10 Matches That Made Chicago The Hottest Wrestling City In The World
9. Sheamus Vs Daniel Bryan (Extreme Rules 2012)
The Daniel Bryan/Sheamus WrestleMania rematch felt like an apology of sorts, with WWE inadvertently giving birth to the 'Yes Movement' by virtue of their 18 second mistreatment of one of the best wrestlers in the world.
The 2-out-of-3 falls Extreme Rules battle guaranteed the match would go long as a contrast to the original demeaning defeat. Bryan's fanbase had grown in volume and number, and the Allstate Arena was the perfect location for them to vocally collaborate in support of the burgeoning hero.
Still a heel, Bryan majestically continued his performance as a cynical bully. In his pre-match spiel, he spewed that 'Chicagoan's think that they're the best crowd in the WWE Universe, but just like Sheamus, they are overrated and unoriginal'.
In a professional, polished display, he channelled the crowd's enthusiasm towards Sheamus as the new World Heavyweight Champion in what would prove to be the peak of the 'Great White's reign.
Bryan was laser-focused on his opponent's arm and shoulder to build to a submission, eventually kicking at it with such fury that he lost the first fall after refusing to break off a five count during a flurry of kicks. He immediately locked on the Yes Lock afterwards, levelling the battle, before Sheamus scored a second Brogue Kick after 23 exhausting minutes to sneak by the challenger.