Professional wrestling, often characterized by its dramatic storytelling and electrifying athleticism, has produced countless memorable moments over the years. WWE, as one of the most significant organizations in the sport, has been at the forefront of some of the most iconic matches ever witnessed.
Here’s a look at the top 10 WWE matches of all time, each contributing to the rich tapestry of professional wrestling history.
Shawn Michaels vs Razor Ramon
The Ladder Match between Shawn Michaels and Razor Ramon at WrestleMania X is often heralded as one of the greatest matches in WWE history. This contest was groundbreaking in its use of the ladder as a weapon and a tool to achieve the objective of retrieving the Intercontinental Championship belt suspended above the ring. Michaels and Ramon not only showcased their incredible athleticism but also their ability to innovate and push the boundaries of what was possible in the ring.
The match is remembered for several iconic moments, such as Michaels’ breathtaking splash off the top of the ladder and the intense drama as both men fought to climb the ladder and retrieve the title. This match set a new standard for future ladder matches and remains a high point in both competitors’ storied careers. The influence of this match can be seen in the numerous ladder matches that have followed, each one striving to capture the same level of excitement and innovation.
Bret Hart vs Steve Austin
Bret Hart and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin’s Submission Match at WrestleMania XIII is often cited as a turning point in WWE history. The match is particularly memorable for its intense, physical nature and the dramatic double turn it produced. Hart, playing the role of the anti-hero, and Austin, the rising star, delivered a grueling match that saw Austin’s bloody face and relentless defiance of Hart’s Sharpshooter hold.
The image of Austin refusing to submit despite being drenched in blood has become one of the most iconic visuals in WWE history. This bout helped solidify Austin’s place as a top star and marked a significant shift in WWE’s storytelling direction.
The Rock vs Hulk Hogan
WrestleMania X8’s “Icon vs. Icon” match between The Rock and Hulk Hogan is a clash of two generations of wrestling icons. The atmosphere in the SkyDome (now Rogers Centre) in Toronto was electric, with fans split in their support between Hogan’s classic red and yellow and The Rock’s charismatic persona. The match itself was a testament to the star power of both wrestlers and their ability to captivate an audience.
The crowd’s reaction, including the famous “Rocky” and “Hogan” chants, highlighted the significance of this battle, making it a standout moment in wrestling history. The match’s outcome, with The Rock emerging victorious, symbolized a passing of the torch from one era to another.
Ric Flair vs Ricky Steamboat
The series of matches between Ric Flair and Ricky Steamboat in 1989, particularly their bouts at Clash of the Champions VI and WrestleWar, are legendary for their technical excellence and storytelling. These matches showcased the best of what professional wrestling could offer, with high-flying moves, technical prowess, and a compelling narrative.
Flair and Steamboat’s chemistry in the ring was unparalleled, setting the standard for in-ring performance and proving the art of wrestling could be both entertaining and highly skilled. Each match in the trilogy told a story, building on the previous encounters and adding new layers to their rivalry.
Undertaker vs Mankind
The Hell in a Cell match between The Undertaker and Mankind (Mick Foley) at King of the Ring 1998 is often remembered for its brutal and shocking moments. This match saw Mankind thrown off the top of the cell, crashing through the announcers’ table below, and later, being chokeslammed through the cell roof. The extreme nature of the match and the resilience of both competitors turned it into an unforgettable spectacle that pushed the boundaries of physical endurance and storytelling in WWE.
The match is also notable for the visual of Foley’s tooth lodged in his nose after the fall and the sheer willpower he displayed by continuing the match despite serious injuries. This bout not only elevated Foley’s status as one of the toughest competitors in wrestling history but also solidified the Hell in a Cell match as a cornerstone of WWE’s most intense and brutal match types.
Daniel Bryan vs Triple H
Daniel Bryan’s match against Triple H at WrestleMania XXX was a pivotal moment in WWE history. Bryan, who had been the underdog hero for months, faced off against the authoritative Triple H in a match that was both a personal and professional battle. The bout was a masterclass in storytelling, with Bryan overcoming the odds and securing his place in the main event of WrestleMania, where he went on to win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship.
This match is celebrated for its emotional resonance and its role in Bryan’s rise to prominence. The storyline of Bryan fighting against the authority resonated deeply with fans, who saw his victory as a triumph of hard work and perseverance. The match itself was a showcase of Bryan’s technical skills and Triple H’s ability to tell a compelling story in the ring.
Kurt Angle vs Brock Lesnar
Kurt Angle and Brock Lesnar’s WWE Championship match at WrestleMania XIX showcased two of the most technically skilled and physically dominant wrestlers in WWE history. The bout was a hard-hitting and intense contest that demonstrated Angle and Lesnar’s incredible athleticism and wrestling expertise. The match is particularly remembered for its dramatic near-falls, the stunning Shooting Star Press by Lesnar, and its role in solidifying both men’s legacies in WWE.
Lesnar’s botched Shooting Star Press, where he nearly injured himself severely, added a layer of drama and danger to the match, showcasing his willingness to take risks. Angle’s resilience and technical mastery were on full display, making this match a classic example of wrestling excellence. The contest highlighted the physical prowess and competitive spirit of both wrestlers.
CM Punk vs John Cena
The Money in the Bank match between CM Punk and John Cena in 2011 is renowned for its high stakes and electric atmosphere. Punk, in his last match before leaving WWE, challenged Cena for the WWE Championship in front of a raucous Chicago crowd. The match was notable for its storytelling, with Punk’s “pipe bomb” promo leading up to it and the dramatic finish that saw Punk win the championship and leave the company.
The match was a pivotal moment in the “Summer of Punk” storyline and remains one of the most compelling matches in recent WWE history. Punk’s victory and his subsequent escape through the crowd with the championship created an unforgettable moment that blurred the lines between fiction and reality. The match is celebrated for its in-ring action, the passionate Chicago crowd, and the lasting impact it had on WWE’s narrative direction.
Eddie Guerrero vs Kurt Angle
Eddie Guerrero and Kurt Angle’s WWE Championship match at WrestleMania XX is a classic example of technical wrestling combined with great storytelling. Guerrero, known for his charisma and “lie, cheat, and steal” persona, faced Angle, a master technician. The match featured a mix of technical wrestling and high drama, culminating in Guerrero’s clever victory with a surprise roll-up after a series of near-falls.
This match highlighted Guerrero’s talent and cemented his place as one of WWE’s great champions. Guerrero’s victory, achieved through his trademark cunning and resourcefulness, was a perfect reflection of his character and showcased his ability to engage the audience. Angle’s technical prowess provided the perfect foil for Guerrero’s antics, creating a match that was both entertaining and technically superb.
The Rock vs Stone Cold Steve Austin
The Rock vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin at WrestleMania X-Seven is a defining moment in WWE’s Attitude Era. The match was a brutal, high-energy encounter that showcased both wrestlers’ charisma and physicality. The bout is notable for its shocking conclusion, with Austin turning heel by aligning himself with Vince McMahon and winning the WWE Championship.
This match is remembered for its intense rivalry and the surprising twist that left a lasting impact on WWE’s narrative direction. The Rock and Austin’s chemistry and ability to captivate an audience made this match a classic, and the heel turn added a layer of complexity to Austin’s character. The match is often regarded as the pinnacle of the Attitude Era, symbolizing the heights of popularity and excitement that WWE reached during this time.
Conclusion
WWE has seen countless memorable matches over the years, but Top 10 WWE Matches of All Time stand out for their impact, innovation, and the sheer entertainment they provided.
Each match not only highlighted the skill and athleticism of the participants but also played a significant role in shaping the history and evolution of professional wrestling.
From the high-flying action of ladder matches to the brutal intensity of Hell in a Cell, these bouts have left an indelible mark on WWE history and continue to be celebrated by fans and analysts alike. Also, check out the list of top 10 WWE wrestler of 1980s.
