10 Wrestling Matches Fans Can’t Agree On
2. Goldberg Vs. Brock Lesnar - WWE Survivor Series 2016
The outcome of this match has been discussed to death - but what about the content?
On second viewing, what little there is was elevated by supreme body language on the part of Lesnar - one of the many intangibles within his act that the man does not get enough credit for. As the two squared off, the usual sneering bluster was absent. Lesnar looked almost anxious. This expression turned to outright fright when Goldberg no sold his corner barrage and pushed him to the floor. Feigned overconfidence gave way to a stellar sell-job when Lesnar took that first spear. The man looked decimated when he lost.
For what it was, it was performed very well - but what was it? If fire exists where there is smoke, the match was WWE's attempt to create a UFC-style sudden knockout in a WWE ring. But doesn't UFC exist for that purpose?
If you paid $60 (or £15 - UK fans got a much sweeter deal) for the match on Pay Per View, would you have felt short-changed? The WWE Network has a lot to answer for. Mediocrity - and now shock value - are excused by the low, low price of just $9.99 a month! The first four years are free!