Every WWE Gimmick Match And The Wrestlers That Defined Them

15. Gauntlet Match - Kofi Kingston

The Undertaker HIAC
WWE.com

The Gauntlet match, used sparingly, is an effective means of putting a babyface act over as spirited, and a heel act over as opportunistic. WWE didn't use it sparingly ahead of WrestleMania, but Kofi Kingston excelled within it nonetheless.

His feats in the gauntlet matches reflected the essence of KofiMania; his fans chose him as Daniel Bryan's challenger because they didn't see an enduring, respected veteran but a genuinely versatile star. In those matches, he showcased technical skill in exchanges with Daniel Bryan, leaping agility in sequences opposite Cesaro, and sheer guts under the weight of Samoa Joe.

WWE booked at least one too many, but the match type worked so perfectly for Kofi, at once established and refreshed in a singles role; it condensed a long-term story and showcased his diversity as a performer.

Contributor
Contributor

Michael Sidgwick is an editor, writer and podcaster for WhatCulture Wrestling. With over seven years of experience in wrestling analysis, Michael was published in the influential institution that was Power Slam magazine, and specialises in providing insights into All Elite Wrestling - so much so that he wrote a book about the subject. You can order Becoming All Elite: The Rise Of AEW on Amazon. Possessing a deep knowledge also of WWE, WCW, ECW and New Japan Pro Wrestling, Michael’s work has been publicly praised by former AEW World Champions Kenny Omega and MJF, and current Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. When he isn’t putting your finger on why things are the way they are in the endlessly fascinating world of professional wrestling, Michael wraps his own around a hand grinder to explore the world of specialty coffee. Follow Michael on X (formerly known as Twitter) @MSidgwick for more!