WrestleMania I Report

Date: March 31, 1985
Broadcasted on: PPV, Select Closed Circuits, such as NBC
Location: Madison Square Garden, New York City, NY
Attendance: 19,121
Commentators: Gorilla Monsoon and Jesse Ventura
Theme Music: "Easy Lover" - Phil Collins

Introduction

WrestleMania I marked a historic moment in professional wrestling, showcasing the WWF’s ability to draw mainstream attention and set the stage for future events. Held in the iconic Madison Square Garden, the event combined wrestling with celebrity appearances and entertainment, making it a landmark occasion in sports history.

Match Results

1. Tito Santana vs. The Executioner

Result: Tito Santana def. The Executioner by submission with an Armbar
Santana opened the event with a display of technical prowess, quickly dominating The Executioner and securing a swift victory to energize the crowd.

2. King Kong Bundy vs. SD Jones

Result: King Kong Bundy def. SD Jones by pinfall in 4 minutes with a Body Splash
Bundy showcased his immense size and power, finishing Jones in a matter of minutes, emphasizing his status as a formidable force in the WWF.

3. WWF International Heavyweight #1 Contendership Match: Ricky Steamboat vs. Jake "The Snake" Roberts

Result: Ricky Steamboat def. Jake "The Snake" Roberts by pinfall with an elbow drop
In a highly competitive match, Steamboat utilized his agility and quickness to outmaneuver Roberts, ultimately securing a shot at the title with a decisive elbow drop.

4. WWF World Tag Team Championships: The US Express vs. The Iron Sheik and Nikolai Volkoff

Result: The US Express (Barry Windham and Mike Rotunda) def. The Iron Sheik and Nikolai Volkoff by DQ, following interference from Freddie Blassie
This match featured intense action but ended controversially as Blassie's interference led to a disqualification, allowing the US Express to retain their titles.

5. WWF Intercontinental Championship: The Junkyard Dog vs. Greg "The Hammer" Valentine

Result: The Junkyard Dog def. Greg "The Hammer" Valentine (c) by pinfall with a Powerbomb
The Junkyard Dog delivered a thrilling performance, culminating in a powerful Powerbomb that crowned him the new Intercontinental Champion amidst wild cheers.

6. Andre's Career Vs $15,000 Body Slam Challenge: Andre The Giant vs. Big John Studd

Result: Andre The Giant def. Big John Studd by bodyslamming Studd
In a climactic showdown, Andre demonstrated his legendary strength by bodyslamming Studd, securing not only his career but also the $15,000 prize.

7. WWF Women's World Championship: Lioness Asuka vs. Leilani Kai

Result: Lioness Asuka def. Leilani Kai (c) by pinfall following a botched distraction by Fabulous Moolah
Asuka capitalized on a miscue during the match, taking the championship in a dramatic fashion that showcased her resilience and skill.

8. Special Tag Team Match: Hulk Hogan and Mr. T vs. "Rowdy" Roddy Piper and "Mr. Wonderful" Paul Orndorff

Result: Hulk Hogan and Mr. T def. "Rowdy" Roddy Piper and "Mr. Wonderful" Paul Orndorff by pinfall with a Legdrop to Piper. (Special Guest Referee: "The Greatest" Muhammad Ali)
In the main event, the star-studded matchup delivered high drama and excitement. With Muhammad Ali officiating, Hogan and Mr. T emerged victorious after Hogan landed his signature Legdrop on Piper, closing the show with a rousing celebration.