4. Randy Orton vs. CM Punk - Last Man Standing Match
One of the most underrated, undervalued and under-appreciated matches of the last five years is the Last Man Standing match between Randy Orton and CM Punk that kicked off Extreme Rules 2011. A month earlier at WrestleMania 27, Orton overcame an injured left knee to defeat Punk in a very good match and their rivalry continued on in the weeks that followed. With strong promo work from Punk and Orton at his peak of popularity, the feud was incredibly hot. The Last Man Standing match kicked off the 2011 show with a bang and provided fans with a legitimate main event-worthy bout right out of the gate. Neither Orton nor Punk controlled the match for long periods of time, ensuring that there would be several ups and downs throughout. Orton's quick strike nature was on display as he caught Punk with an RKO out of a Russian leg sweep attempt. Later, action spilled outside the ring and Orton delivered a second RKO, this time on the announce table. A GTS using the steel steps turned the tables in Punk's favor. Ultimately, the Viper struck as Orton unleashed with a series of wicked, violent cane shots and followed up with an RKO from the top rope. Orton watched patiently as the referee counted to 10 and declared the former WWE and World champion the victory. It was a huge win for Orton that gave him the momentum needed as he joined SmackDown and embarked on a very entertaining program with Christian over the World title. Punk would recover well, voicing his frustration with WWE and becoming the second biggest star in the industry.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
