#5. WWE Likely Regrets Booking Alberto Del Rio to Win the 40-Man 2011 Royal Rumble
In 2011, Vince McMahon made the intriguing creative decision of booking a 40-man Men’s Royal Rumble, adding 10 extra competitors to the field. At the time, it was the biggest Rumble of all time, before WWE booked the 50-man Greatest Royal Rumble Ever in April 2018.
Nonetheless, the match had several bright spots. The New Nexus’ dominance, led by CM Punk, was a smart way to elevate the energy level. Booker T and Kevin Nash, as Diesel, were amazing surprise returns. John Morrison’s Spiderman-like athleticism saved him from a potential Rumble. The field was also pretty stacked with top names like John Cena, Randy Orton, Kane, and Big Show in the mix.
However, fans were divided on WWE’s decision to book Alberto Del Rio as the winner. Del Rio was still new to the roster and was only a few months into his run. Such a massive push carried the risk of overexposure. Furthermore, the company had better options at its disposal, especially with fans calling for Punk to have a World Title run.
15 years later, and there is barely any mention of Del Rio on WWE TV. The Mexican Aristocrat has not wrestled in the Stamford-based promotion since 2016. Furthermore, a string of controversies has damaged the former World Champion’s reputation. Hence, WWE likely does not look back upon Del Rio’s Rumble win with pride.
