10. The Birth Of The Chamber - Survivor Series 2002
The World Heavyweight Championship scene on the Raw brand in November of 2002 was one rife with future Hall of Famers. Rob Van Dam, Chris Jericho, Booker T, Kane and Shawn Michaels all had their sights set on titleholder Triple H, either to dethrone him for professional reasons or maim him for personal ones. With that collection of talent and a Survivor Series pay-per-view emanating from New York City, a new match type was introduced to help drive pay-per-view buys and create a buzz about the product. The Elimination Chamber was introduced by Raw general manager Eric Bischoff, who seemingly got off on the violence and bloodshed sure to unfold inside its steel confines. For 40-plus minutes, Triple H defended his title, fighting through swelling in his esophagus and trachea that threatened his ability to breathe. Yet, by the end of the match, he was there squaring off with former friend-turned-bitter enemy Shawn Michaels. Despite his tremendous effort, The Game lost his title and the fans inside MSG erupted, celebrating Michaels' improbable comeback and championship victory. It was a historic debut of a match that would become so popular that it would eventually earn its own pay-per-view event years later.
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.
