WWE Wrestlepalooza 2025 Complete Results: Winners, Highlights & Match Analysis

WWE's inaugural Wrestlepalooza premium live event delivered unforgettable moments at Indianapolis' Gainbridge Fieldhouse on September 20, 2025. Marking WWE's debut on ESPN platforms, this groundbreaking show featured shocking returns, championship drama, and career-defining performances that will be remembered for years to come.

Undisputed WWE Championship: Cody Rhodes Retains Against Drew McIntyre

In the main event that closed Wrestlepalooza 2025, Cody Rhodes successfully defended his Undisputed WWE Championship against Drew McIntyre in a hard-fought 16-minute encounter. Despite suffering from head injuries sustained during Friday's SmackDown attack, "The American Nightmare" proved his championship mettle.

The match showcased Rhodes' resilience as he overcame early adversity caused by lingering effects from McIntyre's Claymore kick. The turning point came when McIntyre's momentum backfired – a missed Claymore kick into the announcer's table injured his own leg, creating the opening Rhodes needed to hit the Cross Rhodes for the victory.

Match Highlights:

• Rhodes showed visible effects from Friday's attack early in the match
• McIntyre dominated the opening sequences with power moves
• A beautiful superplex spot from the top rope
• The decisive leg injury to McIntyre from his own missed finisher
• Rhodes capitalized with a super Cody Cutter and Cross Rhodes for the win

Brock Lesnar Dominates John Cena in Final Encounter

The seventh and final singles match between John Cena and Brock Lesnar opened Wrestlepalooza with "The Beast Incarnate" delivering a statement performance. In a dominant 9-minute encounter that echoed their 2014 SummerSlam clash, Lesnar systematically dismantled Cena in what many are calling one of the most one-sided matches in recent WWE history.

Paul Heyman's surprise return to introduce Lesnar added an unexpected layer to the proceedings, sparking speculation about future storylines. The match itself was a masterclass in dominance, with Lesnar sending Cena to "Suplex City" before finishing him off with six consecutive F-5s.

Key Moments:

• Paul Heyman's shocking return as Lesnar's special guest introducer
• Lesnar's early dominance with multiple suplexes
• Cena's brief comeback with three Attitude Adjustments
• The devastating sequence of six F-5s for the finish
• Post-match assault on both Cena and the referee

AJ Lee's Triumphant Return: Mixed Tag Team Classic

After a decade away from WWE, AJ Lee made her emotional return alongside husband CM Punk to face the power couple of Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch. The nearly 30-minute mixed tag team match was a perfect blend of nostalgia, technical wrestling, and storytelling that had the Indianapolis crowd on their feet throughout.

The match brilliantly built anticipation for Lee's involvement, with Rollins and Lynch using psychological warfare to prevent the tag for the first half. When Lee finally entered the fray, the roof nearly came off Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Her ring rust quickly disappeared as she showcased the skills that made her a three-time Divas Champion.

Match Analysis:

• Strategic psychology from Rollins and Lynch in the early stages
• Punk's GTS on Rollins creating the momentum shift
• Lee's explosive entrance into the match
• Stereo finisher attempts and submission spots
• The dramatic table spot involving all four competitors
• Lee's Black Widow submission for the victory

New Women's World Champion Crowned

Stephanie Vaquer captured her first WWE championship by defeating Iyo Sky in what many are calling the match of the night. The 18-minute technical masterpiece showcased why both women are considered among the best in the world, with Vaquer's victory marking a new era for the Women's World Championship.

The match was a chess match of counters and reversals in the early stages, evolving into a strategic battle focused on Vaquer's systematic attack on Sky's knee. Sky's selling of the injury was exceptional, adding realism to every offensive maneuver and creating genuine doubt about the outcome.

Technical Excellence:

• Early counter-wrestling showcase
• Vaquer's focused attack on Sky's knee with dragon screw leg whips
• Sky's beautiful avalanche Spanish Fly counter
• The injury affecting Sky's signature Over the Moonsault
• Vaquer's stunning Spiral Tap for the championship victory

The Vision Defeats The Usos in Chaotic Contest

Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker, collectively known as The Vision, scored a significant victory over the reunited Usos in a match that featured special guest referee LA Knight. The contest evolved from traditional tag team wrestling into a hardcore-style brawl, with all participants taking advantage of Knight's relaxed officiating.

The match's dramatic finish came after an unfortunate incident where Jey Uso was busted open by a chair shot, leading to a brief delay. The Vision capitalized on the momentum shift, with Breakker delivering a double spear through a table before Reed sealed the victory with his devastating Tsunami splash.

Complete Wrestlepalooza 2025 Results

Event Grades and Analysis

WWE's inaugural Wrestlepalooza delivered a mixed bag of entertainment, with the women's division and returning legends stealing the show. The event's historic significance as WWE's ESPN debut cannot be understated, marking a new era in sports entertainment presentation.

Match of the Night: Stephanie Vaquer vs. Iyo Sky

The women's world championship match stood out as a technical masterpiece that elevated both competitors. Vaquer's victory felt earned through superior storytelling and execution, while Sky's performance reminded everyone why she's considered one of WWE's premier talents.

Surprise of the Night: Paul Heyman's Return

Heyman's appearance as Lesnar's special guest introducer sent shockwaves through the wrestling world. His presence raises questions about future storylines and potential connections to The Vision stable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking Ahead: Post-Wrestlepalooza Storylines

Wrestlepalooza 2025's aftermath sets up several intriguing storylines heading into WWE's fall premium live events. Cody Rhodes' championship reign continues, but questions remain about Drew McIntyre's future title opportunities and his growing frustration with close losses.

AJ Lee's successful return opens the door for potential championship pursuits, particularly given her victory over current Women's Intercontinental Champion Becky Lynch. The wrestling world eagerly awaits news about Lee's long-term WWE involvement and possible title aspirations.

Stephanie Vaquer's championship victory begins what promises to be an exciting reign, with several potential challengers already emerging from the women's division. Her technical prowess and international appeal make her a perfect ambassador for the Women's World Championship.

Conclusion: A New Era Begins

WWE Wrestlepalooza 2025 successfully launched a new era in sports entertainment, combining nostalgia with fresh storylines and championship drama. While not every match hit the same high notes, the event's historic significance and standout performances make it a must-watch for wrestling fans.

The women's division once again proved to be WWE's crown jewel, delivering the night's best match and creating new championship momentum. AJ Lee and Brock Lesnar's returns added star power and unpredictability that reminded everyone why surprise appearances remain one of wrestling's greatest assets.

Ready to relive the excitement? Stream WWE Wrestlepalooza 2025 on ESPN+ and experience every shocking moment, championship change, and career-defining performance. Don't miss the event that launched WWE's newest premium live event tradition!