Ranking the 7 Greatest PPVs in WWE History – WrestleMania X-Seven Included

Over the years, WWE has produced an array of spectacular pay-per-view (PPV) events that have left an indelible mark on the history of professional wrestling. From the Attitude Era’s edgy and unpredictable atmosphere to the grandeur of modern-day WrestleManias, certain shows have stood out as monumental in shaping the landscape of WWE. The combination of iconic wrestlers, compelling storylines, and unforgettable matches has cemented these events as must-watch spectacles for wrestling fans. In this article, we will delve into the seven greatest PPVs in WWE history, taking into account their historical significance, match quality, entertainment value, and the nostalgia they evoke among fans.

The Attitude Era, a period spanning the late 1990s to early 2000s, is often hailed as the golden age of WWE due to its groundbreaking content and larger-than-life characters. Icons like The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and The Undertaker became household names, and their contributions to some of the best PPVs cannot be overstated. However, it would be remiss to overlook the gems from the 1980s and mid-to-late 2000s that also deserve recognition. Additionally, a tribute show to ECW, the renegade promotion known for its hardcore wrestling style, ranks highly on this list. Each event selected showcases a blend of intense rivalries, dramatic moments, and in-ring excellence that have made them timeless classics.

One of the standout events from the early 90s is WrestleMania VIII, which featured two particularly memorable matches: Randy Savage vs. Ric Flair for the WWF World Heavyweight Championship and Bret Hart vs. Roddy Piper for the Intercontinental Championship. The personal nature of the storyline between Savage and Flair added an extra layer of intensity to their clash, making it one of the most engaging main events in WrestleMania history. On the other hand, Bret Hart’s unique reversal from the corner to secure victory over Piper not only elevated his status within the company but also demonstrated his technical prowess. These two matches alone secured WrestleMania VIII a spot on our list of greatest PPVs.

WWE’s rich history is filled with legendary matches and rivalries that have set the bar higher for future generations. The Royal Rumble 2000 is a prime example of an event that delivered beyond expectations. While the Rumble match itself might not have been the highlight, the rest of the card was stacked with high-quality bouts. One such match was the street fight between Triple H and Cactus Jack, which not only established Triple H as a top player in the company but also showcased the brutal, no-holds-barred style that Mick Foley, wrestling as Cactus Jack, was known for. The storytelling and physicality in this match made it an instant classic and a key reason why Royal Rumble 2000 is remembered fondly by fans.

Backlash 2000 is another event that deserves mention for its strong card and memorable moments. The main event saw The Rock take on Triple H for the WWF Championship in a match that encapsulated the intense rivalry between the two superstars. The undercard also featured notable matches, such as the Light Heavyweight Title bout between Dean Malenko and Scotty 2 Hotty, and the Hardcore Title Six Pack Challenge. Each match on the card contributed to an overall sense of excitement and unpredictability, making Backlash 2000 one of the standout PPVs of the era.

WrestleMania XIX is often cited by many as the greatest WrestleMania PPV of all time, and for good reason. The event boasted a lineup of matches that are still talked about to this day, including Shawn Michaels vs. Chris Jericho and The Rock vs. Steve Austin III. Michaels and Jericho put on a technical masterclass that showcased their in-ring chemistry and storytelling abilities. Meanwhile, The Rock and Austin’s third WrestleMania encounter brought their storied rivalry to a fitting conclusion, with both men delivering performances that highlighted their status as two of the greatest ever. The combination of these marquee matches and the overall production value of WrestleMania XIX ensures its place among the best PPVs in WWE history.

Summerslam ’98 is another event that stands out, primarily for its blockbuster main event between Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Undertaker. Despite an early injury to Austin, the match proceeded smoothly and delivered a satisfying conclusion for the fans. The undercard was equally impressive, featuring an epic ladder match between The Rock and Triple H for the Intercontinental Championship. This bout not only elevated both superstars but also set a new standard for ladder matches in WWE. The mix of high-stakes drama and athleticism made Summerslam ’98 a memorable event that continues to be celebrated by wrestling enthusiasts.

The 1992 Royal Rumble is often regarded as the greatest Royal Rumble match in history, thanks in large part to Ric Flair’s incredible performance. Entering the match at number three, Flair outlasted 29 other competitors to win the coveted WWF Championship. His endurance and cunning strategy throughout the match showcased why he is considered one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. The undercard also featured entertaining matches that kept the audience engaged, making the 1992 Royal Rumble a well-rounded event that stands the test of time.

Canadian Stampede, held in the summer of 1997, is another event that left a lasting impression on fans. The highlight of the show was the main event featuring Bret Hart and Steve Austin, a match that was further elevated by the passionate Canadian crowd. The electric atmosphere added an extra layer of excitement to an already intense rivalry, making the match a standout moment in WWE history. Despite being shorter than usual, Canadian Stampede delivered solid matches across the board, proving that quality often trumps quantity when it comes to memorable PPVs.

Another notable event from the 80s and 90s is the 1991 Royal Rumble, which the author considers the best event of all time. The Rumble match itself was filled with memorable moments and surprise entrants, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. The undercard featured a mix of entertaining bouts that complemented the main event, making the 1991 Royal Rumble a well-rounded show that left a lasting impact on fans. The combination of star power, engaging storylines, and high-quality matches ensured that this event would be remembered as one of the greatest in WWE history.

ECW One Night Stand 2005 is a tribute show that deserves special mention for its unique place in wrestling history. This event paid homage to the renegade promotion ECW, known for its hardcore wrestling style and passionate fanbase. The show featured a mix of former ECW stars and WWE talent, delivering matches that captured the spirit of the original ECW. The atmosphere was electric, with fans chanting and cheering throughout the night, creating an environment that felt both nostalgic and exhilarating. ECW One Night Stand 2005 stands out as a celebration of a beloved era in wrestling, making it a must-watch for fans of hardcore wrestling.

In conclusion, the seven greatest PPVs in WWE history showcase a blend of historical significance, match quality, entertainment value, and nostalgia. From the iconic matches of WrestleMania VIII to the intense rivalries of the Attitude Era, each event has left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling. These PPVs not only highlight the incredible talent and storytelling that WWE is known for but also serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of wrestling as a form of entertainment. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the world of WWE, these events are essential viewing for anyone looking to understand the magic and excitement that make wrestling so special.