8 Great Wrestling Matches (That Weren't Supposed To Happen)

4. Randy Orton Vs. Batista Vs. Daniel Bryan (WrestleMania XXX)

Stone Cold Triple H Survivor Series 2000
WWE.com

If Vince McMahon had had his way, WrestleMania XXX's incredible conclusion would have had a decidedly less feel-good vibe, ending with big Dave Batista raising both belts having tediously conquered ex-Evolution buddy Randy Orton. Precisely what the plan beyond the New Orleans denouement was to be isn't clear; presumably, Bray Wyatt wouldn't have been sacrificed at John Cena's altar when he could have been devoured by The Animal a month hence instead.

But he was, and possibly spitefully so, ensuring the night's eventual hero Daniel Bryan was left directionless following the apogee of his unexpected, organic arc. Towards the end of 2013, the Yes! Movement began to take hold amongst an audience increasingly confident in their vocal rejection of WWE's singular-minded booking, and when Batista stomped to a default Royal Rumble victory - just as the dirt-sheets had threatened - the crowd in Philadelphia turned toxic.

Eventually, the calls for Bryan's WrestleMania inclusion grew too loud for WWE to ignore anymore. Either they bowed to the pressure, or they faced having their biggest ever show sabotaged. In the end, they picked the right option - and WrestleMania XXX earned not one, but two wonderful matches as a consequence.

 
First Posted On: 
Editorial Team
Editorial Team

Benjamin was born in 1987, and is still not dead. He variously enjoys classical music, old-school adventure games (they're not dead), and walks on the beach (albeit short - asthma, you know). He's currently trying to compile a comprehensive history of video game music, yet denies accusations that he purposefully targets niche audiences. He's often wrong about these things.