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Deadpool/Wolverine Trailer

Chronicles of Mania

By: Vaughn Resper, Jr

With WrestleMania in the rear view mirror and after my third Mania this year, it is time for me to give my chronicles of my WrestleMania Adventures:

I. WrestleMania 32:

This is where it all began. My WrestleMania Journey started in 2016 when Mania first went to Dallas. As a Cowboys fan, this has sentimental value because I was finally able to say that I went to Dallas. This was the perfect way to check that box off of my bucket list. For my first appearance at the Show of Shows, I knew I had to come correct. Not only did I pack Cowboys-related gear, but I also wore the shirts of two of WrestleMania’s Greatest Icons, The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels. That year was also when I bought my first belt as I got the white strap Intercontinental Championship, a belt that I was inspired to get because of HBK. Some of the places that I went to included Poppadeaux on Dallas Parkway and Victory Tavern in Downtown Dallas. The Skyline was a sight to behold, and probably the greatest skyline that I have ever seen.

II. WrestleMania 39.

Hollywood Mania. When I tell you that this felt like a movie, it absolutely did. Those who have told you that it NEVER rains in Southern California were lying to you because it was raining as soon as I arrived at LAX. I caught a red eye on Wednesday, because I wanted to arrive in time for my first ever WaleMania event that Thursday. In spite of the rain that day, I was determined to enjoy my time in Cali. WaleMania is Wale’s Party to kick off WrestleMania Weekend every year, and this time, it was at the NOVO Theater in Downtown Los Angeles. When I saw the lineup, I knew that I had to be in the building. Fast forward to Thursday, and the atmosphere was amazing. I showed up with my Chyna shirt from Wale’s WWE Collection along with my WWF Winged Eagle Title. Side note, California is warm but can get cold as well, so I found myself with a long-sleeved shirt and shorts. That night, I got a chance to reunite with podcasters that I have met before (JobberTears, Black Rasslin’, etc) as well as people that I only met online. I also met the NXT North American Champion at the time, Wes Lee. The coolest part of the night was when I took a picture with the Snoop Dogg Custom WWE Championship Belt. I also got to explore Downtown LA with the Superstore, as well as Restaurants like Fixins and Roscoe’s Chicken & Waffles. The trip wouldn’t be complete without going to the Walk of Fame and seeing the Hollywood Sign. My WrestleMania Weekend concluded as I witnessed The Tribal Chief Roman Reigns defeat Cody Rhodes to retain the WWE Universal Championship.

III. WrestleMania XL

The City of Brotherly Love. This was the CLOSEST WrestleMania I have ever been to. When it was announced that WrestleMania would be in Philadelphia, I could NOT turn down the opportunity. This trip was very well worth it as well. After getting off from work, I made my trip through the Jersey turnpike to check into my Hotel. From there, I proceeded to go to WaleMania at Franklin City Music Hall. I enjoyed myself and met some great people as well as reunite with people I networked with before who have been on my Podcast. On Friday, I went to the Superstore and Fan Axxess, as well as go to The Ringer’s Meet and Greet with Dinner later that night. For Saturday, I went to my first NXT Stand and Deliver where Trick Williams defeated Carmelo Hayes. Later that night after lunch, I went to Night 1 of WrestleMania. The highlights of Night 1 were Rhea Ripley defeating Becky Lynch, The Big 3 of Bianca, Jade, and Naomi, and The Rock & Roman Reigns defeating Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins. However, Night 2 was when Cody finished his Story as he defeated The Tribal Chief to become the NEW WWE Universal Champion.

40 Greatest WrestleMania Matches (20-1):

By: Vaughn Resper, Jr

20. Daniel Bryan vs Randy Orton vs Batista (WWE World Heavyweight Championship-WrestleMania XXX):

Five years before #KofiMania and ten years before #WeWantCody, the “Yes! Movement” dominated the Road to WrestleMania. In 2014, Daniel Bryan was red hot as the most popular babyface in WWE, and critically acclaimed as the top technical wrestler in the world. The original plan was simply Batista vs Randy Orton for the WWE Championship. However, the fans made their voices loud and clear that they would not be satisfied until Daniel Bryan was in the main event. The fans even hijacked Monday Night RAW. As a result, WWE had no other choice but to cave in and surrender to the persistence of the fans. The addition of Daniel Bryan single-handedly changed the complexion and dynamic of the match, and it was for the better. After going through Triple H in the first match, Daniel made his way to the main event where he would clash with The Viper and The Animal. Bryan reached the zenith of his career as he made Batista tap out to the Yes Lock to win the Undisputed WWE Championship. The Yes Movement reached a fever pitch as they celebrated with their hero for the 30th Anniversary of the Show of Shows.

19. Undertaker vs Triple H (WrestleMania XXVII):

A legendary clash. In the aftermath of Shawn Michaels’ retirement, The Undertaker was ready to welcome another challenger of his mythic streak. Shawn’s best friend and fellow DX running mate, Triple H steps up to challenge the Deadman and avenge his comrade. Much like how he stepped up to become the leader of DX after Shawn’s first retirement, The Game would become Taker’s next challenger after HBK’s second retirement. As a bonus, this was the same weekend that Mr. WrestleMania went to the Hall of Fame. At WrestleMania XXVII, The Phenom and The Cerebral Assassin had the match of the night as they left it all on the line. Even though The Undertaker started to look even more of a mortal, he found a way to pull out the win by making Triple H tap out.

18. Shawn Michaels vs Chris Jericho (WrestleMania XIX):

Teacher vs Student. A mirror match. Chris Jericho grew up being a fan of and patterning his style after one of the most influential wrestlers we have ever seen, The Heartbreak Kid Shawn Michaels. Jericho modeled himself after Michaels in more ways than one, and a dream match was waiting to happen. By this point, Chris Jericho had earned his merit and established himself as a superstar and future Hall of Famer by winning multiple Intercontinental Titles, and most notably defeating The Rock and Stone Cold on the same night to become The Undisputed WWE Champion. However, that paled in comparison to the opportunity for Jericho to wrestle his idol on the Show of Shows, WrestleMania. By 2003, Shawn Michaels returned as a full-time competitor returning to his first WrestleMania since 1998. When Y2J made his WWF debut in 1999, Michaels was already a year into his first retirement. Fast forward, Chris truly believed that he surpassed his hero. While Shawn was rejuvenated, Jericho was at the top of his game at this point. This was a work of art between two of wrestling’s all-time greats as HBK would win in his Mania return.

17. Bianca Belair vs Sasha Banks (WrestleMania 37):

A cultural milestone. WrestleMania 37 was known for creating history in the Main Event of Night One as we witnessed two black women main-eventing WrestleMania for the first time in history. Bianca Belair and Sasha Banks broke barriers with this match, as they soaked in the impact of the moment that they had created. The match itself was without flaw. This was the passing of the torch, as Bianca stepped up to the plate and rose to the occasion to claim her crown as the new Women’s Champion. The match was great on its own, but the historical impact ranks this even higher.

16. Bianca Belair vs Becky Lynch (WrestleMania 38):

Revenge of the EST. Eight months earlier at Summerslam, Bianca Belair was flying high anticipating her rematch with Sasha Banks from WrestleMania 37. However, plans for that match would soon fall through as Bianca would wait for and anticipate who her next opponent tonight. However, Belair and the rest of the fans would be utterly surprised at who her opponent would be. It would be none other than Becky Lynch herself. Just as they were ready to shake hands, Becky caught her off guard with the Manhandle Slam to become the new Women’s Champion. The anticipation was at an all-time high, as Bianca had earned her stripes to take the crown as a Queen. As we enter Mania, Bianca comes out with her HBCU Marching Band. The match was tremendous overall, as Belair was able to get her revenge on Becky as she would defeat The Man to become the new RAW Women’s Champion. If it wasn’t for Stone Cold vs Kevin Owens, this would’ve been The Main Event.

15. Charlotte Flair vs Rhea Ripley (WrestleMania 39):

The 2023 Match of the Year, as we witnessed Cinema on full display. Charlotte would defeat Rhea at WrestleMania 36 and looked to catch lightning in a bottle twice. Meanwhile, Rhea Ripley would establish herself into much more of a star than ever before. This time, Ripley would establish her own identity and look as well as win the Royal Rumble. Unlike the previous match, Rhea would have an even bigger chip on her shoulder. As soon as Ripley won the Royal Rumble, she wasted no time calling out Charlotte Flair for a title match. Rhea redeemed herself in this match as she would vanquish Charlotte with the Figure Four leglock. Overall, this match was exceptional neither one of them would let their foot off the gas. In the end, Rhea would put away Charlotte with the Riptide to become the new Women’s World Champion.

14. Edge vs Mick Foley (WrestleMania 22):

Mick Foley is known all over the world as a Hardcore Legend. From his days as Cactus Jack in Deathmatches from Japan to Germany to being thrown off the Cell as Mankind at the hands of The Undertaker. Foley was one of the most popular stars of “The Attitude Era”. However, when you look at his WrestleMania track record, Mick did not have many defining Mania moments before Mania 22. He was involved in the abysmal McMahon Fatal Four Way at WM 2000 and teamed up with The Rock vs Evolution at Mania XX. However, those weren’t very noteworthy moments of Foley’s caliber per se. That would soon change when he battled Edge in a Hardcore match to always remember. Even though Mick has largely become a teddy bear, this match brought out his inner Grizzly bear. It was brutal and bloody, and brought the best out of the Hardcore Legend, as we saw many elements of Cactus Jack. This match elevated Edge to be seen as a tough guy if fans didn’t see that already. Being in the ring with Mick would do that for his opponents, from Triple H to The Rock, The Undertaker, Randy Orton, and even Shawn Michaels. Foley’s Mania moment finally came when Edge speared him through a flaming table, solidifying its place as one of the greatest WrestleMania matches of all time.

13. Macho Man vs Ultimate Warrior (WrestleMania VII):

In an epic battle, The Macho Man Randy Savage and Ultimate Warrior both put their careers on the line. Both were colorful, eccentric, and larger-than-life characters. Both were also former World Champions. The match itself was spectacular and very competitive. Macho King was his usual overconfident character, while Warrior tapped into his inner warrior to defeat Savage. The highlight of the match came when Savage hit Warrior with FIVE Elbow Drops. However, Ultimate Warrior reached into the power of the Warriors for the win. The overall story involving Queen Sherri as well as the reunion of Macho Man and Miss Elizabeth was the cherry on top and the exclamation point of a classic. This match CARRIED WrestleMania VII.

12. Undertaker vs Triple H (WrestleMania XXVIII):

The End of an Era. The end of a bygone era between three Icons. It was also the conclusion of a three-year story arc between The Undertaker, Shawn Michaels, and Triple H. After defeating Shawn twice including a retirement match, The Phenom would defeat HBK’s best friend HHH in WM XXVII. Taker would defend his streak against The Game once again, but this time inside of Hell in A Cell. Another element of drama was Shawn Michaels being added as the Special Guest Referee. This match was filled with near falls and false finishes with fans on the edge of their seats. I know I was shook when I saw this at a Watch Party. Things looked bleak when Taker got hit with Sweet Chin Music followed by The Pedigree. However, The Deadman would not stay down as he delivered The Tombstone Piledriver to defeat The Cerebral Assassin for the victory. It was a storybook ending with all three warriors standing together on the ramp.

11. The Rock vs Stone Cold (Part III, WrestleMania XIX):

The final match of the epic Austin and Rock WrestleMania trilogy. Little did anyone know, but this would be Stone Cold’s last match in 19 years before making his return at WrestleMania 38. Meanwhile, The Rock was fully in his element as Hollywood Rock as Austin just made his return to the company after walking out the year prior. These two Icons have always had great chemistry, even with Steve’s back injuries slowing him down even more. Yet, they still found a way to deliver another classic in their story. In the end, The Rock finally got the win to vanquish his arch-nemesis and close this chapter.

10. Bret Hart vs Owen Hart (WrestleMania X):

Brother vs Brother. A story that so many people can relate to. The younger brother wants to jump out of the older brother’s shadow to prove that he can make a name of his own. In the greatest opening match in WrestleMania history, Bret and Owen Hart put on a technical masterpiece that is to be studied for years to come. These two knew each other so well, that they could easily telegraph each other’s moves. Every counter and transition was well calculated. Bret had already been a World Champion (He would regain the title later that night), but Owen wanted to make his own mark to prove he was better than his older brother. Owen would pull a surprise win over his older legendary brother. The outcome was a complete shock and added to their feud and catalogs. This match needs to be used as a masterclass.

9. Shawn Michaels vs Bret Hart (WrestleMania XII):

Eternal Rivals. A war to test each other’s will, skill, and desire to be the absolute best. Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels are the Ryu and Ken of WWF/E. They are the Yin to each other’s Yang, and this was the pinnacle of their historic feud. For the first time ever, we would witness a 60-minute Ironman Match for the WWF Championship at the Show of Shows, WrestleMania. The concept doesn’t quite hold up as well today, but it was groundbreaking for that time. The feud between Shawn and Bret deserved a Mania match, and this is what we received. Outside of the various rest holds, this match still has a strong historical impact in its own right. Bret put his technical prowess on full display, while Shawn unleashed his more explosive arsenal in a clash of styles. Michaels definitely outpaced his counterpart move for move. They would not deliver a single fall in regulation, which led to Sudden Death Overtime. This is where HBK was in his element as he put away the Hitman with not one, but two Sweet Chin Musics for the victory. The Boyhood Dream came true as Shawn Michaels won his first WWF Championship.

8. Undertaker vs Shawn Michaels (WrestleMania XXVI):

Career vs Streak. With the hope of following their epic encounter at WrestleMania XXV, Shawn Michaels, and The Undertaker would return for the sequel at WrestleMania XXVI. However, they raised the stakes as Shawn would put his career on the line while Taker put his streak on the line. This match was an emotional roller coaster (not like the song) because fans didn’t want Shawn to retire, but they didn’t want the Streak to end either. Even though it was not better than the previous encounter, this match had even more drama because the writing was on the wall for the end of Shawn’s career. This match was also the main event, as this was WWE’s apology for the year before. The Deadman would put the final nail in the coffin for the career of Mr. WrestleMania with the Tombstone for the win.

7. Shawn Michaels vs Kurt Angle (WrestleMania 21):

As Kurt Angle was making his ascent in WWE, the idea of Shawn Michaels was something of a dream match before it finally happened. Both are a great contrast of styles. As Shawn made history by becoming WWF Champion in 1996, Kurt made his own history by winning an Olympic Gold Medal with a broken freakin’ neck in the Summer Olympics. Angle made his debut in 1999, a year after Michaels made his exit. By 2002, The Olympic Hero was at the top of his game as The Heartbreak Kid made his return. However, it would take three years before they would finally cross paths. What was once a dream would soon become a great reality. Their styles were a great complement to each other as Shawn even caught Kurt off guard with an early grapple offense. Angle even unleashed a moonsault. HBK even caught Angle out of nowhere with Sweet Chin Music. Angle even trapped Michaels with the Ankle Lock for the victory.

6. Shawn Michaels vs Razor Ramon (WrestleMania X):

The match that established Shawn Michaels as Mr. WrestleMania. This was the first ever Ladder Match in WrestleMania History. Shawn Michaels and Razor Ramon were on the rise in 1994 as the mainstays of the Intercontinental Championship, the standard title for workhorses. The match was super innovative for its time and nothing we had ever seen before on a large stage. It was a standout performance for both HBK and Razor and still holds up as a classic in both of their illustrious catalogs. This ladder match was the blueprint and innovator for future ladder matches. Matches like TLC would not exist without this match. This was truly ahead of its time.

5. TLC II (WrestleMania X-7):

Tables, Ladders, and Chairs, oh my!! TLC II changed the game in wrestling, as it was a complete demolition derby from start to finish. All three teams had their first Ladder match at WrestleMania 2000 the previous year. They stepped their game up with the first Tables, Ladders, and Chairs Match at Summerslam. It was so nice, they had to do it twice with an encore at WrestleMania X-7. Edge & Christian, The Dudley Boyz, and Hardy Boyz became forever connected with these matches as they put their bodies on the line. The defining moment of the match was when Edge jumped off a Ladder and speared a hanging Jeff Hardy. This match was entertaining, historic, and downright insane.

4. Rock vs Austin II (WrestleMania X-7):

Stone Cold and The Rock were the two biggest icons in professional wrestling who were able to share the same galaxy during the Attitude Era. The two most popular stars at the time and of all time fighting over the WWF Championship at WrestleMania elevated their rivalry. Even though they wrestled at Mania before, the atmosphere was on a different level the second time around. The storytelling and build were a perfect storm as both Rock and Austin were at the peak of their popularity and much more settled in their roles. The match was an epic war and Stone Cold’s heel turn added a new dynamic that nobody expected. This bloody brawl over the greatest prize of them all makes this one of the greatest WrestleMania matches of all time.

3. Macho Man Randy Savage vs Ricky The Dragon Steamboat (WWF Intercontinental Championship-WrestleMania III):

This was a pioneer match as “Macho Man” Randy Savage and Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat were ahead of their time when it came to speed, timing, and performance style as they clashed like two titans for the Intercontinental Championship. This match laid the blueprint for other workhorse wrestlers years later. Hogan vs Andre sold the show, Savage vs Steamboat STOLE the show, as this match holds up more and has aged far better. This was considered the greatest WrestleMania match and greatest match overall for at least a decade. Steamboat vs Savage was the defining match of the 80s.

2. Bret Hart vs Stone Cold Steve Austin (WrestleMania 13):

The most epic double turn of all time. Bret “The Hitman” Hart had already cemented his place as a Legend and certified Hall of Famer in the making by 1996. However, we would see the rise of an adversary the Hitman had never experienced. Enter Stone Cold Steve Austin. After winning King of the Ring ’96, Austin called out Bret Hart. Even though The Hitman got the win in their first encounter at Survivor Series, they turned the volume up even higher for WrestleMania 13. Even though this was a Submission match, it was a perfect storm of technical wrestling, brawling and storytelling. Stone Cold walked in as the hero, but walked out as the antihero. The defining image of Austin in Bret’s Sharpshooter with crimson red blood covering his face is iconic to this very day.

1. Undertaker vs Shawn Michaels (WrestleMania XXV):

Light vs Darkness. Heaven vs Hell. This is the best WrestleMania not just for the recent generation of fans, but in my estimation the greatest of all time. The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels are the pillars and greatest stars in WrestleMania History. To have them clash at the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania was even more special. By this point, HBK and Taker were seasoned veterans who knew how to tell a story in the ring with great psychology and match quality. However, the fire was lit under them even more when they were only fifth on the card. This was enough to cause them to turn back the clock and fire on all cylinders. This match was sheer cinema, especially with the way that Shawn kicked out of the Tombstone. The WrestleMania Phenom and “Mr. WrestleMania” completely stole the show and overshadowed everything else, including the World Title matches. Every near fall had you at the edge of your seat. Taker would put the proverbial nail in the coffin when he caught HBK mid-air and turned the moonsault into the Tombstone for the victory.

Mutant Mania

The Week in Wrestling:

Smackdown

RAW

NXT

Last Woman Standing

WrestleMania X 30th Anniversary

WWE Rivals

X-Men ’97 Premiere

40 Greatest WrestleMania Matches (40-21):

By: Vaughn Resper, Jr

40. Hulk Hogan vs Andre The Giant (WWF Championship-WrestleMania III):

As we look back on this match 37 years later, it doesn’t hold up well from a match quality standpoint. However, that does not take away from the impact that this match made when it came to WrestleMania’s Box Office. As Gorilla Monsoon said it best, it was The Irresistible Force (Hulk Hogan) vs The Immovable Object (Andre The Giant). The story behind this match was that Hogan had been WWF Champion for three years, but never gave Andre a title shot, even though he was “Undefeated” for 15 years. By this point, Andre’s best years were well behind him, so it was up to Hogan to carry the match on his shoulders. This was Hogan’s time to be the Giant Slayer as he delivered the Slam heard around the World.

39. John Cena vs Shawn Michaels (WWE Championship-WrestleMania 23):

This match would further cement John Cena’s place as the face of WWE. Originally, this match was actually Plan B for a rematch between Cena and Triple H from WrestleMania 22. However, The Game got injured at the beginning of the year. Enter Shawn Michaels, Mr. WrestleMania himself. In this match, we saw John raise his game higher than ever before because he was in the ring with The Showstopper. For Michaels, it was another classic to add to his catalog, but for Cena, it was a litmus test that he passed with flying colors. John Cena added even greater credibility to his greatest title reign by defeating Mr. WrestleMania on the Grandest Stage of them all.

38. Undertaker vs CM Punk (WrestleMania 29):

CM Punk was coming off the heels of his greatest, career-defining reign as WWE Champion with a 434-day reign. After losing at the Royal Rumble, Punk wanted to make an even bigger mark at WrestleMania as he challenged The Phenom himself, The Undertaker. With the untimely passing of Paul Bearer, Punk struck the opportunity to mock The Deadman with the Urn. This would ultimately lead to a clash at WrestleMania. In an otherwise lackluster Mania compared to the year before, this match was the shock to the system that the fans needed, and it did not disappoint. Punk gave The Deadman his last certified Mania classic, as The Phenom would vanquish him with The Tombstone Piledriver.

37. Hulk Hogan vs Ultimate Warrior (WWF Championship-WrestleMania VI):

The Ultimate Challenge. This is a match that has to be on anybody’s greatest match list overall, let alone WrestleMania match list because of the impact and significance alone. At the time, this was a passing of the torch. As we entered the dawn of the 90s, we would see a culture change, as it was only fitting to crown a new figurehead. Hulk Hogan ruled the 80s with an iron fist as he had a transcendent WWF title reign that lasted 4 years (1,474 days from ’84-’88). However, he was faced with a new challenger who was rapidly on the rise. Enter the Ultimate Warrior. This would be the first time where the two top babyfaces of the company battled each other on the Grandest Stage of Them All, with the top two singles Championships on the line. The Ultimate Warrior would prevail in his finest hour, closing the night as a double champion. Neither Hogan nor Warrior would ever be mistaken for Bret Hart or Ricky Steamboat, but this is definitely a classic for their standards.

36. Kurt Angle vs Eddie Guerrero (WWE Championship-WrestleMania XX):

This was a magnificent match both from an in-ring standpoint, as well as for its ending. When you have two ring generals like Kurt Angle and Eddie Guerrero, you can be certain that they would put on a classic and that is just what they did. Kurt had been dissecting Eddie’s ankle like a surgeon for the majority of the match, setting him up for the Ankle Lock. The pressure was so intense that Guerrero had to loosen the straps of his boot. As Angle put in another Angle Lock, Guerrero kicked his way out of the boot, leaving room to lure him into a roll-up pin for the win. Eddie Guerrero winning in that fashion was only fitting as a Champion who loved to lie, cheat, and steal.

35. Seth Rollins vs Brock Lesnar vs Roman Reigns (WWE World Heavyweight Championship-WrestleMania 31):

This match was noteworthy for the ending, but polarizing for the buildup. Roman Reigns was at the peak of his hate among the IWC at this point as he was the Royal Rumble Winner. Even though it was written in stone, the fans still mercilessly booed Reigns throughout this Road to WrestleMania. Despite the negative attitude from the fans, the match had very good quality. However, things turned up another notch when Seth Rollins cashed in his Money in the Bank briefcase while both warriors were wounded. Seth proceeds to Curbstomp former Shield brother, Roman Reigns as Rollins would pin him for the three count to become the NEW WWE Champion. The match was already noteworthy before the Rollins cash-in, because this would become Roman’s first of many WrestleMania main events, and this would be the first time Brock used the phrase, “Suplex City”. This has to be the greatest cash-in in WWE History.

34. Hulk Hogan vs Macho Man Randy Savage (WWF Championship-WrestleMania V):

The Mega Powers explode. This was wrestling’s first love triangle story. This was one of the definitive stories of the 80s as it brought together two of WWF’s biggest Superstars together, Hulk Hogan and Macho Man Randy Savage. Having two epic stars of that magnitude come together for a storyline such as this was remarkable for its time. However, the common denominator that was the game-changer was Miss Elizabeth. Over time, the tension would soon build as Hogan developed lust in his eyes for Elizabeth. This would infuriate Savage as he saw Hogan getting too close to her. The buildup was great, but the match matched expectations. Unlike other Hogan matches, this had the most action because of a dance partner like the incredible Randy Savage. Even though the match ended in typical Hogan fashion, the drama and buildup are what carried this story going into WrestleMania.

33. Shawn Michaels vs Ric Flair (WrestleMania XXIV):

The Farewell to a Wrestling Icon. This was the perfect swan song. The story behind this in 2008 was that the next match that Ric Flair lost would be his last. The Nature Boy put his career on the line at WrestleMania with the man who is synonymous with the Grandest Stage of them All, Mr. WrestleMania himself, Shawn Michaels. At WrestleMania XXIV, it was evident that the writing was on the wall. The emotional connection carried the buildup leading to this match. The battle was an intense classic fitting of Flair’s standards as HBK had the assignment of putting down his hero. The final exclamation point for this match came when Michaels mouthed, “I’m sorry, I love you” to his weeping hero as he nailed Flair with Sweet Chin Music for the final three count. You could even feel the guilt that Shawn had when he sat on the apron before leaving. This match was pure cinema at its finest.

32. Stone Cold Steve Austin vs Shawn Michaels (WWF Championship-WrestleMania XIV):

This is a match where the impact and significance carry more weight than the in-ring action. By 1998, we were witnessing a changing of the guard in wrestling with the ushering of the Attitude Era. Stone Cold Steve Austin was spearheading a revolution, as he would meet his match with The Heartbreak Kid, Shawn Michaels. However, the match itself was not their finest hour by their standards. However, I am not going to hold Shawn’s back injury against him. The fact that Shawn went through with continuing the Road to WrestleMania should be respected when you consider the state of where he was physically and mentally. The fact that Michaels was able to compete was actually amazing when you consider that his injury was severe enough to put him on the sideline for four years, putting him in temporary retirement. Even with his injury, Michaels and Austin were able to put together a match with memorable moments, and Mike Tyson as the Special Enforcer elevated the match even more. Austin would be officially coronated as the new face of WWF as he defeated HBK with the Stone Cold Stunner to emerge victorious as the new WWF Champion.

31. Charlotte Flair vs Becky Lynch vs Sasha Banks (WWE Women’s Championship-WrestleMania 32):

The “Women’s Revolution” was at just about a fever pitch by 2016 as Charlotte Flair, Sasha Banks, and Becky Lynch competed in the first-ever Women’s Triple Threat Match at WrestleMania for the first time. Their arrival on the main roster in July 2015 was absolutely explosive. After making short work of the Bella Twins, Charlotte, Becky, and Sasha Banks would make waves as the new torchbearers of the Women’s Division, leading the way for the Women’s Revolution. Flair, Banks, and Lynch would compete at WrestleMania 32 for the re-introduced Women’s Championship after the Divas Championship had been retired. This match would set the standard for the future of Women’s Wrestling as Charlotte would become the Inaugural Champion.

30. Undertaker vs Kane (WrestleMania XIV):

Brother vs Brother. Fire vs Brimstone. This was head and shoulders the best match of the night, considering who was in the main event. The Undertaker and Kane over-delivered in their first-ever match with each other. Overall, I would say that this is still the greatest match that The Brothers of Destruction have ever had. The story that was told leading up to this match finally culminated when The Undertaker accepted Kane’s challenge after months of torture. The story within the match was even more impactful, with The Deadman defeating The Big Red Machine with not one, not two, but three Tombstones.

29. Undertaker vs Randy Orton (WrestleMania 21):

As The Undertaker returned to his roots as The Deadman, his Undefeated Streak became just as big of an accomplishment as winning a championship at WrestleMania. You could say the Streak itself was a title, because of how much of an attraction it had become. When Randy Orton was making his mark as “The Legend Killer”, he wanted to add this massive accolade to an already growing resume. Taker accepted Orton’s challenge as it led to a match that was highly entertaining and exciting. On a night where we saw Shawn Michaels vs Kurt Ange and Batista vs Triple H, this match became a gem itself. By 2005, the Streak did not have the same aura that it would have by WrestleMania 25, but it would’ve still been a special win for Orton as it was not totally unbelievable. Randall was fearless in this match, from reversing a Chokeslam into an RKO to mocking Taker’s taunt before the Tombstone. In the end, The Deadman would emerge victorious once again as this was his toughest challenge at this point.

28. Ric Flair vs Macho Man Randy Savage (WWF Championship-WrestleMania VIII):

The Macho/Flair Affair. Originally, the vision was for Ric Flair vs Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania VIII. However, it was fumbled epically and hard to explain or understand why. Instead, we get Flair vs Macho Man Randy Savage. I am here to highlight a fantastic match for the WWF Championship that deserved to end the show. However, we know that Hogan had to be Hogan and steal Savage’s spotlight like he did when they were the Mega Powers. The Nature Boy played the role of a scumbag perfectly as he threw a past romance in Savage’s face, threatening to show a centerfold of Miss Elizabeth if he won. Based on behind-the-scenes stories and his reputation, Macho Man did not have to work hard to tap into the character. Savage’s emotions were the key factor in making this match special as he defeated Flair to reclaim the WWF Championship.

27. Brock Lesnar vs Kurt Angle (WWE Championship-WrestleMania XIX):

Kurt Angle and Brock Lesnar are two of wrestling’s greatest natural athletes, with highly successful amateur backgrounds (Angle as a Gold Medalist, Lesnar as an NCAA Champion) along with a deeply ingrained desire to be the best. Although this match was faced with its share of setbacks, from Brock Lesnar’s Shooting Star Press that gave him a concussion to Kurt Angle’s broken neck, this match was still explosive and epic as it would become an all-time classic.

26. Undertaker vs Edge (World Heavyweight Championship-WrestleMania XXIV):

Two years after being shafted out of the Main Event of WrestleMania, Edge is firmly at the top of his game as not only the World Heavyweight Title, but he is also in the WrestleMania Main Event. The Rated R Superstar maximized the moment as he delivered a classic and amazing performance, worthy of the main event spot. Meanwhile, The Undertaker turned back the clock once again as he continued to deliver the best matches of his career. The Phenom would vanquish another opponent as he would emerge victorious as World Heavyweight Champion.

25. Undertaker vs Batista (World Heavyweight Championship, WrestleMania 23):

The Undertaker added another accolade to an already stellar resume by winning the 2007 Royal Rumble. The Deadman did not hesitate as he chose to face Batista for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 23. The original plan was for John Cena to face Triple H at WM 23, but plans changed when The Game was injured as Shawn Michaels would take his place. This match became the main event. This did not sit well with Taker and Batista. The Deadman and The Animal were determined to prove everyone wrong and deliver an amazing match. There was nonstop action from bell to bell. The action was faster than expected given how this match had two big men as fans expected a slower pace. The greatness of this brawl is what makes this match a classic, as The Phenom would become World Heavyweight Champion with a Tombstone Piledriver.

24. Roman Reigns vs Edge vs Daniel Bryan (WWE Universal Championship-WrestleMania 37):

Smashing, stacking, pinning. When Roman Reigns returned in 2020, he transformed into his heel persona. He turned his back on his fans, and started his reign of terror as “The Tribal Chief”. Originally, Reigns was going to have to clash with a returning Edge at WrestleMania 37. However, the odds were stacked against him with the addition of Daniel Bryan. Now, the odds were really stacked against Reigns. This match has a significant impact because years before this match, doubts were flying around about whether or not Edge or Bryan would ever compete in the ring again. There were also concerns about whether or not Reigns would still wrestle because of his battle with Leukemia. Therefore, it was an inspirational story for all three ring warriors. The match itself was exciting, as Reigns would keep his word by smashing his word and stacking them on top of each other so that he could get the pinfall victory he promised the world while holding the Universal Title.

23. The Rock vs Hollywood Hogan (WrestleMania X-8):

Icon vs Icon. Generation vs Generation. From the moment the WWF introduced the NWO, the dream matches for Hollywood Hogan were being entertained, specifically either Stone Cold Steve Austin or The Rock. When worlds collided, it was an unexpected reaction. When The Great One clashed with his fellow icon at WrestleMania X-8 in Toronto, it seemed as though fans turned on The Rock. Everything about the NWO was thrown out of the window for this match and moment in time. Each time The Rock got the advantage, the fans booed him. The Toronto crowd created the perfect atmosphere that carried the match. In the end, it was crystallized that the torch had been passed from The Hulkster to The People’s Champ. This match between two Hall of Fame-caliber legends remains an all-time classic in WrestleMania history.

22. Kofi Kingston vs Daniel Bryan (WWE Championship-WrestleMania 35):

WrestleMania 35 was historic for several reasons. One is the first-ever Women’s Main Event, but for me, the biggest historic moment took place when Kofi Kingston made history in his epic battle with Daniel Bryan. Every five to ten years, WWE would face a rebellion from the fans. Whether it is the “Yes Movement” or, most recently the #WeWantCody Movement. During 2019, we felt the wave of #KofiMania as WWE got its act together and finally put Kofi Kingston in a WWE Championship match. Kofi’s adversary, Daniel Bryan had once been in the underdog position five years earlier during the Yes Movement. Daniel personified the quote of living long enough to see yourself become the villain. Bryan morphed into everything that he hated in 2014 as he saw Kingston fill the spot that he was in during that time. The match itself was great, as Kofi would become WWE Champion, making him the first African-born Wrestler to not only win the WWE Championship but to win it at WrestleMania. The historical weight of this match earned its place in WrestleMania history and WWE history overall.

21. Bret Hart vs Roddy Piper (WWF Intercontinental Championship- WrestleMania VIII):

By 1992, Rowdy Roddy Piper was slowing down his singles run. At this point, he had become more of a part-time performer as well as a Commentator. Roddy finally tasted singles gold when he defeated The Mountie to win the Intercontinental Championship at the 1992 Royal Rumble. This win was significant for Piper because even though he was a huge star and one of Hulk Hogan’s arch-rivals in the 80s, this was his first and only singles title during his tenure since his debut in 1984. Going into WrestleMania VIII, Piper had never lost by pinfall. On the other end, you had his challenger Bret Hart. The Hitman previously held the IC title for nearly five months before losing to The Mountie, who would eventually lose to Piper. This match would not only propel Bret further into superstardom, but it brought the best out of Roddy as well. Piper was never known for being a technician in the ring, but Bret brought that element out of him in his own way. To see Roddy fight between being a face or going back to his heel ways was a story by itself. A bloodied Bret would counter the Sleeper into a pin to secure his second IC Title. This win carried more weight for Bret to move him to the next level, and it was also the first time Piper was ever pinned in his WWE career.