Tuesday, October 18, 2016

100 Greatest Matches Part 5/Finale (20-1)

20. Brock Lesnar vs CM Punk (Summerslam 2013)
19. John Cena vs. Brock Lesnar vs. Seth Rollins (Royal Rumble 2015)
18. Ric Flair vs Ricky Steamboat (WrestleWar 1989)
17. Shawn Michaels vs. Undertaker (WrestleMania 26)
16. Undertaker vs. Mankind (HIAC 1998 KOTR)
15. Shawn Michaels vs Razor Ramon (WM X)
14. Shawn Michaels vs Undertaker (HIAC 1997)
13. Shawn Michaels vs Kurt Angle (WM 21)
12. Ric Flair vs Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat (Chi-Town Rumble)
11. Triple H vs. Shawn Michaels vs. Chris Benoit (WM XX)
10. Bret Hart vs Shawn Michaels (WM XII)
9. TLC II (WM X-7)
8. CM Punk vs John Cena (MITB 2011)
7. Bret Hart vs British Bulldog (Summerslam 1992)
6. Ultimate Warrior vs Randy Savage (WrestleMania VII)
5. Ric Flair vs Ricky Steamboat (Clash of the Champions VI)
4. The Rock vs Austin II (WrestleMania X-7)
3. Randy Savage vs Ricky Steamboat (WrestleMania III)
2. Bret Hart vs Stone Cold Steve Austin (WrestleMania 13)
1. Shawn Michaels vs Undertaker (WrestleMania 25)





20. Brock Lesnar vs. CM Punk (Summerslam 2013)
"The Best vs. The Beast". CM Punk was The Best In the World, while Brock Lesnar was The Beast. This was the WWE Version of Wolverine vs. The Incredible Hulk (Punk wore Wolverine's Colors). Punk fought through like Wolverine, while Lesnar was an Unstoppable Monster like the Incredible Hulk. This match was the backdrop of Paul Heyman's betrayal of CM Punk in favor of Brock Lesnar. The Battle of the Paul Heyman Guys. At Summerslam 2013, CM Punk battled Brock Lesnar as Paul Heyman cheered The Beast from ringside. The match itself was spectacular, as it was the Main Highlight of the PPV. Through 25 intense minutes of chair shots, submission holds and brawls, Punk went for the Go To Sleep. However, Heyman broke the pinfall. As Punk applied the Anaconda Vice, Heyman interfered again. Punk punched Heyman and gave him the Anaconda Vice, but Brock broke the hold with a chair shot. Lesnar finished the match with an F-5 on the chair to defeat Punk.
19. John Cena vs. Brock Lesnar vs. Seth Rollins (Triple Threat Match for the WWE Championship: Royal Rumble 2015)
At the end of 2014, John Cena reinstated the Authority after Seth Rollins threatened to cripple Edge with a Curb Stomp. At Tables, Ladders, and Chairs, Cena defeated Rollins to retain his #1 Contender status, even though Seth had the MITB Briefcase. The stage was originally set for Cena to face Brock Lesnar for the WWE Title at the Royal Rumble. However, Seth was added to the match as a reward for coaxing Cena to bring back the Authority. Meanwhile, Brock Lesnar was riding high as the WWE Champion following his dominant victory over John Cena at Summerslam. Early in the match, Lesnar dominated early with a series of suplexes on both Cena and Rollins. After Lesnar applied the Kimura Lock on Cena, Rollins broke it up. Cena delivered an AA on Lesnar, but Rollins threw him out of the ring for a pin attempt. Instead, Brock kicked out at one. Seth had something to prove in this match. Brock caught Seth for an F-5, but Cena broke up the pin. Cena gave Lesnar Three AA's, but Rollins still broke up the pin. Rollins got his shot in with a Curb Stomp on Brock, but Cena interfered. This was the sequence of the match. Once Cena hit Lesnar with the steel stairs, things were set up for Rollins to take out the Beast with a Diving Elbow Drop through the broadcast table. Brock was temporarily taken out of the match as Cena and Rollins exchanged Finishers. Brock would soon return to throw Cena out of the ring. Rollins hit Lesnar twice with the Briefcase as he positioned it under Brock's head. As Seth went for his second Curb Stomp, Lesnar got up and hit him with his last F-5 for the win to remain WWE Champion. Seth Rollins made his statement in this match by using his best weapons from his arsenal. John Cena put on another classic as usual. Brock Lesnar was like Doomsday in this match, because he adapted to every finisher that was thrown his way and managed to survive while still looking dominant.


18. Ric Flair vs. Ricky Steamboat (NWA Championship: WrestleWar 1989)
This match was the Finale of a great trilogy of matches in 1989 between two outstanding ring generals that shared different philosophies, but had great chemistry. By this point, Ric Flair was the quintessential, cocky bad guy. Limousine riding, leer jet flying, kiss stealing, wheeling dealing, you know the rest. Flair was a tricky grappler who was a master of his craft. Ric's natural swagger set the blueprint for the likes of Biggie, Kanye, etc years before it became popular. Meanwhile, Ricky Steamboat was the prototypical hero-a fan favorite returning to defeat the perennial villain champion while showcasing his morals of family value along with his own mat expertise. The two previous matches were spectacular, but the third and final match revealed a different element. Not only did Flair finally defeat his Mr. Nice Guy rival to reclaim the NWA Heavyweight Title, but the Nashville crowd did not boo him for it. Instead, Flair earned their respect. Ric did not gloat or brag about the win either, but shook Steamboat's hand after the match. Flair earned the respect of those who despised him, and that was the greatest prize he could ever receive.


17. Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker (Career vs. Streak: WrestleMania 26)
The year before, Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker gave the world a classic for the ages. It was a matter or WrestleMania bragging rights and a thriller. From that point, it was about matching or surpassing that performance. Shawn Michaels tells the story of how he talked with the cameraman after that match. The Cameraman asks Shawn how old his son is, and Shawn tells him he is 9. Then, HBK realizes that he needed to wind his career down so that he would not miss out on the rest of his son's life growing up. That was the turning point that HBK needed to finally call it a career. The best way for him to close out his illustrious career was against the same Phenom that he went to battle against at WM 25, The Undertaker himself. The obvious challenge for both Shawn and Taker was whether they could top their previous match. The story of this match was about HBK risking his Career to break the Streak. Like the match before, they performed multiple finishers, even more than the previous match. As Taker went for the Last Ride on the announce table, HBK countered and gave him Sweet Chin Music. As Undertaker laid on the announce table, Shawn went to the top rope and landed a moonsault through the table, an element that was not seen in the previous match. Even with three Sweet Chin Musics, Shawn Michaels still could not keep the Deadman down. As Undertaker signaled for his third Tombstone Piledriver, he stopped his cut throat signal to tell Shawn to stay down. Michaels mocked Taker with his own cut throat signal and slapped the Dead Man. The Phenom was furious and gave HBK the third and final Tombstone. As Undertaker executed the Tombstone Piledriver, he jumped as he landed to pin Michaels for the victory. As The Phenom extended the Streak to 18-0, he put the final nail in the coffin of The Heartbreak Kid's Career. The Show Stopped once and for all.


16. Undertaker vs. Mankind (Hell In A Cell: King of the Ring 1998)
This match created the definitive image of Hell In A Cell with Undertaker standing at the top of the cell as Mankind laid motionless in the middle of the ring after being Chokeslammed through the roof of the Cell. It is also defined by Undertaker throwing Mankind off the Cell as Foley crashed through the Spanish Announce Table. Who can possibly forget Mankind smiling with a tooth up his nose? The match even had to pause because Mankind had to be taken out on a stretcher. Even The Undertaker himself thought that Mankind was dead. However, Foley ran back to the ring to continue the action. This was definitely a War for the ages between The Hardcore Legend and The Phenom. The Deadman would close the curtain on this match with the Tombstone Piledriver to emerge victorious. This match was not like the first HIAC match with Shawn Michaels, but it made it's own mark in history as it will live on in infamy. 

15. Shawn Michaels vs. Razor Ramon (WWF Intercontinental Championship Ladder Match: WrestleMania X)
This was the match that truly put Shawn Michaels on the map as "Mr. WrestleMania", and it raised the bar for all Ladder Matches to come after it. At that time, WWF only had one Ladder Match (Bret Hart vs. Shawn Michaels, 7/21/1992) and it was on Coliseum Video. So for this kind of match to take place at WrestleMania, the Biggest Show of them All was a Major Deal. What made this match even more special was that it was the battle to determine the REAL Intercontinental Champion. As everyone knows by now, Shawn Michaels was suspended and had to "vacate" the title. Razor Ramon wins a Battle Royal to become the new IC Champion. Meanwhile, HBK returns with his own version of the IC Title, because he never truly lost it in the first place. This set the stage for a match that was a truly significant match in WrestleMania history and Wrestling history overall. They were both heels that had a coolness about them, even though HBK was more of a heel than Razor. As the belts hung above the ring, Michaels and Razor put together a showcase that will forever stand the test of time. I thought Shawn was Superman with the splash that he gave Razor from the Ladder. That image will live on in WWF/E History as one of the images that defined Ladder Matches. Ramon brought his game to another level because of the chemistry that he had with HBK. The way that they used the Ladders as Weapons was amazing, as they overshadowed every other match that night. This match was universally considered the Match of the Year, and when you watch it, you will understand why. The Iconic image of Razor holding both belts at the top of the Ladder was also special, as Shawn had his foot tied in the ropes. This match set the tone for future Ladder Matches, as it mirrors the modern day style of wrestling in WWE. It also gave Shawn Michaels a stronger case against Bret Hart for "Best In Ring Performer" of his Generation.

14. Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker (Hell In A Cell: Badd Blood 1997)
The First Ever Hell In A Cell Match at Badd Blood is highly significant for a number of reasons. Not only was it the debut of Kane, but it was also one of the most brutal matches in the Careers of both The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels. By this point, Shawn Michaels was in a heated feud with The Deadman after costing him the WWF Championship against Bret Hart at Summerslam. Michaels revealed that he did it on purpose, which infuriated The Phenom. Taker challenged HBK to this match at Badd Blood in October 1997. Mankind vs. Undertaker was known more for being a spectacle, but this match had the advantage in pure quality. Shawn Michaels took an incredible beating, but he was still able to hold his own going blow for blow with the Master of Death Valley. One of the signature moments of the match took place when Shawn Michaels and Undertaker battled at the top of the cell before HBK fell off of the edge and onto the Spanish Announcer's table. As Undertaker was ready to finish off his bloodied rival, the lights went out and an explosion erupted. From the fires, Kane emerged as Vince McMahon yelled "That's got to be Kane". The Big Red Machine ripped the cell door off as he entered the ring to Undertaker's surprise. Kane would Tombstone Taker before placing Shawn's arm on The Phenom's body for the three count. All of these elements are what make this match the Greatest HIAC Match in History. It was noteworthy because it was another innovative match in the Illustrious Careers of both The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels.

13. Shawn Michaels vs. Kurt Angle (WrestleMania 21)
In a sense, you can say that the Careers of Shawn Michaels and Kurt Angle run certain parallels. In 1996, Shawn Michaels defeated Bret Hart in an Hour long Ironman Match at WrestleMania XII to become WWF Champion. That same year, Kurt Angle wins Olympic Gold in Atlanta with a broken neck. HBK would go on to become the first ever Grand Slam Champion in WWF/E History. The year after Shawn retires for the first time, Angle makes his debut in the WWF at the time. Since then, Kurt adds even more accolades to an already decorated wrestling career by becoming Grand Slam Champion, much like HBK himself. Since Shawn made his return, Kurt's ultimate dream was to have a match with The Showstopper himself so that he could prove that he was truly the Best Wrestler of his Generation. Much like Chris Jericho, Kurt Angle wanted to prove that he had surpassed Shawn Michaels. This matchup was very interesting, because Kurt had the background of an Olympic Wrestler, Meanwhile, HBK had the reputation of a guy that could wrestle for an hour, so this was a merging of two different worlds. Shawn was the Showman, while Kurt emphasized ring technique, so it was mean to be special. Shawn Michaels trained harder than before to prepare himself for an opponent like Angle. During the match, HBK adapted to his opponent by going for rest holds and reversals. HBK may not have been the amateur wrestler that Kurt was, but he was the underdog which is a role that he has played very well in his career. The sequencing of the match was spectacular. In the beginning, the action went back and forth. Mid-way through the match, Michaels countered Angle's german suplex with a low blow, as the referee did not see it. After the low blow, Shawn leapfrogged from the ring and laid Angle out on the Announce Table. In the end, Kurt would gain the advantage as he countered the Sweet Chin Music into an Ankle Lock, forcing HBK to submit. The Match was the Ultimate 5 Star Classic and tore the house down that night in LA.
12. Ric Flair vs. Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat (NWA Championship: Chi-Town Rumble 1989)
By this time, Ric Flair and Ricky Steamboat were four years removed from their previous encounter. After that, Steamboat joined the WWF where he had arguably the match of the decade with Randy Savage at WrestleMania III. Meanwhile, Flair dominated the World Heavyweight Title picture as he continued to "style and profile" with his fellow Four Horsemen. Even with their time apart, Flair and Steamboat displayed a very unique familiarity with one another. "The Dragon" knew about Flair's confidence and pride. Meanwhile, "The Nature Boy" knew about Steamboat's technical superiority and prepared himself for it. Then again, Flair was far from a slouch himself in that area. They truly braced themselves for a Rumble, like the name of the PPV, because it was the fight of their lives. From start to finish, this match was truly exhilarating as it opened their trilogy like a symphony. In the end, Steamboat would prevail as the hero by defeating Flair to win the NWA World Heavyweight Title.


11, Triple H vs. Shawn Michaels vs. Chris Benoit (Triple Threat Match for World Heavyweight Championship: WrestleMania XX)
Following the events of June 2007, this match has become a tainted afterthought in the WWE History Books. However, it will not take away the fact that this was the Greatest Triple Threat Match of all-time. Before he became Persona Non Grata, Chris Benoit was one of the finest Technical Wrestlers on the Planet. In 2004, Benoit won the Royal Rumble by last eliminating The Big Show. That was considered one of the Greatest Rumble Matches ever. Benoit became the second wrestler in WWE History to win the Rumble as the number 1 entrant, with the first being Shawn Michaels in 1995. Automatically, that would make him the Number One Contender. Meanwhile, Triple H and Shawn Michaels wrestled for the World Heavyweight Title in a Last Man Standing Match. The match would end in a Draw. Just as Benoit and Triple H were set to sign the contracts, HBK hit Chris with Sweet Chin Music to insert himself into the match. The stage was set for the 20th Anniversary of WrestleMania in Madison Square Garden. Perfect Hollywood Casting. Benoit paid his dues in Canada, and Japan before becoming a major player with WCW. Now, he is in the Aquarium of WWE swimming with two of the Greatest Sharks of all-time. Chris delivered with the opportunity in front of him. Along with The Game and Mr. WrestleMania, Benoit put together a great work of art that kept fans wanting more. With each man worn down from the carnage, Michaels was ready to seize the opportunity by tuning up the band for Sweet Chin Music. As HBK was ready to kick Benoit's teeth down his throat, the Rabid Wolverine ducked and tossed Michaels over the top rope. Triple H went for the Pedigree, but Benoit reversed it into a Crippler Crossface. The Champion reached for as long as he could before tapping out. Chris Benoit achieved his dream of becoming World Heavyweight Champion at WrestleMania. His longtime friend Eddie Guerrero joined him to celebrate. Sadly, the impact of Benoit's tragedy has obscured this match. WWE has since distanced themselves from him. On the WWE Network, there is a disclaimer for every match involving Benoit, including this match. This is the Greatest Match that WWE cannot acknowledge. WWE has rewritten history in a way where 2004 does not even exist.


10. Bret Hart vs. Shawn Michaels (60-minute Ironman Match for WWF Championship: WrestleMania XII)
Bret Hart vs. Shawn Michaels will forever be one of the most Iconic Rivalries in Wrestling History. The match that stands out the most as a testament to their fierce and competitive feud would be their Iron man match at WrestleMania XII. Two of the greatest ring warriors of all-time battled to a stalemate at the end of the 60 minute time limit. As Bret Hart left the ring on his way to the locker room, WWF President Gorilla Monsoon ordered the match to continue under "Sudden Death" rules in order for a true winner to be declared. Shawn Michaels would win the WWF Championship in overtime after not one, but two Sweet Chin Musics. People may criticize this match because of how long it was, but it was the first of it's kind in WWF/E History. This was the first Iron Man match to be showcased on a major stage like the Showcase of the Immortals. It was perfect because Bret and Shawn are truly Immortals themselves, and no one can duplicate what they did that night.

9. Edge & Christian vs. Dudley Boyz vs. Hardy Boyz (TLC II for the WWF World Tag Team Championship: WrestleMania X-7)
Throughout 2000, Edge & Christian, The Dudley Boyz and Hardy Boyz set the World on fire with their Three Way Dances for the Tag Team Titles. These teams were the Trinity of the Tag Division during the peak of the Attitude Era. Their first dance with each other took place at WrestleMania 2000, as their Triple Threat Ladder Match was the biggest highlight on an otherwise clustered and mediocre WrestleMania. They raised the bar higher with the first ever Tables, Ladders and Chairs Match (TLC) at Summerslam 2000. Each time, Edge and Christian were the winners. The success that these teams had together called for a Sequel to TLC. At WrestleMania X-7, E&C, the Dudleyz and the Hardyz clashed in TLC II. The match was an all-time classic and critically acclaimed by many. This match raised the bar even higher for Tag Team wrestling. The highlight of this match was when Edge speared Jeff Hardy from the top of the Ladder. This match brought the absolute best out of each tag team and remains a classic in each of their match libraries.


8. CM Punk vs. John Cena (WWE Championship: Money In the Bank 2011)
In the Summer of 2011, the stakes were extremely high. CM Punk was on fire after dropping his legendary/infamous Pipe Bomb where he trashed WWE for holding him back for years. He also trashed John Cena and the idea of his perceived dominance. During the promo, Punk also took shots at WWE for holding the proverbial glass ceiling over the heads of underappreciated mid-carders. He claims that the only thing Cena was better at than him was kissing up to Vince McMahon. Punk also called out The Rock by referring to his first name "Dwayne". CM Punk became a sensation all across the Internet and Social Media after he aired his grievances while sitting at the top of the ramp on that Monday Night in Las Vegas. During his tirade, CM Punk also threatened to leave WWE with the Championship after "Money In The Bank". Not only was the Title on the line, but it's legacy was on the line as well. This was about the Anti-Establishment (CM Punk) vs. The Establishment (John Cena). It was truly considered "Rage Against The Machine". The atmosphere in Chicago was unlike any other building in a long time. Punk is considered a folk hero in the Windy City and he fed off of that momentum from the crowd. Meanwhile, Cena's defiance of not just Punk, but the entire City of Chicago was very compelling as well. The match itself was absolutely epic and is the greatest match in the history of MITB PPV Matches. It was orchestrated very well.Towards the end of the match, Vince McMahon sent John Laurinitis to interfere. However, Johnny Ace was met with a Clothesline from Cena. John Cena yelled at Vince that he wanted the match to be fair. As Cena got back into the ring, CM Punk nailed him with the GTS (Go To Sleep) to win the WWE Championship. The lasting image of this match is Punk blowing a goodbye kiss to Vince as he leaves the Arena through the crowd with the WWE Championship.


7. Bret Hart vs. The British Bulldog (WWF Intercontinental Championship: Summerslam 1992)
Once upon a time, the Intercontinental Championship actually had significance. This was long before jabronies like Zack Ryder, The Miz and Dolph Ziggler fought over the title. It was so important that it was in the main event of Summerslam 1992, as Bret Hart defended the title against his rival/brother in law, "The British Bulldog" Davey Boy Smith. You read that correctly. Bret and Bulldog were in the main event on a Summerslam that featured Randy Savage vs. Ultimate Warrior for the WWF Title. Both were products of the Hart Dungeon before joining the WWF in the mid 80's as part of two of the greatest tag teams not just of their generation, but in history. Bret with Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart as part of the Hart Foundation, and Davey with Dynamite Kid as part of the British Bulldogs. Fast forward to 1992, and both men are on the track of singles stardom while headlining Summerslam in Bulldog's hometown of Manchester England at Wembley Stadium. This was a testament of not only how great they were, but how great the IC Title itself once was. Just sprinkle in the fact that Diana Hart-Smith (Bret's Sister/Davey's Wife) was torn between the two sides and you add another compelling layer to an already great matchup. This unparalleled mat classic between two beloved International Superstars made the showdown for the "No. 2 Title" look like the most coveted prize in the industry. Davey Boy Smith is to the UK what Bret Hart is to Canada, so you have the biggest ambassadors of their respective countries clashing in a match that shook Wembley Stadium to its core. This was one of those matches that really felt like a game of chess, and the Bulldog came out as the winner. This match is the measuring stick that all Summerslam matches are measured by, because when you watch it you will understand why it is. This match is the crowning achievement in the Career of Great Britain's biggest star, and it was the turning point for Bret Hart as it helped him catapult to Main Event Status. 



6. Ultimate Warrior vs. Randy Savage (Retirement Match: WrestleMania VII)
This match set the standard for what a Retirement Match should look like. Executed greatly, perfect pace and the Careers of two Icons at stake. It also captured the emotional heart strings of the fans. This was Ultimate Warrior's best match by a City Mile. The "Macho King" was at his ultimate heel form, with the immaculate "Queen" Sherri Martel by his side. It was nonstop edge of your seat drama as Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan did not miss a beat on commentary. The shots of Miss Elizabeth in the audience were very well done. The ending is one of the best ever, as Savage drops five powerful elbow drops, but Warrior still finds the energy and strength to get up and win with three huge shoulder blocks of his own.



5. Ric Flair vs. Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat (2/3 Falls for NWA Championship: Clash of the Champions VI: Ragin' Cajun)
This match was clearly Steamboat vs. Flair at their very best element. The match was a 2-out-of-3 Falls Match for the NWA World Heavyweight Title as it lasted 55 minutes. The Dragon and the Nature Boy clearly had the stamina to pull off such a match, and they did not disappoint. Steamboat surprised the world when he defeated Flair at Chi-Town Rumble. Now, we have the rematch. This match helped to write the blueprint on how to make the sequel better than the original, and they did just that. In the first fall, Flair pinned Steamboat after reversing an inside cradle. In the second fall, Steamboat forced Flair to submit with a double chickenwing submission hold. In the third and final fall, Steamboat pinned Flair after a failed double chickenwing attempt. When Flair fell on Steamboat, both of their shoulders were down, but Steamboat got his left shoulder up before the three count to retain the NWA World Title. This match set the standard for 2-out-of-3 Falls Matches and continues to be the measuring stick to this day, and it was the epitome of NWA Wrestling at the time. As a bonus, this match also took place the same night as WrestleMania V (The Mega Powers Explode).

4. The Rock vs. "Stone Cold" Steve Austin  (No DQ Match for the WWF Championship: WrestleMania X-7)
WrestleMania X-7 will always be the Greatest WrestleMania ever for me, and it is in large part because of this match. The Rock vs. Stone Cold part II was the ultimate end of the Attitude Era, because of the finish. Fans can be a very jaded group, so you always need something that will catch them by surprise. This match is exactly what caught us fans by surprise, because it is something that will carry on forever. Stone Cold won his record setting third Royal Rumble, which put him on the Road to WrestleMania for another collision with his greatest nemesis The Rock for the WWF Championship. In the buildup to this match, Austin was in desperation mode. In the interview that they had with Jim Ross, Austin even said that he NEEDED to beat The Rock and that he would stop at nothing to regain the WWF Championship. Looking back, that was a sign that something major was going to happen in this match. Fast forward to WrestleMania X-7, which takes place in the Astrodome in Houston, Texas, Austin's stomping grounds. When Stone Cold makes his entrance, the crowd reaction was at another level of insanity. During the entrance, JR himself even said that Austin is a folk hero in Texas and he was not lying. The Rock was a babyface Champion, but Stone Cold had home field advantage. When it comes to quality, this was the best match of their trilogy. The Rock was able to handle it better than the first match, because he lacked the Main Event experience for WrestleMania. This time, he was a more mature performer with more poise and better pacing. The Brahma Bull and The Texas Rattlesnake clashed like the Giants that they were. They pulled out everything from their arsenal. Great in-ring action to go along with the No-DQ stipulation, so all gloves were off. They even used each other's Finishing Maneuvers. Austin even used the things he learned in his matches with Bret Hart, including a Sharpshooter. You know Austin was desperate anytime he reaches back to use the Million Dollar Dream (Ringmaster). As things are going great, the Sith Lord himself Vince McMahon arrives (Star Wars reference). This is where things take another turn. Vince gives Austin the chair to destroy The Great One with 16 Chair shots on his way to becoming the new WWF Champion. To give the biggest surprise of them all, Austin shakes Vince's hand and joins the Dark Side of the Force. This signified not only Austin's allegiance with a Boss that personified Evil, but it also signified the end of the Attitude Era because their feud is what made that Era so great and special.



3. "Macho Man" Randy Savage vs. Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat (WWF Intercontinental Championship: WrestleMania III)
This match was a masterpiece, like a great song or a fine piece of artwork. It changed the perception of wrestling within the WWF/E. The style of wrestling in the company would soon change as a result of this match. Much of the modern day WWE Style of wrestling can trace its roots back to a match like this. What was originally supposed to be a cup of coffee in the big time for Ricky Steamboat became his defining match and moment. This opened the gate for his later matches with Ric Flair in 1989, as he reached another level. Meanwhile, this match also helped to accelerate Macho Man's rise to greatness because he would soon be elevated to the Main Event picture by winning the WWF Title the next year. This came at a time where the Intercontinental Title was still respected and taken seriously as a stepping stone to future Main Event status. Future generations of wrestlers were greatly influenced by this very match. The showcase was a stroke of genius, with fast-paced back and forth action filled with at least 20 near-falls. It was back to basics efficiency that was ahead of its time. It was a technical marvel mixed with great high-flying moves for that time. From beginning to end, this match had action as the fans were on the ride of their lives. It all ended with a roll-up victory for Steamboat, which is another part of this match's genius. This match is still considered the Greatest Ever by many. It is certainly the Greatest IC Title Match Ever.

2. Bret Hart vs. "Stone Cold" Steve Austin (Submission Match: WrestleMania 13)
This match will forever be a significant turning point in the careers of "Stone Cold" Steve Austin and Bret Hart, especially for Austin. By 1997, wrestling was starting to change. Stone Cold proclaimed Austin 3:16 as he was on a mission to defeat and destroy Bret Hart. Meanwhile, the Hitman was still the traditional upright hero that would fight for his legacy against The Texas Rattlesnake. Austin was on fire, and the best way to prove himself was against someone who already established himself as a legend by that point in his Hall of Fame Career. Bret was up for the challenge as the stipulation was in his favor. This match was a Submission match. However, this match was more of a Chicago style brawl than the standard submission match with technical holds. Austin was not a submission expert like his opponent, but he brought the fight in his own way. The defining moment of this match came when Austin's face was covered in Blood (As JR would call it, the "Crimson Mask"), while he was locked in Bret Hart's Sharpshooter. Special Referee Ken Shamrock kept asking Steve if he would submit. In true Stone Cold fashion, he did not submit but passed out from the pain. This is what signaled what we now know as the "Double Turn". Bret Hart won, but in the end he became the heel (villain). After this match, Bret would soon reform "The Hart Foundation". This time, the group would feature Owen Hart, Davey Boy Smith and Brian Pillman along with Bret and his original tag team partner Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart. On the other end, Stone Cold became the baby face (hero) because of his toughness and refusal to quit. This is the match that ultimately put Stone Cold on the map.

1. Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker (WrestleMania XXV)

This match is the closest thing that we will ever get to watching absolute perfection. Light vs. Darkness. Heaven vs. Hell. The Rebel Force vs. The Empire. Mr. WrestleMania vs. The WrestleMania Phenom. Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker is the match where the stars perfectly aligned deep in the Heart of Texas inside of the Houston Astrodome. WrestleMania reached its 25th Anniversary, and there was no better way to celebrate than to have the two greatest WrestleMania Icons of all-time have a match to determine who was really the King of the Showcase of the Immortals. Both Taker and HBK have already reached Wrestling Immortal Status by this point. These Gladiators were already pioneers with the first ever Hell In A Cell Match at Badd Blood, but an even bigger prize was on the line: The Undertaker's Streak. Shawn had already proven that he could beat The Undertaker before, and he was looking forward to using that to his advantage. This was the Greatest Chess Match in Wrestling History. The match started with a bang with an exchange of signature moves and submissions, with Shawn escaping Hell's Gate while Taker blocked the attempts for Sweet Chin Music. The action continued outside as Shawn went for the Moonsault, but Undertaker shot down the attempt by moving out of the way. This was followed by one of the most famous spots in WrestleMania history, as Undertaker went for the Suicide Dive but HBK moved the Cameraman in the way. The spot did not go as planned. The Cameraman (Sim Snuka) was too far away to properly break Taker's fall. Instead, Taker almost landed head first on the protective mats at ringside. As Taker remained on the floor, HBK revived the referee to start the 10 count. Undertaker got back in at 9 to continue the match. As things continued, they both went for their finishing moves. Undertaker hit The Last Ride and The Chokeslam, and HBK nailed The Deadman with Sweet Chin Music twice. The Undertaker even executed The Tombstone Piledriver, but Shawn miraculously kicked out at two. The look on Taker's face said it all. Jim Ross said that he just witnessed an "out of body" experience when Michaels kicked out of the Tombstone. The Undertaker was frustrated, because he witnessed his toughest challenge at that point. Finally, HBK would fly off the top rope for a Moonsault, only for The Phenom to catch him for another Tombstone Piledriver for the win.This match deserved to close out WrestleMania because of the way that it overshadowed the matches that followed it. Shawn Michaels and Undertaker have both gone on record to say that this was the closest that they ever got to wrestling a perfect match. After the match, they just looked at each other and smiled. When you execute a match of that magnitude, nothing else needs to be said. This was Voted Match of the Year by Pro Wrestling Illustrated, and Wrestling Observer. It also received a Slammy Award. Simply put, Greatest Match in the History of Professional Wrestling.

100 Greatest Matches Part 4 (40-21)

40. Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. The Rock (WrestleMania XIX)
39. Daniel Bryan vs. Randy Orton vs. Batista (WrestleMania XXX)
38. The Shield vs Evolution (Payback 2014)
37. Eddie Guerrero vs Rey Mysterio (Halloween Havoc 1997)
36. Brock Lesnar vs. Undertaker (No Mercy 2002)
35. Ultimate Warrior vs Hulk Hogan (WrestleMania VI)
34. The Rock vs Hulk Hogan (WrestleMania X-8)
33. Brock Lesnar vs Kurt Angle (WrestleMania XIX)
32. Edge vs John Cena (Unforgiven 2006)
31. Randy Savage vs Ric Flair (WrestleMania VIII)
30. Sting vs Ric Flair (Clash of the Champions I)
29. Chris Jericho vs Chris Benoit (Royal Rumble 2001)
28. Eddie Guerrero vs Brock Lesnar (No Way Out 2004)
27. John Cena vs. Shawn Michaels (RAW 4/23/2007)
26. 1992 Royal Rumble Match
25. Chris Jericho vs. Shawn Michaels (No Mercy 2008)
24. Kevin Owens vs. John Cena (Elimination Chamber)
23. Undertaker vs. Triple H (WrestleMania XXVIII)
22. Edge vs. Undertaker (Summerslam 2008)
21. Bret Hart vs. Owen Hart (WrestleMania X)



40. Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. The Rock (WrestleMania XIX)
This match was the Final Showdown between the Sheriffs of the Attitude Era. They were both very popular but for different reasons. Rock was entertaining and flashy, while Stone Cold was straightforward and no-nonsense. Going into this match, Steve's body was wearing down. The night before, Austin was rushed to the Hospital because he was at the near point of a Heart Attack. Still, Austin fought on to give the very best that he could in this farewell. By this point, The Rock himself was no longer a regular WWE Superstar, as he had a deeper commitment to Hollywood. When you watch a match, you don't want to believe that this is the end for either competitor, especially since these two defined their Era unlike anybody else besides Hulk Hogan himself. So this match in and of itself was truly special, especially in front of such an incredible crowd in Seattle. There were points where the crowd was divided in who to cheer for. The Rock made it so easy to dislike him, but still like him at the same time even as a heel. There was even a point in the match where The Rock put on Stone Cold's vest to mock him and give him a Stunner. The action itself built upon what they had previously done, especially from WrestleMania X-7. The Rock finally conquers his biggest challenge by defeating Stone Cold with Three Rock Bottoms. The count was slow and marked a sad ending. It was a bittersweet moment, because of how their feud shaped the Industry and Pop Culture.

39. Daniel Bryan vs. Randy Orton vs. Batista (Triple Threat Match for WWE World Heavyweight Title: WrestleMania XXX)
In the opening match, Daniel Bryan overcame Triple H to make the next step toward his dream of wrestling for the WWE Title in WrestleMania. Bryan was deep into his feud with The Authority at this point and was the Beloved Hero of the Anti-Corporate IWC fans. Daniel was needed to help save this match from being a stinker. Dave Batista returned to win the Royal Rumble as he was met with a sea full of Boos from the fans. The fans booed not just because Dave won, but especially because Bryan was not even added to the Rumble Match itself. A simple Batista vs. Randy Orton match would have bombed as the Main Event, especially for the 30th Anniversary of WrestleMania. Daniel was the spark that this match needed. Bryan scratched and clawed in true Underdog fashion. There was even a point in this match where Batista and RKO teamed up to give Daniel a Batista Bomb into an RKO through the announce table. Still, Daniel fought with every ounce of energy in him. In the end, Daniel Bryan realized his dream of becoming WWE Champion as he made DC Dave tap out to the "Yes" Lock. As Bryan celebrated, confetti came down to close the show. This match was WWE's way of rewriting history because it was an obvious recreation of the Triple Threat Match from WrestleMania XX (Chris Benoit vs. Shawn Michaels vs. Triple H). Bryan was obviously Benoit, Batista was Triple H and Orton was HBK. It was still the best way to end an Epic 30th Anniversary of The Grandest Show of them All.

38. The Shield vs. Evolution (Payback 2014)
By the Spring of 2014, the Shield broke away from the Authority and established themselves as Vigilantes. However, The Authority would not go down quietly as Triple H reformed Evolution with Randy Orton and Batista. After WrestleMania, Evolution assaulted The Hounds of Justice and mocked them by putting their fists together like the Popular Trio. This would lead to a Six Man Tag Match at Extreme Rules where The Shield would pull the surprise win. However, the Three Future Hall of Famers would assemble for a rematch at Payback. This time, it would be an Elimination Tag Match. At the start of the match, Seth Rollins fights Triple H, Dean Ambrose fights Orton and Roman Reigns fights Batista. The teams would get in the ring for a short time before the brawl spills throughout the arena. Orton attacks Ambrose while Triple H hits Rollins with a TV Monitor. Evolution rips a page out of the Shield's book by performing the Triple Powerbomb on Reigns through the broadcast table. The match would become even more brutal when Batista hit Roman with a Spinebuster as a setup for Evolution to beat Reigns with kendo sticks as he was restrained on the steel steps. Roman would make a comeback as he hit Orton with a Superman Punch, but Triple H answers back by hitting him with a chair. The fight would go to the entrance way, where Rollins leaped off of the Titantron onto Evolution. Reigns would finish up Batista with a Spear, giving Seth Rollins room to eliminate The Animal. Ambrose eliminated Orton with Dirty Deeds on the chair. Triple H was eliminated after he attempted a Pedigree on Roman, but Seth hit him with a Flying High Knee, followed by a Spear from Reigns. The Shield cleaned house as they defeated three World Champions in dominant and convincing fashion. However, this would be the farewell for The Shield as they would break up the next night on RAW thanks to Seth Rollins. 



37.  Eddie Guerrero vs. Rey Mysterio (Mask vs. Title Match for the WCW Cruiserweight Championship: WCW Halloween Havoc 1997)
Rey Mysterio is widely considered to be the Greatest Luchadore of all-time, and the things that he did in his prime are great reasons why. Eddie Guerrero put his Cruiserweight Title on the line for the chance to unmask Mysterio. Rey fought not only to become Cruiserweight Champ, but also for the honor of his mask, as a mask was a symbol of respect in Mexico. The action was incredible and can go down as the Greatest Cruiserweight Match of all-time. It was the Best WCW Match of 1997 as Eddie and Rey were human highlight reels (Dominique Wilkins reference). Eddie and Rey electrified the fans that night and told a great story of Rey fighting for his honor to defeat Eddie to not only win the Title, but to keep his mask. This match had an unbridled passion. 



36. Brock Lesnar vs. The Undertaker (Hell In A Cell for the WWE Championship: No Mercy 2002)
From the time that Brock Lesnar made his debut the night after WrestleMania X-8, he was an Unstoppable Force. Throughout the year, Brock cleaned house and destroyed Legends. From Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, to The Rock, Brock was destroying Legends well before Randall Keith Orton ever called himself the "Legend Killer". However, his next Big test would come at the hands of The Undertaker. After wresting to a no contest at Unforgiven, Smackdown GM Stephanie McMahon ordered Lesnar vs. Undertaker to be a rematch at No Mercy inside of the match that Taker made famous, Hell In A Cell. The match was a bloodbath. First, Undertaker hit Brock with his cast, causing him to bleed. Lesnar would target Taker's injured hand, but the Deadman fought back. After a distraction from Paul Heyman, Undertaker grabbed Heyman by his tie and pulled him into the cell wall, causing him to bleed as well. Lesnar continued to focus on Undertaker's cast, until he was finally able to get it removed. After giving Taker a DDT, Brock went to the outside of the ring. When Undertaker attempted a Suicide Dive, Brock moved out of the way as UT hit the cell wall. Lesnar would then hit Undertaker with the steel steps, causing him to bleed profusely. Lesnar performed the Spinebuster for a near fall. As Undertaker went Old School, Lesnar countered. Undertaker Chokeslammed Brock for a near fall. Brock tried to mock Undertaker with the Last Ride, but it was countered into a Back Body Drop. As UT went for the Last Ride, Brock sent him into the turnbuckle. Brock would then start to Mount Punches, but Taker turned that into a Last Ride. However, Brock put his hand on the rope. The match would come to a close when Undertaker went for the Tombstone Piledriver. Brock would counter it and drill him with the F-5 to retain the WWE Championship. In the end, Brock proved that he could conquer in any environment, as he defeated Undertaker in convincing fashion. This is the most blood that I have ever seen Undertaker shed. This match is not for those with a sensitive stomach.
35. Hulk Hogan vs. Ultimate Warrior (WWF Championship vs. Intercontinental Championship: WrestleMania VI)
This was "The Ultimate Challenge". Through the mid to late 80's, Hulk Hogan ruled the Wrestling Kingdom with a transcendent reign as WWF Champion that lasted 4 years ('84-'88). Hogan would then reclaim the Title at WrestleMania V when he defeated Macho Man Randy Savage, where he would hold the belt for another year. However, the dawn of the 90's would soon see a shift in Hulk's popularity. On the horizon, there was a younger, more dynamic challenger named The Ultimate Warrior. He had a great physique like Hogan, but slightly more ripped. Warrior had more colors in his ring attire, especially with the face paint. By 1989-90, Ultimate Warrior had rivaled Hogan in popularity. You can even argue that he was more popular than Hogan at that time. Warrior's momentum was like a fireball at that time. With Warrior being seen as the natural successor to the Hulkster, it was only a matter of time before their paths crossed. The fans were divided, because this was the first time two babyfaces would wrestle each other at WrestleMania. On April 1, 1990, the Stars aligned for these two Super Human Wrestlers to battle. In an Epic Clash on The Grandest Stage of them All, Hulk Hogan defended his WWF Championship while Ultimate Warrior defended his Intercontinental Title. This match was truly what I consider the "Test of Strength" Match. It told a classic story as Hogan and Warrior left everything they had in the ring. The Warrior would prevail in what was a pivotal match in his Career as he defeated Hogan to unify the WWF Title and IC Title, becoming the first wrestler to ever do so. This was the proverbial passing of the torch once again. 

34. The Rock vs. Hulk Hogan (WrestleMania X-8)
WrestleMania X-8 took place at the Skydome in Toronto, Ontario Canada, the same place where Hulk Hogan clashed with The Ultimate Warrior 12 years earlier for the "Ultimate Challenge". However, Hogan was a heel at this point as he was "Hollywood" Hulk Hogan leading the NWO. The Rock was at the top of his game, headlining his fourth straight WrestleMania. When it comes to the fans in Toronto, they still supported Hogan even though he was the villain, because they remembered the impact that he left on them during his prime. Fans in Canada will still cheer someone even when they are a heel. It worked for Bret Hart, it worked for Edge and it even worked for Hogan. Much like the match with Warrior, Hogan would be in the position to pass the torch. This time, it was "Icon vs. Icon". Hulk was the Icon of the The Golden Era of the 80's, while The Rock was the Icon from the Attitude Era. The fans welcomed Hulk to a hero's welcome, because they believed that he could find his way back after falling to the vices of "Hollywood". They still saw the good in Hogan the same way that Luke Skywalker saw the good in Darth Vader in Return of the Jedi. Meanwhile, The Rock was met with boos when he walked to the ring. Still, The People's Champ electrified the Millions AND Millions of fans around the world, including the record-breaking 68,237 fans in the Skydome as he went toe to toe with the beloved Sports-Entertainment Legend. This match was so historic and epic that it made the Undisputed Championship Match an Afterthought. Rock and Hogan had the crowd right in their hands. The Young Lion defeated the Older Lion as The Great One defeated The Hulkster. After the match, the NWO attacked Hogan, but The Rock returned to the ring to clean house. This was the moment where Hogan regained his confidence and his place as the WrestleMania Immortal that he was meant to be.



33. Brock Lesnar vs. Kurt Angle (WWE Championship: WrestleMania XIX)
The matchup of Brock Lesnar vs. Kurt Angle was a result of perfect casting. Both have backgrounds as accomplished amateur wrestlers. However, Brock Lesnar's greatest strength was his power and athleticism. Meanwhile, Kurt Angle's greatest strength was his technical wrestling prowess and speed advantage. Angle knew that he could not overpower the Beast, so he made sure that he could outsmart him with his technique and submission advantage. The match started with mat wrestling. However, Brock poured out his pure strength to wear down the Olympic Gold Legend. This was a match that would prove to be the best Title Match of the night and the defining match of their rivalry. In a match that saw The Rock vs. Austin III, and Shawn Michaels vs. Chris Jericho, Brock Lesnar vs. Kurt Angle was a match that managed to not only stand out, but was even better than those matches themselves. That speaks volumes of not only the PPV itself, but of the match quality that Kurt and Brock delivered. The match was almost doomed when Lesnar botched a Shooting Star Press that he would never live down. However, The Beast recovered to defeat Angle with an F-5 to become the new WWE Champion.


32. Edge vs. John Cena (TLC Match for the WWE Championship: Unforgiven 2006)
The stakes for this match were very high. By this point, John Cena and Edge were at the peak of their rivalry. Since Edge was the WWE Champion, he was able to choose the match stipulation. Not only was Unforgiven in his hometown of Toronto, Canada, but the match would also be a match that Edge made Legendary: Tables, Ladders and Chairs. If Cena lost, he would have to leave RAW. Even with the odds stacked against him, The Captain of CENAtion found a way to pull off one of his greatest upsets of his career in front of a crowd that chanted "Cena Sucks" throughout the match. Edge is a Legend in Toronto, regardless of the fact that he was a heel at the time. Canada has always been Bizzaro World in Wrestling (look at Bret Hart in 1997). Edge showed why he was the King of the TLC Matches with the way that he operated on Cena during this match. However, John managed to raise his game even in an environment that he was not very familiar with. The Exclamation Point came when Cena gave Edge the Attitude Adjustment off of the top of the Ladder through two stacked tables. Cena would then grab the WWE Title and reclaim his place on the throne of the WWE.


31. "Macho Man" Randy Savage vs. Ric Flair (WWF Championship: WrestleMania VIII)
Naturally, Randy Savage vs. Ric Flair was destined to be a great match on paper because of their reputations as great workers in the ring. However, this match would take a dramatic turn as Flair claimed that he had a previous relationship with Miss Elizabeth before she met Savage. The Nature Boy and Mr. Perfect went so far as to provide altered photos to WWE Magazine long before Photoshop and TMZ were even thought of. Flair's gameplan was to get Savage distracted so much to the point that he would lose focus and get to disqualified and fail to win the WWF Championship. "Macho Man" lived up to his name as a savage by beating and bloodying Flair on his way to reclaim the WWF Title. 
30. Sting vs. Ric Flair (NWA Championship: Clash of the Champions I)
At the very first Clash of the Champions, Ric Flair was out to teach Sting a lesson. Sting was a maverick with bleach blonde hair and face paint that was rising in popularity (Sounds familiar right? Ex: Ultimate Warrior). In what would be the first match between two of WCW's cornerstones, Ric Flair brought the very best out of Sting. The Stinger was on fire in this match as he and the Nature Boy wrestled to a Draw. This is considered Sting's breakout match, as this is what truly put him on the map.

29. Chris Jericho vs. Chris Benoit (WWF Intercontinental Championship Ladder Match: Royal Rumble 2001)
Chris Benoit and Chris Jericho would be forever linked to each other as their rivalry started as far back as their time in Japan. However, their feud reached a new level in the WWF, especially over the Intercontinental Championship. For much of their feud, Benoit had gotten the better of Y2J. The ultimate way to settle this was in a Ladder Match for the IC Title. This match had a different twist compared to previous Ladder Matches. Instead of using the Ladder for huge spots like Shawn vs. Razor, Y2J and Benoit wanted to wear each other down before climbing the Ladder. There were high spots in between, like Jericho's missile dropkick as Benoit held the Ladder. The highlight of this match was when Jericho gave Benoit the Walls of Jericho on the Ladder. Y2J would recapture the Intercontinental Championship in arguably the match of the night besides the Rumble itself.


28. Eddie Guerrero vs. Brock Lesnar (WWE Championship: No Way Out 2004)
At this stage of his Career, Eddie Guerrero was on a comeback as he was overcoming his personal demons. After winning the US and Tag Titles, there was one prize that was greater than them all, the WWE Championship. The biggest obstacle in Eddie's way was The Beast himself and the Current Mayor of Suplex City, Brock Lesnar. No matter how much Lesnar threw his past in his face, Eddie was determined to reach his destiny. People talk about Daniel Bryan, but this was the Ultimate Underdog story. This match defined the Underdog story of wrestling. It had great passion and dramatic storytelling, along with desire and determination. That pretty much explains Eddie Guerrero. Wrestling is also about dragons and dragon slayers. Brock Lesnar was the Dragon and Eddie Guerrero was ready to slay the Dragon. Brock was already physically superior, as he was bigger, stronger, meaner, younger and tougher than Eddie. For a man his size, Lesnar was no slouch in speed either. Brock was an absolute monster in this match, as he rag dolled Eddie from left to right with suplexes, while also nearly squeezing the life out of him with holds to wear him out. Still, Eddie's will would not let him give up. It became a battle of wills, Brock's will versus Eddie's will. Eddie picks his spots by targeting Brock's legs, but Lesnar would not give in. Suddenly, things take a turn when Brock goes for the F-5, but Eddie's feet knock the referee down. With the ref out, Goldberg interferes and Spears Lesnar like he did earlier. Even with Goldberg's Spear, Eddie still has to fight this monster on his own. Brock goes for another F-5, but Eddie counters it into a Tornado DDT on the Title before flying through the air with the Frog Splash for the three count. Eddie Guerrero conquered his demons by slaying the Monster known as Brock Lesnar to claim the WWE Championship. The greatest tribulations immediately precede the greatest triumphs and this match was the perfect example. This is the most significant match of Eddie Guerrero's Career.

27. John Cena vs. Shawn Michaels (RAW, April 23, 2007)
After a great WWE Championship Match at WrestleMania 23, Shawn Michaels wanted to prove to John Cena, the World and especially himself that he could beat Cena. However, this was not for the WWE Championship. Instead, it was to ease Shawn's piece of mind. Cena and Michaels put together a 5-Star Classic live on Monday Night RAW in front of the London crowd. The detail and psychology in this match were top notch, as they were going into the Fatal Four Way Match at Backlash that included Edge and Randy Orton. This match exceeded their Mania Match, which says something. This match went the distance as it went nearly 60 minutes, as you can tell by the way that they wore each other down. With the last ounce of energy, HBK pulls out the win with a last ditch Sweet Chin Music to put Cena down for the three count.


26. 1992 Royal Rumble Match for the WWF Championship
The 1992 Royal Rumble had the Perfect Ingredients to be the Ultimate Rumble, and it was. With WCW Transplants like Ric Flair and Sid Justice mixed with WWF Mainstays like Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage, Roddy Piper and emerging stars like The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels. To add to the excitement, the vacated WWF Championship was on the line for the first time (the second time was 2016). Ric Flair was the most despised wrestler in the match as he proclaimed to be the "Real World's Champion". Flair proved himself and begrudgingly earned the respect of the fans by entering at No. 3, and surviving the 30-Man Rumble. Ric was part of the Final Four, along with Savage, Sid and Hogan. As Hogan was eliminated, the fans cheered. Meanwhile, the Final Elimination came when Flair dumped Sid over the top rope to become the new WWF Champion.




25. Chris Jericho vs. Shawn Michaels (World Heavyweight Championship: No Mercy 2008)
By 2008, Chris Jericho was white hot as a heel. He completely transformed himself, from a character standpoint to an image standpoint as well. At this point, he also reignited his feud with Shawn Michaels. Going into No Mercy, Jericho was the World Heavyweight Champion, and HBK challenged him to a match that both of them are famous for, a Ladder Match. By this point in their careers, they changed their approach to a Ladder Match. Shawn was in his 40's, and Chris was knocking on the door. Instead of the Classic Crash and Burn HBK Formula, this Ladder Match was all about psychology and methodology. Y2J and HBK paced themselves very well while telling the story that needed to be told. This match was the high point of their entire feud. The match was hard hitting, but still methodical at the same time. In the end, Y2J and HBK were hanging onto the WHC. However, Jericho was able to literally swing the match in his favor as he gave Michaels a headbutt to knock him off. Y2J would pull the title down to remain the World Heavyweight Champion. At that time, Chris Jericho truly was The Best In The World at What He Did. This perfectly sums up Chris Jericho's character: No Games, and just Ruthless.

24. Kevin Owens vs. John Cena (Champion vs. Champion: Elimination Chamber 2015)
After winning the United States Championship, John Cena proudly issued challenges to whoever was willing to accept. Cena took on all comers. However, Cena's US Title Invitational was put on hold thanks to Ring Of Honor Transplant, Kevin Owens (formerly Kevin Steen). Kevin was the reigning NXT Champion when he joined the Main Roster. Owens called out Cena and wanted to prove that he could beat him. Another Indie Legend Challenging the Prototypical Company Star John Cena to make a name for themselves. Their first encounter would take place at the Elimination Chamber in a Champion vs. Champion match with no title on the line. During the match, Cena attempted the Attitude Adjustment, but Owens countered for a Pop-Up Powerbomb for a near fall. KO would mock Cena saying "You Can't See Me" but Cena applied the STFU, which Owens escaped from. Kevin Owens ripped a page straight out of Cena's book as he gave Cena his own Finisher, The Attitude Adjustment. However, Cena would kick out at two so that he would avoid the embarrassment of losing from his own Finishing Maneuver. Cena gave Owens a Clothesline, but when he missed another one, KO executed his second Pop-Up Powerbomb for the win. This was a huge feather in the cap for Kevin Owens, as he proved that he could not only hang with the best, but beat the best. They had two other great matches, but this stands out the most because of how unique it was to see Owens win.

23. Undertaker vs. Triple H ("End of An Era" Hell In A Cell w/Shawn Michaels as Special Referee: WrestleMania XXVIII)
After a barbaric match at WrestleMania XXVII, The Undertaker and Triple H would decide to have a rematch. Taker did not want things to end like they did at WM 27 where he had to be carted out of the ring. The Game wanted another shot at The Deadman's Streak. Another twist was created when Shawn Michaels was named the Special Guest Referee. This match was declared the "End of An Era". This was The Cerebral Assassin's third attempt to break Undertaker's Streak. This War is ranked among the most emotionally intense matches of all-time. Hell In A Cell was the perfect battleground to hold the chaos and carnage that they would inflict on each other at WrestleMania. The Game used everything he could to put Taker down, from steel chairs, ring steps and multiple Pedigrees. HBK even gave Taker Sweet Chin Music to lead into one of Hunter's Pedigrees. However, the Deadman would not give up. Undertaker was not as worn down as he was the previous WrestleMania, because this match was his element. The Phenom would ultimately put Triple H away with The Tombstone Piledriver as a teary eyed Shawn Michaels made the three count, extending The Streak to a Perfect 20-0. The ending was great as all three Icons embraced each other at the ramp as they would leave together.

22. Undertaker vs. Edge (Hell In A Cell: Summerslam 2008)
Throughout 2008, The Undertaker and Edge had a rivalry that carried the Smackdown Brand. It was a Signature feud for both of their storied careers. For much of the year, Edge and Taker exchanged the World Heavyweight Title. However, The Ultimate Opportunist constantly had allies in his corner. From Vickie Guerrero, to Zack Ryder and Curt Hawkins. The Rated R Superstar got the upper hand with his win over the Deadman at One Night Stand in his specialty of Tables, Ladders and Chairs (TLC). The Ultimate Way to end their feud was inside The Phenom's Lair of Hell In A Cell at Summerslam. Undertaker was reinstated by Vickie after she caught Edge cheating. So, this was retribution both for her and Taker. With that aside, this was the last Great HIAC Match that WWE would have in a long time. Brock vs. Undertaker was great, but not like this. Early in the match, Edge and Taker both used Steel Stairs. Edge would then introduce his favorite weapons of choice: Tables, Ladders and Chairs. Edge put Taker through the table with a Chair assisted Elbow Drop. Undertaker would have the upper hand until Edge speared him through a cell panel, causing both of them to fall outside near the announce tables. Edge would give Undertaker another Spear through the broadcast table. When they went back into the ring, Edge gave Taker a third Spear, but only for a near fall. As Edge attempted Old School, Undertaker countered and gave him a Chokeslam through the two tables that were set up at ringside. The Phenom finished the match off by giving Edge a taste of his own medicine with a Spear and Con-Chair-To before drilling him with the Tombstone Piledriver for the win. After the match, Undertaker would leave the ring, but returned when he saw Edge moving on the Titantron. To finish him off, The Deadman returned to give him a Chokeslam off the top of the Ladder and through the center of the ring. That was the finale of the Undertaker vs. Edge feud.


21. Bret Hart vs. Owen Hart (WrestleMania X)
The Classic tale of sibling rivalry. Big Brother vs. Little Brother. Going into WrestleMania, Bret Hart had two thorns in his side. One was the nearly 600 lb WWF Champion Yokozuna (Massive Thorn). On the other hand, Bret had to deal with his younger brother Owen. Bret did not want to fight his brother. Meanwhile, Owen wanted to prove himself by stepping out of his older brother's shadow to make his own name. The seeds were planted at Survivor Series 1993 when there was friction among them during their match against Shawn Michaels and his team. Things got even worse at the 1994 Royal Rumble when Owen kicked Bret in his injured leg after their tag match. The stage was set for WM X. This is the greatest opening match not just in WrestleMania History, but in WWE History overall. Coming from the Hart Family, the expectations were very high and they delivered. Naturally, they were already two of the best in-ring performers outside of HBK. It was a great technical exhibit. However, in true underdog fashion, Owen pulls out the upset over his Older Brother. Jerry Lawler said it best "Owen didn't step out of Bret's shadow, he jumped out it.".








100 Greatest Matches Part 3 (60-41)

60. Roman Reigns vs AJ Styles (Extreme Rules 2016)
59. Macho Man Randy Savage vs Hulk Hogan (WrestleMania V)
58. The Hart Foundation vs Stone Cold, Ken Shamrock, Goldust & LOD (In Your House: Canadian Stampede 1997)
57. The Rock vs Triple H (Backlash 2000)
56. Brock Lesnar vs Undertaker (WrestleMania XXX)
55. CM Punk vs Undertaker (WrestleMania XXIX)
54. Bret Hart vs. Owen Hart (Summerslam 1994)
53. John Cena vs. Daniel Bryan (Summerslam 2013)
52. Ric Flair vs Vader (Starrcade 1993)
51. Undertaker vs. Batista (WrestleMania 23)
50. Edge vs Undertaker (WrestleMania XXIV)
49. The Rock vs. John Cena (WrestleMania XXVIII)
48. Shawn Michaels vs Chris Jericho (WrestleMania XIX)
47. Shawn Michaels vs Triple H (Summerslam 2002)
46. Sami Zayn vs Shinsuke Nakamura (NXT Takeover: Dallas)
45. Bret Hart vs. Mr. Perfect (Summerslam 1991)
44.  Shawn Michaels vs Mankind (Mind Games)
43. Elimination Chamber 2002
42. Triple H vs Undertaker (WrestleMania XXVII)
41. "Stone Cold" Steve Austin vs. Shawn Michaels (WrestleMania XIV)

60. Roman Reigns vs. AJ Styles (WWE Championship: Extreme Rules 2016)
For all of the Roman Reigns skeptics, this was something that at least gave them a slight change of mind about what Roman could do in the ring especially when his opponent is a beloved star like AJ Styles. Following their match at Payback that had controversial finishes, this match exceeded their previous encounter. Styles and Reigns went through the crowd and back during this match. They hit each other with multiple finishers and still kicked out of each of them. AJ Styles proved why he is so respected and world renowned as he brought the best out of Vince's latest Samoan Centerpiece. Roman is already a natural athlete, which helped him even more when he was able to pull his own weight in this match. Reigns even turned a Razor's Edge into a sit-out Powerbomb. Roman even grabbed AJ like he was going to give him a Powerbomb and slammed him against the Apron. In the end, Reigns finished this great battle with the Superman Punch and Spear for the win. 

59. "Macho Man" Randy Savage vs. Hulk Hogan (WWF Championship: WrestleMania V)
This was where the "Mega Powers" Exploded! For over a year, Randy Savage and Hulk Hogan were riding high as the "MegaPowers" during Savage's most lucrative run as WWF Champion. However, jealousy over Miss Elizabeth and the WWF Title would drive them apart. This was like Thor vs. Loki. Hogan was Thor and Savage was Loki. The match started with both Hogan and Savage looking for a Psychological Advantage. Savage would start the match with a headlock. After two failed headlocks by Savage, Hogan would chase him around the ring before Randy grabbed Liz to shield himself. Back in the ring, Hogan went for a headlock before it was countered into a backdrop suplex. Hulk decked him with a series of punches, but Randy came back with a Double Axe Handle for a two count. Hogan rams him into the turnbuckle a few times, hitting him with a clothesline and an elbow. The sequencing was well done, including a Clothesline by Macho Man that gave The Hulkster a slight cut above his eye. The match seemed to be at Savage's pace until he slapped Hogan in the face. Hulk woke up. Hogan hit him with a combination of punches along with a hard clothesline as well as a throw over the top rope. Elizabeth tried to tend to Savage, but he told her to leave. Hogan tried to ram Savage into the ring post, but she got into the way. Savage slipped out and shoved Hogan. Liz checked on Hogan, but Savage told her to leave again. Finally, the Ref himself sent Liz back to the Locker room. Savage went to the top to hit Hogan with his Double Axe Handle on the guardrail. Hogan's throat hit the rail. When they get back into the ring, Macho Man performs good ring psychology by focusing on Hogan's neck to weaken him for the Elbow Drop. Macho Man finally hits the Flying Elbow Drop. However, Hogan throws him off at two to "Hulk Up". The Hulkster would hit Macho Man with the Big Boot and the Leg Drop to win the WWF Title in Classic "Super Hogan" Fashion.
58. The Hart Foundation vs. Stone Cold, Ken Shamrock, Goldust and LOD (In Your House: Canadian Stampede 1997)
In 1997, Bret Hart reformed The Hart Foundation. This time, he added his Brother Owen, Brother In-Law Davey Boy Smith and Friend of the Family/Dungeon Student Brian Pillman. Here in the States, Bret and the Hart Foundation were Heavily Despised as Bret insulted Americans in a very condescending way. Meanwhile, Bret was the Hero in Canada anytime WWF traveled in that area. At this time, Bret was involved in a heated feud with "Stone Cold" Steve Austin as they tore the House Down with their Submission Match at WrestleMania 13. In the Summer of '97, Austin teamed with The Legion Of Doom, Ken Shamrock and Goldust to go to War with the Hart Foundation at Canadian Stampede. This match was the Prime Example of how Bret Hart is treated like a Superhero in Canada. Meanwhile, Austin & Co. were clearly in Enemy Territory. Bret is to Canada what Michael Jordan is to Chicago, and what arguably Austin himself is in Texas. The Hitman carried Canada on his back and his sect of support was very strong. This was one of the greatest 5-on-5 Elimination Matches you will ever find. The Harts were heelish, but the crowd cheered EVERYTHING that they did. The crowd is what ultimately made the match as The Hart Foundation triumphed over their American Adversaries.

57. The Rock vs. Triple H (WWF Championship: Backlash 2000)
This can be argued as the finest match of the Saga between The Rock and Triple H. This match had great storytelling as it illustrated the animosity between The People's Champion and The Game. To add fuel to the fire, Shane McMahon was named the Special Guest Referee. The match took place in Washington, DC (my hometown) as I was there live to witness this match. It was very exciting and intense. The highlights of this match were The Rock giving Triple H and Shane The Rock Bottom together through the announce table, along with Stone Cold's interference as he knocked out everyone that got in his way. Austin nailed Triple H with the Steel Chair to help The Rock win the WWF Championship. This was the very match that should've happened at WrestleMania 2000.

56. Brock Lesnar vs. The Undertaker (WrestleMania XXX)
This match marked the End of an Era for WWE. For more than 20 Years, The Undertaker ruled WrestleMania as he made it his Graveyard going Undefeated for 21 Years. Taker's opponents only got better as time went on, and The Streak would soon take on a Life of it's own. Going from Jimmy Snuka, Jake The Snake and Diesel, to Batista, Edge and Shawn Michaels. WrestleMania was Taker's Domain. However, that would all come crashing down at the 30th Anniversary of WrestleMania in New Orleans at the hands of Brock Lesnar. Despite the criticized quality of the match, it was most known for the Iconic Finish. Undertaker fought with resiliency to keep the legacy that he worked hard to built for Two Decades. Brock still would not back down. Things took an even bigger turn when Taker suffered a concussion during the match. After Three F-5's, The Beast conquered The Phenom to do what was deemed Impossible: Break The Streak. It took the Power and Ferociousness of a Younger, hungrier Lion to take down the King of the WrestleMania Jungle. When the Referee made the Final Three Count, the Arena was in Utter silence, including Heyman himself. The Streak was the last Superhero type of thing in wrestling that fans could hold onto. Now, that Chapter has closed.
55. CM Punk vs. The Undertaker (WrestleMania XXIX)
After losing the WWE Title to The Rock, CM Punk set his sights on another prize, The Undertaker's Streak. To add fuel to the fire, Punk and Paul Heyman mocked Paul Bearer's death by carrying the Urn. Punk went even further when he attacked Undertaker and dumped the ashes out of the Urn. Heyman even dressed as Paul Bearer to distract Undertaker. The match at WrestleMania 29 was not only about The Streak, but also about Paul Bearer's Memory. Punk came to the ring with the Band Living Color playing his song "Cult of Personality" Live. Meanwhile, Undertaker came to the ring with hands reaching out to him from "The Grave" as he walked down the aisle. CM Punk's trunks were even gray and purple (Taker's original colors). For much of this match, Undertaker was on the Defensive. Apart from his usual flurry of Offense that include his Leg Drop on the Apron, Undertaker doesn't have as much momentum as he would in previous Streak Matches. Punk's Offense really kicks into high gear after he steals "Old School". Undertaker really starts to show his age, and it is clear because of how Punk is constantly a step ahead of him during this match. Stealing Taker's "Old School" was one of the highlights of this match, before Punk gave Taker the Flying Elbow Drop onto the Spanish Announcer's Table. Things finally culminate and reach the fever pitch when Undertaker breaks out of the Anaconda Vice before closing out with the Tombstone Piledriver for the 1,2,3. This was CM Punk's BEST WrestleMania Match (and last). Meanwhile, this was Undertaker's last high quality match of the Streak, because the following year it would come to an end thanks to Brock Lesnar. 



54. Bret Hart vs. Owen Hart (Steel Cage Match for the WWF Championship: Summerslam 1994)
Throughout 1994, the Wrestling World witnessed the sibling rivalry of Bret Hart vs. Owen Hart. Time and again, Owen was out to prove that he was the superior brother. At WrestleMania X, Owen pulled the ultimate upset when he defeated his older brother Bret in the opening match. However, Bret would win the WWF Title in the final match of the night. Owen won that year's King of the Ring Tournament to become the Number 1 Contender for Bret's WWF Championship at Summerslam. This time, the feud would culminate inside of a Steel Cage. As Owen entered the cage, he immediately attacked Bret. Jerry Lawler cheered him on throughout the match because of his disdain for Bret. However, Bret would gain the advantage with a DDT. After kicking Bret in the head, Owen tried to escape, but Bret would quickly follow as they both tried to climb over the cage several times while stopping each other in the process. This the Environment was a Steel Cage, the match mainly consisted of brawling. When Owen climbed over the cage, Bret dragged him back by pulling his hair. Owen performed a Piledriver, but Bret came back by throwing him into the Cage's bars. As Owen made another attempt to escape, Bret suplexed him from the top of the cage back into the ring. Owen gave Bret the Sharpshooter, but Bret escaped and gave him the same move. The match ended when Bret threw Owen into the cage as Owen's leg got trapped into the bars. After the match, the Hart Family went to blows with each other. Typical Family Feud. 


53. Daniel Bryan vs. John Cena (WWE Championship: Summerslam 2013)
By the Summer of 2013, Ring Of Honor transplant and Internet hero Daniel Bryan was riding high on the momentum of the "Yes" Movement as he made his way into the Staples Center in L.A. for Summerslam. Daniel was Anti-Establishment and and the opposite of what the company wanted. Meanwhile, John Cena embodied everything that WWE stood for which is also what Bryan's fans hated. Despite the fact that Bryan never held the WWE Championship by that point, he still stood confident against the future 15-time World Champion. It was a Clash of ideals, as it was a mirror image of Cena vs. CM Punk. The match itself is hard hitting and at full throttle filled with reversals and counters in between. When Cena's back is against the wall, he can show that he can hang with even the most polished and respected technicians. The crowd fueled Bryan in this match, because it was predominantly filled with "Yes" chants. The match has great move sequences, shades of Bret Hart vs. British Bulldog, or any of Ricky Steamboat's matches. This match is an example of why Wrestling Observer Newsletter renamed their "Best Technical Wrestler Award" the "Daniel Bryan Award". Bryan puts the icing on the cake with a running knee to pin Cena for the three count. However, as Triple H awards Bryan with the Title, Randy Orton enters the ring. The Game surprises everyone with a Pedigree on Bryan, setting up Orton's cash in to recapture the WWE Championship. 

52. Ric Flair vs. Vader (WCW Championship: Starrcade 1993)
In November 1983, Ric Flair was the Young Lion that took the Crown from Harley Race at the very first Starrcade. Fast forward ten years later, Ric is now seen as the older lion that wants to prove that he still had "it". Meanwhile, the Monster that stood in his way was the man called Big Van Vader. For over a year, Vader was the WCW World Champion as he dominated anyone that stood in his way. To add a Wild Card to this situation, Vader's Manager just so happened to be Harley Race himself. In Starrcade 1993, Flair found himself in the same position that Harley was in at that stage of his Career. To raise the stakes even higher, Ric Flair put his Career on the line as he challenged Vader for the WCW Championship. This was the ultimate example of a clash of styles. Initially, Vader dominated Flair in typical Vader fashion, imposing his will while throwing his 450-pound weight around. The older guy (Flair) was getting beat from pillar to post, but still fought for his legacy to show that he still had what it took to be the very best. The psychology and storytelling that this match shows is perfect for the scenario. Vader's punches cause Flair to bleed from the mouth. Vader dominates until the last quarter of the match where Flair makes a comeback. Ric hits Vader repeatedly with stiff shots of his own. Vader managed to escape the Figure Four, but Flair manages to roll Vader up for the win to reclaim the prize he has held many, many times. Flair won back the title in the same place that he won it the night of the first Starrcade, in his hometown of Charlotte, NC. Flair's legacy survived as his Career came around full circle. At 44, Ric showed that he still had it. 



51. Undertaker vs. Batista (World Heavyweight Championship: WrestleMania 23)
On January 27, 2007, The Undertaker made History of his own by winning his First Royal Rumble ever in his Illustrious and Iconic Career. This set the stage for him to be the Number 1 Contender for either the WWE Title (held by John Cena), ECW Title (held by Bobby Lashley) or World Heavyweight Title (held by Batista). The following night on RAW, The Deadman chose to challenge "The Animal" Batista for the WHC at WrestleMania 23 in Detroit. Their match would be part of a Double Main-Event along with Shawn Michaels vs. John Cena for the WWE Championship. In the weeks leading up to their Match at Mania, Batista vowed that he would not be intimidated by The Phenom. Dave wanted to make History of his own by not only retaining his World Heavyweight Title, but also by breaking the Streak. Batista missed the previous WrestleMania because of injury, so he wanted to make the most of this opportunity. Big Dave did not even flinch when Taker made his Entrance. As soon as the Bell sounded, Batista immediately rammed Taker with a Spear. After this, Taker unloads a series of punches in the corner right before he chases the Ref away. This was an absolute brawl between two monsters. Their exchange of blows almost reminded you of two Great Heavyweight Fighters. The Highlights of this match were when Undertaker flies over the Top Rope to the outside for his "Flying Deadman", followed by Batista's Powerslam through the announce table. When they get back in the ring, Batista goes for the pin only for Taker to kick out at two. Batista kicks out of the Last Ride. After Batista hits Undertaker with the spinebuster, he gets ready for the Batista Bomb. However, The Deadman hits him with a Chokeslam for the two count. After two Batista Bombs, The Phenom kicks out at two. A frustrated Batista goes for a Tombstone of his own, which was the biggest mistake that he could make. Undertaker reverses it into his own Tombstone for the win. Undertaker wins the WHC and keeps the Streak alive. 


50. Undertaker vs. Edge (World Heavyweight Championship: WrestleMania XXIV)
By 2007, Edge had already proved that he had what it took to dance in the Main Event. Now, this was his moment to shine on that same Main Event Stage at WrestleMania. He was no longer a supporting cast member, but instead he was in a starring role. To raise the bar even higher, Edge put his World Heavyweight Championship on the line against The Undefeated Phenom at the time, The Undertaker. To make things even bigger, their Entrances were spectacular. The Rated R Superstar put his own Undefeated Streak (5-0) on the line against Taker's Iconic Streak (15-0). They carried the Smackdown Brand and kept it from sinking. Edge already had a breakout WrestleMania singles match against Mick Foley two years earlier, but it was time for him to turn things up even higher on the Grandest Stage of Them All as they say. He did not disappoint at all. Undertaker brought his WrestleMania best as expected. However, Edge showed great psychology by countering whatever Taker threw at him, from Old School to even the Tombstone Piledriver itself. Still, The Deadman would not give up. Edge even hit Taker with a camera, reminiscent of what he did at Survivor Series. He would hit The Phenom with a Spear, but only for a two count. Edge goes for his own Tombstone, but Undertaker reverses it into his own in true Taker fashion. Unfortunately, the Referee is out. As Taker pins Edge, Charles Robinson makes the longest run from Miami to the ring for the count. Instead, Edge obviously kicks out. Edge's stooges, Curt Hawkins and Zack Ryder run down for interference. UT would make short work of taking them out of the equation. The Deadman turns around and walks into a Spear for only a two count. Undertaker goes down from another Spear, but scissors Edge's head and puts him in the Golgoplata (Hell's Gate) to make him Submit. Undertaker extends his winning Streak to 16-0 while winning the World Heavyweight Title at WM for the second year in a row. This was the first WrestleMania Match where Taker ever made someone submit. This match remains a Hidden Gem in Undertaker's Large Catalog of Great Matches, while it is one of the shining moments of Edge's Career because of it's Significance. 


49. The Rock vs. John Cena (Once In A Lifetime Match: WrestleMania XXVIII)
When The Rock made his Grand, Triumphant return to the WWE, one of the first orders of business that he made was to call out John Cena. Rocky was announced as the host of WrestleMania XXVII, where he gave Cena the Rock Bottom to help The Miz retain the WWE Championship. The next night, Rock and Cena booked their Dream Match together for WrestleMania XXVIII. For an entire year, they exchanged a War of Words and Mind Games. Rock and Cena finally clashed at WrestleMania XXVIII in The Rock's Hometown of Miami, FL. Cena stepped into the Dragon's Lair. The People's Champion is a Hometown Icon in Miami and he was right at home. This was a Battle of Two Different Generations. Rock from the Attitude Era, and John Cena from the Modern PG Era. Neither one of them held back. The Match was very well paced, as The Rock did a great job of selling Cena's Offense. John proved to Rock and the world that he belonged in the same ring as The Great One. The Brahma Bull kicked out of Two Attitude Adjustments, while "Super" Cena kicked out of the Rock Bottom AND People's Elbow. In the end, John trolled the fans and showed a heelish side when he went for his own People's Elbow. However, The Rock got up in time to land The Rock Bottom for the three count. This match was named "The Most Anticipated" WrestleMania Match of all-time as it drew nearly 80,000 fans (78,363). Even though this match took place on April Fool's Day, nobody walked away feeling like fools.




48. Shawn Michaels vs. Chris Jericho (WrestleMania XIX)
The Teacher vs. The Student. A Classic Storyline. For years, Chris Jericho was heavily influenced by Shawn Michaels as he patterned his appearance and mannerisms in the ring after HBK. When you look at the quintessential wrestler, Shawn Michaels was considered nearly perfect. Y2J will boldly say that his favorite wrestler and greatest of all-time is HBK. By this time, Jericho was carving his own name in history. He was Undisputed Champion and Multi-time Intercontinental Champion among other achievements. However, he also wanted to jump out of Shawn's shadow. Instead of being the next Shawn Michaels, he wanted to be the first Chris Jericho. Chris was out to prove that he had surpassed Shawn on every level. Meanwhile, HBK had returned and wanted to prove to himself, Y2J and the world that he still had it. Jericho called Michaels the "Has Been Kid" right before Shawn superkicked him to prove otherwise. The action was fast paced and smooth from the start, especially from Shawn Michaels. This match drew shades of Savage vs. Steamboat. This was Shawn's time to put everyone on notice in his WrestleMania return. The Story of this match was that The Student (Jericho) wanted to surpass The Master (Michaels). This was Jericho's WrestleMania highlight match because this was his dream. Chris showed his ring savvy by countering Shawn's moves. Jericho even gave HBK the Walls of Jericho outside of the ring to wear down Shawn's surgically repaired back. This match was filled with kip-ups and Superkicks in a match where Shawn walked away as the winner to show why he was still "Mr. WrestleMania".


47. Shawn Michaels vs. Triple H (Summerslam 2002)
The Battle of Best Friends. Shawn Michaels and Triple H were the Founding Fathers of D-Generation-X. However, everyone knew that Shawn was the Main Guy in charge. In the early years, HBK was Mario and Triple H was Luigi. In Shawn's absence, Hunter made a name for himself and jumped out of the shadow of the Showstopper. When Michaels returned, he and his DX comrade teased a DX reunion. However, Triple H hit him with the Pedigree. Then, Shawn was attacked in a Parking Lot and wanted to know who was behind it. Come to find out, his "Friend" Triple H was behind it. This set the stage for Shawn's official return to the ring at Summerslam. After being on the shelf for 4 years, Shawn Michaels wanted to test himself by going against one of the very best, his former ally Triple H. Once the bell sounded, Shawn Michaels showed no signs of ring rust at all. With the bad blood that they had, a Street Fight was perfect as HBK wore jeans and cowboy boots in this match. Regardless of ring attire, Shawn Michaels was still the same performer. In many ways, he returned better than before. As the underdog throughout this match, Shawn found a way to win. However, their feud was just beginning as Triple H hit him with the Sledgehammer after the match. This was the launching pad for Shawn's Comeback Tour as he would enjoy an extra eight years that were added to his already stellar Career.



46. Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Sami Zayn (NXT Takeover: Dallas)
NXT Takeover: Dallas was certainly a spectacle during WrestleMania Weekend. Fans were looking forward to this more than Mania itself (thanks to injuries), and the match that stood out the most was Sami Zayn versus new NXT Arrival Shinsuke Nakamura. This was Nakamura's first match ever in NXT and he came with plenty of fanfare. Nakamura applies a Cross Armbreaker, but Zayn fought out of the hold. Sami applies the Koji Clutch, but Shinsuke countered into a roll up for a near fall. Nakamura attempted a Kinshasa on Sami but Zayn avoided the move and gave him the Blue Thunder Bomb for the near fall. Near the end, Zayn attempted an Exploder Suplex into the turnbuckles, but Nakamura countered it into a Kinshasa off the middle rope, followed by another Kinshasa for the win. This match had the right combination of high-flying mixed with aggression and physicality. This match sent shockwaves all across WWE on Twitter and was critically acclaimed by outlets such as PW Torch, Wrestling Observer and even IGN. This is a strong candidate for Match of the Year for 2016.


45. Bret Hart vs. Mr. Perfect (WWF Intercontinental Championship: Summerslam 1991)
By the Summer of 1991, Bret Hart was free from the Hart Foundation and ready to fly on his own to reach for the stars as a singles wrestler. With his Classic Hitman Shades, Bret's future was bright as he set his sights on the stepping stone for Greatness: The WWF Intercontinental Championship. For years, Bret had proven himself as an excellent Tag Team Wrestler with great technical gifts, but he was still an unknown commodity by himself. Meanwhile, fellow Second Generation Wrestler Curt Hennig (Mr. Perfect) was the IC Champion. This was Bret's chance to prove to Vince, the higher ups and the fans that he could cut it on his own. Bret proved himself in Madison Square Garden at Summerslam during this match with Perfect with the IC Title on the line. This match is historically considered one of the finest technical wrestling matches ever, because they were both first class ring generals. Mr. Perfect thought that he would retain the title when he put Bret in the Perfect Plex. However, the "Hit Man" surprised everyone when he kicked out of the Perfect Plex. Moments later, Bret locked in the Sharpshooter to capture his first IC Championship. This would open the door for one of the most decorated and prolific careers in WWE History. With this win, Bret opened the door for other wrestlers that wanted to transition from Tag Team success to Singles Success.

44. Shawn Michaels vs. Mankind (WWF Championship: In Your House/Mind Games)
By 1996, Shawn Michaels was the WWF Champion and considered by many to be the Best Wrestler in the Entire World. HBK was firing on all cylinders at this point. Meanwhile, Mankind made a name of his own upon his arrival to the WWF with his feud against The Undertaker. Foley was traditionally known for Hardcore Gimmick Matches, but not known very well for matches that did not involve a weapon. Mick was tested with the challenge to adapt his style and he did very well. When you go toe to toe with Shawn Michaels, you HAVE to make adjustments and Mankind did that accordingly. Meanwhile, this was also a test for HBK to prove that he knew how to brawl with one of the toughest wrestlers in the world. Their chemistry was incredible. This was an action-adventure match leaving you wondering "What If they had a match on a bigger PPV Platform?".

43. Elimination Chamber (World Heavyweight Championship: Survivor Series 2002)
The Shawn Michaels "Comeback Tour" was quickly gaining steam. After defeating Friend/Enemy Triple H at Summerslam, HBK had another opportunity to make history as he would wrestle in the First Ever Elimination Chamber Match at Survivor Series for the World Heavyweight Championship. To make it even more special, Survivor Series was held in Madison Square Garden. Historically, the Garden was the Epicenter for Title changes, as the Championship has changed hands an unprecedented FIVE times. This match would mark the fifth occasion with six Superstars. Those names included: World Champion Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Chris Jericho, 5-time Champion Booker T, RVD and Kane. Each competitor would be released from their pods at different intervals. They brutalized and battered each other as they threw each other through the glass pods and into the bars of the Chamber itself. Finally, it all came down to Shawn Michaels and Triple H, the best friends turned bitter rivals. HBK ended The Game's reign with the Sweet Chin Music to capture his first World Heavyweight Championship (Big Gold Belt). This was a defining moment in the Career of Shawn Michaels, as he celebrated while confetti came down. This was the first time Shawn was World Champion since WM XIV, and it would also be the last World Title that he would hold for the rest of his career.




42. The Undertaker vs. Triple H (WrestleMania XXVII)
After vanquishing "The Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels, The Undertaker would have another powerful opponent to conquer in his Undefeated Streak: Shawn's best friend Triple H. After taking time off, The Deadman would rise again in February of 2011 to meet his next challenger. Soon, Triple H's music would hit as The Game would enter the ring to stand toe to toe with The Phenom. The stage was soon set. In front of 70,000 fans in Atlanta, the two legendary Titans clashed in an Epic Match that was the highlight of the night. The Cerebral Assassin brought the fight to The Deadman. Unlike the matches with HBK, this match was much more physical as you can see the toll that it puts on Taker's body. In the end, The Game became another victim of The Streak. However, Triple H was able to walk out in his own power, while Undertaker had to be carted away. Even in victory, this was a strong reminder that even The Undertaker had to face his own mortality.

41. "Stone Cold" Steve Austin vs. Shawn Michaels (WWF Championship: WrestleMania XIV)
By the start of 1998, "Stone Cold" Steve Austin was on fire. Austin won his second straight Royal Rumble as he tore through the WWF Roster on his quest for the WWF Championship. The year prior, Austin proved himself as a Main Event Star with his Iconic Submission Match with Bret Hart at WrestleMania 13. Even a Career-Threatening Injury could not hold back the Texas Rattlesnake. By this point, "Stone Cold" only had one obstacle left, the WWF Champion himself, "The Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels. HBK was on top of the Wrestling Mountain with his DX Comrades Triple H and Chyna by his side. To add another twist, "Iron" Mike Tyson would join with DX as the "Special Enforcer" for this WWF Title Match. Austin had opposition on every side. Still, this would not stop this one man Army from reaching his lifelong goal. WrestleMania XIV took place at the Fleet Center in Boston, MA. I remember watching this match on PPV at the time as a child in 1998. I was torn between the two, because I was a fan of both of them. Stone Cold and Shawn Michaels are still two of my all-time favorites. Going into this match, HBK had an injured back from his Casket Match with Undertaker. Even with injuries, this match was still spectacular and very significant. Even with his pain, Shawn fought like the Wrestling Soldier that he was. Stone Cold was firing on all cylinders with a laser like focus. The match even went to the Entrance way as Michaels hit Austin with the Instruments. HBK even hit him with the ring bell. Eventually, Triple H and Chyna were banned from ringside. Still, SCSA took no prisoners and it was evident in this match. In the end, Shawn started to tune up the band to put Stone Cold away with Sweet Chin Music. As Shawn launched his foot for the Superkick, Stone Cold moved out of the way to attempt the Stone Cold Stunner. Shawn pushed him off to attempt another Sweet Chin Music. However, Austin caught his foot, turned him around to nail the Stunner as Tyson rushed in the ring for the three count. The Stone Cold Era had officially begun for the WWF and Professional Wrestling itself. The time for Austin 3:16 had finally arrived as Stone Cold was crowned the new WWF Champion. Austin had now dethroned HBK to become Wrestling's Undisputed King.