Best WWE Matches of All Time (According to the Internet)
by Krishika M
Updated Mar 31, 2023
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Best WWE Matches of All Time
The criteria for determining the "Best WWE Matches of All Time" can be subjective, and opinions may vary based on personal preferences, era, and wrestling style. However, several matches have become widely accepted as being among the best, with some even considered the pinnacle of wrestling excellence. Matches like The Rock vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin at WrestleMania X-Seven, Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker at WrestleMania 25 and 26, and Bret Hart vs. Steve Austin at WrestleMania 13, are some of the most iconic matches in WWE history. These matches are renowned for their intense storytelling, technical mastery, and sheer entertainment value.
In addition to the matches themselves, the wrestlers involved also contribute to the match's legacy. Legends like Ric Flair, Hulk Hogan, and Randy Savage have all had some of the most memorable matches in WWE history, while newer stars such as John Cena, Roman Reigns, and AJ Styles have also delivered incredible performances that have earned them a place in the "Best WWE Matches of All Time" lists. The "Best WWE Matches of All Time" have become a significant part of wrestling culture and are often used as a reference point for aspiring wrestlers, fans, and analysts alike. These matches have set the bar for what is possible in the squared circle and have inspired countless wrestlers to push the limits of their craft.
Top WWE Matches of All Time
WWE has emerged as the most prosperous pro wrestling enterprise globally, commonly known as sports entertainment. While the promotion's success can be attributed to its exaggerated storylines and flamboyant personas, such as the patriotic "Real Americans" and muscle-bound wrestlers from mysterious places like "Parts Unknown," it has also been a breeding ground for some of the finest pro wrestlers on the planet. These skilled athletes have delivered countless memorable matches, earning the reputation of being among the best in pro wrestling history.
WWE's combination of scripted storytelling and athleticism has captivated audiences for decades, resulting in numerous iconic moments in sports entertainment. From the larger-than-life personas of Hulk Hogan and The Rock to the technical prowess of Bret Hart and Kurt Angle, WWE has showcased a diverse range of wrestling styles and personalities. Moreover, WWE has been the platform for some of the most unforgettable matches in wrestling history. Classics like the Iron Man match between Shawn Michaels and Bret Hart at WrestleMania XII and the Hell in a Cell match between The Undertaker and Mankind at King of the Ring 1998 are just a few examples of the incredible performances that have taken place in WWE rings.
Despite criticisms that WWE prioritizes entertainment over pure wrestling skill, many of the company's top stars have also excelled in the ring. Wrestlers like Daniel Bryan, AJ Styles, and Seth Rollins have consistently demonstrated their technical abilities and athleticism in thrilling matches that have earned critical acclaim from wrestling fans and experts alike. Overall, WWE's success can be attributed to its ability to create engaging characters and storylines while also showcasing some of the best pro wrestling talent in the world.
Top 10 WWE Matches of All Time
Here is the list of the top 10 WWE matches of all time:
1
Bret Hart vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin - WrestleMania 13
2
The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels - WrestleMania 25
3
Razor Ramon vs. Shawn Michaels - WrestleMania X
4
John Cena vs. CM Punk - Money In The Bank 2011
5
The Rock vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin - WrestleMania X-Seven
6
Macho Man Randy Savage vs. Ricky The Dragon Steamboat - WrestleMania III
7
The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels - Badd Blood 1997
8
Royal Rumble 1992
9
Bret Hart vs. Owen Hart - WrestleMania X
10
Bret Hart vs. British Bulldog - SummerSlam 1992
S.No.
WWE Matches
1. Bret Hart vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin - WrestleMania 13
The submission match between Bret Hart and "Stone Cold" Steve Austin at WrestleMania 13 is widely considered as one of the greatest matches in WWE history. This brutal, no-holds-barred brawl was initially billed as a submission match, despite Austin not having a signature submission move. However, the match turned into an intense, violent masterpiece between two of the most technically gifted wrestlers in the industry. What makes this match so significant is not only the incredible physicality and storytelling but also the double-turn that occurred. Bret Hart was a beloved hero going into the match, while Austin was a defiant antihero. However, during the bout, the roles reversed, with Hart embracing his dark side and Austin emerging as a heroic figure, despite ultimately losing the match.
The impact of this match on the industry cannot be overstated. It transformed Austin's style and influenced the WWE style for the next decade, while also elevating both Hart and Austin to new levels of stardom. The ending, with Austin refusing to submit despite being in excruciating pain, has become an iconic moment in wrestling history, on par with Hogan slamming Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III. Despite the countless great matches in WWE history, the Bret Hart vs. "Stone Cold" Steve Austin submission match remains a standout. It was a display of technical excellence, athleticism, and storytelling that continues to resonate with fans to this day, and it remains one of the best examples of how wrestling can transcend sports entertainment and become a cultural phenomenon.
2. The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels - WrestleMania 25
While pro wrestling moves and selling can be taught, the chemistry between wrestlers is something that cannot be manufactured. It's this elusive factor that turns great matches into all-time masterpieces, and it's what made the matches between Ric Flair and Ricky Steamboat, Steve Austin and Bret Hart, and The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels so memorable. Mark Calaway (The Undertaker) and Michael Hickenbottom (Shawn Michaels) are no exception, as their bouts are often cited as the greatest "David vs. Goliath" matches in wrestling history.
What sets their match at WrestleMania 25 apart is difficult to pinpoint, but it's clear that these two legends were in absolute command of their characters, their craft, and the crowd. Every move, every near-fall, every high-spot, and every minute of the match was purposeful and momentous. There were no gimmicks or stakes besides Undertaker defending his streak and the pride of victory, which made the performance even more impressive. It was simply two of the greatest wrestlers of all time putting on a masterclass in storytelling, athleticism, and showmanship.
The chemistry between The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels was undeniable, and their WrestleMania 25 match is a testament to their abilities and the power of pro wrestling as an art form. It's a match that transcends the genre and has been lauded by both fans and critics as one of the greatest matches in WWE history. For those who may not "get" pro wrestling, this match serves as a perfect introduction to the spectacle and drama that can unfold in the squared circle.
3. Razor Ramon vs. Shawn Michaels - WrestleMania X
Bret Hart vs. Owen Hart was a highly anticipated match that could have easily been the standout performance of WrestleMania X. However, that honor went to Razor Ramon vs. Shawn Michaels for the Intercontinental Championship in a ladder match. While ladder matches have become a staple in professional wrestling over the years, back in 1993, it was a new and exciting concept for fans. What sets this particular ladder match apart from others is the fact that it feels authentic. The ladder was not just a prop to be used for crowd-pleasing stunts, but a weapon for both competitors to use strategically in their efforts to win. Instead of relying solely on high-flying moves and flashy spots, the wrestlers had to adapt to the unique environment of the match and use their wits and brawling skills to come out on top.
The match is a testament to the storytelling abilities of Razor Ramon and Shawn Michaels, as they were able to convey a compelling narrative despite the chaotic and unpredictable nature of the ladder match format. It was not just a showcase of their individual skills, but a cohesive performance that left a lasting impact on fans. Even after all these years and countless ladder matches, this one remains a classic and is still regarded as one of the greatest matches in WrestleMania history.
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4. John Cena vs. CM Punk - Money In The Bank 2011
The John Cena vs. CM Punk match for the WWE Championship at Money In The Bank 2011 was a historic and iconic event that showcased two different schools of professional wrestling. John Cena, the clean-cut and musclebound babyface favored by mainstream fans, faced off against CM Punk, the tattooed and indie wrestler beloved by a large segment of fans who felt ignored by the WWE. This match represented a deeper level of the pro wrestling industry, where two different ideologies clashed in the ring.
The atmosphere of the match was electric, with a deafening crowd that registered on the Richter scale, especially in CM Punk's hometown of Chicago. The fans poured their frustrations into CM Punk, who was seen as the representative of their dreams and aspirations. Even if the match had been lackluster, the crowd would have still been hot, but instead, the two wrestlers delivered a technical masterpiece that keeps fans on the edge of their seats even today.
What made the match so special was the storytelling and technical prowess of both wrestlers. They didn't rely on gimmicks or flashy moves to pop the crowd, but instead, put on a clinic that showcased their skills and abilities. This match was not only the best of both men's careers, but it was also one of the greatest matches of the 2010s and in the history of professional wrestling. It was a perfect example of how two different ideologies can come together to create something truly extraordinary.
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5. The Rock vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin - WrestleMania X-Seven
The feud between "Stone Cold" Steve Austin and The Rock is widely considered to be one of the greatest in the history of WWE. It was a clash of two of the biggest stars in wrestling, who were both at the height of their popularity and abilities. Their rivalry was filled with memorable moments, but their ultimate masterpiece was the main event at WrestleMania X-Seven. What made this match stand out was the storytelling. Austin and The Rock both put on a tremendous display of athleticism and brawling, but the real magic was in the way the match built up the tension between the two competitors. Throughout the match, it was clear that Austin was willing to do anything to win, even if it meant betraying his long-time enemy, Vince McMahon. The crowd was hooked, and when Austin ultimately made the shocking decision to side with McMahon and turn heel, it was a moment that will go down in wrestling history.
From a creative standpoint, the match was absolutely brilliant. The decision to have Austin turn on the fans and align with McMahon was a risky move, but it paid off in terms of the quality of the match and the shock value of the moment. However, from a business standpoint, it marked the end of the Attitude Era, which was the peak of WWE's popularity. Some fans were unhappy with the way the storyline played out, and the WWE struggled to replicate the success of the Attitude Era in the years that followed. Despite this, there is no denying that Steve Austin vs. The Rock at WrestleMania X-Seven was one of the greatest WrestleMania main events of all time. It was a clash between two of the biggest names in wrestling, and the tension and drama of the match was unparalleled. For many fans, it remains the pinnacle of the Attitude Era, and a testament to the power of storytelling in pro wrestling.
6. Macho Man Randy Savage vs. Ricky The Dragon Steamboat - WrestleMania III
The Intercontinental Championship match between "Macho Man" Randy Savage and Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat at WrestleMania III is considered by many as one of the greatest matches in WWE history. However, to fully appreciate the match, it's important to watch the entire WrestleMania III card. The event was typical of its era, with pageantry and gimmicks dominating the show. The audience had grown accustomed to seeing large, charismatic wrestlers with outlandish gimmicks, and the most exciting move was usually a bodyslam. Against this backdrop, Savage and Steamboat delivered a fast-paced, athletic classic that was ahead of its time. The match was a showcase of technical ability and storytelling, with both wrestlers executing moves flawlessly and fluidly. The pace of the match never slowed down, and the action was continuous throughout the entire 15-minute runtime. The audience was captivated by the incredible athleticism and skill displayed by both wrestlers.
After the match, the audience was left stunned by the performance they had just witnessed. Savage and Steamboat had transcended the typical wrestling style of the time, and had instead delivered a performance that was more akin to what would be expected from modern-day wrestling. Their match was so impressive that it continues to be celebrated by wrestling fans today. While Hulk Hogan's match against Andre the Giant was the marquee attraction of WrestleMania III, it was Savage vs. Steamboat that left the most lasting impression. The match was a shining example of what wrestling could be when wrestlers were given the opportunity to showcase their skill and athleticism in the ring. It was a true masterpiece of the art form, and remains one of the greatest matches in WWE history.
7. The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels - Badd Blood 1997
The rivalry between Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker was intense, with Michaels playing the cowardly villain who repeatedly escaped The Dead Man's grasp. The story climaxed at Badd Blood 1997, where the two faced off in the first-ever Hell in a Cell match. The match was designed to keep both competitors locked inside the structure, with a roof added to prevent Michaels from escaping. However, the match's true drama came from what transpired within the cage. Michaels managed to briefly slip away while a cameraman was being attended to, but Undertaker relentlessly pursued him. The two brawled on top of the cage, with Undertaker eventually delivering a brutal chokeslam that sent Michaels crashing through the announce table below.
Despite being battered and bloodied, Michaels managed to crawl over Undertaker and steal the victory. However, the match's most significant moment came after the bell had rung. As Michaels was celebrating his win, the lights went out, and ominous organ music began playing. From the flames emerged Undertaker's long-lost brother, Kane, who had been presumed dead. Kane proceeded to attack his brother, delivering a tombstone piledriver and cementing his place as one of the most fearsome characters in WWE history. The entire match was a masterclass in storytelling, with every element building to an unforgettable conclusion. The Hell in a Cell structure added a level of danger and intensity that had never been seen before, while the introduction of Kane opened up an entirely new chapter in The Undertaker's mythology. The match has gone down in history as one of the most iconic moments in WWE's long and storied history.
8. Royal Rumble 1992
The Royal Rumble, created by Pat Patterson, is a brilliant concept that has become one of WWE's most anticipated annual events. However, it was the 1992 edition of the Royal Rumble that was Ric Flair's WWE masterpiece. Despite being a multi-time champion in other promotions, Flair wasn't quite connecting with WWE's fanbase, which was used to larger-than-life characters. The 43-year-old Flair's claim of being "the real champ" didn't sit well with the younger WWE audience. But at the 1992 Royal Rumble, Flair proved he belonged in the main event.
Flair entered the match at #3 and wrestled at full speed for over an hour without ever needing to catch his breath. He didn't take any breaks, unlike some competitors who would rest in the corner. Flair carried the match and showcased his in-ring ability, despite being older than most of his opponents. While Flair's performance was the highlight of the Rumble, all 29 other wrestlers also delivered the goods. Ultimately, Flair emerged as the winner and was crowned the champion. Many Rumbles have been memorable, but the 1992 edition stands out as one of the best. It showcased Flair's talent and established him as a top player in WWE. Thirty years later, it remains the standard for Royal Rumbles and is widely regarded as one of the greatest matches in WWE history.
9. Bret Hart vs. Owen Hart - WrestleMania X
Wrestlemania X was a significant event for Bret Hart, as he became the new WWE Champion in the main event. However, his match against his younger brother Owen Hart earlier in the show was equally memorable, if not more so, to Bret. The storyline between the two brothers was straightforward, with Owen being envious of his older brother Bret's success as a former WWE Champion and WrestleMania headliner. Despite the simplicity of the story, the match was a technical masterpiece, as the two Hart brothers, who both trained in their father Stu Hart's famous basement "dungeon," showcased their pro wrestling skills.
The match ended in a surprise victory for Owen, who used a roll-up to catch Bret off guard. While the outcome was unexpected, it was a fitting end to a match that showcased the incredible talents of both Hart brothers. Unfortunately, Owen's life would end tragically just a few years later, while Bret's first WWE run would come to an end in controversy. Nonetheless, on this night, both brothers had reason to celebrate: Bret for winning the WWE Championship and Owen for defeating his older brother in what many consider the greatest opening match in WrestleMania history.
The match between Bret and Owen Hart at Wrestlemania X is remembered not only for its technical excellence but also for its emotional impact. The sibling rivalry between the two brothers resonated with the audience, as many could relate to the feeling of being overshadowed by a more successful family member. The match was a testament to the Hart family's legacy in professional wrestling, as well as a showcase of the unique storytelling and athleticism that made the Hart brothers stand out from their peers. In the end, the match between Bret and Owen proved that sometimes the simplest stories can lead to the most profound and memorable moments in sports entertainment history.
10. Bret Hart vs. British Bulldog - SummerSlam 1992
Bret Hart is known for his ability to elevate his opponents in the ring, and this was on full display in his match against British Bulldog at SummerSlam 1992. Despite Smith's reputation as a power wrestler who excelled in tag team matches, Hart managed to turn their singles match into an all-time classic. The stakes were high, as the match was the main event of the second-biggest PPV of the year in front of a massive crowd of over 80,000 fans at Wembley Stadium. However, the match was not without its challenges. Smith was reportedly "high as a kite" on the plane flight over to the UK, so Hart took extra care to meticulously plan the match and have Smith recite it back to him. Unfortunately, Smith quickly became winded and was unable to keep up with the pace of the match. Despite this setback, Hart managed to carry the match and produce a memorable performance.
The match was a showcase of Hart's technical prowess and storytelling abilities, as he expertly crafted a match that made both himself and Smith look like stars. In the end, Smith emerged victorious, sending the crowd into a frenzy. However, it was Hart who received the most praise for his ability to make a challenging situation work and deliver a classic match. While Hart may have had better matches against more formidable opponents, his performance at SummerSlam 1992 solidified his status as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. He proved that he truly was "the best there is, the best there was, and the best there ever will be."
Greatest WWE Matches of All Time
The Greatest WWE Matches of All Time are considered to be the most memorable, iconic, and influential matches in the history of professional wrestling, as judged by fans, experts, and critics. These matches often involve high stakes, intense storylines, exceptional in-ring performances, and a unique blend of athleticism, drama, and spectacle. They showcase the best of WWE's past and present stars, from legends like Hulk Hogan, Steve Austin, and The Rock to current superstars like John Cena, Roman Reigns, and Becky Lynch. They also represent a wide range of match types, from singles matches to tag team matches, from ladder matches to Hell in a Cell matches, and beyond. Whether it's the emotional rollercoaster of a WrestleMania main event or the technical masterpiece of a mid-card bout, the Greatest WWE Matches of All Time are revered for their ability to captivate, entertain, and inspire audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Best WWE Matches Ever
- Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker - WrestleMania 25
- Bret Hart vs. Steve Austin - WrestleMania 13
- The Rock vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin - WrestleMania 17
- Shawn Michaels vs. Razor Ramon - WrestleMania X
- Bret Hart vs. Owen Hart - WrestleMania X
- TLC II - WrestleMania X-Seven
- Kurt Angle vs. Shane McMahon - King of the Ring 2001
- Shawn Michaels vs. Chris Jericho - WrestleMania XIX
- The Undertaker vs. Mankind - Hell in a Cell (King of the Ring 1998)
- Bret Hart vs. Shawn Michaels - WrestleMania XII
Note: This is a subjective list and may vary based on personal preferences.
Greatest Wrestling Match Ever
Bret Hart vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin at WrestleMania 13 is widely considered one of the greatest matches in WWE history. The storyline leading up to the match was intense, with Hart playing the heel and Austin playing the face. The two had a bitter rivalry, and the submission match at WrestleMania 13 was the culmination of their feud. The match was a technical masterpiece, with both wrestlers showcasing their unique styles. Hart worked on Austin's knee, while Austin focused on Hart's back. The crowd was heavily invested in the match, with the Chicago audience firmly behind Austin despite him being the heel going into the match.
The match reached its climax when Austin passed out from the pain of Hart's Sharpshooter submission hold, but refused to tap out. The image of Austin's bloody face, with Hart wrenching on the hold as Austin's blood dripped down his face, is one of the most iconic in WWE history. In the end, Hart won the match, but Austin emerged as a bonafide superstar, as the crowd gave him a standing ovation for his incredible performance. The match was a turning point in Austin's career, and helped to cement his legacy as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time.
Classic WWE Matches That Still Hold Up Today
WWE has produced countless memorable matches over the years, and while some may have aged poorly, there are several classic WWE matches that still hold up today. These matches continue to capture the imaginations of fans old and new, and have become benchmarks for future WWE matches to measure up against. One such classic match is the "Iron Man" match between Shawn Michaels and Bret Hart at WrestleMania XII. This 60-minute battle for the WWE Championship was a masterclass in storytelling and in-ring psychology. Both Michaels and Hart were at the top of their game, and their back-and-forth action kept fans on the edge of their seats for the full hour.
Another classic match that still holds up today is the TLC match between Edge and Christian, The Hardy Boyz, and The Dudley Boyz at WrestleMania X-Seven. This match was a high-flying, high-stakes spectacle that showcased the daredevil nature of these three legendary tag teams. The match was filled with breathtaking spots and innovative uses of ladders, chairs, and tables, and cemented these teams' legacies as some of the greatest in WWE history.
The WrestleMania 13 submission match between Bret Hart and Stone Cold Steve Austin is another classic match that has stood the test of time. This intense, bloody brawl saw Austin pass out in a pool of his own blood while refusing to tap out to Hart's Sharpshooter submission hold. The match not only established Austin as a top star in WWE, but also cemented Hart's legacy as one of the greatest technical wrestlers of all time.
In recent years, the NXT TakeOver match between Johnny Gargano and Adam Cole at NXT TakeOver: New York has become a modern classic that still holds up today. This two-out-of-three falls match was an epic, back-and-forth battle that saw Gargano finally claim the NXT Championship. The match was filled with drama, near-falls, and innovative spots that showcased the athleticism and storytelling ability of both wrestlers. These are just a few examples of classic WWE matches that still hold up today. They continue to inspire new generations of wrestlers and fans, and serve as a reminder of why WWE has become a global phenomenon.
Best WWE Matches of All Time - FAQs
Some classic WWE matches that still hold up today include Bret Hart vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin at WrestleMania 13, The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania 25, Eddie Guerrero vs. Brock Lesnar at No Way Out 2004, The Rock vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin at WrestleMania 17, and Bret Hart vs. British Bulldog at SummerSlam 1992.
A classic WWE match usually has a combination of elements such as a well-told story, memorable moments, great in-ring action, and emotional investment from both the wrestlers and the audience. It should be a match that stands the test of time and is still talked about and celebrated years later.
Classic WWE matches hold up over time because they were able to capture the hearts and imaginations of fans through great storytelling and in-ring action. These matches were not just about the moves, but the emotions and stories behind them. They were able to create moments that fans would never forget, and that's why they are still beloved today.
No, classic WWE matches are not only from the past. While many of the matches that are considered classics are from the past, there are still matches being produced today that will undoubtedly go down as classics in the future. As long as there are great wrestlers and compelling stories being told, there will always be classic matches.
Classic WWE matches can be watched on various platforms such as the WWE Network (now Peacock in the US), DVD collections, and streaming services like Hulu and Amazon Prime. Additionally, some classic matches are available on YouTube and other video-sharing websites, although the quality may not be as good as the official releases.