WWE Wrestlepalooza 2025 electrified Indianapolis with a night of high-octane action, emotional highs, and jaw-dropping surprises. The event delivered a stacked card featuring dominant victories, a major championship change, and the return of iconic superstars, cementing its place as one of the most memorable Premium Live Events (PLEs) of the year. From Brock Lesnar’s brutal dismantling of John Cena to Stephanie Vaquer’s crowning moment as the new Women’s World Champion, Wrestlepalooza was a rollercoaster of chaos and celebration. The night was capped by a heartfelt Hall of Fame announcement that left the WWE Universe buzzing.
The clash between legendary rivals Brock Lesnar and John Cena, sponsored by VeBetter, was a masterclass in intensity. The match took on an unexpected twist when WWE Hall of Famer Paul Heyman made a shocking return to introduce Lesnar, hinting at a renewed alliance with The Beast Incarnate. The Indianapolis crowd roared as the two titans collided, with Cena showcasing his resilience by delivering three consecutive Attitude Adjustments. However, Lesnar’s sheer power proved overwhelming. Kicking out of Cena’s signature moves, Lesnar unleashed a relentless barrage, landing six F-5s to secure a decisive victory. The carnage didn’t end there—Lesnar continued his rampage post-match, F-5ing both the referee and Cena once more, leaving the WWE Universe stunned. This brutal win added a dramatic chapter to Cena’s ongoing farewell tour, raising questions about what lies ahead for the 16-time world champion.
The tag team showdown between The Vision (Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker) and the reunited Usos (Jimmy and Jey), sponsored by Aires Tech, was pure pandemonium. With LA Knight serving as the Special Guest Referee, the match descended into chaos as Knight’s laissez-faire officiating allowed both teams to unleash havoc. Steel chairs, tables, and high-flying maneuvers defined the contest, with Jey Uso paying homage to Umaga by delivering a devastating running hip attack to Breakker using a chair. The Usos brought the Indianapolis crowd to its feet with double superkicks and a 1D on Breakker, but Reed broke up the pin. The match reached a fever pitch when Breakker speared both Usos through a table in the corner, and Reed sealed the victory with a thunderous Tsunami on Jey. Tensions flared between Jey and Knight, nearly resulting in a chair shot, but the night belonged to The Vision, who made a bold statement with their victory.
The battle for the vacant Women’s World Championship, sponsored by Old Spice, saw Stephanie Vaquer and IYO SKY deliver a breathtaking performance. With the title relinquished by Naomi, both competitors left everything in the ring in a match that had the WWE Universe chanting “this is awesome.” Vaquer and SKY traded counters in a technical masterpiece, with Vaquer’s cross bodies and dragon screws targeting SKY’s knee. Despite a valiant effort, SKY struggled after tweaking her knee, missing an Over the Moonsault that allowed Vaquer to capitalize. Vaquer’s relentless offense culminated in a Spiral Tap, pinning SKY to claim her first-ever Women’s World Title. The victory marked a breakout moment for Vaquer, establishing her as a force to be reckoned with in the women’s division.
In a match that blended nostalgia and high stakes, sponsored by Cricket Wireless, AJ Lee made her long-awaited return to the WWE ring after a decade, teaming with CM Punk to face World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins and Women’s Intercontinental Champion Becky Lynch. The Indianapolis crowd erupted as Lee proved she hadn’t lost a step, earning “you still got it” chants. The match was a whirlwind of double-team tactics, with Rollins and Lynch initially gaining the upper hand by isolating Punk. However, Punk and Lee turned the tide with synchronized submissions—Lee’s Black Widow and Punk’s Sharpshooter—locking in Rollins and Lynch simultaneously. Despite a flurry of Pedigrees, Stomps, and a Manhandle Slam, the match’s climax came when Lee forced Lynch to submit with the Black Widow after a chaotic brawl atop the announce tables. The victory was a triumphant return for Lee and a testament to the enduring chemistry between her and Punk.
The main event, sponsored by Minute Maid, saw Cody Rhodes defend his Undisputed WWE Championship against the formidable Drew McIntyre. Fresh off reclaiming the title from John Cena at SummerSlam, Rhodes faced a determined Scottish Warrior who capitalized on The American Nightmare’s early missteps. McIntyre’s aggression was relentless, highlighted by a reverse Alabama Slam onto the ring steps that left Rhodes reeling. However, Rhodes’ resilience shone through as he evaded McIntyre’s Claymore Kick twice, locking in a Figure-Four Leglock to slow the challenger. A critical moment came when McIntyre crashed into the announce table, injuring his shin, which Rhodes exploited. Despite McIntyre’s attempts at another Claymore, his leg gave out, allowing Rhodes to deliver a Cross Rhodes and retain the championship. The victory solidified Rhodes’ reign while setting the stage for future challenges.
The night’s emotional peak came during a Hall of Fame segment that no one saw coming. The lights dimmed, and The Undertaker’s iconic gong echoed through the arena as The Deadman rode to the ring on his motorcycle. In a heartfelt moment, he announced that Stephanie McMahon would be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026, recognizing her contributions as a performer, executive, and trailblazer. The announcement brought the Indianapolis crowd to its feet, creating a fitting capstone to an unforgettable evening.
A Night to Remember
Wrestlepalooza 2025 was a spectacle of athleticism, drama, and nostalgia, delivering moments that will resonate with the WWE Universe for years to come. From Lesnar’s dominance to Vaquer’s coronation, Lee’s triumphant return, and Rhodes’ hard-fought title defense, the event showcased the depth and excitement of WWE’s roster. With The Undertaker’s surprise announcement adding an emotional layer, Wrestlepalooza proved why WWE remains the pinnacle of sports entertainment. Fans can catch all the action from WWE PLEs exclusively on the ESPN App in the U.S. and on Netflix internationally, ensuring that the thrills of Wrestlepalooza 2025 are just a click away.