10 'Passing The Torch' Wrestling Matches

5. The Rock Vs. Brock Lesnar (SummerSlam 2002)

Everything about Brock Lesnar's push in 2002 ruled. From the post-WrestleMania Raw debut and squash match wins over lower-card talent, to the King Of The Ring crown and destruction of Hulk Hogan on SmackDown, that year belonged to Brock. Paul Heyman deserves a lot of praise for his expert promo hype too.

By the time his promised World Title shot against The Rock rolled around at SummerSlam, Lesnar was ready to take the mantle of champion. More crucially, fans were willing to embrace him, and they were excited to see what this 'Next Big Thing' could achieve on top.

Rocky, selflessly, did the job and took a kicking so Lesnar could look unstoppable.

Brock, for his part, was totally believable in the role of machine-like rookie who had grown like Frankenstein's monster on speed. He went from greenhorn in March to ready-made Undisputed Champ by August, and that was never guaranteed. By killing it against The Rock, Lesnar confirmed why WWE had fawned over his potential for years.