10 Best Ever Wrestling Tournaments
4. WWE Cruiserweight Classic (2016)
The Cruiserweight Classic wasn’t just one of the best things WWE did in 2016, but one of the most exciting tournaments they’ve ever produced. Modern day WWE tournaments had become completely redundant by this point (hi, King Barrett), and the single elimination format appeared all but dead. The CWC not only revitalised the concept, but provided some of the year’s strongest matches, and provided a blueprint for WWE’s expansive future.
In a completely unprecedented move, WWE gathered together some of the most talented freelance wrestlers in the world, only two of whom were under contract (Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano). From global sensations Kota Ibushi and Gran Metalik to indie sensations Cedric Alexander and Zack Sabre Jr., the CWC’s line-up was incredible, and the matches delivered on every level.
From Gargano and Ciampa’s riveting, story-rich first round match to Ibushi’s semi-final thriller with TJ Perkins, the CWC provided dozens of great contests. In the end, Perkins overcame Ibushi before defeating Metalik in the tournament finals, and as Triple H handed him the new Cruiserweight Championship, it felt like a star had been born.
WWE’s follow-up was poor, and the Cruiserweights have floundered on Raw and 205 Live, but nothing can detract from the CWC’s magic. WWE have since used a similar format for the UK Championship Tournament, and if the rumours are to be believed, even more Network tournaments are on the way in 2017.