10 Best Wrestling Trilogies

Sometimes, a trilogy doesn't happen because of revenge or redemption - it's simply a necessity when the first two bouts don't produce a winner. As frustrating as draws in wrestling sound, they can be extremely effective when used correctly - not to mention when they cap off classic bouts.

Samoa Joe was Ring of Honor's dominant champion in 2004 when he was challenged by independent superstar CM Punk. Their first match, at the aptly-named World Title Classic event, went to a 60-minute time limit draw - an unheard-of result in the 21st century. The bout was excellent, and of course, a rematch was necessary. They met again in Punk's hometown of Chicago at a show simply titled "Joe Vs. Punk II," and again, neither man could score a win in 60 minutes of action.

The second bout was even more widely praised than the first, earning a rare five-star rating from The Wrestling Observer's Dave Meltzer. Still, nothing was settled, and they had to have one more match - a special "no time limit" contest - at All Star Extravaganza II. Though Punk was the aggressor in the earlier matches, Joe was dominant this time. He bloodied Punk, then wore him down with holds before choking him out and retaining the ROH Championship.