10 Wrestling Matches That Were Way Better Than Anyone Expected
3. The Rock Vs. Kurt Angle - No Way Out 2001
Kurt Angle proved he was a pro wrestling prodigy in 2000, wowing fans with his performances and winning a host of titles - including the WWE Championship. Unfortunately, for all his talent, his booking left something to be desired, as even an Olympic Gold Medal wasn't enough to pull him out of the "undeserving heel champion" role. It was clear that his first title run was something of a flop.
By early 2001, there was no question that the real money for WrestleMania was in one more showdown between Steve Austin and The Rock, and so when Angle was announced as defending the WWE Title against 'The Great One' at No Way Out, the result seemed a foregone conclusion - surely the jingoistic clown would fall to WWE's top star.
The Rock did ultimately beat Angle for the belt, but it was in a far better match than anyone expected. Prior to No Way Out, Angle started exhibiting a ruthless mean streak that gave his character a more serious tone, and it served him well during the match with The Rock. Angle tried to break Rock's leg with his brand-new Ankle Lock submission hold, and even kicked out of the Rock Bottom and People's Elbow. Finally, another Rock Bottom put an end to Angle's reign - and one hell of a contest.