The Greatest Match From Every WWE WrestleMania

24. WrestleMania XII: Bret Hart Vs Shawn Michaels

Shawn Michaels Undertaker WrestleMania 25
WWE.com

For an hour plus clash between two of the greatest ever to step in the ring, the WrestleMania XII headline event is surprisingly divisive. To its detractors, this Iron Man match was a misstep, and has been criticised by some as dull and indulgent.

If nothing else, it’s undeniably an impressive feat. For all their animosity outside the ring, Michaels and Hart had incredible chemistry inside it. That they’re able to work without flagging for 60 minutes plus overtime and keep the encounter intriguing is a testament to their conditioning as well as their undisputed in-ring abilities.

The match goes the distance without a single fall, and while this is the subject of criticism for some, it does lead to a high tension sudden death period in which Michaels triumphs over his perennial rival. Michaels was a difficult character at the time, but his joy at winning the belt - the boyhood dream come true - remains a powerful moment for the event.

With WrestleMania as much an entertainment spectacular as a wrestling event these days, there’s no way the Iron Man match could be replicated, so whatever your views on the execution, for that reason the ambition should be celebrated.

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Yorkshire-based writer of screenplays, essays, and fiction. Big fan of having a laugh. Read more of my stuff @ www.twotownsover.com (if you want!)