EXCLUSIVE: Former WWE Referee Describes The Atmosphere Of Working Royal Rumble Matches

Since 1988, the Royal Rumble has been one of the most cliffhanging and anticipating pay-per-view views in WWE history. Each year, fans clamor over who is going to be the next entrant, with hopes that it could be a surprise.

Over the years, WWE has created many shocking moments, bringing back names such as Booker T, Mr. Perfect, Diesel, DDP, The Godfather, and many more.

Perhaps one of the most thunderous reactions of a surprise entrant was the 2013 Royal Rumble. Dolph Ziggler drew the #1 spot, and was cutting a promo. “And I don’t even care who number two is,” said Ziggler. “So just send him out already.”

All of a sudden, Chris Jericho’s music hits, and the place erupts. You can view the return below.

Shocking Returns - WWE Top 10

I had a chance to discuss the Royal Rumble with former WWE referee Marty Elias. In addition to his time in WWE, Elias has recently been both a referee in Lucha Underground, as well as the award-winning GLOW series.

Elias was the referee of another surprising return, when John Cena was entrant #30 in the 2008 Royal Rumble, only taking three months out of his six- to 12-month timeline of recovery.

In addition to this Royal Rumble, Elias was also a referee at the 2007 and 2009 Royal Rumble.

“My first Royal Rumble was in San Antonio, Texas in 2007,” said Elias. It was a very cool experience for me professionally and personally. My daughter Shandi loves the Royal Rumble as it is her favorite WWE PPV. I was fortunate and blessed to bring her to the show and she was able to see me work the Royal Rumble in person and ringside. To say I was nervous is an understatement!”

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Elias also recalls being the referee of the Women’s Championship title change in 2009, and how that would become one of many moments that would send Beth Phoenix to the WWE Hall of Fame.

“The 2009 Royal Rumble in Detroit I worked the Beth Phoenix vs Melina for the WWE Women’s title,” Elias said. “A title change happened that night and I was the referee.”

If any of these quotes are used, be sure to H/T Chris Featherstone via Wrestling Rumors.