10 Most Death-Defying Matches In Wrestling History

4. Mick Foley Vs. Edge (Hardcore Match, WWE WrestleMania 22)

Mick Foley Edge Extreme Rules
WWE.com

It’s that rascal Mick Foley once again, back with another death-defying match that’ll make you gasp and cringe in equal measure. The Rock, Triple H, Randy Orton: Foley’s always been great at setting younger stars on a fast-track to stardom, and Edge filled that role at WrestleMania 22. The feud started when blamed Foley (the special guest referee) for a loss on Raw, and it came to a head in this hardcore match.

This was Edge stepping into Foley’s wheelhouse, and succeeding. The duo put on a typically chaotic hardcore match with all the usual spots, and a couple of extra-nasty ones for good measure. From Foley wrapped Mr. Socko in barbed wire for the Mandible Claw to Lita smacking Foley in the groin with a barbed wire bat, this was one of the sickest hardcore matches WWE had ever produced, but the finish topped everything else.

The conclusion saw Foley soak a table in lighter fluid, Lita set it on fire, then Edge Spear Foley off the apron and into the flames. Those who doubted Edge’s extreme credentials were made to look foolish as he willing dove head-first into the flames, and fortunately, that was the end of it. Edge pinned Foley for the victory, but left the building with second degree burns: a small price to pay for such a dangerous spot.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.