Top 5 Feuds in WWE History
Professional wrestling thrives on storytelling, and no story in WWE history is complete without intense, unforgettable rivalries. These battles have shaped the industry, ignited passion in fans, and created moments that have transcended the wrestling ring. Let’s dive into five of the greatest rivalries in WWE history that have captivated audiences and defined eras.
1. Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. Vince McMahon
Arguably the most iconic rivalry in WWE history, the feud between Stone Cold Steve Austin and Vince McMahon encapsulated the rebellious spirit of the Attitude Era. The blue-collar Austin, symbolizing the everyday man, stood in direct opposition to McMahon, the tyrannical corporate boss. Their feud was fueled by Austin’s refusal to conform, which led to a series of unforgettable moments, from Austin driving a beer truck into the arena to spray McMahon, to their legendary matches at events like St. Valentine’s Day Massacre and WrestleMania XV. This rivalry not only catapulted Austin to superstardom but also helped WWE eclipse its competition in the late 1990s.
2. The Rock vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin
Few rivalries have reached the heights of The Rock vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin, a clash between two of the biggest stars in wrestling history. Their battles were the cornerstone of the Attitude Era, headlining three separate WrestleManias (XV, XVI, and XIX), each telling a unique chapter of their evolving rivalry. Austin represented the anti-hero everyman, while The Rock played the cocky, charismatic corporate champion. Their WrestleMania X-Seven match is considered one of the greatest in wrestling history, with Austin’s shocking heel turn adding an extra layer of drama to their storied feud.
3. Shawn Michaels vs. Bret “The Hitman” Hart
One of the most personal and professional rivalries in WWE history, Shawn Michaels and Bret Hart had a heated feud that blurred the lines between reality and fiction. These two had contrasting personalities and wrestling styles, with Hart representing the technical purist, and Michaels the flamboyant high-flyer. Their infamous Iron Man match at WrestleMania XII was a masterpiece, culminating in Michaels’ first WWE Championship victory. However, the rivalry reached a boiling point at the Montreal Screwjob at Survivor Series 1997, where Michaels controversially won the WWE Championship under questionable circumstances, an incident that still resonates with fans to this day.
4. Undertaker vs. Kane
The Brothers of Destruction rivalry, Undertaker vs. Kane, is a storyline rooted in WWE lore. Beginning in 1997, this supernatural feud was centered around their “brotherhood” and Kane’s desire for revenge after being left for dead in a fire (as per the story). The two men clashed in various matches, most notably at WrestleMania XIV and WrestleMania XX. Their rivalry spanned over a decade, filled with twists, turns, and moments of uneasy alliances. The psychological aspect and the sheer size and presence of both men added to the rivalry’s mystique, making it one of the most unforgettable in WWE history.
5. John Cena vs. CM Punk
In the modern era, few rivalries matched the intensity and cultural impact of John Cena vs. CM Punk. Their feud reached its apex during the “Summer of Punk” in 2011 when Punk delivered his infamous Pipebomb promo, blurring the lines between scripted and reality-based promos. Punk’s criticism of WWE’s corporate structure and Cena’s place as the face of the company resonated with fans who sought change in WWE’s product. Their match at Money in the Bank 2011 in Chicago is regarded as one of the best matches of the modern era, with Punk winning the WWE Championship and “leaving” the company in a dramatic fashion. This rivalry revitalized fan interest and gave rise to a new generation of vocal, rebellious fans.
Conclusion
These five rivalries shaped the WWE landscape, providing unforgettable matches, promos, and moments. From the chaotic, rule-breaking days of the Attitude Era to the more contemporary battles of the modern era, these feuds have left a lasting impact on the industry, influencing generations of wrestlers and fans alike.
PPV + PLE Content. Northern Adelaide suburbs resident with a lifelong passion for professional wrestling since the age of 14. What drew Rhys to wrestling was the antics of Eddie Guerrero and the freestyles of John Cena, and has been hooked ever since. Currently, Rhys watches WWE and AEW programing. This passion for wrestling has led to Rhys writing for PW Down Under, where he has become the resident PPV guy.
