WWE Fastlane 2023, held at the Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana on October 7, 2023, was a night to remember for wrestling fans worldwide. This event featured a series of high-stakes matches that left the WWE Universe on the edge of their seats. From an electrifying Last Man Standing match for the WWE World Championship to a surprising alliance challenging the dominant faction known as The Bloodline, the night had it all. In this comprehensive review, we’ll break down the key moments and matches, shedding light on the surprises, standout performances, and implications for the Road to WrestleMania.
The Pre-Show: LWO and Carlito Steal the Spotlight
Before the main event, the Fastlane pre-show set the stage for the night’s excitement with a tag team match between LWO (Rey Mysterio and Santos Escobar) and Carlito against Bobby Lashley and the Street Profits. The match was intense, with each team showcasing their skills. However, the highlight of this match was the unexpected interference by Zelina Vega, which ultimately led to LWO and Carlito securing the victory. This pre-show bout set the tone for the evening, leaving fans eager for more thrilling action.
Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship: The Judgment Day vs. Cody Rhodes and Jey Uso
The main show kicked off with the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship match, pitting the dominant faction known as The Judgment Day (Finn Bálor, Damian Priest, and Rhea Ripley) against the formidable duo of Cody Rhodes and Jey Uso. This match proved to be a true nail-biter, featuring several momentum shifts and near-falls. Both teams fought tooth and nail, leaving the WWE Universe in awe of their athleticism and determination.
In a shocking turn of events, Cody Rhodes secured the victory for his team after delivering a Cross Rhodes to Finn Bálor, smashing him through the announcement table. This stunning upset marked the beginning of an unforgettable night and signaled a potential shakeup in the tag team division.
Women’s Wrestling Excellence: IYO SKY vs. Asuka vs. Charlotte Flair
The next match on the card was a women’s triple threat bout featuring IYO SKY, Asuka, and Charlotte Flair. SKY, who had been on an impressive winning streak, faced two of the most iconic female wrestlers in the WWE. This contest lived up to its billing as a technical showcase, with all three competitors displaying their wrestling prowess.
In a thrilling conclusion, IYO SKY managed to secure the victory by executing a picture-perfect Moonsault on Asuka. Her win was not only a testament to her rising star power but also added depth to the women’s division, showcasing the wealth of talent in WWE’s women’s roster.
Unlikely Allies: John Cena and LA Knight Take on The Bloodline
One of the most intriguing storylines leading up to Fastlane was the formation of an unlikely alliance between John Cena and LA Knight, brought together to challenge the formidable faction known as The Bloodline, consisting of Roman Reigns and Paul Heyman. The match that followed was nothing short of physical warfare, with both teams unleashing a barrage of powerful moves and high-impact maneuvers.
In a surprising twist, John Cena and LA Knight managed to secure the victory, with Cena delivering his signature Attitude Adjustment to Roman Reigns. Cena’s return to WWE, after his last appearance at WrestleMania 38, was met with a thunderous ovation from the crowd, and it left fans speculating about his future in the company.
The Main Event: Rollins vs. Nakamura in a Brutal Last Man Standing Match
The main event of WWE Fastlane 2023 was a Last Man Standing match for the prestigious WWE World Championship, featuring Seth Rollins defending his title against the resilient Shinsuke Nakamura. This brutal and hard-fought contest pushed both competitors to their limits. Rollins utilized his experience and cunning tactics, while Nakamura relied on his incredible resilience and unyielding toughness.
The match reached its climactic moment when Rollins executed a devastating Curb Stomp on Nakamura, driving him onto a pile of steel chairs. Nakamura was unable to answer the referee’s count, and Seth Rollins emerged victorious, retaining his WWE World Championship in a match that will be remembered for its intensity and brutality.
Notable Highlights and Surprises
As we reflect on WWE Fastlane 2023, several key moments and surprises stand out:
- Cody Rhodes and Jey Uso’s Upset: The victory of Cody Rhodes and Jey Uso over Judgment Day was a defining moment of the night. It signaled a potential shift in the tag team division and elevated the status of both competitors.
- IYO SKY’s Ascendance: IYO SKY’s win in the triple threat match was a testament to her growing popularity and in-ring ability. Her future in WWE’s women’s division looks incredibly bright.
- John Cena’s Return: John Cena’s unexpected return to WWE generated immense excitement among fans. His victory over The Bloodline hinted at his continued involvement in the company.
- LA Knight’s Rise: LA Knight’s victory alongside Cena was a significant surprise. It demonstrated WWE’s confidence in Knight’s potential and his ability to compete at the highest level.
Conclusion
WWE Fastlane 2023 delivered on its promise of thrilling action, dramatic moments, and unexpected surprises. From Cody Rhodes and Jey Uso’s upset victory to John Cena’s triumphant return, the event left fans eagerly anticipating what lies ahead on the Road to WrestleMania. With each match contributing to evolving storylines and character arcs, WWE Fastlane 2023 successfully set the stage for the grandest spectacle in sports entertainment, WrestleMania. As the WWE Universe looks forward to the marquee event, they can fondly remember Fastlane as a night of unforgettable moments in professional wrestling.
