Every Roman Reigns WWE Universal Title Defence Ranked In Order Of Greatness
8. Vs Sami Zayn (Elimination Chamber 2023)
The second best version of a pitch-perfect Roman Reigns formula title match, Sami Zayn's hometown shot was a thing of beauty before the Challenger had no choice but to fall to his eventual doom.
As with Drew McIntyre's sentimental shot in Cardiff, Zayn had the backing of an electric crowd adding power to every punch. And there were plenty of them. The minimalist layout worked to incredible effect, and miraculously made 32 minutes feel like five as all of Montreal refused to give in on the underdog.
Every kickout was measured, every false finish was earned - this had drawn a Money In The Bank 2011-level of interest for a very good reason, and the fans.
Rooted in the immense drama of a peaking Bloodline saga, the finish left Jey Uso's status in doubt but Roman's crystal clear - he was on borrowed time as Champion just a month or so shy of a WrestleMania showdown with Cody Rhodes.