10 Times WWE Threw Their Champion Under The Bus

3. Daniel Bryan (vs. Sheamus) - WWE WrestleMania XXVIII

This one worked out a lot better for Daniel Bryan than it did for Sheamus in the long run, but it sure as hell didn't feel like it at the time. Everyone had kind of been getting used to the fact that the World Heavyweight Championship was no longer anywhere near being on a par with the WWE Championship in terms of prestige, but for those who clung to the idea that it was still a top tier title, the illusion was shattered when the match for the Big Gold Belt opened Wrestlemania 28. The crowd seemed to give a collective 'WTF?' as the match was announced as being first up, before Sheamus made his way to the ring. Still, those in attendance regained their composure and enthusiasm for the arrival of Daniel Bryan, with 'Yes!' chants and signs aplenty. There was no doubt who Miami's favourite was for this one, despite Bryan's status as heel. The bell rang, but we didn't get down to business right away. Bryan, with AJ Lee in his corner, turned round to receive a good luck smooch. Seconds later, Sheamus nailed the World Heavyweight Champion with a Brogue Kick, and the match was over. If it were possible for a Wrestlemania moment to be both 'wow' and 'this sucks' at the same time, then this was it. Daniel Bryan, and the World Heavyweight Championship that Sheamus now held, didn't mean a thing. Luckily for Daniel Bryan, he already had a legion of fans who were willing to wait a couple of years for a proper 'Yes!' moment at Wrestlemania 30.