Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez: A Look Back at the Crown Jewel 2019 Showdown

Nov 2, 2025 by pinkandtrash.com 126 views

Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez: A Look Back at the Crown Jewel 2019 Showdown

The Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez match at Crown Jewel 2019 was a spectacle fueled by years of anticipation and a storied history in the world of mixed martial arts. These two behemoths, both former UFC Heavyweight Champions, brought their unparalleled intensity and legitimate fighting credentials to the WWE ring. The event, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on October 31, 2019, was instantly etched into the annals of professional wrestling history, not just for the star power involved, but also for the controversial nature of its outcome. The buildup to this clash was intense, capitalizing on their pre-existing rivalry and the undeniable aura of legitimacy surrounding both competitors. WWE masterfully used their history to paint a picture of vengeance and unfinished business, compelling fans worldwide to tune in and witness the confrontation. The short, brutal nature of the match, however, left many divided, sparking debates and discussions that continue to this day. This article revisits the Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez encounter at Crown Jewel 2019, dissecting the buildup, the match itself, and the fallout, while exploring the perspectives of fans and analysts alike. Understanding the context surrounding this match is crucial to appreciating its impact, regardless of one’s opinion on its execution. Both Lesnar and Velasquez arrived in WWE with established reputations. Lesnar, a proven crossover star, had already enjoyed a successful career in both wrestling and MMA. Velasquez, on the other hand, was making his transition from the octagon to the squared circle, carrying the weight of expectation from the MMA community. WWE capitalized on this difference in experience, portraying Lesnar as the seasoned veteran in the wrestling world, while Velasquez was presented as the dangerous newcomer with a score to settle. The stage was set for a collision of titans, promising a war that blended the theatrics of professional wrestling with the brutal realism of mixed martial arts. The hype surrounding the match reached fever pitch in the weeks leading up to Crown Jewel, ensuring a global audience was captivated by this unique spectacle. Ultimately, the Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez encounter at Crown Jewel 2019 was more than just a wrestling match; it was a clash of worlds, a battle of legacies, and a testament to the drawing power of genuine athletic competition.

The Backstory: UFC Domination and Unfinished Business

Before their paths crossed in WWE, both Brock Lesnar and Cain Velasquez had already cemented their legacies in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Their shared history, particularly their UFC 121 encounter in 2010, served as the bedrock for their WWE storyline. In that fateful MMA fight, Velasquez decisively defeated Lesnar to claim the UFC Heavyweight Championship. This loss remained a significant blemish on Lesnar’s combat sports record, adding a layer of personal animosity to their eventual WWE rivalry. The promotional material leading up to Crown Jewel heavily emphasized this history, reminding fans of Velasquez’s previous victory and positioning their WWE clash as an opportunity for Lesnar to exact revenge. This established narrative resonated strongly with both wrestling and MMA fans, drawing them into the story and heightening the anticipation for their rematch. WWE masterfully utilized video packages showcasing highlights from their UFC fight, emphasizing Velasquez’s dominant performance and Lesnar’s subsequent decline. These packages served to paint Velasquez as the natural predator, while portraying Lesnar as haunted by his past defeat. Furthermore, the inclusion of Rey Mysterio added another dimension to the storyline. Mysterio, a close friend of Velasquez, sought retribution against Lesnar for a brutal attack on his son, Dominik. This personal connection further amplified the emotional stakes of the match, providing Velasquez with an additional motivation to defeat Lesnar. The intricate weaving of personal vendettas and pre-existing rivalries created a compelling narrative that transcended the typical wrestling storyline. Fans weren’t just witnessing a battle between two athletes; they were witnessing a confrontation fueled by years of resentment and a burning desire for redemption. The UFC connection also lent a sense of authenticity to the feud, differentiating it from other staged rivalries within WWE. The history between Brock Lesnar and Cain Velasquez provided a rich tapestry of narratives that WWE skillfully exploited to generate significant interest in their Crown Jewel encounter. This historical context served as the foundation upon which their WWE feud was built, transforming a simple wrestling match into a compelling clash of legacies and a battle for personal vindication. The weight of their UFC past hung heavy over their WWE rivalry, shaping the narrative and fueling the intense anticipation leading up to their showdown in Saudi Arabia.

Crown Jewel 2019: The Match and its Controversial Conclusion

The Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez match at Crown Jewel 2019, while highly anticipated, proved to be surprisingly short and, to many, underwhelming. The match began with Velasquez immediately taking the offensive, landing several strikes and showcasing his MMA prowess. However, Lesnar quickly turned the tide, taking Velasquez down and applying a Kimura Lock, a submission hold that targets the shoulder joint. Velasquez, visibly in pain, quickly tapped out, signaling the end of the match in a mere matter of minutes. The swiftness of the victory shocked many viewers, who expected a more prolonged and competitive encounter. The abrupt ending left a sense of dissatisfaction among some fans, who felt cheated out of a more substantial match between two such high-profile competitors. Critics argued that the brevity of the match undermined the months of build-up and failed to capitalize on the established rivalry between Lesnar and Velasquez. Some speculated that Velasquez may have been dealing with an existing injury that limited his ability to compete. Others suggested that the short match was a deliberate attempt to protect both wrestlers, avoiding a prolonged and potentially damaging physical encounter. Whatever the reason, the brevity of the match became a major point of contention, overshadowing the athletic abilities of both performers. The outcome also raised questions about Velasquez’s future in WWE. His quick loss to Lesnar cast doubt on his credibility as a top-tier competitor in the professional wrestling world. Some argued that the loss damaged his reputation and diminished his drawing power. However, others maintained that Velasquez still possessed the potential to become a major star in WWE, provided he was given the opportunity to showcase his skills in longer and more competitive matches. Despite the controversial conclusion, the Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez match at Crown Jewel 2019 remains a memorable event, if only for its unexpected and divisive outcome. The brevity of the match served as a stark contrast to the extensive build-up, leaving fans with a mixture of excitement and disappointment. The quick finish sparked debate and discussion within the wrestling community, highlighting the subjective nature of fan expectations and the challenges of delivering a satisfying conclusion to a highly anticipated rivalry. While the match itself may not have lived up to the hype, it undoubtedly left a lasting impression on the WWE landscape.

The Aftermath and Lasting Impact

The immediate aftermath of the Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez match at Crown Jewel 2019 saw Brock Lesnar continue his reign of dominance in WWE, eventually moving on to other high-profile feuds. Cain Velasquez, on the other hand, faced an uncertain future in the company. Despite the initial hype surrounding his arrival, his quick loss to Lesnar significantly diminished his momentum. He participated in a few subsequent matches but ultimately was released from his WWE contract in April 2020. His time in WWE was short-lived and largely unsuccessful, failing to live up to the expectations set by his impressive MMA career. The reasons for Velasquez’s departure from WWE are varied. Some sources suggest that he was dealing with lingering injuries that hindered his ability to perform consistently. Others indicate that he and WWE were unable to reach an agreement on his creative direction, leading to his eventual release. Regardless of the specific reasons, his departure marked the end of a brief but intriguing chapter in WWE history. The Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez match at Crown Jewel 2019, despite its controversial nature, had a lasting impact on WWE. It demonstrated the company’s willingness to incorporate elements of MMA into its programming, attracting a wider audience and blurring the lines between the two sports. The match also highlighted the star power of both Lesnar and Velasquez, showcasing their ability to generate significant interest and excitement. However, it also served as a cautionary tale about the challenges of transitioning athletes from MMA to professional wrestling. Velasquez’s unsuccessful run in WWE demonstrated that success in the octagon does not automatically translate to success in the squared circle. The two sports require different skill sets and a different approach to performance. While the Lesnar vs. Velasquez feud may not have achieved its full potential, it remains a significant event in WWE history, reminding fans of the unique blend of sports and entertainment that defines the company’s appeal. The match served as a reminder of the drawing power of established rivalries and the enduring fascination with the clash of different fighting styles. While the outcome may have been divisive, the Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez encounter at Crown Jewel 2019 undoubtedly left its mark on the WWE landscape.

Fan Reactions and Critical Reception

The Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez match at Crown Jewel 2019 elicited a wide range of reactions from fans and critics alike. The brevity of the match was a major point of contention, with many viewers expressing disappointment at the quick finish. Some fans felt cheated out of a more competitive and engaging encounter, while others criticized WWE for not capitalizing on the established rivalry between Lesnar and Velasquez. The abrupt ending led to accusations of false advertising, with some fans claiming that the match was promoted as a major attraction but ultimately failed to deliver on its promise. Conversely, some fans defended the match, arguing that the quick finish was a realistic portrayal of an MMA fight. They pointed out that Velasquez had previously defeated Lesnar in a similar fashion in the UFC and that the short match was a logical extension of their history. Others suggested that the match was designed to protect both wrestlers from injury, given their age and physical condition. Critical reception to the match was equally divided. Some wrestling journalists praised WWE for incorporating elements of MMA into its programming and for showcasing the star power of Lesnar and Velasquez. However, others criticized the company for not fully utilizing Velasquez’s potential and for failing to create a more compelling storyline. The match was also criticized for its lack of drama and suspense, with some critics arguing that the outcome was predictable and uninspired. The overall sentiment towards the Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez match at Crown Jewel 2019 was one of mixed emotions. While the match generated significant buzz and attracted a large audience, it ultimately failed to satisfy many viewers. The brevity of the match and the controversial outcome left a lasting impression on fans and critics alike, highlighting the challenges of delivering a satisfying conclusion to a highly anticipated rivalry. The diverse range of reactions underscores the subjective nature of professional wrestling and the difficulty of pleasing all segments of the audience. Ultimately, the Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez encounter at Crown Jewel 2019 remains a memorable event, if only for the strong opinions it elicited.

Conclusion: A Missed Opportunity or a Strategic Move?

In conclusion, the Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez match at Crown Jewel 2019 remains a subject of debate and discussion within the professional wrestling community. The event, while initially generating significant hype and anticipation, ultimately failed to live up to the expectations of many fans. The brevity of the match, coupled with the controversial outcome, left a lingering sense of disappointment among some viewers. However, it’s important to consider the various factors that may have contributed to the match’s execution. Velasquez’s physical condition and potential creative differences with WWE may have played a role in the decision to keep the match short. Furthermore, WWE may have strategically chosen to protect both wrestlers from injury, given their age and experience. From a business perspective, the match undoubtedly generated significant revenue and attracted a wider audience to WWE programming. The incorporation of MMA elements into the storyline added a unique flavor to the event and appealed to fans of both sports. However, from a creative standpoint, the match may be viewed as a missed opportunity. The potential for a longer, more competitive encounter was undeniable, given the history and skill sets of both wrestlers. The decision to prioritize a quick finish may have ultimately diminished the impact of the match and left some fans feeling unsatisfied. Whether the Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez match at Crown Jewel 2019 was a strategic move or a missed opportunity is a matter of perspective. Ultimately, the event serves as a reminder of the complexities of professional wrestling and the challenges of balancing fan expectations with business considerations. Despite its shortcomings, the match remains a significant moment in WWE history, showcasing the star power of Lesnar and Velasquez and highlighting the enduring appeal of crossover athletes. The legacy of the match will continue to be debated and analyzed for years to come, solidifying its place in the annals of professional wrestling lore. The Brock Lesnar and Cain Velasquez saga will be remembered, regardless of whether it was a resounding success or a strategic gamble that fell short of its intended goals.