WWE Wrestlepalooza 2025 Results, Ratings, and Highlights

For the first time, WWE presented Wrestlepalooza, its latest premium live event, debuting on the ESPN app. The show delivered high-profile matches, shocking returns, and dramatic storytelling, with the spotlight shining on John Cena vs. Brock Lesnar and the in-ring return of AJ Lee, teaming with her husband CM Punk. Below is a full breakdown of the event, including results, grades, and reactions.

John Cena vs. Brock Lesnar – The Final Chapter

Result: Lesnar defeated Cena via pinfall
Grade: B-

The long-running rivalry between John Cena and Brock Lesnar came to an end. With Paul Heyman making a surprise reappearance to handle Lesnar’s introduction, the match immediately felt special. Lesnar used his raw power to dominate, cutting Cena down with strikes and suplexes. Cena managed to string together his signature offense, including multiple Attitude Adjustments, but Lesnar survived. Ultimately, six consecutive F-5s ended the contest. After the bell, Lesnar attacked both Cena and the referee, standing tall as fans booed.

Takeaway: The match echoed their infamous SummerSlam 2014 encounter, but its repetition left fans questioning why WWE revisited the same formula in 2025.

The Usos vs. Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker

Result: Reed and Breakker defeated The Usos (Reed pinned Jey)
Grade: B

With LA Knight serving as the special guest referee, The Usos reunited against Reed and Breakker. The heels controlled much of the bout, using weapons under Knight’s “relaxed rules.” The Usos fought back with superkicks and a near fall off the Uso Splash, but Breakker’s double spear through a table and Reed’s Tsunami secured the victory.

Takeaway: A chaotic, entertaining tag bout. While weapons felt unnecessary, the match showcased Reed and Breakker as a powerful duo.

Women’s World Championship Match: Stephanie Vaquer vs. Iyo Sky

Result: Vaquer defeated Sky to win the vacant title
Grade: A

In one of the night’s standout matches, Stephanie Vaquer faced Iyo Sky for the vacant Women’s World Championship. Sky’s high-flying offense and dramatic selling of her injured knee gave the match emotional weight. Vaquer countered key moves, ultimately connecting with a Spiral Tap to claim victory.

Takeaway: A fantastic showing that highlighted WWE’s continued emphasis on women’s wrestling in 2025. Vaquer was elevated instantly, while Sky once again delivered an elite performance.

Mixed Tag Team Match: CM Punk and AJ Lee vs. Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch

Result: Punk and Lee defeated Rollins and Lynch (Lee submitted Lynch)
Grade: A

In her first WWE match in a decade, AJ Lee returned to team with CM Punk against Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch. The bout mixed dramatic storytelling with fan-service spots, including double-team moves, throwback submissions, and crowd-pleasing exchanges. In the end, Lee locked Lynch in the Black Widow, forcing a tap-out.

Takeaway: A fun, emotional match that delivered on nostalgia while also putting Lee back in the spotlight. The crowd reaction confirmed her return as a major moment.

Undisputed WWE Championship Match: Cody Rhodes vs. Drew McIntyre

Result: Rhodes defeated McIntyre to retain the title
Grade: B

Cody Rhodes defended his title against Drew McIntyre in a physical main event. McIntyre targeted Rhodes’ injuries from SmackDown, while Rhodes fought back with bursts of offense. The finish came after McIntyre missed a Claymore Kick, injuring his leg. Rhodes capitalized with a super Cody Cutter and Cross Rhodes for the win.

Takeaway: A strong match with good chemistry. While solid, the ending left McIntyre once again short of capturing the top prize, raising questions about his long-term credibility in main events.

Overall Event Grade

Final Rating: B

Wrestlepalooza 2025 delivered a slick production, a hot crowd, and several excellent matches. Vaquer vs. Sky stole the show, while the mixed tag provided a feel-good return for AJ Lee. Rhodes and McIntyre capped off the night with a solid title defense. However, the reliance on replaying Cena vs. Lesnar’s 2014 formula in their “last match” hurt the event’s overall perception. Still, for a debut show, Wrestlepalooza showcased WWE’s ability to blend nostalgia with fresh storytelling on a major stage.