A day later
Dave Meltzer, a well-respected wrestling journalist, sits at his computer, reflecting on the events of the Royal Rumble, particularly the WWE title match that has captured the imagination of wrestling fans worldwide. He prepares to write a detailed review, focusing on the incredible journey of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the new WWE Champion.
In his review, Meltzer begins by detailing Zlatan's humble origins: "Zlatan Ibrahimovic's journey to the pinnacle of the wrestling world is a story of determination and talent blossoming from the unlikely settings of Rosengård, a tough neighborhood in Malmö, Sweden. From these modest beginnings, Zlatan's athletic prowess was evident early on, initially channeling his talents into soccer where he was considered a prodigy."
Meltzer then transitions to Zlatan's shift from soccer to wrestling, "The pivot from the soccer fields to the wrestling ring was guided by none other than former professional wrestler and Olympic medal winner, Frank Andersson. Recognizing Zlatan's raw physicality and charisma, Andersson took him under his wing, training him in the finer points of professional wrestling."
He elaborates on Zlatan's wrestling career before WWE, noting, "Zlatan honed his craft in small venues across Europe, his presence and skill in the ring growing with each match. His dedication and unique athletic background caught the eyes of wrestling scouts."
Meltzer then details how Zlatan made it to the WWE, "In 2002, on the recommendation of Frank Andersson, and thanks to Andersson's connections with Jim Ross, then VP of Talent Relations at WCW, Zlatan signed with WWE. His debut was marked by an undeniable charisma and a wrestling style that blended raw strength with surprising agility."
Concluding his review, Meltzer reflects on the significance of Zlatan's victory, "Zlatan's triumph at the Royal Rumble is not just a personal victory; it is a testament to his relentless work ethic and evolution as a wrestler. From Rosengård to WWE Champion, Zlatan Ibrahimovic has not only claimed the title but has also captured the hearts of fans worldwide, marking a new chapter in WWE history."
Meltzer's review not only highlights the match's excitement and Zlatan's performance but also contextualizes his championship win within the broader narrative of his life and career, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of why this victory resonates so deeply with the WWE Universe.
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Three days later
Albany, New York.
The atmosphere in Albany's Pepsi Arena was electric as SmackDown went live. The lights dimmed momentarily before flashing vibrantly, and Tony Chimel stepped forward with the microphone in hand, his voice ringing out clear and confident through the cheers of the crowd.
"Ladies and gentlemen, it's my pleasure to introduce to you the new WWE Champion, Zlatan Ibrahimovic!"
The first notes of "The Lion" by RZA and GZA thundered through the arena, perfectly capturing the fierce essence of the man it heralded. As the music blared, Michael Cole's voice added to the growing excitement, "What a way to kick off SmackDown from the capital of New York, Albany. As the road to Wrestlemania continues with the new WWE Champion, Zlatan Ibrahimovic! Tazz, we had the privilege to call one of the greatest matches in Royal rumble history between Kurt Angle and Ibrahimovic!"
Beside him, Tazz nodded in agreement, his voice filled with a mix of awe and respect. "I've seen a lot of great matches in my day and been in some, but never anything like what transpired between Ibra and Angle this past Sunday at the Rumble."
The crowd erupted as Zlatan walked through the curtain, appearing on the entrance stage. He was the epitome of a champion, soaking in the adulation while donning a Swedish three-crown hockey jersey, a pair of blue jeans, and sneakers. The WWE title was securely fastened around his waist, his name proudly displayed on the nameplate.
As he walked down the ramp, the camera panned over the crowd, highlighting signs that celebrated his victory and his unique persona. One sign depicted a lion with a crown, labeled 'King of the WWE Jungle,' while another showed the Swedish flag merged with the outline of a roaring lion, underlined by the words "The Lion of Rosengård."
Reaching the ring, Zlatan ascended the steel steps, climbed up the second turnbuckle, and removed the title from his waist. He thrust his fist up in the air, holding the WWE title aloft as flashes from cameras filled the arena.
Michael Cole continued, "Zlatan made history at Royal Rumble as the first Swedish WWE Champion in history, in what has been an amazing rookie year since his debut in Montreal after WrestleMania 18. He's won the Intercontinental title, the Tag Team title, and now the WWE title. It's the first time a European WWE superstar holds a WWE title since 1988 when Andre the Giant defeated Hulk Hogan."
After soaking in the cheers for a few more moments, Zlatan hopped down to the ring and received a microphone from Tony Chimel. Standing in the center of the ring, he paused, letting the 'Ibra' chants fill the arena. Michael Cole's voice underscored the moment, "The 'Ibra' chants are taking over the Pepsi Arena."
As the chants started to fade, Zlatan raised the microphone to his lips, preparing to address the WWE Universe for the first time as their champion.
"Finally... the Lion has come back to Albany!" Zlatan's voice boomed through the arena, echoing with the resonance of a seasoned champion. The crowd erupted, their cheers melding with his words, feeling the weight and significance of his return.
He paused, letting the cheers wash over him before continuing. "Last week, I made a promise. I promised to win this WWE title for everyone who has supported me—every coach, every friend, every fan, and for myself. For 15 years, my journey has taken me from the neighborhood of Rosengård in Malmö, Sweden—a place where I dreamed not just of football, but of sports stardom."
The crowd listened intently as Zlatan spoke of his past, a testament to the diverse paths his athletic prowess had taken him. "And tonight," he continued, his voice swelling with pride, "I stand before you as your new WWE champion!"
With a swift motion, Zlatan lifted the WWE title high above his head. The gesture was met with a thunderous applause and a cacophony of cheers. Flashes from cameras lit up the arena, capturing the iconic moment as fans celebrated not just his victory but the realization of a dream that spanned more than a decade.
"As I hold this title," Zlatan declared, his voice steady and powerful, "I hold it not just for me but for every kid out there in places like Rosengård and beyond, who dreams big and fights hard. This is proof that no matter where you come from, you can become a champion in this ring."
The intensity of his words resonated deeply, touching the hearts of many in the audience who saw in Zlatan a reflection of their own hopes and aspirations. His message was clear: perseverance, passion, and dedication could defy the odds.
Zlatan lowered the title, his eyes scanning the crowd, allowing himself a moment to soak in the adulation. The arena was alive with chants and applause, a fitting tribute to a champion who had transcended the boundaries of sport to inspire a generation.
As the roar of the crowd continued, Zlatan shifted the tone of his promo, now focusing on his monumental victory at the Royal Rumble. The champion's voice carried a blend of respect and playful bravado that had become his trademark.
"Let's talk about the Royal Rumble," Zlatan began, his voice steady and confident. "Kurt Angle came into that match with his A-game. He's an Olympic gold medalist, a true warrior in this ring. He almost made me tap out with that ankle lock—man, that was close!"
The crowd responded with a mix of gasps and cheers, recalling the intensity of the match. Zlatan smiled, nodding in acknowledgment of his opponent's skill before continuing.
"But the Lion of Rosengård withstood the pain, and when I pinned Kurt... 1, 2, 3," he counted out loud, the audience joining in, "I stood tall!"
The mention of his victory drew a massive cheer. Zlatan then shifted to a more teasing tone, mimicking a more dramatic scene post-match. "And after the match, as I soaked in your adulation," he paused for effect, "I saw Kurt Angle crying. He was like a crybaby, whining and moaning about everything. It's like if you take away his gold medals, his WWE title, and his milk!"
Laughter erupted from the stands, the fans enjoying the playful jab at Kurt Angle's well-known intensity and competitive nature.
Zlatan continued, "And remember, folks, the only thing Kurt fears more than losing his WWE title or gold medals is... spoons-wielding Divas!" This remark sent another wave of laughter through the crowd, as they recalled a humorous incident orchestrated by Zlatan several months earlier.
Michael Cole chimed in from the commentary table, unable to hold back a chuckle. "Oh, that was a classic! Zlatan tricked Kurt into walking into the Diva's locker room, thinking it was his own."
Tazz added, "Yeah, and he got a spoonful from those Divas! Taught him a lesson in respecting privacy. Only Zlatan could think of something like that."
The Albany crowd was delighted, remembering the hilarious and slightly embarrassing moment for the Olympic hero. Zlatan's charisma and ability to engage with the fans, whether through respect or playful rivalry, shone brightly as he continued to establish his persona not just as a champion, but as an entertainer and icon in the wrestling world.
The arena buzzed with excitement as Zlatan took the promo to its climax, setting the stage for what was to come in his burgeoning WWE career. His voice, full of conviction and pride, carried over the cheers.
"In this rivalry, where Kurt Angle and I were both adversaries and partners, it was one win a piece. But at Royal Rumble, I didn't just win a match; I proved to the world—and to Kurt Angle—that I'm not just the 'punk kid' he once labeled me as."
Zlatan's assertion brought a swell of support from the crowd, echoing his journey from underestimation to respect. He paused, letting the impact of his words sink in, before continuing with a fierce gleam in his eye.
"And make no mistake about it, after Royal Rumble, I've beaten Kurt Angle's ass not once, but twice!"
The declaration elicited a roar from the crowd, their excitement palpable as they anticipated his next words.
"And the lion is roaring to WrestleMania!" Zlatan proclaimed, his voice booming through the arena, signaling his intent and setting his sights on the grandest stage of them all.
Michael Cole, ever the voice of the spectacle, amplified the moment from the commentary table. "You hear that, folks? Zlatan Ibrahimovic is not just setting the WWE on fire; he's blazing a trail straight to WrestleMania!"
Tazz chimed in, his voice filled with admiration and a hint of excitement for what was to come. "This guy came into WWE and shook the foundations. From Rosengård to WrestleMania, Zlatan is writing his own legend, and we're all just living in it."
Just as the cheers for Zlatan Ibrahimovic reached a crescendo, the mood in the Pepsi Arena shifted abruptly. The unmistakable opening riff of "Next Big Thing" blared through the speakers, signaling the arrival of Brock Lesnar, the winner of the 2003 Royal Rumble. The crowd's anticipation turned to awe as the next chapter of the WWE saga unfolded right before their eyes.
"Well, here comes the pain," Tazz exclaimed, capturing the immediate tension that filled the air. Lesnar's presence was always an event, and tonight was no exception. The imposing figure marched down the aisle, his tank shirt emblazoned with the words "Here Comes the Pain," his track jeans and sneakers completing the look of a relentless fighter.
Brock Lesnar's entrance was not just a spectacle; it was a declaration of intent. Having fought through two grueling matches at the Royal Rumble—first defeating Big Show to earn his spot in the Royal Rumble match itself, and then going on to win it—Lesnar was on a mission. His sights were set squarely on the WWE Title at WrestleMania 19 in Seattle's Safeco Field on March 30, a title he lost at Survivor Series thanks to the betrayal of his former agent, Paul Heyman, and Big Show.
As Brock approached the ring, Michael Cole took over the narrative, his voice echoing the gravity of the situation. "Brock Lesnar has gone through hell and back for a shot at redemption, and now, with his Royal Rumble win, he's got a direct line to the WWE Title at WrestleMania."
The arena was thick with tension as Lesnar climbed into the ring, standing opposite Zlatan. The Swedish champion held his ground, the WWE title still on his shoulder, his eyes locked on Lesnar. It was a face-off that promised an epic confrontation, with both men at the peak of their powers and everything to fight for.
Lesnar's intense gaze never wavered as he pointed at the WWE Title, a clear challenge laid out. The fans were on the edge of their seats, knowing they were witnessing the brewing of a storm that would surely explode at WrestleMania.
Tazz summed it up perfectly. "Folks, buckle up. This road to WrestleMania is going to be one for the ages. Zlatan vs. Brock Lesnar, a match that will shake the very foundations of WWE!"
The intense stare down between Brock Lesnar and Zlatan Ibrahimovic held the Albany crowd spellbound. The electric tension was palpable, a silent testament to the monumental encounter looming on the horizon. Breaking the stare, Lesnar shifted his focus, signaling for a microphone. Tony Chimel, at ringside, quickly obliged, handing one over to the Royal Rumble winner.
Lesnar, never one to mince words, began to speak, his voice deep and resonant in the charged atmosphere. "Zlatan, you and I, we're not so different. We both started as athletes in different fields—I as an amateur wrestler, and you as a soccer player," Brock began, acknowledging their shared roots in competitive sports.
"We both made our WWE debuts last year in Montreal," he continued, pacing slowly in the ring, his eyes never leaving Zlatan. "From there, our paths took different turns."
Lesnar's tone took on a note of pride as he recounted his rapid rise within WWE. "In just four months, I went from debut to King of the Ring, earning my spot at SummerSlam where I beat The Rock for the WWE Title." The crowd reacted with a mix of cheers and boos, recalling the pivotal match that had catapulted Lesnar into the spotlight.
He didn't stop there, his voice growing more intense. "I defeated The Undertaker in his own playground, Hell in a Cell, at No Mercy." Each accolade was a reminder of his dominance and his unwavering focus on reclaiming what he believed was rightfully his.
"And now," Lesnar paused, allowing the gravity of his words to sink in, "as the winner of the Royal Rumble, I'm set to reclaim the WWE Title. That title," he pointed directly at the belt on Zlatan's shoulder, "is rightfully mine."
Michael Cole, capturing the moment from the commentary table, interjected, "This is what WWE is all about, folks. Two of the biggest stars, who have dominated their fields, now set to collide at the grandest stage of them all, WrestleMania!"
Tazz added his insight, "Both of these men are fighters, champions in their previous sports, and now they're at the top of the wrestling world. This isn't just about the title. It's about proving who is the absolute best."
Brock Lesnar's intensity did not wane as he continued his promo, now shifting his focus towards acknowledging Zlatan Ibrahimovic's remarkable but brief legacy in WWE. "Zlatan, you've racked up titles fast—Intercontinental, WWE Tag Team, and now the WWE Title," Brock admitted with a nod, his tone respectful yet undercut with a clear challenge. "Impressive, no doubt. But all of that... it means nothing at WrestleMania."
The crowd murmured, the tension between the two athletes palpable as each statement set the stage for their impending showdown. Lesnar leaned closer, his eyes locked on Zlatan's, recalling a moment that had added fuel to their competitive fire. "You said before SummerSlam last year, it doesn't matter if we collide after SummerSlam or at WrestleMania. You'd show me that in the jungle, a lion is the hunter, and I'm the prey."
A roar went up from the crowd, recalling Zlatan's bold words. Lesnar's face then twisted into a grin, one that spoke of confidence and a readiness to fight. "Well, Zlatan, I'm here to tell you something about prey," he paused for effect, the arena hanging on his every word. "When prey is wounded, it's at its most dangerous because that's when it fights back hardest."
Michael Cole jumped in, his voice filled with excitement, "This is what WrestleMania is made of! Two giants of the ring, each with something to prove, each with a claim to the WWE Title!"
Tazz added his perspective, echoing the sentiment of every wrestling fan watching. "This isn't just a match; it's a battle for survival, for dominance. Brock's right—when you corner a beast, whether it's a lion or not, it's going to fight back with everything it's got. WrestleMania is going to be explosive!"
The tension in the arena thickened as Brock Lesnar began to exit the ring, his point made, his challenge laid out. But Zlatan wasn't done yet. "Hold on, Brock," he called out, his voice cutting through the noise of the crowd and stopping Lesnar in his tracks. The Royal Rumble winner paused, his back still turned to Ibrahimovic, creating a moment of suspense that had the audience holding their breath.
As Brock turned slowly to face Zlatan again, the Swedish champion stood calm and poised in the center of the ring. Zlatan's gaze was firm, his posture commanding as he delivered his response, a mix of warning and advice, "I acknowledge what you're saying. So, I have a few pieces of advice of my own for you, Brock. One, stay healthy. And two, get ready, because at WrestleMania, the lion will be on the prowl, roaring loudest at the grandest stage of them all."
The crowd erupted at Zlatan's words, his confidence and promise resonating through the arena. The two superstars locked eyes, neither willing to look away first, their mutual respect and rivalry palpable. Each understood the gravity of what lay ahead; each was ready to fight not just for the title but for their legacy.
As the camera panned out, capturing the intensity of the moment, Michael Cole's voice rose above the din, "Ladies and gentlemen, if you thought WWE was exciting, just wait until WrestleMania. This is going to be one for the ages!"
The screen faded to black with both Lesnar and Ibrahimovic still staring each other down, their figures etched against the backdrop of the roaring crowd, setting the stage for a confrontation that would surely be remembered as one of the most epic in WWE history.
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As the camera cut away from the intense ring confrontation between Brock Lesnar and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, it found itself following Kurt Angle as he stormed down the backstage corridor. His face was a mask of frustration, clearly still reeling from the events of Royal Rumble. Flanking him were his protégés, Shelton Benjamin and Charlie Haas, both of whom shared their mentor's dour expression.
Michael Cole's voice followed the scene, capturing the tension, "And there is the former WWE Champion, flanked by his proteges, and he does not look pleased."
Tazz added his observation, pointing out the obvious strain on the trio, "Kurt Angle looks like he's about to pop a gasket right now."
As they continued their march through the backstage area, the camera crew kept pace, the scene shifting to a more intimate, yet equally intense setting away from the crowd's roar. Michael Cole elaborated on the backstory, providing viewers with context, "The Royal Rumble fiasco has festered for four days. Kurt Angle lost the WWE Championship to Zlatan Ibrahimovic, while Haas and Benjamin failed to stop Brock Lesnar from winning the Royal Rumble as both Haas and Benjamin were eliminated by Lesnar in the Royal Rumble match."
The frustration was palpable. Angle, usually so composed and strategic, now seemed on edge, his mind racing with the fallout of the recent events. Haas and Benjamin, too, looked eager to redeem themselves, their failures at the Rumble casting a long shadow over their usually impressive ring tactics.
As they walked, Angle was visibly gearing up for what seemed an imminent confrontation or declaration. The trio's dynamic hinted at a brewing storm, perhaps a plan to regain their standing or challenge the new narratives unfolding in the WWE landscape.
This backstage segment painted a clear picture of the ongoing rivalries and tensions, setting the stage for future conflicts and alliances. It was clear that the repercussions of the Royal Rumble were far-reaching, affecting more than just the title contenders, and promising more drama and action in the episodes to come.
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As "Team Angle" made their entrance, the atmosphere inside the Pepsi Arena was charged with anticipation. Kurt Angle, flanked by Shelton Benjamin and Charlie Haas, stepped into the ring, his expression stern and focused. The audience's reaction was mixed, with cheers for the athleticism and prowess of the trio, but also boos driven by the controversy at Royal Rumble.
Once in the ring, Kurt took the microphone, his voice cutting through the noise with sharp precision. "Puh-lease, for the last four days, everyone's been talking about Zlatan Ibrahimovic as this fast-rising superstar in WWE," he began, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "Your Olympic hero broke that mold when he debuted in WWE. I won practically every single title there is to win, and yet it's Zlatan getting all the accolades. Give me a break."
The crowd responded with a growing "Angle sucks!" chant, echoing around the Pepsi Arena. Shelton Benjamin and Charlie Haas looked visibly annoyed, stepping up as if to confront the crowd, their loyalty to their mentor unwavering.
Kurt paused, listening to the chants, letting them fill the arena before he continued. "The Royal Rumble was supposed to be my crowning achievement, yet that didn't happen. Zlatan screwed me," he declared, his voice rising over the crowd's "What?" chants that punctuated each sentence, a typical interaction but one that showed the crowd's engagement—even if antagonistic.
Undeterred, Kurt pressed on, his gaze hardening as he laid out his plans. "I'm invoking my rematch clause. I'd love to do it tonight, but I've got something better. I'm invoking my rematch clause at No Way Out—the final stop before WrestleMania."
The declaration brought a mixed reaction from the crowd, the "You suck!" chants growing louder. Kurt paused again, absorbing the hostility with a seasoned performer's grace. He smirked slightly, an athlete used to being in the heat of contention.
Michael Cole, from the commentary table, provided the context. "Kurt Angle isn't just a champion; he's a competitor through and through. Invoking his rematch clause at No Way Out, he's looking to reclaim not just the title but his pride."
Tazz chimed in, adding his insight. "Kurt's using every bit of his Olympic mentality here. He's planning, he's strategizing, and he's setting up for a huge showdown at No Way Out. This isn't just about the title; it's personal, and it's going to be explosive."
Kurt Angle, still seething, wasted no time in elaborating on his grievances. "I lost the WWE Title to Zlatan Ibrahimovic, but let's talk about how that went down," he began, his voice carrying a mix of frustration and defiance. "The match was a setup. Every time I had Zlatan on the ropes, there was some distraction, some interference. Whether it was the ref being out of position or unexpected interruptions, it seemed like the odds were stacked against me from the start."
As Kurt voiced his frustrations, the crowd began to chant "Spoon! Spoon! Spoon!" a mocking reminder of the embarrassing incident orchestrated by Zlatan Ibrahimovic, where Kurt accidentally wandered into the Divas' locker room and was chased out by spoon-wielding wrestlers. The incident, a prank by Zlatan, had become a sore spot for Kurt and a favorite chant among wrestling fans to tease the Olympic gold medalist.
Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin quickly came to their mentor's defense. Shelton grabbed a microphone, his tone sharp as he addressed the crowd. "Enough! Show some respect! You're talking about an Olympic gold medalist, a real champion!" His words did little to quell the crowd, their chants morphing into laughter and continued jibes.
Haas joined in, his voice rising over the din. "You all think it's funny? Kurt has dominated this sport like no one else. What happened at Royal Rumble was unfair, and we're not going to stand by and let you disrespect a legend of this industry!"
Kurt nodded in agreement with his proteges, trying to regain his composure as he continued. "At No Way Out, I'm going to right the wrongs. I will show Zlatan, and everyone else, why I am the true WWE Champion. No pranks, no games—just wrestling. And Zlatan will find out why they call me the Wrestling Machine."
Michael Cole and Tazz discussed the unfolding drama. "Kurt Angle's determination is unmatched, but these grievances have clearly gotten under his skin," Michael Cole observed, his voice reflecting the tension in the ring.
Tazz added, "Kurt's got a point about the distractions, and you know he's going to come into No Way Out more focused than ever. Zlatan has unleashed a side of Kurt we haven't seen in a while, and that could spell trouble."
The tension in the ring was palpable as Kurt Angle prepared to continue his impassioned promo, but the entrance theme of Stephanie McMahon, the SmackDown General Manager, suddenly filled the arena. The crowd erupted into cheers as Stephanie confidently made her way to the ring, microphone in hand, ready to address the unfolding drama.
As Stephanie entered the ring, her presence commanded immediate attention. She looked directly at Kurt Angle, who was visibly irritated by the interruption. "Kurt, you made a lot of points tonight," she began, her voice calm but firm. "But there are some errors in your story. One, Zlatan beat you fair and square, not once, but twice. Two, there was no interference, no distractions, and no partial officiating in the title match at Royal Rumble. So it's kinda moot."
The crowd cheered in agreement as Stephanie continued, cutting through Kurt's complaints with clear, undeniable facts. Kurt's face tightened, his frustration evident as Stephanie delivered each point.
"And there's this," she added, pausing for effect. "I would love to grant you a rematch as you are contractually obligated. But there's one tiny little problem. When you and Zlatan Ibrahimovic signed the contract for the WWE Title match at Royal Rumble, you were pretty confident that you were going to beat Zlatan and retain the WWE Championship. You overlooked the fact that there is no rematch clause in that contract."
The revelation hit like a bombshell, leaving Kurt stunned and his proteges, Shelton Benjamin and Charlie Haas, immediately protesting. "That's bogus!" they exclaimed, trying to rally support, but the crowd's reaction was overwhelmingly in favor of Stephanie's ruling.
Stephanie, however, was not finished. "But if you really want to be back in WWE title contention so badly, you're going to have to earn it. Tonight, you'll be in a battle royale. The winner of that battle royale will face Zlatan Ibrahimovic at No Way Out in Montreal for the WWE Championship."
As Stephanie exited the ring, leaving a stunned Team Angle to digest the news, the crowd buzzed with excitement at the prospect of the battle royale. Kurt, Shelton, and Charlie huddled, discussing strategy, their minds racing to adapt to the new challenge set forth by the GM.
Michael Cole and Tazz took over the commentary, highlighting the stakes. "Wow, what a twist! Kurt Angle thought he had a straight path back to the WWE Championship, but now he's got to fight his way there starting from scratch tonight," Michael Cole remarked.
Tazz added, "This is what makes WWE so unpredictable. Kurt's got to regroup fast. He's a competitor, and this battle royale is going to be one heck of a fight."
As the segment wrapped up, the scene was set for an explosive evening on SmackDown, with high stakes and higher tensions, promising thrilling confrontations and desperate bids for a shot at the WWE Championship at No Way Out.