10 Times Stipulations Ruined Wrestling Matches

4. Randy Orton Vs. Shawn Michaels - WWE Survivor Series 2007 (Michaels Outlawed From Using Superkick)

Vince McMahon, ahead of the Randy Orton Vs. Shawn Michaels WWE Title match at Survivor Series 2007, disallowed the challenger from using his Sweet Chin Music finisher.

"Who does the stipulation favour?" asked Jerry Lawler on commentary, as WWE Champion Randy Orton made his entrance. "In my opinion, it levels the playing field." Orton was depicted as inferior in the build-up, at the announce desk, and in the match.

Even the very best wrestling matches contain within them a predictable spot. When Orton himself is matched with a lighter opponent, one prone to deploying offence from a springboard position, a catch RKO variation is inevitable - but, manipulating the action and the audience, the man doesn't get enough credit for springing the surprise. The problem with his match against Michaels is that the stipulation narrowed the dramatic scope to just one dimension. The match was very good, in spite of its limitations. Michaels' frustration was acted out expertly, and he teased Sweet Chin Music only to catch Orton with a surprise roll-up in a heart-stopping near-fall.

But, unlike the catch RKO, it was telegraphed.