Ladder matches have become a major part of WWE lore thanks to the tremendous, breathtaking performances by the men who take to the ring for the popular gimmick matches. They take tremendous risks with their own safety to entertain the audience and achieve immortality at the same time.The matches are dangerous, at times violent and fans eat them up every time. Whether it is a championship, a guaranteed title opportunity or a weapon hanging from the ceiling, there is something so dramatic about the climb and the pursuit that strikes a nerve with WWE fans and makes them want to come back for more, regardless of who is involved. Since Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels introduced the ladder match to Vince McMahon back in 1992, some of the top stars in the business have competed in the match type. The Rock, Triple H, Edge, John Cena, The Undertaker and Kurt Angle have either been elevated or cemented their legacies thanks to their performances in Ladder matches. Jack Swagger, CM Punk, Dolph Ziggler, The Miz and Alberto Del Rio have been beneficiaries of the Money in the Bank Ladder matches, which are designed specifically to create new main event attractions. For 20 years, WWE has relied heavily upon Ladder matches to be the best contests on whatever cards they appear. Thanks to the talent involved and the eager anticipation of the fans in stands, not to mention to limitless possibilities surrounding what can be done with the ladder itself, they typically live up to expectations. These 10 more than others...
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
