Hey wrestling fans! Ever find yourself scrolling through the endless options, wondering which pay-per-views (PPVs) are truly worth your time? Wrestling has a rich history, filled with unforgettable moments, epic matches, and legendary rivalries. But with so much content available, it can be tough to know where to start.
That’s where I come in! I’ve spent countless hours watching wrestling, from the high-flying action of the cruiserweights to the power-packed performances of the heavyweights. I’ve seen it all, and I’m here to share my picks for the must-watch wrestling PPVs. We’ll explore events that have shaped the industry and are essential viewing for any serious fan. Get ready to relive some classic moments and discover some hidden gems.
Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the sport, this guide will provide you with a curated list of PPVs that showcase the best wrestling has to offer. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let’s journey through the world of professional wrestling!
The Golden Era: Defining Moments
The 1980s and early 1990s were a transformative period for professional wrestling, often referred to as the Golden Era. This time was marked by larger-than-life characters, captivating storylines, and a surge in popularity that brought wrestling into the mainstream. These PPVs are essential viewing to understand the roots of modern wrestling.
Wrestlemania Iii (1987)
Why it’s a must-watch: This event, held at the Pontiac Silverdome, set an attendance record that stood for many years. It’s a landmark event in wrestling history, showcasing the peak of the Hulkamania era. The main event, Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant, is iconic.
Key matches:
- Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant (Main Event)
- Ricky Steamboat vs. Randy Savage (For the WWF Intercontinental Championship)
What to look for: The sheer spectacle of the event. The crowd’s reaction to Hogan’s victory. The storytelling in the matches.
Wrestlemania Iv (1988)
Why it’s a must-watch: This event marked the beginning of a new chapter in WWF, with a tournament to crown a new WWF Champion after the controversial finish of the previous match. This event is vital for understanding the transition of power in the WWF.
Key matches:
- Randy Savage vs. Ted DiBiase (Tournament Final for WWF Championship)
- Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant (Quarterfinals)
What to look for: The intensity of the tournament format and the development of Macho Man Randy Savage as a main event player.
Wrestlemania Vi (1990)
Why it’s a must-watch: This event featured the iconic ‘Ultimate Challenge’ match between Hulk Hogan and The Ultimate Warrior. It was a clash of titans representing the changing of the guard.
Key matches:
- Hulk Hogan vs. The Ultimate Warrior (For the WWF Championship and WWF Intercontinental Championship)
- Demolition vs. The Colossal Connection (For the WWF Tag Team Championship)
What to look for: The raw energy and charisma of the two main event stars and the historic outcome.
The Attitude Era: A Revolution
The Attitude Era, spanning the late 1990s and early 2000s, brought a new level of edginess and excitement to wrestling. This period featured more adult content, controversial storylines, and a focus on character development. The following PPVs are critical to understanding this era’s impact.
Wrestlemania Xiv (1998)
Why it’s a must-watch: This WrestleMania marked the official beginning of the Attitude Era. It featured Stone Cold Steve Austin’s rise to superstardom and a memorable appearance by Mike Tyson.
Key matches:
- Shawn Michaels vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin (For the WWF Championship)
- The Undertaker vs. Kane
What to look for: The intensity of the main event and the impact of the Tyson appearance. (See Also: Are Ncaa Wrestling Championships Cancelled )
Wrestlemania Xv (1999)
Why it’s a must-watch: This event continued the momentum of the Attitude Era, featuring a main event between The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin. It’s an iconic rivalry at its peak.
Key matches:
- The Rock vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin (For the WWF Championship)
- Mankind vs. The Big Show
What to look for: The electric atmosphere and the incredible chemistry between The Rock and Stone Cold.
Royal Rumble 2000
Why it’s a must-watch: The Royal Rumble is a staple event, and the 2000 edition is one of the best. The match itself is filled with exciting moments and memorable performances.
Key matches:
- Royal Rumble Match
- Triple H vs. Cactus Jack (Street Fight for the WWF Championship)
What to look for: The unpredictability of the Rumble match and the brutal street fight between Triple H and Cactus Jack.
Wrestlemania X-Seven (2001)
Why it’s a must-watch: Widely considered one of the greatest WrestleManias of all time. It featured multiple classic matches and marked the end of the Monday Night Wars.
Key matches:
- The Rock vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin (No Disqualification Match for the WWF Championship)
- The Undertaker vs. Triple H
- Edge & Christian vs. The Dudley Boyz vs. The Hardy Boyz (Tables, Ladders & Chairs Match for the WWF Tag Team Championship)
What to look for: The incredible main event, the legendary TLC match, and the overall quality of the event.
The Ruthless Aggression Era: A New Breed
Following the Attitude Era, the Ruthless Aggression Era saw a shift towards a more athletic and wrestling-focused style. This era built upon the foundation of the previous one while introducing new talent and refining the in-ring product.
Wrestlemania Xix (2003)
Why it’s a must-watch: This event featured the culmination of several key storylines and showcased some of the best in-ring performers of the time.
Key matches:
- Kurt Angle vs. Brock Lesnar (For the WWE Championship)
- The Rock vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin
- Triple H vs. Booker T (For the World Heavyweight Championship)
What to look for: The athleticism of Brock Lesnar and Kurt Angle, and the emotional send-off for Stone Cold Steve Austin.
Wrestlemania Xx (2004)
Why it’s a must-watch: This WrestleMania was a significant event, as it was held in Madison Square Garden, and featured a few significant returns and title changes.
Key matches:
- Triple H vs. Chris Benoit vs. Shawn Michaels (For the World Heavyweight Championship)
- Eddie Guerrero vs. Kurt Angle (For the WWE Championship)
- The Undertaker vs. Kane
What to look for: The culmination of Chris Benoit’s journey and the emotional atmosphere of the event. (See Also: Are All Wrestling Matches Predetermined )
Money in the Bank 2011
Why it’s a must-watch: This event is memorable for the rise of CM Punk and his iconic victory against John Cena. It’s a key moment in wrestling history.
Key matches:
- John Cena vs. CM Punk (For the WWE Championship)
- Alberto Del Rio vs. CM Punk
What to look for: The electric crowd and the incredible storytelling of CM Punk’s character.
Modern Era: Evolution and Innovation
The modern era of wrestling continues to evolve, with a focus on high-quality in-ring action, compelling storytelling, and a diverse roster. This era has seen the rise of new stars and the continued evolution of the industry.
Wrestlemania 30 (2014)
Why it’s a must-watch: This event marked a turning point, with the rise of Daniel Bryan and a memorable main event.
Key matches:
- Daniel Bryan vs. Triple H
- Daniel Bryan vs. Batista vs. Randy Orton (For the WWE World Heavyweight Championship)
- Brock Lesnar vs. The Undertaker
What to look for: The emotional journey of Daniel Bryan and the incredible atmosphere of the event.
Nxt Takeover: R Evolution (2014)
Why it’s a must-watch: This event is an example of a great PPV from NXT, which helped shape the future of the industry. The matches are high quality and the event is well paced.
Key matches:
- Adrian Neville vs. Sami Zayn (NXT Championship)
- Charlotte Flair vs. Sasha Banks (NXT Women’s Championship)
What to look for: The quality of the NXT matches and the introduction of Finn Balor.
Wrestlemania 35 (2019)
Why it’s a must-watch: This event was historic because it featured the first-ever women’s main event at WrestleMania.
Key matches:
- Ronda Rousey vs. Charlotte Flair vs. Becky Lynch (For the WWE Raw Women’s Championship and WWE SmackDown Women’s Championship)
- Kofi Kingston vs. Daniel Bryan (For the WWE Championship)
What to look for: The significance of the women’s main event and the crowning of Kofi Kingston.
All in (2018)
Why it’s a must-watch: This event was created and financed independently by wrestlers. It was a catalyst for the creation of All Elite Wrestling (AEW).
Key matches:
- Kazuchika Okada vs. Marty Scurll
- The Young Bucks vs. The Briscoes (For the ROH World Tag Team Championship)
What to look for: The birth of a new wrestling promotion and the quality of the matches. (See Also: Are The Wwe Arm Wrestling Matches Real )
Aew Double or Nothing (2019)
Why it’s a must-watch: This was the first major PPV from AEW. It helped establish the new promotion and featured many of the top stars.
Key matches:
- Chris Jericho vs. Kenny Omega
- The Young Bucks vs. The Lucha Bros (For the AAA World Tag Team Championship)
What to look for: The launch of AEW and the quality of the matches.
Beyond the Big Two: Exploring Other Promotions
While WWE and AEW dominate the mainstream, other promotions have delivered incredible wrestling experiences. Exploring these can broaden your appreciation of the sport.
Roh Final Battle 2017
Why it’s a must-watch: ROH consistently delivers high-quality wrestling, and this event is a prime example.
Key matches:
- Cody Rhodes vs. Dalton Castle (For the ROH World Championship)
- The Young Bucks vs. Motor City Machine Guns (For the ROH World Tag Team Championship)
What to look for: The high-flying action and the quality of the ROH product.
Impact Wrestling Bound for Glory 2017
Why it’s a must-watch: This event showcases the talent of Impact Wrestling, formerly known as TNA.
Key matches:
- Johnny Impact vs. Eli Drake (For the Impact World Championship)
- Alberto El Patron vs. Johnny Mundo
What to look for: The variety of talent and the creative storytelling of Impact Wrestling.
Tips for Watching and Enjoying Wrestling Ppvs
To get the most out of these PPVs, consider these tips:
- Do your research. Learn about the storylines leading up to the event.
- Watch with friends. Wrestling is more fun when you can share the experience.
- Pay attention to detail. Notice the psychology of the matches, the storytelling, and the character work.
- Be open-minded. Try different promotions and styles.
- Enjoy the ride! Wrestling is entertainment, so have fun and appreciate the athleticism and artistry.
By exploring these must-watch wrestling PPVs, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the history, evolution, and excitement of professional wrestling. Each event offers a unique glimpse into the sport’s rich tapestry, showcasing the incredible talent and unforgettable moments that have made wrestling a global phenomenon.
Whether you’re new to wrestling or a seasoned veteran, these PPVs provide a fantastic starting point or a chance to revisit some of the greatest matches and moments in wrestling history. So, get ready to witness the drama, athleticism, and storytelling that make wrestling such a captivating form of entertainment.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – a curated list of must watch wrestling PPV events that will keep you entertained for hours. From the iconic clashes of the Golden Era to the revolutionary moments of the Attitude Era and the modern-day masterpieces, these events represent the best of professional wrestling.
I encourage you to explore these events, discover new favorites, and share the passion of wrestling with others. Happy viewing, and enjoy the ride through the amazing world of professional wrestling!
