25 Best WWE Raw Matches Ever
20. Shawn Michaels Vs Shelton Benjamin (May 2nd, 2005)
Fondly remembered for a finish that stuck around on the Monday Night Raw credits for years afterwards, Shawn Michaels and Shelton Benjamin's 'Gold Rush' tournament clash was a wonderful meshing of similar styles. Rare for the time, it didn't require a heavy influx of storyline either side either.
Shelton had memorably beaten Triple H twice following his move to Monday Nights as a singles star in 2004, but had fallen off the radar slightly as he took on Hunter's real life bestie a year later. Michaels was in particularly fine form though, affording then-Intercontinental Champion Benjamin the opportunity to maintain control of the contest despite their differing skillsets.
Benjamin drew gasps for a nearfall from an inverted backbreaker, and mirrored Michaels' kip-up with one of his own. An blistering enziguri drew another scintillating two-count, as did Benjamin's blocking of Sweet Chin Music with a high-end head kick of his own. The beautifully-timed Superkick conclusion warranted the repeat viewings it earned.