7 Best Royal Rumble Matches in WWE history

#2 WWE Royal Rumble 2001

Kane had the performance of a lifetime at Royal Rumble 2001.

The two greatest Royal Rumble Matches in WWE history could be interchanged depending on one's taste, with the 2001 edition of the 30-man free-for-all being one of the most stacked Rumbles ever. It was that way in both, story and star power. There were five potential winners for this match.

The Rock, 'Stone' Cold Steve Austin, The Undertaker, Rikishi, and Kane all could have won the 2001 Royal Rumble. The latter came exceptionally close, following a legendary performance. Kane lasted over 50 minutes and eliminated a then-record 11 men from the match. He was also a part of most of its integral plot points.

The Big Red Machine had different comedic confrontations with The Honky Tonk Man and the comedian, Drew Carey. Between them was the hardcore portion of the Royal Rumble, which saw the likes of Raven and Steve Blackman, among others, bring weapons to the match.

Kane also cleaned the house alongside Undertaker, before Steve Austin arrived. The Rattlesnake was attacked by Triple H before even joining the match but valiantly made his way to the ring. He then had an intense confrontation with The Rock - a preview of their classic main event two months later, at WrestleMania 17.

It came down to Austin and Kane, with the Texas Rattlesnake blasting the Monster with three chair shots before sending him over to win his third Royal Rumble Match. This match was filled with memorable moments and was never dull, much like the peak of the Attitude Era.