The Unexpected Victory: Why Edge's Crown at the 2021 Royal Rumble Served WWE's Strategic Narrative

In the world of professional wrestling, the Royal Rumble is a highly anticipated event, much like a debutante ball for the sports entertainment scene. Wrestlers from all divisions compete in a gauntlet of one-on-one bouts, with the victor crowned the 'ulk-out' of the year. The reasons a wrestler wins such a contest can be as diverse as the reasons why any underdog wins in real life—there is no clear rulebook. Nevertheless, the recent victory of Edge at the 2021 Royal Rumble stands out not for any discernible reason, but for its deliberate and unexpected strategic purpose.

A Strategic Move for WrestleMania

Wrestling is not just about the immediate event; it is about the overall narrative that builds up to the culmination of a show. The Royal Rumble is no different. In the run-up to the 2021 Royal Rumble, Edge’s return and his various storylines, particularly his feud with Randy Orton, were major topics of discussion. These storylines were designed to build up to a significant event, the Royal Rumble, where Edge could claim his victory.

Edge's win was unexpected, making it even more impactful. This victory served a purpose beyond just the immediate spectacle. It set up Vince McMahon’s vision for WrestleMania 37, where big matches are a cornerstone. Edge won from the number 1 position, a spot that was typically reserved for up-and-coming talent. This move was not just a nod to a fan favorite or a surprise, but a strategic decision by WWE to highlight Edge’s continued relevance and to prime the audience for bigger matches ahead.

A Perfect Setup for Future Matches

The significance of Edge's win extends beyond the Royal Rumble itself. It paves the way for compelling storylines moving forward. For instance, Edge's match with Roman Reigns or Drew McIntyre could be highly anticipated. These storylines are rich with potential and could mirror the battles of the past, such as Edge vs. Orton, giving fans a sense of déjà vu with a fresh twist. Similarly, the idea of Edge versus the heel champion Roman Reigns at WrestleMania could provide a classic underdog-to-victor narrative, similar to what fans have come to expect from WWE.

WWE’s strategic thinking also went deeper. By having Edge’s victory, they could set up a storyline where Edge fights for the WWE Championship against either Reigns or McIntyre at WrestleMania. This storyline would not only freshen up the championship department but also could include a storyline between Edge and a potential challenger, such as Shinsuke Nakamura. Shinsuke’s sudden babyface push could create an intriguing dynamic, where he could either become a champion or prepare for an intense match against Reigns or a similar heel.

The Critique and Context

Despite all these strategic moves, some fans felt that WWE could have done better. The idea of Edge winning the Royal Rumble from the number 1 position seemed underwhelming to those who believed in younger talent like Matt Riddle or even The Fiend. It’s a common sentiment that WWE should rely more on new stars and newer storylines. However, Edge’s win was a reflection of his long-standing relationship with WWE fans and his impact on the wrestling landscape.

WWE’s decision to have Edge win the Royal Rumble, irrespective of the less than perfect setup, was a calculated risk. It may have missed the mark for those hungry for emerging talents, but it served the overarching goal of maintaining the relevance and excitement of a long-standing wrestling icon. This move highlighted Edge's legacy and showcased the importance of continuity in WWE’s storytelling.

The Verdict

In conclusion, Edge's victory at the Royal Rumble in 2021 was a strategic move that served both short-term and long-term goals for WWE. Although it may not have met every fan’s expectations in terms of new talent, it effectively set up future storylines and maintained the excitement around a legendary wrestler. Whether WWE could have done better with different choices is a matter of perspective. The strategic narrative of the company is woven through every angle, and Edge’s win was part of that intricate tapestry.