Why WWE Should Induct Matches Into The Company’s Hall of Fame

Why WWE Should Induct Matches into Their Hall of Fame

The WWE Hall of Fame is home to some of the most iconic figures in wrestling history, honouring the achievements and legacies of wrestlers, managers, announcers, and other figures who have defined the sport. However, as the landscape of professional wrestling continues to evolve, so too should the criteria for Hall of Fame induction. One avenue WWE could explore is following the UFC’s model of inducting legendary matches into their Hall of Fame. This would allow WWE to celebrate the in-ring artistry and storytelling that are the essence of wrestling, focusing not only on the wrestlers but also on the matches that have defined the company’s history. Here’s why this could be a great addition, along with some matches that deserve a spot.

Why Inducting Matches Makes Sense

1. Recognizing the Stories in the Ring
Wrestling isn’t just about individuals—it’s about the stories they tell. From underdog triumphs to bitter rivalries, the drama and narrative of wrestling are embedded in its matches. Inducting specific matches would allow WWE to celebrate the art of wrestling storytelling in a way that honours not just the wrestlers but also the emotional highs, memorable twists, and unforgettable moments.

2. Showcasing Iconic Moments Beyond Individual Careers
Some of WWE’s greatest moments have come from matches that encapsulate the best of what wrestling can be: athleticism, spectacle, and emotion. These moments sometimes transcend individual careers. Matches like Undertaker vs. Mankind in the Hell in a Cell aren’t only about the wrestlers involved but about the unforgettable imagery, intensity, and lasting impact. By inducting matches, WWE could highlight the most iconic moments that collectively define its legacy.

3. Broadening the Appeal of the Hall of Fame
Inducting matches would appeal not only to die-hard fans who remember the intricacies of classic bouts but also to casual viewers who may be more familiar with individual moments. When you think of UFC’s Hall of Fame inductees like Griffin vs. Bonnar, it isn’t just about the fighters; it’s about the match that put UFC on the map. WWE could attract fans interested in the spectacle and story of wrestling as much as the personalities by offering a more holistic approach to its Hall of Fame.

4. Creating More Inclusive Opportunities
Some matches highlight extraordinary in-ring performances that might not otherwise receive formal recognition. Wrestlers who may not qualify for individual Hall of Fame induction, either due to their overall career achievements or politics, could still be honoured for their contributions to a classic match. This would create more ways to celebrate a broader range of talents.

Matches That Deserve Hall of Fame Induction

With an endless archive of incredible matches to choose from, here are some of the most iconic bouts that would be prime candidates for a Hall of Fame induction.

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1. The Undertaker vs. Mankind – Hell in a Cell (King of the Ring 1998)
Often cited as one of the most intense matches in WWE history, this Hell in a Cell bout transcended wrestling. The sheer brutality and spectacle of watching Mankind be thrown off the cell remains seared in the minds of fans. This match pushed the boundaries of what WWE could deliver and created an unforgettable moment that solidified both Undertaker and Mankind as legends.

2. Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. Bret Hart – Submission Match (WrestleMania 13)
This match is widely praised for its impeccable storytelling and its role in the rise of Austin’s anti-hero character. The double-turn, with Austin passing out in a pool of his own blood, elevated the match to legendary status and became a defining moment of the Attitude Era. Few matches have ever achieved this level of character evolution and impact on wrestling culture.

3. Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker – Streak vs. Career (WrestleMania XXVI)
The rematch following their WrestleMania 25 classic, this Streak vs. Career match was filled with emotion, high stakes, and unforgettable moments. It was the culmination of Michaels’ storied career, going out on the highest possible note, and a testament to his chemistry with The Undertaker. Inducting this match would honour both men and their contributions to WrestleMania history.

4. The Hardy Boyz vs. Edge & Christian vs. The Dudley Boyz – TLC II (WrestleMania X-Seven)
As perhaps the pinnacle of the tag team division, TLC II took high-risk, high-reward storytelling to new heights. This match was a dangerous, innovative spectacle that redefined what fans expected from tag team wrestling. It deserves a Hall of Fame spot as a tribute to the risks taken and the creative heights WWE’s tag division once reached.

5. Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant – WrestleMania III
While not the most technically complex match, Hogan vs. Andre at WrestleMania III is arguably WWE’s most iconic. With 93,000 fans in attendance, this match solidified WrestleMania as a cultural phenomenon. The unforgettable body slam heard around the world marked a pivotal moment in wrestling history and would be a fitting entry into a match-specific Hall of Fame category.

6. John Cena vs. CM Punk – WWE Championship Match (Money in the Bank 2011)
The Money in the Bank 2011 match between John Cena and CM Punk is celebrated for its gripping storyline and electric crowd. Punk’s “Pipebomb” promo and the uncertain outcome surrounding his contract status made for one of the most emotionally charged matches in modern wrestling. The Hall of Fame could acknowledge this era-defining moment as a testament to the power of storyline and crowd engagement.

7. The Rock vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin – WrestleMania X-Seven
This match represents the height of the Attitude Era, with two of the biggest stars in wrestling history clashing in a no-disqualification match for the WWE Championship. The shocking ending with Austin joining forces with Vince McMahon left fans stunned and closed out a chapter of WWE history in spectacular fashion. This match is often cited as one of the greatest WrestleMania main events and deserves to be immortalised.

8. Charlotte Flair vs. Becky Lynch vs. Ronda Rousey – WrestleMania 35
As the first women’s match to headline WrestleMania, this bout signified the achievements of the Women’s Evolution and broke new ground for the industry. The match itself was historic and paved the way for women’s wrestling to take centre stage. Inducting it into the Hall of Fame would celebrate this momentous occasion and honour WWE’s changing attitude toward female performers.

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Conclusion

And these are just eight! The WWE Hall of Fame has traditionally celebrated the stars who brought professional wrestling to its current heights, but it has yet to fully acknowledge the in-ring artistry and storytelling that define the sport. By following the UFC’s lead and inducting legendary matches, WWE would not only celebrate its rich history but also offer a new way for fans to relive the moments that made them fall in love with wrestling. Honouring matches would deepen the Hall of Fame’s appeal, create new recognition opportunities, and remind fans that while wrestlers come and go, classic matches are eternal.

What matches would you induct? The floor is yours.