The recent King and Queen of the Ring Premium Live Event (PLE) has left fans and wrestling enthusiasts abuzz, with the overall in-ring product receiving widespread acclaim. The event marked a significant milestone in WWE’s new era, which has brought about a refreshing change in the company’s approach to storytelling and match production. One of the most notable aspects of the PLE was the incorporation of previously-banned moves, including the infamous Vertebreaker, which added an extra layer of excitement to the already electric atmosphere.
The Vertebreaker, a modified piledriver, was banned in the early 2000s due to safety concerns, except for The Tombstone. However, Cody Rhodes brought back the move in the Champion vs. Champion main event, nailing Logan Paul with the Vertebreaker in a viral moment that sent shockwaves throughout the wrestling community. The match was produced by Michael Hayes and Shane Helms, who once used The Vertebreaker as a finisher.
The move’s revival has sparked a nostalgic reaction among fans, with many praising the WWE for revisiting old favorites. Shane Helms, aka The Hurricane, took to social media to respond to the clip, drawing praise from fans and wrestling personalities alike. The outpouring of support highlights the WWE’s ability to tap into nostalgia while still pushing the boundaries of in-ring storytelling.
The event’s success can be attributed to the tireless efforts of the WWE’s experienced production team. Michael Hayes produced the King of the Ring finals between Randy Orton and King Gunther, while Tyson Kidd oversaw the Queen of the Ring tournament finals, which saw Nia Jax emerge victorious. Shawn Daivari produced Liv Morgan’s thrilling Women’s World Championship victory over Becky Lynch, and Jamie Noble was behind the Intercontinental Championship Triple Threat match.
The King and Queen of the Ring PLE has set a high bar for future events, and the WWE’s willingness to take risks and revisit old favorites has injected new life into the company’s product. As the company continues to evolve, fans can expect more surprises and nods to the past, making the new era of WWE an exciting time for wrestling enthusiasts.
