WWE Fastlane 2021: The Explosive Opening You Can't Miss!

Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive straight into the adrenaline-pumping opening of WWE Fastlane 2021. This event was a rollercoaster, and the initial moments set the stage for an unforgettable night. We’re talking intense rivalries, high-stakes matches, and the kind of energy that only WWE can deliver. Fastlane 2021 served as the final stop on the road to WrestleMania 37, adding extra pressure and significance to every single match. The opening, in particular, was designed to grab your attention and leave you on the edge of your seat, ready for the action to unfold.

Setting the Stage: The Atmosphere of Fastlane 2021

Before we dissect the specifics of the opening match, let's paint a picture of the overall atmosphere. Fastlane 2021 took place inside the WWE ThunderDome, meaning that while the arena itself was empty of a live crowd, the virtual fans added a unique and engaging element. This setup had become the norm during the pandemic era, and WWE had refined the ThunderDome experience to create as much of a real-crowd feel as possible. The visual spectacle of the ThunderDome, combined with WWE's top-notch production quality, ensured that Fastlane 2021 felt like a major event, even without the roaring cheers of a physical audience.

The anticipation was palpable. WrestleMania was just around the corner, and Fastlane represented the last chance for superstars to build momentum, settle scores, or even earn a coveted spot on the WrestleMania card. Every storyline felt like it was reaching a boiling point, and the opening segment needed to capture that tension and excitement. From the entrance music to the lighting and the commentary, everything was meticulously crafted to draw viewers in and make them feel the gravity of the situation. Think of it as the calm before the storm, a moment to set the scene before the chaos and drama of the night truly erupted. The superstars knew what was at stake, and you could feel it in their every move and expression.

The Opening Match: A Deep Dive

The opening match of WWE Fastlane 2021 featured Nia Jax and Shayna Baszler defending their WWE Women's Tag Team Championship against the formidable duo of Sasha Banks and Bianca Belair. This clash was more than just a title defense; it was a collision of intertwined storylines and personal vendettas. Sasha Banks, the SmackDown Women's Champion, and Bianca Belair, the Royal Rumble winner, were on a collision course for WrestleMania, where they were scheduled to face each other for the championship. However, before they could get there, they had to overcome the challenge of Jax and Baszler, who were determined to prove their dominance in the women's tag team division.

The match itself was a masterclass in tag team wrestling. Jax and Baszler used their size and power advantage to try and dominate Banks and Belair, employing frequent tags and isolating their opponents to wear them down. Banks and Belair, on the other hand, relied on their speed, agility, and technical prowess to counter the champions' attacks. The chemistry between Banks and Belair was evident, as they executed seamless tag team maneuvers and worked together to create openings. However, tensions were simmering beneath the surface, as the looming WrestleMania match between them added an extra layer of complexity to their partnership. Would they be able to coexist long enough to win the titles, or would their rivalry ultimately be their undoing?

The match was filled with near falls, close calls, and dramatic moments. Shayna Baszler's submission expertise was on full display as she targeted the limbs of both Banks and Belair, while Nia Jax used her strength to deliver devastating powerbombs and slams. Banks and Belair refused to back down, showcasing their resilience and determination. The crowd (or rather, the ThunderDome audience) was on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating every twist and turn. The commentators did an excellent job of highlighting the stakes involved and adding to the drama. It was clear that this match was not just about the tag team titles; it was about momentum, pride, and the psychological battle leading into WrestleMania.

Key Moments and Turning Points

Several key moments in the opening match of WWE Fastlane 2021 significantly impacted the outcome and the overall narrative. One crucial point occurred when Sasha Banks accidentally struck Bianca Belair outside the ring. This miscommunication created a rift between the two WrestleMania opponents and allowed Jax and Baszler to capitalize. The tension between Banks and Belair was palpable, and it was clear that their focus was divided. This momentary lapse in teamwork proved costly, as it gave Jax and Baszler the opening they needed to regain control of the match.

Another pivotal moment came when Reginald, who was aligned with Sasha Banks at the time, attempted to interfere in the match. His interference backfired, however, as it distracted Banks and allowed Shayna Baszler to lock in the Kirifuda Clutch. Banks fought valiantly to escape the hold, but Baszler's grip was too strong. Ultimately, Banks was forced to tap out, securing the victory for Jax and Baszler. This outcome not only allowed Jax and Baszler to retain their titles but also further strained the relationship between Banks and Belair heading into WrestleMania.

The finish was clean and decisive, leaving no doubt about who the winners were. The champions celebrated their victory, while Banks and Belair were left to lick their wounds and contemplate what went wrong. The commentators emphasized the significance of the win for Jax and Baszler, who had successfully defended their titles against two of the top female superstars in WWE. They also highlighted the growing animosity between Banks and Belair, suggesting that their WrestleMania match would be even more intense than anticipated.

Impact on WrestleMania 37

The opening match of WWE Fastlane 2021 had a profound impact on the WrestleMania 37 storyline between Sasha Banks and Bianca Belair. The loss to Jax and Baszler, coupled with the accidental strike by Banks on Belair, created a deep sense of mistrust and resentment between the two women. This animosity added fuel to their rivalry and made their WrestleMania match even more personal. It was no longer just about the SmackDown Women's Championship; it was about pride, respect, and settling the score.

Throughout the build-up to WrestleMania, Banks and Belair continued to trade barbs and engage in physical altercations. The tension between them was palpable, and it was clear that they were both determined to emerge victorious. The events of Fastlane served as a constant reminder of their fractured partnership and the stakes involved. The WWE did a masterful job of weaving the Fastlane outcome into the WrestleMania narrative, creating a compelling and emotionally charged storyline.

The WrestleMania match between Banks and Belair was one of the most highly anticipated bouts on the card. The two women delivered a spectacular performance, showcasing their athleticism, skill, and storytelling ability. In the end, Belair defeated Banks to win the SmackDown Women's Championship, marking a significant milestone in her career. The victory was made even sweeter by the fact that she had overcome the adversity and challenges that had arisen in the weeks leading up to WrestleMania, including the setback at Fastlane.

Final Thoughts

The opening match of WWE Fastlane 2021 was a significant moment that set the tone for the entire event and had lasting implications for WrestleMania 37. The clash between Jax and Baszler and Banks and Belair was a compelling mix of tag team wrestling, personal rivalry, and storyline progression. The key moments and turning points in the match added drama and intrigue, while the outcome further fueled the animosity between Banks and Belair. As a result, it was a great opening overall, and helped advance the women's division storylines significantly.

In conclusion, WWE Fastlane 2021's opening was more than just a match; it was a crucial chapter in the larger narrative leading to WrestleMania. It showcased the talent and athleticism of the women's division, while also adding depth and complexity to the storylines. If you're a fan of WWE, it's worth revisiting this match to appreciate its significance and impact. So, what did you guys think of the Fastlane 2021 opening? Let me know in the comments below! I'm eager to read your reactions and insights.