Triple H has had his fair share of memorable moments and unfortunate mishaps in the WWE, particularly in the context of the Elimination Chamber Match. One such instance saw him sustain a life-threatening injury due to a mistake during the match.
The inaugural Elimination Chamber Match took place at the Survivor Series Premium Live Event in 2002, featuring Chris Jericho, Booker T., Kane, Shawn Michaels, Triple H, and Rob Van Dam.
However, during the match, a botched move by RVD led to a terrifying incident for Triple H. Instead of landing correctly with a Five-Star Frog Splash, RVD’s knee inadvertently struck Triple H’s throat, causing immediate distress.
Both wrestlers reacted visibly to the error. RVD clutched his knee in pain, while Triple H, struggling to breathe, kicked his feet frantically and held his swollen throat.
Despite the severity of the injury and his inability to speak, Triple H made the courageous decision to continue and complete the grueling 39-minute match.
Reflecting on the incident, Triple H revealed that doctors warned him that such accidents could have crushed his windpipe, emphasizing the life-threatening nature of the injury.
While Triple H harbors no ill feelings towards RVD, the latter expressed remorse, acknowledging his role in the unfortunate event.
Triple H’s keen observation during the match revealed early signs of the mishap. Recalling the moment on WWE Network’s Ruthless Aggression, he noted RVD’s struggle to stand upright on the pod before attempting the high-risk move.
Despite his concerns, the sequence proceeded, ultimately leading to the injury.
In the years following the incident, the WWE Elimination Chamber became an annual fixture, albeit with modifications to enhance safety. The structure underwent design changes in 2017, increasing its height and reducing the risk of injuries.
While the alterations diminished the cage’s imposing appearance, they prioritized the well-being of WWE Superstars and facilitated easier transportation.
Despite the evolution of the Elimination Chamber, Triple H’s harrowing experience serves as a reminder of the dangers inherent in professional wrestling’s most formidable structures.
