15 Ups & 13 Downs For WWE In 2017

12. The UK Championship Tournament

WWE UK Tournament Participants
WWE.com

WWE presented two major tourneys in 2017, but while the Mae Young Classic ultimately failed to live up to the lofty standards set by 2016's Cruiserweight equivalent, January's two-night United Kingdom Championship Tournament was a complete success from start to finish.

The first night was all about establishing characters, themes, and stories, and the second built on these foundations by cranking the workrate to 11, delivering an early 'Show Of The Year' contender in the process.

Pete Dunne vs. Sam Gradwell and Wolfgang vs. Trent Seven both told great stories, but things didn't truly heat up until the latter stages. Dunne's bout with Mark Andrews was the latest belter in a years-long series between the two, but 'The Bruiserweight' really outdid himself alongside Tyler Bate in the final, with both looking like potential megastars.

For those sick of the contrived, soap opera-like melodrama that dominates WWE's mainline programming, the UK Title Tournament was the perfect new year's tonic. Something similar in 2018 would be just lovely, Mr. McMahon.

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Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.