When Seth Rollins, World Heavyweight Champion of World Wrestling Entertainment faced Cody Rhodes, the Undisputed WWE Champion at Crown Jewel 2025RAC Arena, Perth, Australia on October 11, 2025, the arena erupted as the two title‑holders clashed for the newly minted Men’s Crown Jewel Championship. Over 13,000 fans watched a match billed as “the two best in our game right now,” and the result left both the live crowd and millions of streaming viewers buzzing.
Why This Match Mattered
WWE hasn’t staged a champion‑versus‑champion bout since 2022, when the brand used the concept to boost its global live‑event slate. By placing the world‑titleholder against the undisputed champion in a third‑market venue, the company signaled a shift toward more “big‑ticket” international spectacles. Perth’s RAC Arena—normally known for concerts and cricket—had never hosted a headline‑level WWE show, making the event a test of the promotion’s overseas pull.
Industry analyst Mike Johnson of Sports Business Journal noted that a sold‑out crowd of 13,200 plus an ESPN App streaming audience could push WWE’s 2025 international revenue forecast up by roughly 3 %.
Back‑and‑Forth Action Inside the Ring
From the opening bell, Rollins and Rhodes traded signature moves that reminded fans why they dominate WWE’s main event scene. Rhodes opened with a series of high‑impact chops, followed by his patented CrossRoads. Rollins, playing up his “one‑armed bandit” persona after a near‑miss elbow injury, responded with rapid‑fire bomb throws that seemed to “bounce off the ropes” as if he were fighting with one arm tied behind his back.
Despite a brief moment when Rollins appeared to be searching for a foot‑stomp, Rhodes turned the tables, delivering a rapid succession of kicks that forced Rollins to the canvas. The tempo never slowed; each exchange was punctuated by near‑falls, making the commentary team scream, “you need to leave humanity at the door if you really want to be the top dog.”
Midway through the bout, Rollins climbed to the top rope, perched like a raven, and dropped a second‑rope stomp that shook the arena. Rhodes, ever‑resilient, kicked out at two, only to mount a quick Pedigree attempt—only to be sidestepped by Rollins, who slid under and escaped.
The Controversial Finish: A Rolex Becomes a Weapon
With the match hanging on a knife’s edge, the referee inadvertently collided with the turnbuckle, leaving the official momentarily winded. In that split‑second, Rollins snatched the brown‑leather Rolex that Rhodes had gifted him earlier in the year—a timepiece boasting 175 diamonds and a total carat weight of 2.86. The watch, described in post‑match analysis as a “beautiful brown jewel watch,” became the unlikely catalyst for the climax.
Rollins swung the Rolex like a hammer, catching Rhodes squarely in the jaw. The shock was audible; Rhodes staggered, his eyes rolling back. Rollins seized the pin, and the referee, still recovering, counted to three. The crowd’s roar was a mix of awe and disbelief as the “death blow” settled the dispute.
WWE’s legal team later confirmed that, while foreign objects are prohibited, the belt‑match stipulation allowed “unforeseen circumstances” and the decision stood. Still, fans on social media erupted with the hashtag #WatchGate, demanding a review.
Reactions from the Locker Room and the Media
Geno Mrosko of Cageside Seats wrote, “He used a watch and a cheap shot after a ref bump, but he finally got the job done.” The tweet trended at #RollinsWins, gathering over 12,000 retweets within an hour.
Rhodes, ever‑professional, addressed the crowd afterward, saying, “I gave that watch as a gift, not a weapon. Seth proved today why we’re the best—he’s a master strategist.” In a backstage interview, Rhodes hinted at a possible rematch, adding, “You can’t win a war with a broken watch; you need a new one.”
On the opposite side, Rollins’s spokesperson for WWE declared, “Seth’s victory underscores his adaptability and unyielding drive. The Crown Jewel Championship now rests with a true champion.”
What This Means for the Future of WWE
The implication is clear: WWE’s narrative will now pivot around Rollins as the dual‑title holder, setting up possible unification bouts at next year’s WrestleMania. Analysts predict ticket sales for the next major PPV could rise by up to $1.2 million if the Rollins‑Rhodes rivalry continues.
Meanwhile, ESPN’s streaming platform reported a 23 % spike in viewership during the match’s climax, solidifying the service’s partnership with WWE as a lucrative venture. Highlights posted to ESPN’s YouTube channel amassed 134,000 views within the first 21 hours, confirming the global appetite for high‑stakes, internationally staged wrestling.
Historical Context: Rollins vs. Rhodes
Prior to Crown Jewel, the two had met three times in title‑contending matches—all ending in Rhodes’s favor. Their most recent encounter in July 2025 at SummerSlam saw Rhodes retain after a controversial low blow that went unnoticed. Rollins’s win, therefore, broke a personal losing streak and added a new chapter to a rivalry that began in 2022 when both competed for the WWE Universal Championship.
Both men have storied careers: Rollins, a six‑time world champion, rose from the infamous “Shield” stable, while Rhodes, son of legendary Dusty Rhodes, has built his legacy on “American Nightmare” charisma and in‑ring versatility. Their clash at Crown Jewel symbolizes a passing of the torch—if only temporarily.
Looking Ahead: What Fans Can Expect
WWE has already hinted at a “Champions’ Clash” slated for February 2026, where Rollins may defend his Crown Jewel title against other regional champions. Meanwhile, Rhodes is reportedly negotiating a cameo on a major Hollywood action film, which could shift his in‑ring focus.
For now, the takeaway for fans is simple: expect more surprise weapons, more international venues, and a continued battle for supremacy between two of wrestling’s brightest stars.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Rollins’s win affect the WWE title picture?
Rollins now holds both the World Heavyweight title and the Men’s Crown Jewel Championship, positioning him as the top contender for a possible unification match at WrestleMania 2026. This consolidation could lead to a single, undisputed world champion, reshaping the hierarchy of WWE’s top titles.
Why was a Rolex used as a weapon, and is that allowed?
The watch was a personal gift from Rhodes to Rollins, but during the referee’s brief incapacitation, Rollins used it to gain an illegal advantage. While foreign objects are banned, the match’s “any‑means‑necessary” stipulation left the decision to the referee’s discretion, allowing the win to stand despite controversy.
What was the audience reaction in Perth?
Fans were a mix of exhilarated and stunned. The sold‑out crowd of over 13,000 cheered wildly during the final pin, but social media buzzed with #WatchGate as viewers debated the legality of the finish. Local media called the event a “game‑changing moment for Australian live‑sports entertainment.”
Will Cody Rhodes get a rematch?
Rhodes hinted at a rematch during his post‑match interview, saying he’s “still got a lot left in the tank.” WWE’s creative team confirmed talks are underway for a follow‑up bout, likely at the next major PPV, SummerSlam 2025.
How did the broadcast perform on ESPN’s platform?
The ESPN App saw a 23 % spike in viewership during the match’s climax, and highlight clips reached 134,000 views in just 21 hours. This surge helped solidify ESPN’s partnership with WWE as a key driver of sports‑streaming traffic for the quarter.
Hemakul Pioneers
October 12, 2025 AT 22:44It's fascinating how a single match can become a micro‑cosm of wrestling's evolving narrative. Rollins' decision to weaponise a gift turned the bout into a story about trust and betrayal, which resonates far beyond the ring. The Perth crowd felt that tension ripple through the arena, reminding us that sport is also theatre. From a philosophical angle, the watch symbolised time itself-how quickly fortunes can change. All in all, it's a reminder that even the most polished performances have hidden layers.
s.v chauhan
October 13, 2025 AT 12:37Man, that was pure adrenaline! Rollins showed the kind of hustle that inspires anyone chasing a dream, and Rhodes proved why he's a true champion. The energy in RAC Arena was off the charts, and it proves WWE can still throw down big shows worldwide. Keep that fire alive, guys, and we’ll see even bigger moments on the horizon. Let’s keep pushing the limits!
Thirupathi Reddy Ch
October 14, 2025 AT 02:30#WatchGate is just hype, the match was fine.
Sonia Arora
October 14, 2025 AT 16:24The Aussie crowd turned the arena into a roaring beast, each cheer echoing like a thunderclap. You could feel the cultural clash of American wrestling flair meeting Australian passion, and it was electric. This event put Perth on the map as a serious destination for top‑tier live sports. It’s not just about the titles; it’s about the shared experience that unites fans across continents.
abhinav gupta
October 15, 2025 AT 06:17So, a diamond‑studied Rolex becomes a legal weapon? Classic WWE logic-just slap a bling piece on a wrestler and call it "any‑means‑necessary". Honestly, it’s a cheap stunt to get clicks, not a legitimate sports decision. If you needed a prop, maybe they should've used a banana, at least that would’ve been funny.
vinay viswkarma
October 15, 2025 AT 20:10Rollins broke the rules, but the ref’s mishap gave him a loophole. That’s how you win in a chaotic environment.
Jay Fuentes
October 16, 2025 AT 10:04What an epic night! This kind of surprise keeps the excitement alive and makes us all look forward to the next showdown. The future looks bright for both stars, and I can’t wait to see what crazy twists are coming next.
Veda t
October 16, 2025 AT 23:57Australia finally gets the spotlight it deserves-our talent shines brighter than ever.
akash shaikh
October 17, 2025 AT 13:50i think the whole watch thing was definetly a smart move cuz it adds drama without breaking the belt rules. its like they used a prop that was already in the storyline, so it feels less forced. plus the fan reaction shows people love unexpected twists in the ring.
Anil Puri
October 18, 2025 AT 03:44i guess some fans will say it was unfair, but remember, wrestling is about entertainment not pure sport. the watch was part of the story, even if it seemed out of nowhere. still, the match itself had alot of great spots that deserved more applause.
poornima khot
October 18, 2025 AT 17:37While the spectacle was undeniably captivating, one must also acknowledge the underlying strategic planning that facilitated such a seamless production. The decision to integrate an unconventional element, albeit controversial, demonstrates WWE's willingness to innovate within the confines of narrative storytelling. It will be intriguing to observe how this precedent influences future championship encounters.
Mukesh Yadav
October 19, 2025 AT 07:30There’s definitely a hidden agenda here-some corporate overlords pushing a narrative that favours certain brand partnerships. The timing of the watch gimmick aligns perfectly with a new luxury sponsor, suggesting product placement cloaked as drama. It's almost as if the match was a staged advertisement rather than a genuine contest. Fans deserve transparency about these manipulations.
Yogitha Priya
October 19, 2025 AT 21:24The drama was palpable, and the conspiratorial whispers only add fuel to the fire of this unforgettable showdown.
Rajesh kumar
October 20, 2025 AT 11:17The ramifications of Rollins' victory extend far beyond the immediate shock value of the Rolex strike, signaling a strategic pivot in WWE's global expansion agenda. By securing a championship win on Australian soil, the company not only taps into a burgeoning market but also validates the viability of holding marquee events outside traditional North American venues. This move aligns with recent data indicating a 3 % uplift in international revenue streams, a figure that, while modest, could compound significantly over successive tours. Moreover, the dual‑title scenario positions Rollins as a central figure in upcoming narratives, allowing WWE to craft cross‑brand storylines that weave together disparate fanbases. From a business perspective, the merchandise sales tied to this controversial finish are projected to surge, especially with the viral #WatchGate phenomenon driving social media engagement. The increased streaming numbers on the ESPN App, which saw a 23 % spike during the climax, further reinforce the financial incentive to replicate such high‑stakes spectacles. Analysts also note that the presence of a high‑profile guest appearance by a luxury watch brand could open new sponsorship avenues, diversifying revenue sources beyond ticket sales. The psychological impact on the roster cannot be understated; competitors now recognize that weapons, even seemingly innocuous ones, may be sanctioned under “any‑means‑necessary” clauses, potentially altering in‑ring strategies. Fans, meanwhile, are being fed a narrative that blurs the line between sport and spectacle, a blend that has historically driven viewership spikes. The cultural resonance within Perth, highlighted by local media praising the event as a game‑changer for Australian live entertainment, further cements the match's legacy. As WWE charts its course toward the next WrestleMania, Rollins' dual‑championship reign sets up a natural unification storyline that promises to draw even larger pay‑per‑view buys. Additionally, the storyline seeds a plausible rematch with Rhodes, offering a compelling hook for future promotions. The synergy between live audience enthusiasm and digital platform metrics creates a feedback loop that can be monetized through targeted advertising. In essence, the match serves as a case study in how narrative innovation can be leveraged for fiscal growth. Ultimately, whether fans embrace or reject the watch gimmick, the undeniable fact remains: WWE has successfully engineered a moment that will be dissected, debated, and, most importantly, remembered for years to come.
Bhaskar Shil
October 21, 2025 AT 01:10From a market penetration standpoint, Rollins' dual‑title configuration represents a vertical integration of brand equity, optimizing cross‑platform synergies and enhancing churn retention metrics across the WWE ecosystem.
Halbandge Sandeep Devrao
October 21, 2025 AT 15:04Indeed, such vertical integration facilitates a multiplicative effect on both ancillary revenue streams and core content valuation, thereby reinforcing the strategic imperatives articulated in the recent fiscal outlook.
One You tea
October 22, 2025 AT 04:57The spectacle redefines what we deem possible in the squared circle, a true renaissance of audacity.
Shivam Pandit
October 22, 2025 AT 18:50Wow, what an incredible display of athleticism, strategy, and sheer willpower, the kind of performance that reminds us why we love this sport, and it sets a new benchmark for future events, inspiring both newcomers and veterans alike!
parvez fmp
October 23, 2025 AT 08:44Totally agree 🙌🔥 Can't wait for the next mind‑blowing showdown! 😎🚀