest minds in the IWC and have a chance at fabulous prizes.

Yes, we're out in force, and here's the writers that came together to bring you their best predictions, thoughts, and semi-witty banter about this Sunday's big show.

The Staff:

Stephen Randle, The Wrestling News Experience

J. Alexander Mitchell, 411 Politics contributor

Ari Berenstein, Column of Honor

Andy Clark, The Shimmy

Jonathan Solomon, 411 MMA's The MMA Juggernaut

Dan Torkel, Brooklyn Brawlin'

Michael Bauer, ECW recapper

Aaron Hubbard. The Wrestling Bard

Mathew Sforcina, Ask 411 Wrestling

Owain J. Brimfield, 411 Movies' Roundtable coordinator

Todd Bergman, 411 MMA's Tapping Out With TBerg

Rob McNew, live Raw recapper

Robert S. Leighty Jr, From The Bowery

Michael Weyer, Shining A Spotlight

Julian Bond, Against The Grain

And Steve Gustafson, 411 Movies' The Hollywood 5!

And with that, we're locked and loaded, ready to roll, so sit back, relax, pop open a cold one, break out the chips and dips, and send out pizza, because it's time for the 25th edition of the biggest PPV in all of pro wrestling, ladies and gentlemen, it's time for…

WWE WRESTLEMANIA XXV

25 Diva Battle Royal

Announced participants: Melina, Maryse, Mickie James, Gail Kim, Michelle McCool, Nikki Bella, Brie Bella, Alicia Fox, Kelly Kelly, Maria, Eve Torres, Katie Lea Burchill, Beth Phoenix, Layla El, Rosa Mendes, Candice Michelle, Natalya Neidhart, Jillian Hall, Tiffany, Sunny, Torrie Wilson, Molly Holly, Victoria, Nidia, and Jackie Gayda-Haas

NOTE: Some predictions were made before the full list of participants was announced.

Stephen Randle: Frankly, if the days of the high quality one-on-one women's title matches have gone the way of the Cruiserweight division, I'd prefer that you throw all the Divas into a battle royal, which is never a high-quality match requiring a lot of skill to pull off, rather than another insipid Playboy tag match where we're supposed to believe that Maria can wrestle at the same level as Beth Phoenix despite all sorts of evidence to the contrary. Anyway, it doesn't really matter who wins, since Miss WrestleMania is a title that has existed for all of three weeks now, and will probably be forgotten three months in the future, but for shits and giggles, let's pretend it gets used to kick off a new angle and for that, we're going to go with a dark horse candidate.

Winner: Rosa Mendes

J. Alexander Mitchell: Winning this is a bigger deal than winning either the Women's title or the Diva's title, as this gives a "title" to someone that won't go away at the end of the reign. As such, I'm guessing they go with a heel (to maximize the value of the win) and someone that is going to stick with the company for a while (to maximize the investment). It is tempting to go with Trish Stratus, but I'd say that this win goes to the Diva they would suspect is least likely to go anywhere anytime soon while obviously being top tier…

Winner: Michelle McCool.

Ari Berenstein: Let's hope they counted right and make it to twenty five Divas. Let's also hope they don't turn it into a joke by having Downtown Bruno, Pat Patterson and Santino Marella all in drag as a part of the match…although…ok, never mind, let me get that image out of my head. It will be interesting to see if they push a "legend" Diva such as Trish Stratus (if she is in the match), a current champion (Maryse or Melina) or someone just recently debuting and in need of a big push such as Gail Kim. I'd go with Kim if I was booking, but my guess is that the three headed he/she force of Glamorella & Intern Inc. will pave the way for a Beth Phoenix win.

Winner: Beth Phoenix

Andy Clark: There are a few routes they can go with this. I've got my choices narrowed down to three: Trish Stratus, Gail Kim, and Santino Marella. Given the relatively nondescript way Kim debuted I think I'll rule her out. Because I've got so many heels winning tonight I should probably go with Trish, but she had her big moment in Toronto and I can see them milking Santino as being "Miss WrestleMania" for a while. I say Santino wins but gets beaten up by both Trish Stratus and Beth Phoenix afterwards to make the crowd happy.

Winner and NEW Miss WrestleMania: Santino Marella

Jonathan Solomon: The only worthwhile part of this will be to see which former WWE ladies show up. Hopefully Trish Stratus will and I believe Sunny will, too. Have to figure this will be used after one of the bigger matches for breathing room.

Winner: Mickie James (namely because I can barely think of three other ladies)

Dan Torkel: When I heard about this I was actually excited in a sort of like updated version of the Gimmick Battle Royal from WM X-7. But they have completely failed to get ANYONE notable from the past. Ok, obviously some of the key women have since departed (Sherri, Elizabeth, Moolah)but what about Wendi Richter, Trish, Chyna, Lita, Sable, Alundra Blayze, Hell even Lelani Kai who was a part of WM's 1 and X. They really should've figured out what women they had before doing this because it has turned into a competition of modern divas. That all being said, I expect some stupid shennigans with Santino leading to Beth's elimination. I am hoping for a Trish return and win since she is arguably the most successful Women's Star of the last 10 years. Unless you count Chyna making home porn and appearing on celeb rehab as success.

Winner: Trish Stratus

Michael Bauer: Wow, what a clusterfuck for WrestleMania. I'm sorry, but as much as I love a good Divas match, this... well, just isn't it. I'm glad to see some of the older Divas come back like Sunny, Torrie, and Victoria, but without Lita, Trish, and Stacy, this isn't a match I simply would be hugely interested in. Picking a winner is even really hard when you don't know the last couple of people. Just please... PLEASE... keep Mae Young out of this. That goes ten-fold for Santino and his man-kini.

Winner: Beth Phoenix

Aaron Hubbard: Hmm…well, unless Trish Stratus makes her one-shot-deal appearance, I don't see myself caring about this too much. I'm not complaining, I think it's a cool idea, but I'm really apathetic. Don't love it, don't hate it. I nothing it.

Winner: Beth Phoenix

Mathew Sforcina: Well, this is fairly open. Santino will get in, and either be tossed immediately if he's Santina, or will be the final elimination if he's Spider Lady. You can make a case to give an older girl like Sunny the win, or give it to Gail Kim or...

Excuse me, just got a note...

Ah. Well that clearly forces my hand.

Winner, and NEW Miss Wrestlemania: Victoria (Single handed elimination of every other person in the ring by sheer Goddesshood.)

Owain J. Brimfield: Filler!

Winner: Gail Kim

Todd Bergman: It's the mandatory Diva suck-fest at WrestleMania, and this year the WWE has elected to put us, as fans, through a Battle Royale. The premise of this match seems to be on the way up since the recent announcement of Molly Holly's involvement. You could probably count Ivory in also as she is Molly's traveling buddy. Anyway, I think that at the end, the divas will whittle themselves down to Melina, Beth Phoenix, and Rosa Mendez. Beth does the unthinkable and dumps Rosa which brings out Santino who argues with and distracts Phoenix long enough for Melina to eliminate her. It's obvious that we are going to see Phoenix vs. Santino at some point in the future so why not go ahead and break them up on the grandest stage of them all.

Winner: Melina

Rob McNew: The only think I'm looking forward to is the potential hilarity of "Santina" in drag.

Winner: Beth Phoenix

Robert S. Leighty Jr: Holding out hope that Trish will return here and get the nod. Beth Phoenix gets jealous and we get Phoenix vs Trish next month.

Winner and Miss WrestleMania: Trish Stratus

Michael Weyer: The "special guests" leaves the door open for some old Divas to make appearances and this should be a fun battle all around. It could come down to the champions but this is a big anniversary show so it would be far, far better for the win to go to the woman who is, of course, the best WWE ladie's wrestler of all time...

WINNER: Trish Stratus

Julian Bond: This to me is a true Wrestlemania rarity. A women's match at the big event that I'm actually looking forward to. Sure it isn't a sure-fire, well built one-on-one bout (i.e. Mickie James vs. Trish Straus), but at least it isn't a lame "Playboy, Lumberjill, Pillowfight"-type match. It's a quick harmless format with the Battle Royal and we get to see some of the Divas from back in the day like Sunny, Torrie Wilson, and maybe and hopefully…Trish Stratus. But I have a sneaking feeling that Santino will find himself into this contest and randomly take the title of "Ms. Wrestlemania".

Winner: Santino

Steve Gustafson: I expect shenanigans from Santino. I expect a surprise entrant. I expect Phoenix to win it all.

Winner: Beth Phoenix

Money in the Bank Ladder Match

Announced participants: CM Punk, Kane, Mark Henry, MVP, Christian, Shelton Benjamin, Finlay, Kofi Kingston

Stephen Randle: I have to give backhanded credit here, it's the first Money in the Bank where it's pretty much wide open who could win. Obviously, Kofi, Kane, and Finlay have no shot. Henry might walk away with it, but I don't think we've done anything to piss off Vince lately that he'd want to punish us for. Shelton seems like the best candidate, and losing the US Title seems like it might set him up for briefcase-related activities, but I actually think he'll never rise above US Title level due to his well-documented limitations. So we're down to Punk, Christian, and MVP, and I have to believe that WWE has big future plans for the athlete who is half man, half amazing, plans which could see him a genuine main eventer by next WrestleMania.

Winner: MVP

J. Alexander Mitchell: MVP or Christian... Christian or MVP… This is really a two-horse race, with Finlay, Kofi, Kane, and Henry obviously not standing a chance, and Punk and Benjamin being outside possibilities at best. Many are writing off MVP as a possibility, but I think his US Title win over Shelton (and the already announced rematch) serves to give him something to do before he cashes in the briefcase.

Winner: MVP.

Ari Berenstein: As much as I'd like to hope for a Punk repeat, I know it ain't gonna happen. This one is down to Christian or Shelton Benajmin, one being a pick of someone who is ready right now to take that big step up and the other being more of an investment into the next year. The X-Factor that no one seems to be mentioning is that Christian is THE master of Ladder matches at Wrestlemania, and because of that I'll go with Christian to win this one.

Winner: Christian, the 2009 Mr. Money in the Bank

Andy Clark: For some reason I have a sneaking suspicion there will be some sort of chicanery involving either this match or this stipulation. What if Kofi Kingston or CM Punk won it but handed it over to Ric Flair to cash in later in the night? What if Stone Cold Steve Austin shows up and stuns all eight men and Tony Atlas and Hornswoggle, climbs the ladder, gets the briefcase, stores some beers in the briefcase, and cashes it in on Randy Orton later in the night at the request of Vince McMahon. Safe money is on MVP or Christian, but I think they have to let Shelton Benjamin have it if only to pay off his showstealing MITB performances. While I guess my technical pick would be Shelton, I really like my Austin fantasy booking.

Winner and 2009 Mr. Money in the Bank: Shelton Benjamin

Jonathan Solomon: This match is usually one of the more anticipated matches on the show and this year, it has almost nothing going for it. Right off the bat, you take Kane, Henry, Finlay and Kingston out of the running. Kingston is a glorified jobber (sadly) although he should pull off some amazing moves in the ring. I would love to see Punk win for the second time so they could do something with him, but he will probably just be there and return to doing nothing. My picks then come down to MVP, Christian and Shelton Benjamin. It is no secret how Vince McMahon feels about Christian (what a fool) so take him out. Flip that coin between MVP or Shelton. If it were me, I would have MVP take the win and snap that rocket to his back in the meantime. However, I will go with them pulling something different with a heel taking the title shot. Now watching them try to make Shelton into a serious contender, that will be some fun television.

Winner: Shelton Benjamin

Dan Torkel: Like every MITB we can eliminate the easy ones. Punk won it last year, and thus I doubt we will see a repeat. Mark Henry and Finlay are ECW guys who just won't win. Christian I had originally pegged as the favorite, but he doesnt need the briefcase to get main event cred. Kofi is still young and green. That leaves Shelton, MVP, and Kane. Kane has been booked super strong and made to be the favorite, but it's Kane and I do not see a major title run for him. MVP is the current US Champ, but his character would totally fit with both the case and Title. Shelton has the been the MITB "MVP" every time and I personally hope and think its time he gets his due.

Winner of the MITB - Shelton Benjamin

Michael Bauer: Let's get the obvious out of the way. Mark Henry has no fucking shot at winning this. I mean, how in the hell can he clinmb a ladder? Next, let's get rid of those people just not high enough up the pecking order. That mean adios Kofi, Kane, and Finlay. So we are left with CM Punk, Christian, MVP, and Shelton Benjamin. Shelton is in this match every damn year and eventaully he has to win it... but not this year. While CM PUnk winning this two years in a row is a very nice possibility that I can and will mark out for, I simply don't buy it. As for the MVP push into this match... I get it. I truly do. But there is just something about it that strikes me as odd about it. I mean, does MVP vs. Edge sound right to you? But Christian with a title shot you can do anything with. You can have him face Edge at the drop of a dime. You can turn him heel again for whatever reason and have him face Cena. Hell, put him against Orton and even that should be watchable. So that is why I'm going with Captain Money in the Bank.

Winner: Christian

Aaron Hubbard: I believe I discussed this not too long ago in FoF, and my opinions haven't changed: "Well, let's eliminate the obvious ones. CM Punk won't win again, I don't think Henry will even be able to climb the ladder, and Finlay is sadly a mid-card comedy act, so those three are out. MVP still has an outside chance of winning, but it is not likely. Kane might win, but that doesn't seem to fit his character. So we are down to Kofi Kingston, Christian, and Benjamin. Kofi has a good shot if WWE is REALLY behind him, but I don't think he's ready to be there yet. Christian would fit the role, but I don't think he needs it to be considered a main event threat. Benjamin, on the other hand, is a talented worker that has been having great matches for the last year, is over as a cocky heel, but just needs a little extra "something" to push him over the top. In my opinion, this year's Money in the Bank will be all about the Benjamins. Ain't no stoppin' him now. "

Winner: Shelton Benjamin

Mathew Sforcina: Here's the thing. I've always thought that MVP was the way to go here. Finish up the whole "Rags to Riches" thing. And certainly when he won the US title, that didn't deter me, in that Jeff Hardy was IC champ going into Wrestlemania, so being a secondary champion isn't a major problem (plus it gives you something the World Champ can cost Mr. MITB to get into his head). But then I think back to how Vince tries to screw over the Internet. And how everything we've heard is that Vince wanted Big Show to win, and then that he didn't want to put Christian in. So, despite the fact that I'm really, deep down, picking MVP, I have to risk that Vince will try and screw with our heads.

Winner, and NEW Mr. Money In The Bank: Christian (Last second grab away from MVP and Shelton)

Owain J. Brimfield: I think the field is more open than a lot of people realise, but what the hell, if you think it's predictable than more power to you. With ECW starlet Evan Bourne returning to hog that title picture, it's time for Captain Charisma to move onwards and upwards.

Winner: Christian

Todd Bergman: I originally thought that someone like Christian had no business winning this match because he's popular enough to earn a title shot without winning a stipulated match; however, there's a reason that he wasn't brought in as the guy who was beating up Jeff Hardy. This has to be the reason considering the thought of Edge vs. Christian for the title is way too great of a match-up for the WWE to pass on. It would be severely anticlimactic if Christian won this match and then used his title shot for the ECW title. For all of those reasons that I stated above, I think that we will see Captain Charisma bring home the briefcase and subsequent title shot on this same night.

Winner: Christian

Rob McNew: I'm torn between my original pick of MVP, and my hard charging gut feeling of Christian. MVP winning the US Title kind of confirmed my suspicion that he isn't winning this, so I'll go with Christian following in his kayfabe brother's footsteps and becoming Mr. Money in the Bank .

Winner: Christian

Robert S. Leighty Jr: This should be quite the entertaining train wreck. I am pulling for either Benjamin or Christian, though Punk winning wouldn't bother me either. Benjamin winning would be a nice payoff for all the crazy shit he has done in previous MITB, but I think Christian is the man this year. Having Christian dangling the briefcase over the head of Edge would be quite entertaining.

Winner and Mr. Money in the Bank: Christian

Michael Weyer: Why guys like Kane and Henry are in this are beyond me, way too big. Kofi could break through like Benjamin did in the first MITB. Love to see Punk but he already got it last year. So, the win has to go to the guy making his big return and who could use that MITB contract to its full effect in wonderful style.

WINNER: Christian

Julian Bond: This should be an exciting crazy match as always every year. Only three real legit picks for me: MVP, Christian and Shelton Benjamin. MVP has finally gotten back on a roll again in the winning department, but I don't think that he'll get a nice big push anytime soon. Christian was my honest to goodness hardcore pick at defining winning it since he hasn't been doing much since his feud with Swagger, but the more I think about it, the more I realize that Christian doesn't really need the win to get himself over. BUT with Benjamin, the man who's had a very long run with the U.S. Title before he dropped it, had some good matches with some main eventers as of late like Taker and HHH, and has been the tired and true constant highlight of almost every MITB match. Even though I have a feeling that he may end up being the first one to not win the title from his cashed MITB briefcase, I think it's time for the horribly talented "Gold Standard" to get a main event push…FINALLY.

Winner: Shelton Benjamin

Steve Gustafson: As much as I want to pick Shelton to get the win after so many entertaining MitB matches, I don't see it happening. Always the bridesmaid, never the bride, eh Shelton. Who needs the win more? MVP or Christian? Eh, let's go with Christian since it leaves them with more angle options.

Winner: Christian

Chris Jericho vs Ricky Steamboat, Jimmy Snuka, and Roddy Piper w/Ric Flair - Elimination Match

For this match, Chris Jericho must pin or submit all three opponents, but they only need to beat him once.

Stephen Randle: See, this is how you book a feud, and go figure, it's the one heel who has no problem laying down for anyone, while still maintaining massive credibility and heel heat because he created such an awesome character. Jericho has gotten the upper hand on every single Legend and bragged about it plenty, now it's time for payback. It's truly a shame that we'll never know what a Jericho-Rourke match could have been like, but I'm sure Randy Robinson will get his shots in too.

Winner: Team Legend

J. Alexander Mitchell: Jericho does not need this win - pure and simple. As well, he is enough of a student of the game such that he would probably object if his character does not receive his comeuppance. Though I was able to come up with one scenario where Jericho wins (assistance from Sim Snuka, who takes on the role of Jericho's protégé), I have to admit that I question whether or not they would trust Snuka with such a high-profile role in such a high-profile match.

Winners: Steamboat, Snuka, and Piper.

Ari Berenstein: Jericho busted Flair open last week, giving him the biggest heat of the program. It's time for the babyfaces to come back, big time, and show the jerkface heel what for. Flair WILL get physically involved, as will Mickey Rourke, and if we're really lucky, newly inducted WWE Hall of Famer Steve Austin has already agreed to run in at the end and give Jericho *just one* Stunner to help put the Legends over.

Winner: Team Flair with Mickey Rourke and STONE COLD STONE COLD STONE COLD!

Andy Clark: This is underwhelming on paper, but maybe it'll be fun. Regardless of whether he gets the victory or not I don't see Jericho leaving happy. Mickey Rourke is going to have to take a swing at Jericho, maybe laying him out after the match. I'm light on babyface wins on the card so I'll give the Legends the win thanks to a Randy "The Ram" assist.

Winners: Rowdy Roddy Piper, Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat, & "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka

Jonathan Solomon: To think, six weeks ago this was the match everyone was talking about. Now it is just there. Sucks for Jericho that after an amazing 2008 and all the hype early on, he's just here. I'm trying to think how Snuka will do anything in this match since he can barely move. I'm a big fan of Piper's but I don't want to see him wrestle a match in 2009. The real draw of the match is the in-ring return of Ricky Steamboat. Supposedly, he says he is about 80% of what he was in 1994. That's still great. Has the Mickey Rourke stuff lost ALL of its luster or what? I don't care about that angle at all. His eventual punch on Jericho will be ugh. At least Flair isn't coming out of retirement. I can see the Legends piling up and beating Jericho (if the match is No DQ), but I fear anything like that will look too fake. I will go with Jericho picking up the win in dastardly fashion, then getting his comeuppance against Steamboat, Flair and Rourke.

Winner: Chris Jericho

Dan Torkel: Ok, this is a piss poor blowoff to the Legend's angle with Jericho as people were throwing out names like Hogan, Austin, Savage, etc. as possible opponents. With the elimination rules I think Snuka will go VERY fast due to his obvious limitations, and Piper will follow suit. That leaves HOF inductee Ricky Steamboat against Jericho with Flair outside. Follow me here: Steamboat = Steamboat, Jericho = Savage, and Flair = George the Animal Steele. Jericho tries to destroy Steamboat with a weapon, Flair gets involved and Steamboat cradles Jericho for the in ala Wrestlemania III. Then just for fun all the legends celebrate and Austin comes out in Texas and Stuns Jericho.

Winner: Ricky Steamboat (Jericho eliminates Snuka and Piper)

Michael Bauer: Honestly, this is best we could do? I would pay extra to see Jerihco vs. Austin, but instead we get this grotesque match which only has one logical winner, especially given the rules they made.

Winners: Ricky Steamboat, Jimmy Snuka, and Roddy Piper

Aaron Hubbard: The quality of this match is largely going to depend on whether Ricky can still go at a passable level. Snuka was never that great to begin with, and Piper was only slightly better. Now, they are meaningless beyond the pops and Piper on the mic. If Steamboat is good to go, he and Jericho could have a lot of fun with this. I'm guessing Jericho wins to reward him for his great work last year, but I wouldn't be surprised if he is humiliated post-match.

Winner: Chris Jericho

Mathew Sforcina: Well it's some tiny comfort that Mickey was just too excited about the match, and that's what caused it to all go to hell. I'd rather it get ruined due to over-excitement than uncaring or something. Still, this is a WEAK end to the story, (Terry Funk in a hardcore match wouldn't work because...?) and I'm thinking that they might apologize to Chris and have him win but then get a right royal Legend Beatdown at the end. Arn Spinebuster, Funk piledriver, the works.

Winner: Chris Jericho (Lionsault to Snuka, Codebreaker to Piper, Walls on Steamboat)

Owain J. Brimfield: The only way this is entertaining is for Jericho to pulverise the legends before getting his comeuppance at the hands of Flair, Rourke and Austin.

Winner: Chris Jericho

Todd Bergman: The idea of Jericho vs. Rourke was so much better than this pairing. However, when life gives you lemons, you punch that bitch in the face and tell her to make you some lemonade. Ok, well that's a little too far off the deep end, but there's no way that Jericho wins this match and for good reason: Jericho doesn't need the victory. His recent attacks on the legends have given him a great deal of heat, and that's more important in the land of staged fights. It's obvious that Rourke will play a huge part in this match and he will probably land a punch on Jericho that will allow Piper to pin him from there. I'm not sold on SCSA showing up because having him and Rourke attack Jericho seems like definite overkill.

Winner: Steamboat, Snuka, and Piper

Rob McNew: Jericho takes out the old timers. Continues the beatdown after the bell, glass breaks, crowd goes nuts, stunners are given, beers are drank. Thanks for playing drive home safely. Crowd gets what they want, and Jericho can still crow about beating up the old timers.

Winner: Chris Jericho

Robert S. Leighty Jr: Jericho has been an uber dick, and he probably gets payback here. If Piper and Snuka get bounced early, I would love to see an extended Steamboat/Jericho sequence. I want to see if Steamboat has anything left in the tank. This should overbooked all to hell with Rourke, and Flair getting involved. I would even be shocked if other Legends don't get involved (fingers crossed for Austin). In the end the Legends celebrate.

Winners: Rowdy Roddy Piper, Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat, & "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka

Michael Weyer: I don't care about the complaints or how Piper and Snuka aren't really ring-ready or any of that. It's Jericho against RICKY THE F'N DRAGON STEAMBOAT. This is a man who can take a small blow and sell it like a 2X4. That alone will make this well worth it and while it sucks for Jericho, no way the Dragon is going to be hit with a loss after fifteen years away from the ring.

WINNERS: Piper, Snuka and RICKY THE F'N DRAGON STEAMBOAT

Julian Bond: I know everyone's complaining about how Jericho should've been facing "bigger" legends like Stone Cold or Hogan, or even the non-legend in the rumored Mickey Rouke. But I'm assuming that none of these options had worked out and they made apples out of oranges. I'm cool with this match especially with the awesome build-up behind it and I believe that the legends (and hopefully Rouke) will finally get their revenge.

Winner: Ricky Steamboat, Jimmy Snuka, and Roddy Piper

Steve Gustafson: While it was a letdown when they announced this match, I'm kind of curious to see how Steamboat is going to look in this match. Yes, I'm sure they'll have some surprise appearance by a "legend" (Maybe Stone Cold will run out and tell Jericho, "I'm sorry, I love," right before he gives him a stunner.) But Jericho should get the win here and have the legends take turns beating him down after.

Winner: Chris Jericho

Matt Hardy vs Jeff Hardy - Extreme Rules Match

Stephen Randle: I swear, sometimes I think they've forgotten about this feud. I mean, there's been a couple promos, and Jeff's shown off that he's preparing for Extreme Rules (yeah, because Jeff's never done anything extreme before), but I really don't feel the hatred and blood feud that you'd think something like this deserves. I can only hope there are longer term plans in store for both men, and as for this match, I'm pretty sure it will all come down to whether or not Jeff hits the massive high spot. I'm going to go with him missing it.

Winner: Matt Hardy

J. Alexander Mitchell: If I believed for one moment that this is the blowoff to the Hardy brother's feud, I would easily say Jeff. However, this has been way too hot of a feud to not extend one more PPV. As well, Matt Hardy needs a high profile, brutal victory here to take his character to the next level. As such, I predict Jeff, despite his latest bluster, finds himself unable to get to the same level of violence as his brother, and Matt sends his brother to the hospital… for now.

Winner: Matt Hardy.

Ari Berenstein: Boy oh boy did WWE not learn this lessons of why this program bombed the last time around. I really don't care about this program, although the match itself should be fine (unlike their below average fiasco in the early 2000's) given they can use weapons and gimmicks. Wrestling logic dictates that a heel win the first match of what should be a longer program, but I'm hoping this is not a longer program between the two, that really, this is one and done. That said…

Winner: Matt Hardy via magical mystery blow up explosives tour.

Andy Clark: The Extreme Rules stipulation opens up a lot of interesting possibilities although I'm not sure if they'll use a ladder since we've already got a Ladder Match (although it didn't stop HBK three years ago). The story here will be the crowd heat: will they be into seeing Jeff get his revenge? On one hand Matt could use the win to legitimize himself as a main event heel, but on the other hand I just can't see Jeff losing.

Winner: Jeff Hardy

Jonathan Solomon: A match eight years in the making. I think it's safe to say this contest will be better than their first match in 2001 (although it would be almost impossible not to). Sure the storyline has been ridiculous and as illogical as you can get (it's no Bret/Owen), but they should be able to put forth a great effort in the ring. I just hope Jeff doesn't kill himself trying to jump off the ladder in a move that's inevitable. This should be a lot of fun and I will take as much fun as I can get on this show. The feud will definitely continue but Matt can get his payback on Smackdown with another beat down. In the meantime, Jeff gets the big Wrestlemania win.

Winner: Jeff Hardy

Dan Torkel: HARDYS!!! GET THE TABLES LADDERS AND CHAIRS! Part of me thinks they filled MITB with lugs like Kane, and Henry to not steal the crazy spot spotlight from the brothers Hardy. Expect serious damage. Question is: Does WWE end the feud here in the first match, or use this first match as a starting point? Jeff has shown the resiliance to bounce back from losses, remain over and become a Champion so a loss here does not hurt him as much as it would Matt who appear as the whiny jealous brother who gets his ass kicked. Personally I am holding out for a Christian appearance where he helps Matt and is revealed as the guy who Matt got to sabotage Jeff's title run. Either way, I think this is a beginning rather the end.

Winner: Matt Hardy

Michael Bauer: I actually am looking forward to this match more than most people are. The feud has been built decently, with Jeff fighting random people in Extreme Rules warmups and Matt just sitting on the sidelines. Matt needs the win here, there really isn't any questions about that, because where else can you go afterwards?

Winner: Matt Hardy

Aaron Hubbard: This right here is the most overlooked match on the card. It probably won't steal the show, but I would be very surprised if this isn't on of the better matches on the card. As for who will win? Either guy could use a victory, but my gut is with Jeff. He's never won at Wrestlemania, mostly due to being in multiple man matches. This is his first singles match at the show, and I think he gets his first win here. Don't be surprised if Jeff is main eventing next year.

Winner: Jeff Hardy

Mathew Sforcina: This is perhaps the toughest match on the card to pick. Since there's no guarantee which belt ends up on which show, we can't use that to judge the winner. Extreme rules doesn't favor either man, and Matt Hardy's work in the build up has been great, but it also points to the face overcoming the odds. I really am totally unsure of this, torn between Jeff Hardy stopping the match dead by doing something insane and taking out both men or Matt Hardy getting, for all his talk, a cheap, slimy pinfall. I'll go with that.

Winner: Matt Hardy (rope/tight/hair/everything assisted Roll Up)

Owain J. Brimfield: With everyone (rightly) picking HBK/Taker as match of the night, this could be the one to take that plaudit away. There's no doubt the Hardys will go balls to the wall here, but I don't see the feud ending yet.

Winner: Matt Hardy

Todd Bergman: Is anyone really looking forward to this match? Well, besides all of the 13 year old girls who think that "emo" Jeff Hardy is hot. I'm under the assumption that the WWE is trying to make Matt Hardy somewhat relevant again. That didn't work so well when he made his big return against Edge, and it's not going to work this time either. Matt isn't great on the mic, and his matches are all relatively boring to say the least. Say what you want about Jeff, but at least he's shown that, when sober, he can tell a decent story in the ring. Jeff takes the victory due to some crazy five-ladder-pile-driver or something akin.

Winner: Jeff Hardy's face paint

Rob McNew: Boy this got shoved down the card didn't it? This match is a feud starter, and not a feud ender. Therefore it seems logically that the heel brother picks up the win. Hopefully they'll bust out some fun spots trying to steal the show against each other.

Winner: Matt Hardy

Robert S. Leighty Jr: This two will go balls to the wall with this stipulation, and if given time, will do all they can to try to steal the show. It makes no sense for Jeff to get a win this early in the feud. I'll take the heel Hardy, and the blowoff will come later in probably a different gimmick match. The match itself could be quite awesome though.

Winner: Matt Hardy

Michael Weyer: Personally thought a ladder match would be better but these guys will still pull out all the stops here. Expect some great flying and some wicked bumps with everyhing in sight as these guys can do their best to outdo each other. For the victor, I see Jeff getting it as payback and to finally get a Mania win of his own.

WINNER: Jeff Hardy

Julian Bond: I honestly thought this feud would be a "balls to the walls" type of build-up (brawls every encounter, people being put through tables), but they opted instead to take the nice and slow psychological route (i.e. Matt taunting Jeff's dead dog). That's cool with me cause' that'll mean the feud more than likely won't end here at Mania'. So i.e. Wrestlemania X with the original brotherly feud w/ Bret and Owen, Matt will take the "upset" win to keep things rolling. Should be the sleeper match of the night.

Winner: Matt Hardy

Steve Gustafson: The E repays Matt for his solid work and gives him the win.

Winner: Matt Hardy

Shawn Michaels vs The Undertaker

Stephen Randle: Never, in my wildest dreams, would I ever think that the one match where the conclusion was foregone even before the match itself was a glimmer in WWE Creative's eye, would be the one match that everyone expects to steal the show and provide the biggest reason to buy the PPV. I guess it really doesn't matter who wins or loses a scripted wrestling match. Shh, nobody tell Triple H.

Winner: The Undertaker

J. Alexander Mitchell: Shawn Michaels will not be the one to end The Streak. Actually, I should rephrase that: It would be idiotic to have Shawn Michaels end The Streak. Both of these guys are preparing to ride off into the sunset, and it is a waste of one of the biggest accolades one can get in the business to give Michaels the Wrestlemania win. Whoever gets this becomes The Man, and Shawn Michaels is already The Man.

By the way, my prediction for the guy that ends the streak? Sorry, smarks… but that will be John Cena. Yes, he is their go-to guy right now, but taking The Streak would put him on Hogan levels…

Winner: The Undertaker.

Ari Berenstein: Sorry Shawn Michaels, but it's "The Streak". THE Streak. You can't beat it; you can't contain it; you can only be a victim to it. This has been a terrific build and Michaels has played his part as "The Showstopper, Mr. Wrestlemania" like a champ. Undertaker has also been good enough to play up that he has in fact been affected by HBK's mind games. The match itself will be all sorts of awesome, as it has been when we have seen them match up over the past few years in short bursts (the Rumble). Ultimately, it is going to be 17-0 and the build and buzz for the possibility of twenty straight wins is certainly just around the corner.

Winner: The Undertaker ups "The Streak" to 17-0

Andy Clark: I was actually leaning towards HBK until he got the best of Undertaker so much in the weeks leading up to the show. For the longest time I've been saying the streak should never be broken because it's Undertaker's legacy, but I realize that breaking the streak could spice up a WrestleMania. I also think that if the streak is broken it won't be by a young guy, but by an established main eventer, despite what the popular sentiment is. It wouldn't surprise me in the least to see HBK win but if I'm making a prediction I'll have to go with Undertaker.

Winner: Undertaker

Jonathan Solomon: This is a match I have been anticipating for years. Frankly, ever since Michaels returned in 2002 I felt this was a money feud to have. Now it is 2009 and both may be breaking down physically but both have been phenomenal in the ring recently. Taker has never had a bad match at WM when he has someone who can work. We should be in store for a classic, despite the fact the ending is going to be predictable. Taker will not be losing at Wrestlemania and in the event he might, it will be against a young stud. Despite the predictable finish, this is my pick for match of the night. Although I doubt it will matter during the bout, I hope J.R. gets to call this match.

Winner: The Undertaker

Dan Torkel: In all honesty, the winner doesnt matter here. This should main event. It is can't miss material for the fans. Two Texas sized Legends, the two greatest Mania performers. The two title matches can come before this and this would still be the event of the show to the crowd whereas if it goes before the WWE risks another Rock/Hogan scenario where the mid card match steals all the heat. MOTYC here, and if not it is a MAJOR disappointment.

Winner: Undertaker

Michael Bauer: Can Shawn Michaels end the streak? I was all set to answer yes to this question about three weeks ago, but then everything changed with one tag team match and one superkick that followed. Shawn Michaels has indeed gotten inside Undertaker's head, which is very hard to do, but not once has The Dead Man gotten any shots back on Shawn. All the promos are by Shawn Michaels and he is simply kicking ass at every turn. That normally does not translate into a win for anyone, let alone Mr. WrestleMania.

Winner: The Undertaker

Aaron Hubbard: The main event for me. This match has A LOT to live up to, but if any two can deliver with almost impossible expectations, it's these two. WWE didn't have to put a lot of effort into this feud, as the match sells itself, but Taker and especially Shawn have succeeded in making this match even bigger than it is. This is Light vs. Dark, Life vs. Death. This is the wrestling equivalent of Gabriel vs. Michael. I can't wait to see this. I'll be pulling for Shawn, but I believe Undertaker will go 17-0.

Winner: The Undertaker

Mathew Sforcina: It's Wrestlemania. He's The Undertaker. Regardless of the quality of the build up, and the quality of the match, the result's still the same.

Winner: The Undertaker (Tombstone)

Owain J. Brimfield: The reason this one feels so special is that you actually believe HBK could end the streak, and that's rarely been a possibility before. Michaels doesn't need that honour, though.

Winner: The Undertaker

Todd Bergman: I'm probably going to draw a lot of flack for this but I think that this match should close WrestleMania. This match has had the best program coming into WMXXV, and I think, for the most part, people are more excited for this match than any other match on the card. I fully expect ‘Taker to win and continue the streak, but I think that this is the beginning of an HBK heel turn. Shawn's face character is certainly on its last leg, and turning him could add some longevity to what has become a stale, baby-faced HBK. Expect everything, including the kitchen sink, to be thrown at The Undertaker, but at the end of the night he will get his hand raised. However, this is merely the beginning of what could be a great feud between the two.

Winner: 17-0

Rob McNew: This should be outstanding. The build to this match has been absolutely tremendous with HBK one-upping Taker at every turn. Even though both guys are still viewed as babyfaces everyone now wants to see Taker get his hands on Shawn. That's great because even though a blind monkey could see Taker is going to win it gives you something satisfying with the finish. They get 20 plus minutes. They tear the house down. And like always it's the safest pick on the board. 17-0.

Winner: The Undertaker

Robert S. Leight Jr: Taker doesn't have a victory over Shawn in 3 previous PPV matches. That ends here as Taker moves to 17-0. This should steal the show as Shawn has not had a bad Mania match since WrestleMania VII against Tito and even that match was average. These two will go all out, and there is no match on the card I am looking forward to more than this. This one match alone makes me glad I shelled out a shit load of money for a travel package to Houston.

Winner: Undertaker

Michael Weyer: I know some say "it's finally time and HBK won't job." But come on. It's Mania. He's the Undertaker. We all know how this is going to go.

WINNER: The Undertaker

Julian Bond: Easily should be the match of the night. Two legends. One of the best build-ups I've ever seen for a Wrestlemania bout. I'm officially convinced now that Taker won't end his streak until he retires and that won't be until about 20 - 0. The streak continues…barely.

Winner: Taker

Steve Gustafson: The streak has taken on a life of its own. I don't see them ending it here.

Winner: The Undertaker


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