10. Daniel Bryan vs. Bray Wyatt - Royal Rumble 2014
Fresh off the first chapter of his feud with The Authority, Daniel Bryan found himself the object of the enigmatic Bray Wyatt's attention. A months-long storyline that saw the consummate underdog reluctantly join The Wyatt Family, brainwashed by its leader, culminated in a high-profile singles bout that kicked off the 2014 Royal Rumble. Still the hottest wrestler in the business, Bryan exploded through the curtain, a unified "YES!" chant raining down on him. With Luke Harper and Erick Rowan barred from ringside, the focus of the match began and ended with Bryan and Wyatt. They delivered a beautiful match that encapsulated their story and proved just how intelligent Wyatt could be. The Reaper of Souls dodged a running knee from Bryan ducking to the outside. From there, he caught his flying opponent and delivered Sister Abigail into the guardrail. Wyatt scored the win seconds later, pinning Bryan's limp body, but it was no secret who the real winner was. A shining example of Bryan's ability to work the big man-little man style with a hybrid athlete the likes of Wyatt.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
