Triple H's 14 Greatest WWE Title Defenses Ever

2. Triple Threat Match For The World Heavyweight Championship: Triple H Vs. Chris Benoit Vs. Shawn Michaels (WrestleMania XX)

A match erased from the history books thanks to the circumstances surrounding the death of Chris Benoit, this Triple Threat match for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania XX was a five-star classic that still ranks highly as one of Triple H's finest title defenses. There was never a moment for the audience to rest, the action keeping them engaged and taking them on an emotional rollercoaster from the get-go. Benoit was the overwhelming crowd favorite, his journey to the top of the industry culminating in the most important match of his career. He was brilliant, fighting through the pain of a double suplex through an announce table, not to mention a face caked in blood, to come close to capturing the world championship on numerous occasions. Triple H and Michaels renewed their rivalry, playing on the months of matches that preceded the bout to add another layer to the storytelling. In the end, though, it was Benoit who disposed of Michaels and trapped Triple H in his Crippler Crossface submission hold. The Game fought hard, rolling around in an attempt to break the hold and, in the process, creating doubt that the Edmonton native would leave victorious. And just as drama reached its peak, Triple H slapped the mat, giving up the match and his title. While Michaels and Benoit may have been better wrestlers at that point, it was Triple H who held the match together. He was the glue, the centerpiece of the match. It was his title on the line and his reign of terror that fans wanted so desperately to see come to an end. While it may have been Benoit's night, the match would not have been the all-time great affair it proved to be without the presence and contributions of The Game.