The 100 Best Wrestling Matches Of The Decade

What a time to be alive as a wrestling fan.  The 2010s has seen a resurgence in wrestling the likes of which we've needed since the demise of WCW and the struggles of Impact.  Indie wrestling experienced its greatest boom period possibly ever, New Japan rose to global dominance for in-ring quality, the British scene got back hot, and women's wrestling got the respect it had been longing for.  This was a decade where instant and time-lasting classics were often, very often.  Gone were the days of useless and pointless stories without suitable in-ring action to even eclipse the on-screen theatrics.  Also we had a show called Lucha Underground that was bred in Lucha culture and was literally a soap opera with wrestling, damn great wrestling at that. Also, we saw the formation and rise of All Elite Wrestling, which is the only true competition for Vince and the gang, and the PPV and attendance numbers reflect this, not to mention the ratings.  It was hard to really pick out a hundred matches to make this list, and even harder to comprise the Honorable Mentions because there have been just SO many outstanding matches.  With that being said, enjoy the list.

100. Kenny Omega vs. Joey Janela

Lights Out Match

AEW Dark Episode 4

With AEW still a rookie company, they want to appeal to different types of audiences.  One of which being hardcore.  One of the better hardcore-esque matches occurred during an AEW Dark episode between "The Seven Star Cleaner" Kenny Omega and "The Bad Boy" Joey Janela.  They competed in an old-school themed, "Lights out" match, which basically means the company wasn't responsible for any injuries during the match (kayfabe of course).  This match was pretty damn good, as this was a needed win for Omega who had struggled with himself especially after losing to Jericho at Double or Nothing, and his budding rivalries with PAC and Moxley.  Janela, on the other hand, was looking to make an impact, especially with a huge win over one of the best wrestlers this decade.  This match used tables, chairs, and other goodies.  The result was a highly entertaining fight that was still tolerable for the masses.  Brutal, but didn't overindulge in a ton of violence.  Omega came out the winner but Janela came out with even more respect than he did going in.

99. John Cena vs. Seth Rollins vs. Brock Lesnar

WWE Title

WWE Royal Rumble '15

Sorry Cena haters! John Cena was among the most definitive wrestlers this era.  The former sixteen-time World Champion stepped up in his in-ring abilities and produced some hellacious matches this decade.  Two other guys that truly helped define this decade with Seth Rollins and Brock Lesnar.  When you put these three in the ring together for a WWE Title match, the results can't be anything less than explosive, and that it was.  Cena and Lesnar were as intense as always, but Rollins at this time was a slippery, slimy snake, although a very highly gifted one.  Lesnar went into the match as champion, and emerged as champion from this as well, but best believe Cena nor Rollins left Lesnar without Lesnar on the brink of a former champion.  This was quite the triple threat encounter.

98. Michael Elgin vs. Kenny Omega

Ladder Match/IWGP Intercontinental Title

NJPW Dominion '16

At one time, Kenny Omega was the leader of the Bullet Club.  While he was the leader, he was starting to become one of the most on fire names in the business.  He had a ferocious encounter at Dominion '16 against former ROH World Champion, "Unbreakable" Michael Elgin for the IWGP intercontinental Title in a Ladder Match.  These two brought tons of fury along the ladders around the ring.  Ladder matches are never the easiest to watch, and this was no exception.  Both men were very fortunate neither man was seriously injured here.  Elgin became the new IWGP Intercontinental Champion in a very hard thirty-plus minute thriller.  This was not their only matchup, but this likely could belong as their best one.

97. Kota Ibushi vs. Tomohiro Ishii

NJPW G1 Climax 28 Day 10

If there's any one concentrated event that practically guarantees classic matches and memorable encounters, it's the near summer-long G1 Climax tournament in New Japan.  It's considered the toughest tournament in the sport and the most revered.  At the G1 Climax 27 in 2018, Kota Ibushi faced Tomohiro Ishii in the B-block.  This was easily the match of the night and one of the biggest in the tournament itself last year.  This was a stiff contest and st times it was uneasy to watch.  However, that's the way they like it, especially strong style Ishii.  After fifteen minutes of very heavy action, Ibushi defeated the former multi-time NEVER Openweight Champion, but he went through hell to do so. Both men have had epic battles this decade, and this one against each other was among each other's most awesome.

96. Sexy Star vs. Mariposa

No Mas Match

Lucha Underground Season 2

One of the most underappreciated wrestling programs on television was Lucha Underground, a faux wrestling promotion disguised as a legit soap opera with wrestling as its center.  This show has produced stars into American mainstream such as the Lucha Brothers, Daga, Aerostar, and Ricochet, who was known as Prince Puma.  One of the most definitive matches within the four seasons of LU was the "No Mas" match between Sexy Star and Mariposa.  This match was the paramount of the feud involving them and Mariposa's creepy brother, Marty Martinez.  It's not often we see brutal, bloody aggression within a women's mainstream wrestling match, but we got plenty of it here.  Sexy would not back down from the onslaught of Mariposa, and even gave a rather colorful response when asked if she would quit.  Sexy Star overcame all the odds, including her own previous trepidation of Mariposa, to win in a bloody encounter that should be considered among the physical encounters in LU history.

95. Becky Lynch vs. Sasha Banks

NXT Women's Title

NXT Takeover: Unstoppable

Before she became "The Man", Becky was "The Lasskicker", a promising yet underrated competitor in the women's division in NXT.  At Takeover: Unstoppable, she challenged Sasha Banks for the Women's Title in a match that stood out at that event.  The always arrogant an self-assured Banks took it to the feisty challenger, but Lynch would not give up, and came within an eyelash of being champion.  Although falling short, Lynch earned the respect of the NXT crowd with a standing ovation.  This was definitely a sign of far better things to come.

94. Aleister Black vs. Johnny Gargano

NXT Takeover: War Games

When it was revealed on NXT TV that Johnny Gargano was the one that attacked Aleister Black in the parking lot and cost him his match against Tomosso Ciampa for the NXT Title, the NXT Universe was beyond shocked.  Johnny had turned heel and was displaying a very unsettling attitude of indignation.  Of course, Black would not let this sit well with him and so the stage was set at Takeover: War Games for quite the anticipated battle.  Tow former indie darlings, who aren't actually strangers to each other, had a whale of a match at the event and in all actuality had the match of the night.  After two vicious Black Mass kicks, Black put down "Johnny Wrestling" after his "forgave him of his sins".  This was quite the competitive match and we need to see these two face each other on a mainstream level again.

93. David Starr vs. Jordan Devlin
OTT World Title
OTT 5th Anniversary

David Starr has been one of the best workers in all of the indies throughout this decade.  The man with a thousand nicknames is passionate, driven, and can work in his sleep. The same could be said about Devlin very easily. The back story revolved around who could be the almighty WALTER, in which Starr was never able to defeat him but Devlin could, and did. The build-up videos of these matches were some of the most creative and brilliant hype videos seen in years. Their first match at OTT Homecoming '19 was excellent, and was such a heated battle.  However, at OTT's 5th Anniversary show, the stage was set for a massive close out match between the two, and it was simply exceptional.  This match was also unique in the fact that there was a double turn here almost organically, thanks to Starr's stance of being pro-indies, while Devlin (as the champion) represented big business and corporate greed by working for WWE.  The crowd was bananas this entire match and the intensity was permeating throughout the building and across your monitors.  This nearly thirty minute match resulted in Starr becoming the new champion, and once again became the champion of the indies, with a newfound confidence to eventually face WALTER.  This was a rivalry that we don't see very often in the sport.  Very reminiscent of the emotion you felt with rivalries such as Gargano/Ciampa and Ospreay/Havoc, in which you felt the passion and hatred run through you as a fan as well.  The performance level from both men were off the charts and showed all watching that these two are perfect dance partners for each other.

92. Kota Ibushi vs. Ricochet

NJPW Dominion '14

When you think about how far Kota Ibushi and Ricochet have come in their respective careers, one would naturally wonder if these two ever crossed paths when Ricochet was in Japan.  The answer to that question lies at NJPW Dominion '14, when these two unbelievable stars of their craft collided in a massive encounter filled with tons of flying and tremendous back and forth action.  On a card that was admittedly not up to par with other Dominion events, this match was the standout and had the most people talking about the futures of both men.  Look at them now.

91. Ricochet & Matt Sydal vs. The Young Bucks

PWG Tag Team Titles

PWG All-Star Weekend '16

Pro Wrestling Guerrila is considered the best indie promotion in the States.  Just about any event is top notched or close, and is just outright fun.  One of their signature events is their All Star Weekend, and in 2016, day one of the ASW saw The Tag team Champions, The Young Bucks, collide and defend the belts against the excellent team of Ricochet and Matt Sydal.  Ric and Sydal were considered one of the most dazzling high flying teams around so of course their chemistry with the almighty Matt and Nick Jackson was going to be magical...and it absolutely was.  This was a classic Bucks match, but this showed that Ric and Sydal were great enough to give the Bucks an enormous challenge.  This match was completely and utterly awesome.  Although The Bucks came away still champions, Rico and Sydal showed how incredible of a team they were and hung with The Bucks like very few teams legitimately could...or still can to this day.

90. Prince Puma vs. Johnny Mundo

All Night Long Match/Lucha Underground Title

Lucha Underground Season 1

On season one of the revered Lucha Undergroiund series, two of their top stars collided in what was called an "All Night Long" match.  LU Champion, Prince Puma (Ricochet in a mask) defended the title against challenger Johnny (Morrison, Impact, Hannegan, etc.) Mundo in what was subsequently an Ironman Match for the entire duration of the program (excluding commercial breaks was probably thirty minutes).  This was an athletic showcase of two hellacious showmen in what's been called one of the greatest LU matches of any season.  With the additional stipulation of No DQ and No Countout, this went all out in athleticism and storytelling.  Puma took the first decision, but Mundo got the next four with Puma coming back for the next four to get the win with only a minute or two left in the match.  When people say 'Ironman match', we think of Bret vs. HBK, Steamboat vs. Rude, Bayley vs. Sasha, or even Angle vs. Lesnar.  It's only appropriate to put this match among the top due to how incredible this match really was.

89. Tetsuya Naito vs. Kazuchika Okada

IWGP Heavyweight Title

NJPW 40th Anniversary Show

Two staples of New japan are Okada and Tetsuya Naito.  Naito was, at this time, a very promising star that had a world of potential and had what it took to be the next big babyface.  This was all pre-LIJ.  Naito showed up to play in this fantastic one on one encounter for the title at their 40th Anniversary show.  Okada was the dominant champion who was definitely self-assured in his in-ring abilities to be champion.  The event overall was pretty good, but this main event was definitely on point and it was certainly a precursor to the excellence we would later see with their respective careers and future encounters for the title.

88. Tomohiro Ishii vs. Tomoaki Honma

IWGP NEVER Openweight Title

NJPW Power Struggle '15

One very beloved and respected veteran in New Japan is Tomoaki Honma.  The former Tag Team Champion is a tough bastard and, although fans tend to get hot and cold with him, nobody can deny his never-ending fighting spirit.  He challenged "The Stone Pitbull" for the NEVER Openweight Title at the very good Power Struggle event of 2015.  It was as stiff as you could imagine between the two warriors.  Seen as the match of the night, even more than the main event between Nakamura and Bullet Club leader Karl Anderson, Honma and Ishii put on a damn good battle in which IShii caught a decent sized scare with Honma nearly pulling off a big upset.  Ishii barely survived the match and retained the title, but rest assured Honma left a great impression upon Ishii that night.

87. Ketsuyori Shibata vs. Hiroki Goto

NJPW Dominion '13

You wanna talk about tough bastards? You had better include Ketsuyori Shibata to that list.  Tough is just one word to describe this athlete.  Focused is another word.  As for Hiroki Goto, Goto has been considered the best wrestler in all of New Japan to never win the big title.  At Dominion '13, these two high school friends turned eventual tag team champions collided in a very fierce struggle.  Shibata's legit strong style mixed with his MMA background collided with pure technical mastery mixed with his amateur wrestling background was an excellent clash.  With an already very impressive event, this was seen as the arguable favorite and for very good reason.  This match was definitely among each man's best efforts, and this match was likely what made these two high school classmates come together and become tag team champions.

86. Braun Strowman vs. Brock Lesnar vs. Samoa Joe vs. Roman Reigns

WWE Universal Title

Summerslam '17

Four of the top stars on the Raw brand in 2017 were Brock Lesnar, Samoa Joe, Roman Reigns, and Braun Strowman.  Strowman, Joe, and Reigns all had means to wanna take the Universal title from "The Beast Incarnate".  While most Fatal Four Way matches tend to bring unnecessary extraness into the equation for nothing more than useless confusion with no real story, this match was a little different.  Was there unnecessary extraness? Yes.  However, this was also incredibly physical, which made up for some of the extraness that went on here.  Lesnar was sent out on a stretcher courtesy of Strowman, but came back and raised hell.  All stars looked dominant here at some point, but in the end, it was Lesnar that came out victorious in a nuts matchup that left everyone tired from the intensity of the match.

85. Candace Lerae vs. Io Shirai

NXT Takeover: Toronto II

It's no secret Candace Lerae is one of the toughest women walking.  If you don't believe me, look no further than the Guerilla Warfare match with Joey Ryan against The Young Buicks (see later).  That will answer every doubt you have.  Otherwise, Mrs. Candace Wrestling is one hell of a skilled, gutsy performer.  When she was involved in a rivalry with newly heel-turned Io Shirai, who's considered as arguably the best women's wrestler on Earth, the prediction was that the rivalry would produce stellar matches.  Folks, this was very accurate.  At Takeover: Toronto II, Lerae and Shirai were involved in a highly competitive match that especially picked up within the latter eight or so minutes of the match.  This was a definite standout of the event and showed us just how great a series of matches between the two would be.  While there weren't a ton of exceptional women's matches this year in WWE, especially those that didn't include Charlotte, Becky, Sasha, and Bayley, this one in particular was damn good and we can watch them compete against each other over and over again.

84. Tetsuya Naito vs. Kenny Omega

NJPW G1 Climax 26 Day 18

While we have been crediting G1 Climax 28 as the greatest G1 tournament of all-time, there were others that very legitimately give that distinction a tight run, especially G1 Climax 26 in 2017.  On day eighteen, the big match of the night was Kenny Omega and Tetsuya Naito.  It was hard trying to follow Nakajima and Elgin, but my God did they do it and then some.  One of the most acclaimed G1 matches ever, Omega and Naito tore down the house with this instant classic.  The Bullet Club leader and the leader of Los Ingornables de Japon killed in nearly thirty unforgettable minutes.  Omega got the win here and thus faced Hiroki goto in the G1 26 Finals, but Naito put forth one of his career best performances in a match that still resonates with people to this day when discussing classic G1 matches.  

83. Charlotte vs. Sasha Banks vs. Bayley vs. Becky Lynch

NXT Women's Title

NXT Takeover: R-Rival

Many would say the birth of the Four Horsewomen of Wrestling formed with this one match between all of the members.  Charlotte, Banks, Lynch, and Bayley were the true workhorses in the women's locker room and it was clear by the end of this frantic yet engaging Fatal Four Way match at Takeover: R-Rival, these four women would set the new standard for women's wrestling in WWE.  Then champion Charlotte was hot, and was delivering great matches against all of these ladies, however, when all of them came for her title at once, we saw a spirited affair between all four ladies that eventually saw "The Boss" capture the NXT Women's Title.  This was an important match as we saw a glimpse into the future of women's wrestling in WWE in this one match, much less all the individual matches between these ladies.  If The Four Horsemen of Flair, Arn, Tully, and Windham (or Ole) relied upon being the ones to outdo every worker each and every night, these four ladies deserve the term 'Four Horsewomen".

82. Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Tomohiro Ishii

NJPW G1 Climax 23 Day 2

Day two of the G1 Climax 23 saw Hiroshi Tanahashi and Tomohiro Ishii square off in the main event in a very memorable affair.  After a somewhat underwhelming day one, day two more than made up for it with great matches, but this match was simply a barnburner.  Ishii's stiff, strong style approach against the all-around excellence of Tanahashi's in-ring work was awesome here.  It was clear "The Ace" was in for a rough ride against the likes of Ishii, and he put him through physical hell here, but the incredible in-ring showmanship and abilities of Tanahashi were nearly too much for Ishii to overcome.  Ishii got the win in this one, but rest assured, both men were exhausted after this unbelievable encounter that left both the wrestlers and the fans out of breath.

81. Neville vs. Tyler Breeze vs. Sami Zayn vs. Tyson Kidd

NXT Title

NXT Takeover: Fatal Four Way

We have yet another Fatal Four Way match of distinction to present, and involved Neville, Tyson Kidd, Sami Zayn, and Tyler Breeze.  All four different personalities, but were all similar in terms of desire to be NXT Champion.  Now known as "The Bastard" PAC, Neville was an admirable champion.  Delivering outstanding performances and totally worthy of being champion, but with underdog Zayn, highly skilled Kidd, and arrogant yet formidable Breeze going after him, this was his biggest challenge yet as champion.  The action never let up, nor did it ever cool off.  This was frantic, and frenzied.  Guts and determination were prevalent here, as all four men put out excellent performances here. We even got a slight glimpse of a possible heel turn from Neville towards the end, which left fans shocked here. This has been considered among the best Fatal Four Way matches in WWE history and for very good reason.  

80. Kenny Omega vs. Rey Fenix

NEW Redemption

North East Wrestling is an indie promotion out of the NY/PA/MA area.  Lots of known talent go there on occasion to highlight their craft to generally not very large crowds, but the crowds that do show are spirited and highly engaged.  In 2019, Two of the very best around competed in one hell of a main event with Kenny omega and Rey Fenix.  These two AEW stars put on a dazzling match in front of the NY crowd and one that those in attendance have stated was beyond awesome.  Already considered a dream match of sorts, these two lived up to the hype with a match that deserved all the acclaim it got.  Let's hope we see a one on one contest between these two on a future Dynamite show.

79. Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kazuchika Okada
IWGP Heavyweight Title
NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 9

While Japan and practically all of the eastern world was aware of the magic between Tanahashi and Okada, the western world had heard very little about it.  That was until Jeff Jarrett's now-defunct promotion Global Force Wrestling teamed up with NJPW to show Wrestle Kingdom on worldwide PPV.  The rest of the world was able to see what they hype of New Japan was about, and just as importantly the rivalry between these two guys.  We were treated to quite the fantastic match between "The Ace" and "The Rainmaker".  While not quite as acclaimed as some of their other classics, that doesn't take away from how excellent this match was.  After a bunch of losses to Okada, Tanahashi finally was able to defeat Okada and win his seventh IWGP Heavyweight Title, and the emotion that poured out of Okada as he was being helped to the back said more than a thousand words could concerning how much both men out into this outstanding match.  Two modern greats showed us what excellence is like in professional wrestling, sand the scary thing about this at the time was Okada wasn't even in his thirties yet.

78. Vampiro vs. Pentagon Jr.

Ciero Miedo Match

Lucha Underground Season 1

Season one of Lucha Underground was already a hit and very successful among those that wanted stellar athletic showmanship with both American and Mexican wrestling traditions.  Their season ending big event is known as Ultima Lucha, and their first one was incredible.  Perhaps the one match everyone was blown away by more than any other was the VERY violent matchup between pentagon jr and retired grappler-turned LU commentator-Vampiro.  Vamp had been retired due to neck issues, but was highly antagonized by the villainous Pentagon to where they faced off against each other in a "Ciero Miedo" match (basically a No Holds Barred/No DQ match).  The violence and aggression here was at times very unsettling.  Glass, tables, chairs, fluorescent light tubes, and even fire was used in this unsettling yet highly engaging bloodbath.  We didn't see this type of violence o n mainstream wrestling television so it was very shocking to a lot of viewers, but for death match enthusiasts, this was a delightful treat, with an ending not one single person saw coming.

77. Sasha Banks vs. Charlotte

WWE Raw Women's Title

WWE Monday Night Raw 10/3/19

One very compelling rivalry within this decade within all of WWE was the feud between "The Queen" Charlotte and "The Boss" Sasha banks.  Literally the Raw Women's Title switched hands four different times between these two dynamite athletes.  One of those times was on a Monday night Raw, when Charlotte was the champion.  Banks, ever the gutsy competitor, display true grit and passion in wanting to be the Women's Champion for another time.  This was a battle that could've easily rivaled any great Trish/Lita matches from the Attitude Era onward.  An excellent main event with "The Boss" showing who was in charge.

76. KUSHIDA vs. Will Ospreay

NJPW Best Of the Super Juniors '17 Finals

Nowadays, we see KUSHIDA on NXT TV almost every week, especially since he's returned from his injury.  However, there was a time where he was the most decorated junior heavyweight in NJPW since the prime days of Jushin "Thunder" Liger.  Over six IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championships and never knew what a bad match was like.  He was in the Finals of BOSJ XXIV in 2017 against "The Ariel Assassin" Will Ospreay.  Ospreay was starting to get on fire this particular year and having excellent matches,especially during this Best Of Super Juniors tournament, facing the likes of Takahashi, TAICHI, and Dragon Lee.  Ospreay earned his way to these Finals, and to say this was a hell of a match would be an understatement.  Keep in mind, Ospreay had that thriller of a match against Ricochet earlier in the tournament so this match had big shoes to fill, but not only did they do it, but they established their big shoes with this simply dazzling affair.  Both men were superb here and looked like legit world class stars.  KUSHIDA came away with the win, but they both put each other on new levels by match end.

75. Hiroshi Tanahashi & Tetsuya Naito vs. Shinsuke Nakamura & Kazuchika Okada

NJPW Road To Tokyo Dome '13

We don't have a bunch of NJPW Tag Team matches on this list, but the ones that are on here are just special.  This particular match involved the two biggest members of heel faction CHAOS, in the form of Kazuchika Okada and Shinsuke Nakamura against Hiroshi Tanahashi and Tetsuya Naito.  Four of the greatest and biggest names in modern New Japan history in one match, and folks, they showed all the way out.  This main evented the final day of the Road To Tokyo Dome on 2013.  It did so for very good reason.  Although it wasn't better or even equal to what's been called the greatest tag team main event in wrestling history with Furnas & Croffett vs. Kikuchi & Kabashi in '92 from All Japan, this had the same spirit with non-stop, highly compelling action with a hot crowd.  This match was so off the page, this match was fought to the thirty minute duration and it was a draw.  A very spirited encounter, these four would become perhaps the biggest names ever in the promotion and this match showed how much further their respective careers would soar.

74. Tomohiro Ishii vs. Tomoaki Honma

IWGP NEVER Openweight Title

NJPW New Beginnings In Sendai

Ishii and Honma were never strangers to each other, but this match at New Beginnings In Sendai was an absolutely slugfest.  Honma was the beloved underdog, despite being a pretty tough bastard himself.  Ishii, on the other hand, makes no bones about his ungodly toughness and ability to stop your heart with one of his chops.  Honma came into this match willing have a good competitive match, but Ishii wasn't content with that, as he's a natural bruiser.  What resulted was a super stiff shot contest that was brutal at times to watch, but it showed Honma was willing to go to the fire with Ishii if it meant being NEVER Openweight Champion.  Very much like the Ishii/Shibata classic from Wrestle Kingdom 10, this was filled with unsettling stiff shots that displayed utter physicality between two gladiators, but with Honma going the distance in true underdog fashion, he earned even more respect from Ishii then he did going in.

73. Becky Lynch vs. Sasha Banks

Hell In A Cell match/WWE Raw Women's Title

WWE Hell In A Cell '19

There wasn't a bunch to brag about with WWE's Hell In A Cell event of 2019, but there was one particularly bright moment, and that was the first match of the night.  It was between WWE Raw Women's champion, Becky Lynch, against the returning "Boss" Sasha Banks.  This was way different from their NXT encounter years earlier.  Lynch has become arguably the most female competitor in years in mainstream wrestling, and with that her in-ring skills have gotten a lot better as well.  Along with the great in-ring work of Sasha, this match was very physical, and we are all in for it.  There were chairs, kendo sticks, and more in the confines of the Cell, but at the end, "The Man" reigned victorious in what was possibly the match of the night, and gave the women's division another example of how to steal the show from the boys when given the opportunity.

72. Johnny Gargano vs. Adam Cole

Three Stages Of Hell/NXT Title

NXT Takeover: Toronto II

Arguably the biggest, and best, rivalry in all of WWE in 2019 was in NXT with Johnny Gargano and Adam Cole.  They had quite likely the two best WWE matches of all-time in earlier Takeover events (see later), and to top it off, they had one last match to end this thrilling feud between two of the best in-ring workers in the world.  This finale took place at NXT Takeover: Toronto II in a Three Stages Of Hell match.  The first stage was a wrestling match, a damn great one at that.  Cole won the first fall by Gargano getting DQ'd.  Gargano won the second fall which was a street fight, but then third fall time involved a steel cage with barbed wire at the top.  While many scoff at the fact that this didn't measure up to the inescapable magic of the first two encounters, this was still a very good stand alone match.  Cole ultimately won in thrilling fashion, thus putting an end to this unbelievable rivalry, but what was clear was these two are money together, and this match was the final chapter in one of NXT's most memorable rivalries.

71. Prince Puma vs. Rey Mysterio Jr

Ultima Lucha Dos
Lucha Underground Season 2

Before Riciochet and Mysterio would join (or return) WWE in 2018, they were both in Lucha Underground. Ricochet was Prince Puma, who was pretty much their face and flagbearer of the company.  Rey was (and is) the legend that made a luchador cool in modern wrestling. Rey was introduced in season two of the show and the anticipation was slowly building that those two were gonna eventually collide.  At one point, these two were two-thirds LU Trios Champions, along with El Dragon Azteca Jr (now known as Rey Horus, Mysterio's real life cousin), but once the belts were gone, Ricochet had to prove to himself that he could hang with the Lucha legend.  At Ultima Lucha Dos, these two met every expectation possible and put on a master class in athletic showmanship.  While Mysterio did get the win, the respect between between them was palpable, with Puma even getting emotional at the end.  One has to wonder if these two greats will collide in WWE?

70. Kenny Omega vs. Jon Moxley

Lights Out match

AEW Full Gear

At the end of the very awesome Double Or Nothing event, we saw the auspicious debut of Jon Moxley, as he attacked Chris Jericho, as well as Kenny Omega.  Omega, however, would fight back and take it to the "International Purveyor of Violence", only to be left near broken by being slammed through a table from some five feet off the ground.  After a near life-threatening injury occurred with Moxley that prevented them from wrestling each other at All Out, they finally got the go ahead to fight at AEW Full Gear, and fight they did.  Billed as a "Lights Out" match (which is basically a No DQ street fight that the company doesn't want to be held kayfabe responsible for), this highly anticipated match went at times above and beyond a regular hardcore match.  Although there was minimal blood here, this was all the way violent, and much more than we had seen in mainstream wrestling of today for the most part.  Among the weapons used was barbed wire, a mouse-trap board, chairs, chains, and a whole barbed wire board, known as a barbed wire web.  These two gave us a fight we will not soon forget, and even though Moxley came out the victor, neither man would be the same from it.

69. Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kazuchika Okada

IWGP Heavyweight Title

NJPW Invasion Attack '13

If there was one consistently celebrated rivalry in the sport throughout this decade, it would be arguably the two best NJPW stars of of the modern era, Hiroshi Tanahashi and Kazuchika Okada.  This has been compared to the likes of Steamboat/Flair or Taker/HBK outside of WWE.  Basically every single match helped define this decade, much less this era.  One of their better matches was at Invasion Attack in 2013 for the IWGP Heavyweight Title.  This really was a class of human chess, as two of the best workers possibly ever in a near flawless wrestling match.  This thirty minute classic was a masterclass in psychology and in-ring chemistry, and what "The Ace" and "The Rainmaker" put on was phenomenal.  There are other matches of theirs in the list, but best believe, this was among their true best work, as we saw Okada win his second World Title..  At an event that was overall a pretty good event, Tanahashi and Okada was a main event in every essence of the term.

68. Charlotte vs. Becky Lynch

Last Woman Standing match/WWE Smackdown Women's Title

WWE Evolution

WWE made history having their first all women's PPV in 2018 with Evolution.  The event as a whole a pretty affair with good matches throughout the night, including the Mae Young Classic finals between Io Shirai and Toni Storm.  However, the match of the night was unquestionably between WWE Smackdown Women's Champion, Becky Lynch, and hated rival, Charlotte in a very physical Last Woman Standing match.  Ladders, tables, chairs, and kendo sticks were all used in this very aggressive and personal affair between two of the very best in the women's locker room.  This very aggressive affair capped off a decent night of action, but what we witnessed here was one of the most physically aggressive women's matches in recent WWE history.  What Charlotte and Becky did that night was raise the bar yet again within the women's division and showed the world they didn't come to play either.

67. John Cena vs. AJ Styles

WWE Title

WWE Royal Rumble '17

Two names that truly dominated the decade, at least for the most part, have been John Cena and AJ Styles.  When Styles joined WWE in 2016, it rocked the entire wrestling world, and he quickly became a megastar within the company, winning the WWE Title in under a year of being there.  He developed a rivalry with one of the company's biggest names of all time, John Cena.  Cena's time was winding down as other acting commitments were tugging at him.  While he was there, these two had a great rivalry, but it was their battle at the 2017 Royal Rumble that made everyone sit up and take notice.  Styles could do matches like this in his sleep, but we weren't used to seeing Cena perform at this incredible level, except for matches against the likes of Punk, HBK, or The Rock.  This was a classic back and forth match in which both men gained way more respect for the other then they did going into this match.  With Cena winning the match and the title, he reaffirmed his stance as being among the true greats in WWE history, but AJ showed why he had been considered among his generation's most amazing performers.

66. Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kazuchika Okada

IWGP Heavyweight Title

NJPW Dominion '12

Yet another Tanahashi/Okada matchup resides on this list.  This particular one happened at NJPW's Dominion event of 2012.  The event itself was an okay event.  It was mostly dominated by the CHAOS stable, of which Okada was a part of.  However, this was the main event, and many have stated that this was as great or better than their phenomenal Invasion Attack classic that was aforementioned earlier.  This was another chess match between two greats that showed early on that Okada would be mentioned among the best in the world and why Tanahashi was who he was and still is who he is.  This had it all and this was so wonderfully executed.  Their rivalry is what perfect chemistry and psychology should be, and this was yet another example of that.

65. Eddie Edwards vs. Davey Richards

Anything Goes match/ROH World Title

ROH Best In The World '11

These two were The American Wolves, one of the sports best all around teams.  However, it wasn't always that way.  Davey Richards and "Diehard" Eddie Edwards has an off the charts match at ROH Best In The World of 2011.  The technically physical style of Richards met the more finesse yet almost as technical style of Edwards and this was a hand-in-glove affair.  These two partners and friends put on a clinic, but the end came out of nowhere with Richards turning heel to become the new ROH Champion.  While this was shocking, it didn't take away from the fact that this match ranks among the best within the decade of that company, and they showed they were just as awesome as opponents as they were as a team.

64. Johnny Gargano vs. Tomosso Ciampa

Chicago Street Fight

NXT Takeover: Chicago II

In what was becoming the most hatred-filled rivalry in NXT history, Johnny Gargano got the best of his former friend and tag partner Tomosso Ciampa in a very dramatic and intense Unsanctioned Match at NXT Takeover: New Orleans.  However, this was only the beginning.  Gargano had gotten his job back and now it was officially time to kick Ciampa's ass.  Ciampa, on the other hand, wanted to avenge his loss to Gargano by any means.  Thus comes Takeover: Chicago II, in which we have ourselves a Chicago Street Fight.  This match was every bit as intense, every bit as physical, every bit as brutal as their previous encounter.  While it wasn't AS dramatic and as high stakes as their New Orleans encounter, it didn't mean the intensity was diminished, or that the intent to hurt and maim wasn't at the forefront of these two.  These two put each other through complete hell, as well their own bodies.  The end of the match was quite volatile with a handcuffed Ciampa managing to DDT Gargano on top of the uncovered section of the ring apron in one of the most unsettling images you could see.  This match was the rematch we thought it would be, as these two dynamite performers gave us a match that not only shortened their careers, but also showed the true toughness of both men.

63. Kota Ibushi vs. Will Ospreay

IWGP NEVER Openweight Title

NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 13

If there were two bigger names that originate from the Junior Heavyweight division of the sport than Ospreay and Ibushi, present them to us.  This was a dream match on paper for Ospreay to collide with Ibushi, and they did just that at Wrestle Kingdom 13 for the NEVER Openweight Title.  This was a spirited affair, and one that was at times somewhat brutal.  The athleticism of these two was exemplary, but Will's on again, off again heelish persona was displayed here, especially towards the end when he violently struck Ibushi in the head in an unprotected shot with his elbow and forearm to help get him the win.  In an unfortunate set of circumstances, Ibushi had to get stretchered out of the ring, but with the exception of that scary moment, this match was as thrilling as you could imagine it would be.  Ospreay and Ibushi are definitely two of the best of this generation regardless of weight class, and this match displayed that more than any words could say.

62. Bayley vs. Sasha Banks

30 Minute Ironman Match/NXT Women's Title

NXT Takeover: Respect

After the highly regarded and acclaimed matchup at NXT Takeover: Brooklyn a couple of months earlier, Bayley and Sasha Banks decided to go at it again over the NXT Women's Title at NXT Takeover: Respect.  Bayley had defeated Sasha in one of the greatest women's matches in WWE history in Brooklyn, and the aim was to take it a step further by having them compete for thirty uninterrupted minutes in an Ironman match.  The drama and big fight feel was palpable and the match did not disappoint at all.  With Banks being her heelish best self, she brought it up a level and tried every way possible to get that belt back from Bayley, but the heart of the champion showed itself with only a few seconds left in the match to get the win in an incredible moment.  With the entire locker room emptying out to show respect to both ladies, this marked a special occasion for NXT, WWE, and all of wrestling.  This remains one of the best rivalries in modern history of WWE and although they're on the same side now, one day these two will be on opposing sides again, and we will be all the way there for it

61. Ricochet vs. EC3 vs. Velveteen Dream vs. Killian Dane vs. Lars Sullivan vs. Adam Cole

Ladder Match

NXT Takeover: New Orleans

NXT's Ladder matches have been some of the most incredible matches you'd watch.  DIY vs. AOP come to mind from NXT Takeover: Chicago comes quickly to mind.  However, there was a Ladder Match that may have put even that excellent match to shame, and it was to crown the inaugural NXT North American Champion from Takeover: New Orleans.  It involved Adam Cole, Ricochet, Lars Sullivan, EC3, Killian Dain, and Velveteen Dream.  Violence, brutality, aggression, athleticism, and showmanship were all on enormous display here.  There were plenty of highlight reel moments here and it was a wonder nobody was severely injured in this awesome match.  Cole ultimately came away with the very hard fought win, but to say this was unbelievable was putting it mildly.  This Ladder Match easily ranks up there with other legendary Ladder matches such as the famed TLC match with The Dudleyz, Hardyz, and E&C, as well as THE Ladder Match between HBK and Razor Ramon.  This was THAT good.  You left from that match with more respect towards each man in the match than you did before the bell rang, and this ranks among the most ungodly WWE matches in recent years.

60. Sami Zayn vs. Neville

NXT Title

NXT Takeover: R-Evolution

Sami Zayn was the heart and soul of NXT way before Johnny Gargano became the heart of the brand.  Zayn was the fearless, heartfelt fighter that exhibited heart each and every time he came to compete.  Much like Gargano, he had to scrap, claw, and go through tons of dirt in order to finally win the big one, and he did at Takeover: R-Evolution when he fought Neville in a truly spirited contest.  Neville (PAC as we know him today) had been champion for months up to this point and was a hell of a champion.  Leading up to this, Sami stated that he if he din't win the title, he was leaving NXT.  The match itself was fantastic and the chemistry within the story being told was tremendous.  Two of the game's best workers colliding in one of NXT's most memorable matches.  of course the moment Sami won was stained by a debuting Kevin Owens turning heel on him and ending the show with him getting injured.  However, up to that point, it was a wonderful moment of Sami finally winning the big one after a very competitive and engaging match against an equally incredible talent.

59. Young Bucks vs. Lucha Bros.

AAA Tag Team Titles

AEW Double Or Nothing

Arguably the top two teams in the world today are The Young Bucks and The Lucha Bros.  Both teams are real-life brothers and both teams have had very heavy impacts within tag team wrestling of today's age.  This dream matchup took place at AEW's debut event, Double Or Nothing in Las Vegas, and this match did  anything but disappoint.  Previously having fought each other in the AAA promotion for the Luchas Tag team titles, the Bucks won them and defended them at DON.  This match showed why these teams were, and remain, the best teams walking the earth today.  The athleticism displayed here was exhilarating and it ended up being among the true standout matches of the night and of the year itself.  The Bucks won but this was a match that neither team would soon forget.

58. Dragon Lee vs. Will Ospreay

IWGP Junior Heavyweight Title

NJPW Dominion '19

It's no secret how awesome of a year Will Ospreay has had, officially placing his name among the best in the world.  Another name you have to put on that list is Dragon Lee.  While his other two highly successful brothers of former ROH Television Champion Bandido and former ROH World Champion RUSH are also tearing up the game of wrestling, Lee has absolutely put his name out there as being among the best himself, and this matchup between Lee and Ospreay was everything you would imagine it would be.  It was filled with incredible high flying spots, counters, reversals, and more high spots.  They matched each other at every spot and reversal imaginable.  Ospreay finally defeated Lee in one hell of a memorable match from Dominion '19.  While this is not the first time these two have fought, this may be the best of all their encounters.

57. Tetsuya Naito vs. Michael Elgin

IWGP Intercontinental Title

NJPW New Beginning In Osaka '17

Tetsuya Naito is the beloved, yet utterly defiant, leader of Los Ingornables de Japon in NJPW.  His talents are among the best in the world.  Nobody ever questions the skill set of the multi-time former (and now current) IWGP Intercontinental Champion.  In 2017, he collided with one of the true badass strongmen of our sport, "Unbreakable" Michael Elgin.  The former ROH World Champion went to task against Naito in showed his incredible strength and power, but also his tremendous athleticism as well in one of his best performances yet.  Naito, as usual, was the fantastic performer who, in spite of his rebellious and at times heel nature, comes from underneath and delivers a knockout performance of his own.  Naito retained the I-C Title, but not without his being as hard fought as one would envision.

56. Bayley vs. Sasha Banks

NXT Women's Title

NXT Takeover: Brooklyn

The previously lovable fighter, Bayley, was seen as the woman that had hit here ceiling.  The one that would often fail to grab the imaginary brass ring.  No matter how close she would come, she just wouldn't achieve that big victory.  Enter NXT Women's Champion, Sasha Banks, the arrogant, self-assured, yet extremely talented star on the verge of being a megastar.  The lead up to the match had Sasha laying into Bayley and constantly referring to her as a failure.  The normally kid-friendly Bayley was all focus and all business in this wonderful encounter that saw Bayley dig down deep, pull off an incredible performance (as did Sasha), and finally win her big one in front of a sold out Brooklyn crowd.  The win saw the heart and soul of the women's division in NXT finally break through that ceiling in one of the greatest NXT matches in history.  Along with the "curtain call"-esque shoot moment between them, Charlotte, and Beck at the very end, this moment was special.  it marked the official beginning of the new women's movement in WWE, as well the emergence publicly of the Four Horsewomen of Wrestling.

55. Will Ospreay vs. Bandido

NJPW Best Of the Super Juniors '19 Day 8

What can you say about Mr. Ospreay? he's awesome, exciting, thrilling, and just overall phenomenal.  There's no such thing as a bad Ospreay match.  However, the same can almost be said about Bandido as well.  the brother of Dragon Lee and ROH Champion RUSH is a huge favorite on the indie scene and is practically every bit as thrilling to watch.  In last year's BOSJ tournament, these two collided and it was a dandy.  Much like the highly awesome battle between Ospreay and big brother Lee, this was a match filled with a bunch of spots, flying, and a superb amount of athleticism to go around. This was not their first encounter, as these two fought at the WrestleCon Supershow earlier in the year Wrestlemania weekend in an almost as excellent match. One could argue this was every bit as good or better than Ospreay's match with Lee, but one thing is for sure.  Bandido is one of the most incredible talents in the sport right with Ospreay and this was a thrilling encounter to see and invest in.

54. Kazuchika Okada vs. SANADA

NJPW New Japan Cup '19 Finals

LIJ's "Bone Soldier" SANADA is perhaps the one to watch going into 2020, as he had a pretty damn impressive 2019.  Mostly from his numerous battles with IWGP Heavyweight Champion, Kazuchika Okada.  One of their truly incredible encounters was the Finals of the New Japan Cup of 2019.  This would determine who would collide with then-champion Jay White at the ROH/NJPW G1 Supercard in MSG.  Okada had been looking to get himself back on the ball after losing to White at Wrestle Kingdom 13 in a non-title match.  As for SANADA, he was the guy bubbling waiting for that one big encounter to officially mark him among the future solo champions in the company.  This was a truly great encounter, and SANADA gave an extremely worthwhile performance, nearly pulling off a monster upset win over the young legend Okada.  While Okada did pull off the win over SANADA, this match showed everyone that SANADA could not only hang with "The Rainmaker", but he could scare him with a loss.  This would not be their first encounter of 2019, but this was among their best matches.

53. Will Ospreay vs. Marty Scurll

RevPro High Stakes '16

One of the UK's hottest promotions is Revolution Pro Wrestling, or RevPro.  Many a big time match has come from this promotion over the years.  Their crowds are often off the charts, and big fight atmospheres are very often and frequent.  One of the best matches in RevPro history involved two guys that have since become worldwide notable stars in the sport: Will Ospreay and Marty Scurll at High Stakes '16.  The crowd was already red hot going into this match, and once the action started, they didn't let up.  This was an awesome back and forth matchup as it was, however, the last six to seven minutes of this match were truly spectacular.  Incredible sequences and engaging athletic storytelling had these two bringing out the true best out of each other.  Scurll ultimately got the win, but Ospreay showed why he's in the position of being known in many circles as perhaps the best in the world today.  While they have had many other terrific battles during the decade, this is one of their most memorable encounters, and deserves to be placed among wither man's best efforts.

52. Sami Zayn vs. Shinsuke Nakamura

NXT Takeover: Dallas

When Sami Zayn was on his way out of NXT and going up to the main roster, he had one last person to contend with in the form of then-newcomer, Shinsuke Nakamura.  The highly charismatic, yet unbelievably talented, star from NJPW was among the hottest free agents in the game, and he had arrived in NXT.  The anticipation was off the charts going into Takeover: Dallas, and rightfully so.  The crowd was super hot from the jump, but once the action started, these two never left their foot off the gas pedal.  This was nothing short of AWESOME.  The amount of heart Sami was showing in his final NXT match was something to behold, but for those that had never watched a Nakamura match were treated to one of the very best matches we've seen ever from him by those of us that have been privileged to watch many of his matches.  This was stiff, fast-paced, and damn sure highly competitive.  At the end, Nakamaura picked up the win, but both men received a rightful standing ovation, and Sami received an emotional farewell by the NXT crowd.  Not one single match that Wrestlemania weekend could match or top this encounter, and it ended up being more talked about more than any single match at Wrestlemania.

51. Joey Ryan & Candice Lerae vs. The Young Bucks

Guerilla Warfare Match/PWG Tag Team Titles

PWG Eleven

Pro Wrestling Guerilla is highly known in the indies for their off the charts action and perhaps the most rabid fanbase around.  There are numerous thrilling matches within the history of the promotion, but very few matches stick to you and never let go.  One such match involves perhaps the greatest team to ever wrestle in PWG, The Young Bucks, and the intriguing, yet enjoyable, team of Joey Ryan and current NXT star, Candice Lerae, collectively as The World's Cutest Tag Team.  This match was not just for the PWG Tag Team Titles, but this match was a Guerilla Warfare match, or basically a No Holds Barred match.  This was intense, physical, and aggressive.  Everything we had a feeling it would be, and then a lot more.  While many scoff at the notion of a woman taking the type of abuse Candice did by The Bucks, by all respect, she held her own in this match.  There were trash cans, chairs, tables, and even thumbtacks involved in this war, and Candice was even left an absolute bloody mess in this one.  There was one particularly uncomfortable spot with a Bucks superkick that will never not be settling to see.  Regardless, Joey and a highly bloodied Candice emerged the new champions in what has been referred to as the greatest tag team match in PWG history, but also Candice's shining moment, as she showed that she could indeed not just hang with the fellas, or be as tough as the fellas, but could kick their asses as well.

50. Kota Ibushi vs. Jay White

NJPW G1 Climax 29 Finals

Kota Ibushi has a great G1 Climax 28 showing.  His match against Okada in his particular block's finals resulted in him picking up a shocking win over "The Rainmaker", but it also put him the G1 Finals against hated rival, Bullet Club leader, Jay White, who started off having a very rough G1, only to get on a roll towards the end.  The story here involved White and Gedo attacking Ibushi's ankle going into the Finals, thus Ibushi wasn't a hundred percent going into this match.  What resulted was an excellent story, one that we've seen plenty of times, but this one went a step further.  Ibushi proved himself to be a gutsy animal.  One that, when pushed to THAT point, can be as deadly as anyone in the business, even on one leg.  With odds against him, this extremely hard thirty minute match showed Ibushi's heart and stubborn will to win his first G1.  This was an amazing story of how neither injury nor frequent BC interference could stop him from winning the biggest match of his career, and White showed that his position of being the most hated man in NJPW was tamped.  This was an unbelievable match and definitely one of the best G1 Finals matches of all-time.

49. Will Ospreay vs. Ricochet
NJPW Best Of the Super Juniors '16

This is the match that broke the Internet in 2016.  A lot of today's generation bill it as one of the best exhibitions in athleticism is recent years.  However, older generations and traditionalists snub this match, referring to it as a "video game" match or filled with too many flips with no psychology or story involved.  Whatever your position on the match, you can't deny the out-of-this-world talent and athleticism of Ospreay and Ricochet.  This match was definitely a thrillseeker from the jump.  they never let up or let go throughout the duration of this match and truthfully it was exciting to watch.  What it lacked in storytelling and psychology, it made up for leaving people marveled at what these two extraordinary young athletes were capable of.  Ospreay picked up the huge win here, but Ricochet, as well as Ospreay, raised their levels of respect to each other to higher levels than before.  The Cornettes of the world saw no point in this match, but for everyone else, this was a match that took a peek into the future of wrestling, as far as stunning showmanship and the ability to dazzle fans with their abilities to look and perform like modern day superheroes.

48. Tomohiro Ishii vs. Jon Moxley
NJPW G1 Climax 29 Day 26

Easily one of the more anticipated G1 matches of 2019 involved IWGP U.S. Champion, Jon Moxley and longtime G1 favorite Tomohiro Ishii.  We knew it would a brutal slugfest and quite the bruising affair.  It was definitely all of the above plus more.  Even before the bell rang you saw and sensed the tension between them.  Then the action started, and it was ON.  This went into the crowd, ringside, and everywhere in between.  It was a wonder neither man was injured in this fight.  We even saw the usually grounded "Stone Pitbull" actually go up on the top and deliver a splash through Moxley on a table, which has to be mentioned among the true OMG moments of the year.  Folks, this match was simply true to life awesome, and is seen as one of the best G1 matches of the entire tournament of last year, which is saying something considering how truly exceptional G1 28 was.  Mox came away with the win, but both men put each other through brtual hell in this match and brought us right along for the ride in what be seen as one of Ishii's best matches, and definitely Moxley's best match post-WWE.

47. A-Kid vs. Zach Sabre Jr
WWW Total Rumble 8

White Wolf Wrestling an indie company out of Spain, and it's been making noise for some years now.  One of their biggest matches occurred when renowned technical wrestling master Zach Sabre Jr faced local hero, A-Kid in what was nothing short of a technical masterwork.  Sabre has arguably the most unique skill set of any current wrestler in the business.  His modernized version of British technical and scientific wrestling has resonated with fans all over the world and has won him numerous accolades.  A-Kid was relatively unknown outside of Europe, but this match pout A-Kid on everyone's radar as he hung in there vehemently with the incredible ZSJ.  Sabre is  a genius mat technician similar to the likes of legendary British wrestlers ranging from Billy Robinson to more notable stars in the mainstream such as William Regal and Nigel McGuinness.  His ability to counter and reverse practically anything A-Kid gave to him was evidenced of his greatness.  Meanwhile A-Kid showed his perseverance and want to win over ZSJ in such a gutsy manner.  This was a wonderful match that deserves the recognition it got.

46. Tomohiro Ishii vs. Kenny Omega
NJPW G1 Climax 28 Day 14

Anytime Kenny Omega and Tomohiro Ishii would get together, it would be a special moment.  These two have a chemistry together that could be among the best out here.  There's no such thing as a subpar, or even average, Ishii/Omega match.  This one was no different.  What Omega and Ishii delivered in this match was magic.  While there were some early botches early in the match, these got more than made up for, as these two TORE into each other and it was a back and forth monstrous encounter.  Ishii is one of the most tough-as-nails performers walking the planet today, and of course Omega's ability speaks for itself.  Many complain about the no-selling in today's popular wrestling culture, but regardless of this, these two put on a clinic; One that was even better than their earlier encounter to determine the inaugural U.S. Champion for NJPW, which was also a highly thrilling matchup.  Ishii came away with the super hard-fought win, but truthfully we all won witnessing another G1 classic match.

45. Hiromu Takahashi vs. Taiji Ishimori
NJPW Best Of the Super Juniors '18 Finals

Two different prominent factions were represented in the BOSJ finals of 2018: Los Ingornables de Japon and Bullet Club.  They were represented by Hiromu Takahashi and Taiji Ishimore respectively.  This match was absolutely everything.  It was well-paced, and was even out in the crowd for a chunk of the match.  This was intense, but also showed what these two guys were willing to do and put their bodies through to win the BOSJ.  The people were naturally behind the charismatic underdog Takahashi, but the BC's "Bone Soldier" was relentless, and was every bit as effective on the mat as he was in the air.  The chemistry here was incredible and their psychology was life itself.  Were there spots here that occasionally made you cringe? Absolutely.  However, by the end of this stunning encounter, you left with more respect for both guys, and that Takahashi, with the need to prove he was worthy of winning the tournament from him losing a couple times to then-IWGP Junior Champion, Will Ospreay, delivered a star making performance.  This could, and should, be considered among the great BOSJ matches to ever exist, and we should get more from these guys in the future.

44. Kazuchika Okada vs. Kota Ibushi
NJPW G1 CLimax 29 Day 17

On what was the second to last night of the G1 Climax 28, Okada faced off against Ibushi in a very highly anticipated encounter.  The reigning (or raining...get it?  Rainmaker?? Yeah...ok) IWGP Heavyweight Champion would face one of his hungriest opponents in recent memory.  The upside here was that if Ibuishi were to win, not only would he go to the G1 Finals, but he could say he defeated the Champion and thus get a future title opportunity at a later, yet soon, date.  This match was absolutely thrilling.  Ibushi, in all his stiff best, took it right to the champion, and Okada, although looking great as always, was really trying to wrestle defensively, as he knew that a time limit draw would take him to the Finals and eliminate Ibushi.  However, "The Golden Star" would not let up.  This absolutely grueling contest would end with Ibushi getting the stunning win over the champion, thus taking him to the G1 Finals, and also getting a future title shot against Okada.  While this may or not have been a precursor to their EPIC encounter recently at Wrestle Kingdom 14, this match was almost as good, and a stand alone match is damn fantastic.  Ibushi rose to the occasion and knocked it out, whole Okada is just...Okada.  That's good enough for us all.

43. Kenny Omega vs. Chris Jericho
No Disqualification/IWGP Intercontinental Title
NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 12

The wrestling world was tilted off its axis when the one and only Chris Jericho's face appeared on a screen in NJPW after a match from then IWGP U.S. Heavyweight Champion, Kenny Omega at Invasion Attack '17.  Jericho, fresh from leaving WWE, issued a challenge to "The Cleaner" at Wrestle Kingdom.  from there, he showed up at a Road To Tokyo Dome event and brutally assaulted Omega, busting him open with the belt and leaving Omega battered and bleeding.  It continued at a press conference where there was a huge brawl between them.  This set the stage for a massive encounter at WK12, and this did not disappoint.  The biggest question was, how would the then forty-seven year old Jericho fare against the much younger phenomenon, much less in a No DQ match?  Folks, he fared VERY well against him, in fact many are calling this match the best match of his career, which spans close to thirty years ladies and gentlemen.  This match had tables, chairs, and blood, with omega getting reopened.  Jericho had never been this ruthless in a match ever, but Omega dug down and went toe to toe with the self-proclaimed "GOAT".  While Omega barely came away with the win, this was a huge struggle for Omega, but this was Jericho's best performance in years, if ever.  Meanwhile, a bloodied Omega maintained himself being among the true best in the world.  This was indeed what the match was billed as: Alpha vs. Omega.

42. Young Bucks vs. Lucha Bros.
Ladder Match/AAA Tag Team Titles
AEW All Out

We mentioned earlier how awesome the rivalry between The Lucha Bros and The Young Bucks was within AEW, as well as AAA.  Their aforementioned match at AEW's Double or Nothing was crazy, and it was one of the single best matches of the night.  They reached another level when they faced against each other at AEW All Out for the AAA Tag Team Titles in a Ladder Match.  We, likewise, mentioned how incredible the Ladder Match was at NXT Takeover: New Orleans.  Folks, this match was beyond awesome.  Yes, this was a spotfest like crazy, even more than their DON match.  Yes, some of the spots done were some of the most dangerous looking spots you could imagine.  However, the chemistry between these two teams is impeccable, and this was one of those matches that will likely be remembered within AEW history as among the wildest, yet one of the most visually spectacular exhibitions ever.  Pentagon and Rey Fenix came away with the MUCH deserved and earned win, but you can bet theser two teams have plenty left in store for each other.

41. Golden Lovers vs. Kazuchika Okada & Tomohiro Ishii
NJPW Fighting Spirit Unleashed

When u mention some of the all-time best in NJPW in one match, one mentions the monstrous encounter between the reunited Golden Lovers of Kenny Omega and Kota Ibushi and the CHAOS members of Kazuchika Okada and Tomohiro Ishii from Fighting Spirit Unleashed of 2018.  Once The Lovers got reunited, they made a hell of a case of being tag team of the year, as appeared to be better than ever.  This match was completely action packed and the chemistry all four of these men displayed was addictive.  Obviously, the main attraction of this match was to see the interaction and physical exchange between heated rivals Omega and Okada, and for the brief time they were one on one, it was excellent.  Ultimately, The Golden Lovers walked away with the win, but this was a monster struggle overcoming the surprisingly well put together team of Okada and Ishii.  

40. Kazuchika Okada vs. Tomohiro Ishii
NJPW G1 Climax 26 Day 13

Ah, the irony.  We were just giving credit to Okada and Ishii for being a good team together against The Golden Lovers.  However, they collided nearly a year earlier at G1 Climax 27 in one of the most hard-hitting and overall fantastic matches in all of the G1 of that year.  Anytime Okada and Ishii get together, much like when Ishii and Omega get together, it's complete magic, and the match will never disappoint.  This was no different.  Ishii was a brutal, damn near unfathomable, unphased monster, and Okada was trying his damnedest to keep the pressure on Ishii and keep him down when he could.  Ishii, as much as he would be the stiff hell out of Okada, was ultimately outwrestled by Okada and thus Okada got the win, but this was a phenomenal encounter of showing how Okada can, once again, overcome tons of odds and come out ahead.  Meanwhile, Ishii continues to show why he's one of the greatest performers to compete in G1's history.  One day hopefully we will see Ishii win the whole thing one year, and soon.

39. Zach Sabre Jr vs. WALTER
PWG All-Star Weekend '17

If there was ever a clash in styles, it would be between technical master Zach Sabre Jr and non-pretty, brutal, physical style of WALTER.  At PWG's All-Star Weekend of 2017, Sabre Jr valiantly fought, or in his case wrestled, the big 6'6', near three hundred pound monster WALTER.  This was an outstanding case of the smaller underdog trying to prove his worth against the more brutal bigger man and this ZSJ provided a credible threat to WALTER.  You questioned the sanity of ZSJ a times, as he would literally challenge the big Austrian to chop him and strike him. Hard, unsettling stiff shots aside, WALTER just could not put down ZSJ and ZSJ had counters for almost everything the big Austrian would throw at him.  The last five to ten minutes of this match was especially epic, and showed the true guts of ZSJ. They've had several other encounters, especially their awesome matches in Progress, but this one ranks at or near the top.  Ultimately, WALTER made the British star tap, but not without giving the big man way more than he could handle in one of the best ASW matches you'll find in PWG.

38. Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Tetsuya Naito
NJPW G1 Climax 2017 Day 17

Day 17 of the G1 Climax of 2017 was an excellent one.  Most of the card was filled with exciting, enthralling matches such as ZSJ/Ishii and Goto/Ibushi, but none of those matches could top or even match the incredible nature of the main event, which was Naito vs. Tanahashi.  The LIJ leader was his usual, fantastic self in this match, albeit his heelish nature was obvious in several moments here.  However, the "Ace " of New Japan was his usual outstanding self as well.  Their prior Wrestle Kingdom match wan't even as great as this was, and that's saying a mouthful.  This was Naito's chance to get back to the Finals and while both men exhibited near flawlessness the entire ride, Naito came away with the much earned win.  The crowd was red hot for this match, especially towards the end stretch here, and put you on the edge of your seat for it.  Throughout their years of facing each other, this match ranks among the best they've ever done against each other, and what a better environment, besides Wrestle Kingdom, than the G1.

37. Tomohiro Ishii vs. Hiroki Goto
NJPW G1 Climax 28 Day 6

If you know the history of Goto and Ishii, you knew going in to this match that this was gonna be a spirited, memorable affair, yet hard hitting as hell.  Check all those boxes because this was all of the above.  These two are considered arguably the two best stars to never hold the IWGP Heavyweight Title, and yet they perform like the title that neither man held, was on the line.  Goto and Ishii went to TOWN on each other in this super hard, stiff, yet unbelievable, match that was one of the true highlights of the entire G1 tournament of 2018.  The crowd, as usual, was super into it, and the punishment they gave each other was something to behold.  The one known as "The Stone Pitbull" defeated Goto, but both men ridiculously felt it the next morning.  They've had many great matches, but it can be argued that this was their absolute best fight ever.

36. A-Kid vs. Will Ospreay
WWW Total Rumble 9

Earlier, we mentioned just how good Spain's A-Kid was.  He displayed it in his aforementioned match against Zach Sabre Jr in a simply fantastic match.  The next year, he displayed it again, this time against "The Ariel Assassin" Will Ospreay.  These two guys styles are more closely resembled as compared to A-Kid and ZSJ, and the results were a wonderful one-on-one encounter.  At White Wolf's Total Rumble 9, Ospreay was the very self-assured heel that didn't feel A-Kid could perform at his level, however, A-Kid showed, and showed quickly, that he was up for the challenge and OSpreay's views of him tended to change throughout the match.  Ospreay is in fact one of a kind and this match demonstrated that yet again, but A-Kid would not go down and would definitely earn the respect of Ospreay.  A classic mix of high-flying spots and technical wrestling, these two lit up the Internet with his match.  Ospreay came away with the win, but again, A-Kid showed he was a star in the making outside WWW and this match proved it if you weren't a believer before.

35. Tomohiro Ishii vs. Ketsuyori Shibata
NJPW G1 Climax 24 Day 4

If you want intensity, lots of stiffness, and hard-hitting, non-stop ass kicking, very few matches rival the G1 encounter of 2013 between Ishii and on again, off again rival Ketsuyori Shibata.  Shibata is among the focused, stone-faced wrestlers in the entire NJPW, as is Tomohiro Ishii.  The result was one of the most brutal near fifteen minute matches you'll ever see in your life.  These two literally dared each other at times to hit the other with their hardest and best.  Stiff forearms, head butts, and kicks were the rule here, along with the occasional suplex.  It's a wonder neither man was seriously hurt in this match.  Ishii came away with the win, but both men were laid on the mat for quite a long time due to the abuse and punishment both men endured in this awesome match.  This would not be their only encounter, but it could be argued that this was among their best ones, if not their very best.

34. Golden Lovers vs. Young Bucks
NJPW Strong Style Evolved '18

The Elite collective consisted of The Young Bucks and Kenny omega in New Japan.  Once Ibushi reunited with Omega, they were the Golden Elite.  However, in a match we never thought we would see but was most certainly a dream match, The Bucks faced The Golden lovers at Strong Style Evolved.  Folks, this ranks among the greatest tag team matches possibly ever witnessed in the country.  The storytelling here, with the selling of Matt Jackson's back injury and the continuity of both teams, not to mention the absolute showmanship of both teams was off the page.  The individual parts each person played was captivating, as Kenny didn't wanna fight his friends, neither did Nick Jackson.  Matt had something to prove and Ibuishi didn't care, as long as he was fighting.  This was unparalleled storytelling that, at times, was somewhat soap opera-ish, but as a whole, these two KILLED this match, and besides The Lovers, everybody, especially the fans, won.

33. Keith Lee vs. Dominick Dijak
PWG Best Of Los Angeles '17

Before they were killing it with their rivalry in NXT, Keith Lee and Dominick Dijak (pre-Dijakovic) had a match at PWG's BOLA tournament of 2017 that nobody that was there live or saw it on DVD would ever forget.  We were very familiar with the shocking athleticism of Keith Lee and the agility of the 6'7" Dijak, but the levels of showmanship displayed in this match for two big men like this was unheard of.  They had the fans marveled at practically every move they did.  The crowd was at a frenzy the entire match, as they should've been.  This was a spectacle that was amazing, and was definitely special.  Between these guys catching each other in mid-air, high-flying spots, and shear moments of inhuman strength, Lee and Dijak delivered easily one of the top five matches of that year and one of the most memorable matches in PWG history.

32. Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Ketsuyori Shibata
NJPW Destruction In Kobe '14

At NJPW Destruction in Kobe 2014, Hiroshi Tanahashi faced off against Ketsuyori Shibata in a truly competitive and hard-hitting match.  Two top notched performers in a strong style encounter and this was nothing short of outstanding.  It's been known by now that Tanahashi can sneeze and have a great match.  Shibata isn't terribly far behind him.  The match itself was what you'd expect from these two and it delivered fully.  These two had a long history going into this match, and it showed.  Tanahashi tried to go toe to toe with the former MMA particpant and practitioner, and it overall didn't work.  It was, however, when Tanahashi went to what he knows, which is catch-as-catch-can wrestling and technical wrestling that he shined, and Shibata was in trouble.  Tanahashi ultimately defeated Shibata, but this was one of those matches that ages like fine wine and we see how special "The Ace of the Universe" really is.  Meanwhile, "The Wrestler" reminds us how kick ass awesome he was in the ring, and as you'll read later, it was almost enough for him to be IWGP Heavyweight Champion.

31, Davey Richards vs. Michael Elgin
ROH World Title
ROH Showdown In The Sun Day 2

When Ring Of Honor was at its peak, it was legitimately among the best promotions in the world, bar none.  In 2012, at Showdown In The Sun on its second day, ROH World Champion, Davey Richards, took on "Unbreakable" Micjael Elgin in quite the ferocious battle.  While obviously incorporating the Japanese style of stiff shots and no-sells, during this time it had really started to gain steam here in the States.  This was, nonetheless, a very tough contest and one of the best efforts we've seen from the big Canadian.  Elgin's ungodly strength with his very surprising agility and athleticism for a guy his size at that time was unbelievable, but Richards was relentless in his desire to win and just would not give up, despite the substantial ass kicking he endured.  He would retain the title, but Elgin made an indelible impression upon everyone that was there live or watched it on PPV.  He remains one of the most gifted athletes in the business, while Richards gets remembered as a technical savage and a fearless competitor.

30. Will Ospreay, Ricochet, & Matt Sydal vs. Young Bucks & Adam Cole
PWG Best Of Los Angeles '16

There aren't too many memorable six man tag matches that can makr a mark in this business unless you go down to Mexico and argue over some of the best trios matches ever.  However, in 2016, on day 2 of the Best Of Los Angeles tournament/event, perhaps the greatest six man match to have ever gotten viewed involved The Young Bucks and Adam Cole against Ricochet, Matt Sydal, and Will Ospreay in a thrilling match so awesome, you were left speechless by the amount of energy this match contained.  Ricochet and Sydal had a history with The Bucks in a fantastic natch for the PWG Tag Team Titles some time earlier.  Now Cole and Ospreay were involved, and their presence was incredibly felt.  This match was back and forth the whole ride, and quite frankly the crowd for this match was non-stop hot for this one.  The atmosphere for this match was bananas and it radiated off the screen as you watched, much more if you were there live.  Dozens of highly exciting spots and outstanding showmanship was on display here.  This was a non-stop thrill ride and one we didn't wanna see end.  Ricochet and the gang won, but this match was among the most athletically spectacular, and just overall fun, matches in PWG history

29. Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
NJPW G1 Climax 26 Final

What happens when you put two NJPW legends together like Hiroshi Tanahashi and Shinsuke Nakamura together for the G1 Finals? You get a match nobody would ever forget.  That's exactly what happened.  These two have known each other since the start of the century, and fast forwarding some sixteen years later, these two would be involved in one of the most memorable battles, not just in G1 history, but in New Japan history as well.  The two have inescapable chemistry and an incredible dynamic with each other that can't be understated.  What was also notable about this match is that this would turn out to be Nakamura's last match against each other before the "King Of Strong Style" would depart to WWE.  This has been viewed as the best encounter between these two, more than any other match they've had against each other.  Tanahashi ultimately got the win over his longtime rival, but the respect that was shown at the end of the match spoke tons of volumes, as opposed to their first match back in the early part of the millennium.  This was spirited, aggressive, emotional, and definitely competitive.  A true G1 classic. 

28. Kota Ibushi vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
IWGP Intercontinental Title
NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 9

We continue with Nakamura in a match that made Kota Ibushi get on everyone's radar.  At Wrestle Kingdom 9, the Intercontinental Champion defended the title against "The Golden Star" in a match that literally made everyone take more notice of Ibushi then ever before, and that's including his matchup against then IWGP Heavyweight Champion, AJ Styles later that same year at Invasion Attack.  Still trying to elevate from the junior heavyweight division to the heavyweight division, Ibushi's tradition was a steep one during this time, but nonetheless, this brought out some of the very best out of him.  Nakamura was rightfully considered a legend during this time and among the most accomplished wrestlers in recent New Japan history so for Ibuishi to be taking center stage against him was a huge deal, and boy did he make an impression.  While we all knew that Nakamura was a top notch performer with an incredible skill set, we wanted to see Ibushi step up, and he gave the I-C Champion quite the scare a few times.  His was a coming out party of sorts for Ibushi, in terms of just how excellent of a performer he could be, and Nakamura showed why he was truly one of the world's best in this epic matchup that arguably stole the show at WK9.

27. Tyler Bate vs. Pete Dunne
WWE United Kingdom Title
NXT Takeover: Chicago

Two of the forefathers, of sorts, of the NXT Uk brand are Tyler Bate and Pete Dunne.  While the irony is that these two make up two-thirds of the group British Strong Style, along with Trent Seven, these two also fought in the finals of the United Kingdom Championship tournament, of which Tyler won and became the inaugural champion.  While that was a very good match, itwas nowhere close to the level they performed at NXT Takeover: Chicago for the title.  In front of an equally raucous crowd as it was at the Royal Albert Hall in London, these two young stars put it all on the line to come out with the title in a display of toughness and showmanship that was off the page.  The heart and grit of the young twenty-year-old at that time Bate met the ruthless, yet technically savvy, nature of "The Bruiserweight" and it was simply a fabulous and explosive beginning to the event.  With Dunne winning, this marked the beginning of a historic two-year run as UK Champion, and at that time the longest reigning champion of the modern era in WWE.  Whether together within BSS or as opponents, these two exemplify what strong style and spirited British wrestling is all about

26. Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kazuchika Okada
IWGP Heavyweight Title
NJPW King Of Pro Wresrtling '13

Tired of seeing these two together on this list yet?  This just shows you how impactful this rivalry was, and still remains, within the sport.  There's no such thing as a bad Tanahashi/Okada match in case you haven't figured it out yet.  The latest example occurred at King Of Pro Wrestling of 2013 for the IWGP heavyweight Title.  As usual, the build for this was excellent and the story they conducted in the ring was phenomenal. Tanahashi was trying to reclaim his position as the "Ace" of NJPW, a distinction that was slowly chipping away thanks to constant victories by Okada, who was trying to further establish that the torch was going to be his to be the next "Ace".  Both men wrestled brilliantly and it was such a masterclass in psychology and athleticism put together.  Many say it was as great or better than their Invasion Attack match or even their Wrestle Kingdom encounters.  Whatever side you're on, there's no wrong answer.  Their chemistry is reminiscent of Flair/Funk or the like.  This wonderful thirty-five minute match resulted in Okada getting yet another win in this epic saga, but with their series of matches, it never matter who won because we all did.

25. Kazuchika Okada vs. Ketsuyori Shibata
IWGP Heavyweight Title
NJPW Sakura Genesis '17

During his two year reign as IWGP Heavyweight Champion, Okada faced many various challengers and contenders.  From sadistic mat monsters like Minoru Suzuki to the world class athletes like Kenny Omega, Okada rose to the occasion every time, even when it looked like his title reign was extremely close to being over.  One such notable case was Ketsuyori Shibata.  The former IWGP Tag team Champion and NEVER Openweight Champion had just won the New Japan Cup of 2017 and this was his first shot at the big title in quite a long time.  Shibata had a lot to prove here and this match was a stellar look at what Shibata was willing to do as well as what he was willing to put himself through in oirder to win the title.  His mixture of shoot style and technical wrestling was on full display here and was the perfect compliment to Okada's fundamentally sound style.  Shibata had a silent intensity throughout the majority of this match, however he delivered as stiff of a headbutt as you could imagine and the result after the match resulted in his career ending due to a life threatening head injury.  Okada won and kept the title but to say this was among the hardest challenges he's had as champion.  Although Shibata's career unfortunately ended due to the subdural hematoma that nearly took his life, this also will be remembered as Shibata's finest moment in the ring and the ebst match of his career.

24. Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Minoru Suzuki
IWGP Heavyweight Title
NJPW King Of Pro Wrestling '12

Arguably the meanest bastard in the business, and definitely among the true toughest, is Minoru Suzuki.  His complete no-nonsense manner in his mat work and his shoot style wrestling is among the feared in the world.  At King Of Pro Wrestling of 2012, he challenged IWGP Heavyweight Champion, Hiroshi Tanahashi for the title.  Suzuki presented a different type of challenge then Tanahashi was used to at the time.  He wasn't the catch-as-catch-can and finesse that Okada was, nor was he the strong style wrestling of Nakamura.  This was a much more aggressive version of Zach Sabre Jr, a primarily mat guy that is as rough as you can imagine, alongside a pretty shitty attitude.  Suzuki dissected Tanahashi in every single way imaginable.  This was one of the finest technical wrestling matches one could ask for, as Suzuki was fully concentrated on making the "Ace" submit and submit quite painfully.  Not to mention the stiff open hands in this match were somewhat unsettling.  After thirty minutes, Tanahashi survived, but Suzuki left a mark within him that he hasn't forgotten about to this day.  This made their match at Wrestle Kingdom 7 great, but not quite to this level of intensity and near desperation.  Suzuki is an animal, but it was the in-ring masterwork of Tanahashi that showed why he was the true and only "Ace".

23. Undertaker vs. Triple H
Hell In A Cell
WWE Wrestlemania XXVIII

At Wrestlemania XXVII, Triple H took Undertaker to the limit so hard, Taker had to get stretchered out of the ringside, even as he had won the thrilling match.  Aiming to not have the same thing happen twice, Taker came back more focused, more determined, and with his hair cut.  Even more, this was billed as "End Of An Era", with Triple H's best friend/DX member/celebrated Taker rival, Shawn Michaels as the special referee.  Oh yeah, this was also inside Hell In A Cell, which marked only the second time the Cell has been involved at Wrestlemania (the irony was Taker was involved in that one as well against the late Big Bossman).  This was a fantastic story of two men up there in age, putting not only an end to their rivalry that had existed since WM17, but signaling an end to arguably the most beloved and fun era in WWE history.  These two pounded each other, and really laid everything out there, with various times HBK would be in conflict over what to do.  Between super kicking Taker to a fast count, HBK and "The Game" tried everything possible to end the streak of Taker, but it was to no avail.  Taker extended his Wrestlemania win streak to 29-0.

22. Tyler Bate vs. WALTER
WWE United Kingdom Title
NXT UK Takeover: Cardiff

It's very obvious by now that Tyler Bate is one of the best in-ring workers in all of WWE, as well as he's a great storyteller.  Bate proved this and this some with his exceptional match against WWE UK Champion, WALTER. The story going into this one was that WALTER and his group, Imperium, had been decimating the beloved forefathers of the WWE UK division, British Strong Style, and Tyler wanted to not only win his second UK Title, but he wanted to get revenge on behalf of his BSS brothers.  What resulted was an unreal match that was storytelling 101.  A classic tale of David vs. Goliath, the much smaller Baste gave undeniably his best effort to date in WWE, and WALTER barely made it out with his title.  Without a doubt, this was the best match in the short history of NXT UK, and definitely one of the best matches in modern WWE history.  Bate showed heart and determination the likes of which he rarely saw this decade, at least to this level.  This match left you giving a standing ovation in your home just like they did in Cardiff.

21. Kota Ibushi vs. Kenny Omega
NJPW G1 Climax 28 Day 18

At the G1 Climax of 2018, the previously reunited Golden Lovers of Kenny Omega and Kota Ibushi squared off against each other in what could only be described as unforgettable.  With Kenny as the IWGP Heavyweight Champion, he was eye to eye against his best friend, who's determination to win meant more than the friendship.  This was a simply awesome display of two of the best performers in the world and, in the case of Ibushi, something to prove.  These two knew each other inside and out, as obvious by the constant reversals and counters in this match.  Each man gave their complete best in this match, but in the end, Ibushi came away with the huge victory over his best friend.  The crowd was not this entire match and had no problem with either man winning.  This should be considered one of the greatest G1 matches of all-time, and these two put forth a match worthy of not just G1 greatness, but New Japan greatness as well.

20. Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kazuchika Okada
IWGP Heavyweight Title
NJPW Wrestling Dontaku '18

Once again, Tanahashi and Okada make the list, and it's just a reflection of how unbelievable this rivalry was and continues to be.  By this time, Okada was eclipsing Tanahashi as the "Ace" of New Japan, and Tanahashi was desperately looking to get his status back by overcoming the young phenomenal IWGP Heavyweight Champion.  Never one to rest on his laurels, Okada brought his superb best within this match, but Tanahashi was angry.  His time as the "Ace" was not going to be finished just like that.  His was smooth, yet more aggressive than in most of their past encounters.  Hiroshi and Kazuchika are two wrestling giants, no matter which side of the world you reside.  This was yet another classic encounter between two of the best to ever do it.  Okada defeated Tanahashi in a spectacular thiry-five minute thriller to retain the title, but simply folks, no matter how matter how many times they face each other, it'll always be an incredible encounter because that's all they know how to do.

19. Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kota Ibushi
NJPW G1 Climax 28 Finals

What is it when your idol becomes your rival? In the case of Kota Ibushi, this was his dilemma when he faced a man he considers next to God himself in wrestling, Hiroshi Tanahashi.  It was a dream come true for him to face such a legend like the "Ace", but this was the G1 Finals, and all respect had to be put to the side for the time being.  Tanahashi, on the other hand, respected Ibushi and knew what kind of world-class talent he was.  He just wasn't crazy over his BFF Kenny omega and his in-ring style.  The match between these two was wonderful and inspired.  This was Ibushi's chance to officially be considered among the true best in the game alongside his peers such as Omega, Okada, and maybe one day like Tanahashi.  This was a match worthy of being in the G1 Finals, and was an  phenomenal story of idol vs. student, even with the intensity they displayed here such as the very stiff and at times unsettling back and forth open hand strikes.  Tanahashi ultimately gott he win over Ibushi but the respect they already had for each other going in was multiplied even more after this match.  Without question, this was one of the single greatest in-ring moments in Ibushi's career, and with Tanahashi, this was yet another day at the office.

18. Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels
Streak vs. Career
WWE Wrestlemania XXVI

To try to duplicate an all-time classic like their Wrestlemania 25 encounter is a mountain of a task, but if any two people could do it, it would be Taker and HBK.  Their WM25 match is still considered timeless and their rematch ranks almost just as high.  Going into this match, Michaels was determined to defeat the myth of the Taker, and end the legendary Wrestlemania streak of Taker.  After costing Taker the World Title at the Elimination Chamber, Taker agreed to face Shawn, but he had to put his career on the line.  HBK reluctantly agreed and the match was set.  The match easily had the same intensity as before, if not more.  Shawn performed as only he could, as did Taker.  The crowd was just as into this as the prior matchup.  The ending to this match was as fitting as one could imagine, as HBK defiantly slapped Taker in the face and signaled the end for Taker.  Taker delivered a hellacious Tombstone and ended the career of HBK.  In a highly emotional moment, Michaels tearfully said goodbye and waved to the entire seventy thousand plus in attendance.  Many consider him the greatest in-ring performer of all time, and with his final match, HBK showed he very well could be, but it would be impossible to not put Taker on that same list as well.

17. Will Ospreay vs. Ricochet
NJPW Best Of the Super Juniors '17

If their first encounter wasn't enough thrill factor for you, their follow up the next year was even more awesome.  Once again, this wasn't for the old school, nor was it for the traditionalists, but they accentuated their positives and this time put a little more emphasis on psychology here, and this made the match even better.  The chemistry is still the same.  The magic between them is still off the page, and then some.  The athleticism shown in this match was every bit as incredible as their first encounter.  Ricochet was the clear favorite here, as he dominated the majority of this match, much like the last one, but this time Ospreay came to play, and play he did.  Ospreay came away with the win here, but this was an extremely close battle, even more than before.  What's clear is these two are definite dance partners and can put on an excellent match against each other in their sleep.  This was one of the most defining matches in junior heavyweight history on New Japan, and this will continue to get remembered as such.

16. Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kenny Omega
IWGP Heavyweight Title
NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 13

In 2018, Kenny Omega was on top of the world.  He was regarded as the "Best Bout Machine" and the "Seven Star Cleaner".  Undoubtedly, he was the best wrestler on the planet.  However, he was also on his way out to help form All Elite Wrestling.  After a career year in 2017, he was gonna begin the new year with a match against a legend in Hiroshi Tanahashi, who had an inspirational victory to become the G1 Climax winner.  Tanahashi came into the match not really caring about Omega's in-ring style.  He didn't feel there was any grace to it.  The defiant Omega didn't give a rat's ass what Tanahashi thought of him.  Plus Omega wasn't fond of the fact that the "Ace" beat his best friend Kota Ibushi in the G1 Finals.  The stage was set for a memorable match, and to be honest, memorable is putting it mildly.  Folks, this one was a match for the ages.  Two of the best performers of their generations colliding for the IWGP Heavyweight Title at the show of shows, Wrestle Kingdom 13.  This was everything you wanted a perfect match to be and to consist of: high drama, big fight feel, engaging psychology, high heat from the fans, tremendous athleticism, and  profound showmanship.  The beaten down and hurting veteran showed as gutsy of an effort as we had ever seen from him, and Omega showed why he's among the best at what he does, day in and day out.  The emotion in this match from the fans was everything and the final ten minutes of this match are up against some of the best closing minutes in recent memory.  Tanahshi dug down as deep as he could and became an eight time IWGP Heavyweight Champion, and proved that even at forty-one, he's still and will forever be the "Ace of the Universe".

15. Tetsuya Naito vs. Kenny Omega
NJPW G1 Climax 27 Finals

An arrogant, yet on fire, Kenny Omega went into the G1 Finals ready to raise hell and go on to Wrestle Kingdom to compete for the IWGP Heavyweight Title.  However, there was one problem: he had Tetsuya Naito in his way, and he wasn't moving for anybody, especially not the "Best Bout Machine".  The leaders of Bullet Club and Los Ingornablas de Japon respectfully went to complete war over who would face Kazuchika Okada for the IWGP Heavyweight Title.  What these two guys did to each other was nuts.  Aside from how invested the fans were in this match, and how much they were truly behind Naito, these two put it all on the line at the risks of their bodies, especially their head and necks.  There were truly some frightening spots in this match that many view ere unnecessary and would take years of their careers.  In any event, the emotion, psychology, and showmanship these two possessed made this a match many feel was the best G1 Finals match in history, and there's not a huge argument against it.  Naito pulled out the win, and it would up being one of the most defining wins in his career.  Folks, this was close to a perfect wrestling match as you could get in today's age.

14. Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kazuchika Okada
NJPW G1 Climax 26 Day 17

You tired of them yet?  Almost done.  In yet another complete game of human chess, to quote the great Larry Zybysko, Tanahashi and Okada went to battle in a highly regarded match in New Japan history.  This one was at the G1 Climax tournament in 2016, and this was perhaps the most evenly matched of all their efforts, which is saying a mouthful.  The pacing for this match was a little quicker than in most of their past matches due to the fact that each man wanted to advance to the Finals and they only had thirty minutes to do it.  This was another unbelievable contest but there was something at stake that wasn't the IWGP Heavyweight Title, and that made this even more special.  The last ten minutes of this match were possibly the most awesome closing ten minutes of the series.  This was everything, and both men were trying to prevent the other from going to the Finals.  The result was a time limit draw, the first and only draw they achieved and it wore the fans in attendance completely out.  There's a reason this rivalry is mentioned among the greatest in-ring rivalries in modern wrestling history, and matches like this one is yet one more reason why.

13. Johnny Gargano vs. Andrade "Cien" Almas
NXT Title
NXT Takeover: Philadelphia

There was a time Andrade was struggling to get wins.  Tremendous in-ring performer, but was hitting his own ceiling.  In comes Zalina Vega, his advisor, and we end up getting a focused, aggressive, and more hungry Andrade.  So much so that he defeated Drew McIntyre to become the NXT Champion at NXT Takeover: War Games.  He was a good heel champion and was performing of the level of a great NXT Champion.  Enter Johnny Gargano, who himself was a stellar performer going in to this match at Takeover: Philadelphia.  While Gargano was an incredible worker, he was hitting his own ceilings going into this match.  This was his first shot at the NXT Title.  While this wasn't their first ever encounter, this was undoubtedly their best match ever.  The storytelling Gargano can produce is unforgettable, and with a dance partner like Andrade, this match was simply off the page.  A very well-paced, well organized match that ranks among the best matches of either man's careers.  As usual, the NXT crowd was lit here, and was highly into this match.  Plus, as an extra bonus, both Andrade's "advisor" and Johnny's real-life wife, Candace Lerae got into it during this match and cranked the level on the know up a little more.  Although Gargano didn't come away with the title here, it was clear Gargano was their best and most consistent worker, and Andrade was for real for those unfamiliar with his work in Mexico and Japan.  This definitely ranks among the greatest NXT matches ever.

12. Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kazuchika Okada
IWGP Heavyweight Title
NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 10

Out of all the matches covered here between them, this match at Wrestle Kingdom 10 is the best match of them all between Tanahashi and Okada.  This was the match that put Okada as the new, uncrowned "ace" of New Japan.  The brilliance of this storied rivalry is fantastic, and this match showed the world how much these two would mean not just Japan wrestling but to the world.  This was the most sophisticated yet enthralling matchup of two men that had everything to gain as well as to lose, especially the older Tanahashi.  The pacing was great and was very reminiscent of a Steamboat/Flair classic.  Towards the end, the match presented some of the most engaging minutes in modern history, as we saw both men dig down and give heartfelt performances that to this day will long be remembered.  Even down to Okada using Tanahashi's own High Fly Flow finisher to try and defeat the legend.  This was the perfect sendoff of a consistent rivalry throughout the years and a defining moment in the career of Okada, in which all eyes were now on him to take New japan to the next level just like Tanahashi had done for over a decade at this time.  It's hard to put another rivalry against this one, as the Okada/Tanahashi saga reminds longtime wrestling fans that rivalries that feel as real as it gets athletically still exist.

11. John Cena vs. CM Punk
WWE Title
WWE Money In The Bank '11

The summer of 2011 belonged to CM Punk.  After dropping the career-defining promo on Raw in Vegas of that year, Punk had all eyes on him.  He stated, among many other things, that his contract was up at midnight the night of Money In The Bank in his hometown of Chicago.  He was gonna leave with the WWE Title.  Leading up to it, Punk was making the brass nervous and the handcuffs were off of him verbally, as he laid into Cena, Triple H, Vince and anyone else he felt like.  The day came and the event was here.  The atmosphere in the arena was palpable and could felt through the screen, much less how on fire the Allstate Arena was.  To say this was a big fight feel was an understatement.  The resulting match was phenomenal.  Punk put on a clinic in this match, but Cena was not backing down and hung with "The Voice Of The Voiceless".  For over thirty minutes, these two engaged in a hell of a match.  Ultimately Punk came away with the title, even after Vince tried to pull virtually another "Montreal Screwjob" with Punk and Cena prevented it.  The crowd went completely apeshit with the win, especially as Punk went through the crowd, into his car, and gone from the arena with the title.  Every now and then, the WWE crowd comes through and provided special moments that help with the matches in the ring.  This was one of those moments.  The match itself ranks among the best ever in WWE, but the crowd was truly the third element here, and all three made for a memorable moment in WWE history.

10. Johnny Gargano vs. Adam Cole
NXT Title
NXT Takeover XXV

The first Gargano/Cole match at NXT Takeover: New York is considered a landmark match in WWE histiory (see later), so would it be possible to follow that match up at all? You're damn right.  New NXT Champion, Johnny Gargano, faced off against Adam Cole in a rematch of their ungodly match just a few months earlier.  Both men approached this match with the utmost importance.  The newly christened "Johnny Takeover" went to complete war with Adam Cole and this was very similar to their initial encounter.  The storytelling here was everything and Cole's anything-it-took approach to obtaining the title was not hidden whatsoever.  The back and forth nature of this match is what made their initial match so special, and it continued here.  These two are magic together and this match was evidenced of that.  After thirty unreal minutes, Cole emerged with the very hard fought victory and became the new NXT Champion, thus becoming the second triple crown/grand slam champion, with ironically Gargano being the first.  It's hard to stay on pace or match the level of utter astuteness as the first match, but they accomplished it with this match that is complete WWE excellence.

9. Dustin Rhodes vs. Cody
AEW Double Or Nothing

Very few matches were as anticipated in AEW as the first ever one on one match between Cody and his brother Dustin Rhodes at AEW's Double Or Nothing.  The story going in was enough to sell you.  The young, brash, inventive, foresighted little brother was out to eliminate the era of his much older brother who's legacy was defined with innuendos and shock value.  One might say, the younger wanted to take the older out to pasture.  Emotions would be high and points were to be proven.  Perhaps the most striking element of this match was just how great Dustin looked in the ring and how great of shape he was in.  Looking better than he had looked in years, Dustin took it to Cody in true Rhodes fashion.  With their legendary, iconic father watching from the best seat in the house in heaven, what these two put on was a throwback to the old rugged days of blood, sweat, and tears, literally.  Yes, the excessive blood loss of Dustin was occasionally too much for the squeamish, but if you were able to look past the graphic nature of this match, therein you saw the beauty.  You saw the story of how two brothers could fight over the Rhodes legacy, but how perhaps it was necessary to happen one day.  Cody picked up the win in a bloodbath, but just when you thought your emotions couldn't get any deeper, the tearful embrace after the match after Cody asked Dustin to be his partner in a later match that summer against The Young Bucks was heavy, and became one of the most iconic moments in wrestling.  Still regarded by many as the greatest AEW match to date, Dusty was for sure looking and having that ever infectious smile and laugh seeing his two highly talented boys engage in a match nobody will soon forget.

8. Will Ospreay vs. Shingo Takagi
NJPW Best Of the Super Juniors '19 Finals

Will Ospreay had a dominant 2019.  Practically every match he was involved in was a show-stealer and he definitely had a career year.  At the BOSJ Finals, he collided against a previously undefeated Shingo Takagi of LIJ.  Takagi was this rugged, stiff, powerful, and very skilled competitor that brought the intensity with him.  What resulted between these two was a match that was close to perfection.  Ospreay is an in-ring genius.  he's not just an athletic spot-hungry wrestler.  He has become quite the psychological wrestler as well.  He knows how to tell a great story, but we saw that "The Dragon" could hang with him in that department as well.  Takagi was at times very brutal against "The Aeriel Assassin", and was stiffing Ospreay very often.  the punishment he gave him was at times unsettling.  However, as Ospreay is known to do, he resounded with a hell of a comeback, and the true excellence of Ospreay was on display.  Between counters, reversals, and just putting his entire body on the line, Ospreay showed just how immensely special he has become.  Not to be outdone, Takagi was an animal, but was also a determined warrior wanting to continue his undefeated streak and came within an eyelash of doing so.  Ospreay picked up the very hard fought, gutsy win, and Ospreay showed in this magnificent match that he was definitely the most incredible junior heavyweight in the world, while Takagi put himself on a whole new level from this match.  Both men's careers were elevated even more from this thirty-plus minute match as we witnessed quite likely the greatest BOSJ Finals in tournament history and one of the greatest New Japan matches in history as well.

7. Johnny Gargano vs. Tomosso Ciampa
Unsanctioned Match
NXT Takeover: New Orleans

Two former friends.  Former tag team partners and champions.  Johnny Gargano and Tomosso Ciampa were as popular of a team as anyone as DIY.  All of it changed when Ciuampa brutally assaulted Gargano after their match against Authors Of Pain at Takeover: Chicago, sidelining Gargano.  As fate would have it, Ciampa himself was sidelined with a torn ACL and was out for a year.  After nearly a year of tension and anticipation, the match finally happened between Ciampa and Gargano at Takeover: New Orleans in what was billed as an Unsanctioned match, as Gargano technically had been fired from the company losing a match against Andrade where id here to lose, he would leave NXT (Ciampa costed him that match by the way).  The New Orleans crowd was super hot for this match, and what these two gladiators did to each other was brutal, vicious, and at times uncomfortable, but through it all was extremely engaging.  The storytelling in this match was damn near perfect, as Gargano was not only fighting for revenge after a year, but also his job back.  Ciampa was determined to keep Gargano out of NXT, but he had a very gutsy challenger that was not about to let that happen.  This was a street fight and involved tables, chairs, and crutches among other goodies.  This was non-stop from the get go, and never let up.  After nearly forty minutes of emotion and intensity, Gargano tapped Ciampa out, and defeated his best friend-turned-hated rival.  This was a master class in psychology if there was ever one and pulling you through the screen with the emotion of it all.  Although this would not be the only encounter, this one was the best and set the standard for their future encounters and remains a legendary NXT match.

6. Kazuchika Okada vs. Kenny Omega
NJPW G1 Climax 27 Day 17

As much as we revere the epic rivalry that is Tanahashi/Okada, there was another rivalry that raised the entire bar in the sport.  It became Okada vs. Omega.  This is the rivalry that defined the business for the past three years and we haven't had anything match it or even come within miles of it.  At G1 Climax of 2017, these two met in the last day of their particular block and it was the most anticipated match in all of the G1 tournament.  They didn't have an hour time limit, they only had thirty minutes.  GOTTDAMN what they did within thirty minutes.  Picture what they would do in their other ungodly ancounters squeezed into under thirty minutes.  This was next level awesome in all aspects.  There was not a lot of slow up whatsoever in this one.  Omega brought everything he had and then some to Okada, and Okada was the consummate in-ring master, to have this be the greatest G1 match in history.  Both men wanted to be able to proceed to the Finals, but on top of that Omega had lost twice to Okada coming into this match.  The first time at Wrestle Kingdom, and the time limit draw at Dominion.  Omega NEEDED this win, not just for G1 but for himself.  He had to know if he could actually beat "The Rainmaker".  With nearly three minutes left, Omega pulled it out and defeated the IWGP Heavyweight Champion in one of the most legendary matches in NJPW history and without question, the greatest G1 match ever.

5. Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels
WWE Wrestlemania XXV

Two legends.  Two icons.  Undertaker and Shawn Michaels.  This is a rivalry that has been celebrated throughout the sport as well, most notably from their five star classic Hell In A Cell match.  You had the man with the greatest Wrestlemania winning streak of all time and the man coined "Mr. Wrestlemania".  This was a natural clash and to say this lived up to the hype was a gross understatement.  This was also a match of heaven vs. hell.  The light vs. the darkness.  These two couldn't be more opposite except for one thing: excellence.  The match was already a highly competitive one, but we hit a new level when Taker attempted a dive over the top and not only missed Shawn, but Taker crashed his body into a ring photographer and his head against the floor mats outside making for a legit heart-stopping moment.  From there were ten of the most phenomenal and adrenaline-inducing minutes in WWE history.  The match hit yet another level when HBK did the unthinkable: kick out the Taker Tombstone.  After more rapid-heartbeating moments, Taker finally down HBK.  The crowd was all the way into this match and were going crazy after every near fall, thinking it was one step closer to the streak being over.  They were frantic from seeing how much Michaels would go through and not get put away.  This was a master class in psychology from two of the best to ever do it.  They took us for a ride and when it was over, we were just as exhausted as them.  For years, many billed Steamboat vs. Savage as the greatest Wrestlemania match of all-time.  Others have said Hart vs. Austin.  There's not one doubt that this match must be in the same conversation.  Form what we witnessed, it would be many years before we feel that same emotion and adrenaline from a WWE match.  Take abnd HBK delivered a match that should be considered in the Mount Rushmore of WWE matches.

4. Kazuchika Okada vs. Kenny Omega
IWGP Heavyweight Title
NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 11

Folks, there aren't a lot of matches that break the Internet.  There aren't a ton of matches that readjust the way we see professional wrestling on all levels.  At Wrestle Kingdom 11, Kazuchika Okada and Kenny Omega did just that.  They not only broke the Meltzer scale, they set a whole new bar in wrestling.  Omega had defeated Hiroki Goto at G1 of the prior year to get here and we knew this match would be awesome and worthy of main eventing WK11.  We would shake out collective heads as far as much we underestimated the shear beauty of how this match would be.  Okada was clearly the man.  He was putting on incredible match after incredible match.  He was in the middle of surpassing the greatness Tanahashi had left for him.  Meanwhile , Omega was at the top of his game.  He was delivering his own brand of excellence as well.  These two had a chemistry that was instant and could be felt immediately.  The usually cocky Omega was deadly serious about wanting to be the next IWGP Heavyweight Champion.  The stiffness, the counters, the abuse, the physicality, the dangerous spots.  All of these made for a match that gripped fans all over the world.  The live crowd was on fire here, as they were on a roller coaster.  This was also the longest IWGP Heavyweight Title match in history, lasting around forty-five minutes of next level physicality and athleticism.  Omega tried to put Okada away with his dreaded One Winged Angel finisher, but couldn't get it together, whereas after multiple attempts to put down Omega with The Rainmaker clothesline, Okada finally was able to pin the hungry as HELL challenger in a match will stand the test of time forever in this sport.  This match affirmed Omega's ability to be a star, even in this loss, and that Okada was truly best wrestler in the world.  This was the first of four AMAZING encounters, and became the standard up to this point in professional wrestling as a whole.

3. Johnny Gargano vs. Adam Cole
Two Out Of Three Falls/NXT Title
NXT Takeover: New York

After the unfortunate circumstance of Tomosso Ciampa having to relinquish the NXT Title due to neck surgery, there was an obvious need for a new champion.  The original plan was for Ciampa to face Gargano for the title at Takeover: New York.  With the surgery, things changed.  However, in comes Adam Cole as the new opponent for Gargano and to declare a new NXT Champion.  The smug and cocky, yet unbelievably talented, Cole was ready to play with arguably the best in-ring worker in all of NXT, Gargano.  This was a dream match on paper and in advertisement by itself.  This match met and exceeded every single expectation.  The first two falls were already very damn good.  These two had already proven themselves to be perfect dance partners with each other.  Then came the third fall.  Much like the truly legendary Best Of Three Falls match in '89 between Steamboat and Flair at the Superdome, it was the third fall that became the defining moment of the match.  It was this third fall that truly showed how amazing these two guys chemistry is.  Counter after counter.  Near fall after near fall.  Plus the crowd was INSANE.  They were on the edge of their seats this entire fall.  To say we saw the best out of Gargano and Cole during this fall is putting it mildly.  Cole wanted to back up his ego by winning, but Gargano was tired of being considered the great wrestler that hit his own ceiling in the big match.  The heart showed by Gargano was that of legend and, in spite of interference by Cole's Undisputed Era brethren of O' Reilly, Fish, and Strong, Gargano was able to make Cole tap out in the most thrilling and invigorating match we may have ever seen in not just NXT history but WWE history.  Gargano won the big one.  With his proud wife, Candace Lerae, celebrating with him, along with the NXT crowd and his family, Gargano became a grand slam winner and also the face of NXT in one night.  These two delivered an Okada/Omega-esque performance this night and  the new bar for WWE was raised.

2. Kazuchika Okada vs. Kenny Omega
IWGP Heavyweight Title
NJPW Dominion '17

How do you outdo a match like Okada vs. Omega at Wrestle Kingdom 11?  How is it even possible to do so?  They delivered a match that broke the Meltzer scale and raised a new bar for the business.  How do you match or out do it? You have a rematch at Dominion '17.  Folks, not only did they match their first historic encounter, they surpassed it as well.  This was even more physical.  Even more spirited.  Omnega felt in his heart he could beat Okada, and he put forth a performance that 1made believers out of all of us.  Okada, meanwhile, was polished and fluid as always, and even more so this time.  Omega's selling made you fall for him and actually made you wanna see him overcome his odds.  At one point, Cody came out to throw in the towel and would therefore end the match.  From there, Omega's light switch got turned back on and he delivered an offense that was fantastic.  We didn't think it was possible to deliver the type of ride we got from them after their first match, but we got it.  These two delivered a physically and mentally exhausting performance tot he point where they fought to a sixty minute draw, right when Omega finally hit Okada with the One Winged Angel and was about to cover him.  The crowd was left in awe of what they saw, as was the rest of the world.  They saw yet another bar being raised in the sport and we saw Omega reaffirm that he could beat Okada.  He just needed to defeat him and become champion.  We felt for Omega.  We saw what he was willing to put his body through in order to become champion.  As much as we respected Okada, Omega's stature grew even more with this match.  He became the guy people wanted to see get the belt off of him just by what he was putting himself through to obtain the goal.  These two guys gave of their souls in this match and left it all out there for us.  This match became the new standard bearer of wrestling once again and these two were certified as the two best in-ring performers on planet Earth.

1. Kazuchika Okada vs. Kenny Omega
Two Out Of Three Falls/IWGP Heavyweight Title
NJPW Dominion '18

After months of no interactivity between the two, Okada called out Omega because he felt people were talking about Omega more than him, and he was the champion.  Omega came out to answer the challenge, and the match was set.  Two Out Of Three Falls with no time limit.  Their last encounter went to a sixty minute draw and gave us a roller coaster ride that we would never forget ever.  This time, it was put up or shut up.  Okada won at the prior year's Wrestle Kingdom, they went to a draw at Dominion, and Omega picked up the allusive victory over Okada at G1.  This was to officially see who was the best.  Who deserved the distinction of being called the best in the world?  From the moment the bell rang, the chemistry was as if they had just fought the prior week.  This was human chess 101, as both men provided technical wrestling and perfect storytelling and psychology throughout.  With Okada winning the first fall and Omega winning the second, it was gut check time.  Much like we mentioned earlier with Gargano and Cole with their third fall in their Takeover: New York match, it was the third fall that made this already revered classic match that much more amazing.  We saw a light cut on within Omega that would not burn out or cut off.  Okada gave Omega EVERYTHING he had in him  and just could not keep the Winnipeg, Manitoba native down.  Okada had to virtually kill him to defeat him.  The people were emotionally spent at this point, as was the rest of the world watching.  We could sense a changing of the guard, but wanted to see it unfold.  Omega displayed the type of undying heart that was up with legends.  After one final, UNGODLY V-Trigger and another One Winged Angel, Omega finally silenced the critics and became the IWGP Heavyweight Champion after the greatest seventy-four minutes we've ever seen in wrestling.  The ride we were on, the emotions we were feeling, the love of wrestling all of us collectively had were on display within this match and definitely by the end of it.  Many have heralded this as the greatest match ever witnessed.  This may very well be true.  These two put on a series of matches that set a new bar in the business that may never be met again, or at least within the foreseeable future.  With the addition of Omega reuniting with The Bucks and Ibushi at the end of the match while being presented the belt, Omega took his rightful place as the greatest in-ring performer in the world.  Okada, meanwhile, showed that he was along the greatest of his generation.  A truly legendary performer, at the very young age of thirty-one at the time.  We tip our hat and raise our glasses to these two for the greatest match, not just this decade, but quite possibly of all-time.

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(some) Honorable Mentions

KUSHIDA vs. Kyle O' Reilly (NJPW BOSJ 2015)
Johnny Gargano vs. Tomosso Ciampa (NXT Takeover: Brooklyn IV)

Shinsuke Nakamura vs. AJ Styles (NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 10)

AJ Styles vs. Minoru Suzuki (NJPW G1 Climax 24)

DIY vs. The Revival (NXT Takeover: Toronto)

The Lucha Bros. vs. Heroes Eventually Die (PWG BOLA '16)

Will Ospreay vs. WALTER (OTT 4th Anniversary Show)

Tomohiro ishii vs. Shingo Takagi (NJPW G1 Climax 29)

Jordan Devlin vs. WALTER (OTT Wrestlerama 2)

El Generico vs. Kevin Steen (ROH Final Battle 2010)

Killshot vs. Dante Fox (Ultima Lucha Tres)

ALeister Black vs. Andrade Cien Almas (NXT Takeover: New Orleans)

Will Ospreay vs. Rey Fenix (PWG BOLA '16)

Ricochet vs. WALTER (PWG All Star Weekend '17)

Matt Riddle vs. Zach Sabre Jr. (PWG Time Is A Flat Circle)

Cedric Alexander vs. Kota Ibushi (WWE CWC)

Keith Lee vs. Travis Banks (Progress Chapter 56)
Tyler Bate vs. Zach Sabre Jr. (Progress Chapter 63)

Ropanngi Vice/Kazuchika Okada vs. The Young Bucks/AJ Styles (ROH/NJPW Global Wars 2015)

Kota Ibushi vs. Shinsuke Nakamura (NJPW G1 Climax 23)

CM Punk vs. Brock Lesnar (WWE Summerslam '13)

Roderick Strong vs. Zach Sabre Jr. (PWG Don't Sweat The Technique)

Timothy Thatcher vs. WALTER (Progress Chapter 63)

Ember Moon vs. Asuka (NXT Takeover: Brooklyn III)

Tyler Bate vs. WALTER (Progress Chapter 76 )

ACH vs. Kyle O' Reilly (PWG BOLA '13)

Roderick Strong vs. Zach Sabre Jr. (Evolve 45)

Candice Lerae/Joey Ryan/Mike Bailey/ Chris Hero vs. Young Bucks/Roderick Strong/Adam Cole (PWG All Star Weekend '15)

Shingo Takagi vs. YAMOTO (Dragon Gate Kobe Pro Wrestling Festival '16)

Axel Dieter Jr. & RingKEMPF vs. British Strong Style (Progress Chapter 47)

Matt Riddle vs. Timothy Thatcher vs. WALTER (Progress Chapter 55)

Ricochet/ Matt Sydal vs. The Lucha Bros. vs. The Young Bucks (PWG Nice Boys Don't Play Rock & Roll)

Ijla Dragunov vs. WALTER (wXw 16 Karat Gold '17)

Will Ospreay vs. Marty Scurll (Progress Chapter 25)

Kzy vs. PAC (Dragon Gate Truth Gate '19)

Masaaki Mochizuki vs. Shingo Takagi (Dragon Gate The Gate Of Destiny '15)

Bryan Danielson vs. Chris Hero (PWG Guerre Sans Frontieres)

The Rascalz vs. The Young Bucks (PWG Threemendous V)

Keith Lee vs. Tomohiro Ishii (RevPro/NJPW Global Wars '17)

John Cena vs. Daniel Bryan (WWE Summerslam '13)

Chris Hero vs. Zach Sabre Jr. (PWG Mystery Vortex 3)

KUSHIDA vs. Hiromu Takahashi (NJPW Dominion '17)

Will Ospreay vs. Marty Scurll vs. Hiromu Takahashi vs. KUSHIDA ( NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 11)

Mayu Iwatani vs. Io Shirai (STARDOM End Of Year Climax '16)

Sami Zayn vs. Cesaro (NXT R-Rival)

Will Ospreay vs. AJ Styles (RevPro High Stakes 2015)

Jimmy Havoc vs. Will Ospreay (Progress Chapter 63)

El Generico vs. Kevin Steen (PWG Steen Wolf)

TJ Perkins vs. Kota Ibushi (WWE CWC)

Will Ospreay vs. Marty Scurll vs. AJ Styles (RevPro Uprising 2015)

David Starr vs. WALTER (OTT Wrestlerama 3)

Chris Hero vs. Marty Scurll (Progress Chapter 31)

Ilja Dragunov vs. John Klinger vs. WALTER (wXw 16 Karat Gold '18)

L.O.N.S./Tommy End vs. Young Bucks/Roderick Strong (PWG BOLA '15)

The Young Bucks vs. Future Shock vs. Super Smash Brothers (PWG Threemendous III)

Konosuke Takeshita vs. Tetsuya Endo (DDT Wrestle Peter Pan '19)

Will Ospreay vs. Marty Scurll (NJPW Sakura Genesis '18)

Will Ospreay vs. Zach Sabre Jr. (RevPro/NJPW Global Wars '17)

Will Ospreay vs. SANADA (NJPW G1 Climax 29)

Kazuchika Okada vs. EVIL (NJPW G1 Climax 29)

Ricochet vs. Adam Cole (NXT Takeover: Brooklyn 4)

Chihiro Hashimoto vs. Meiko Satumura (SENDAI Girls Joshi Peroroshu Big Show)

Prince Puma vs. Mil Muertes (Lucha Underground Ultima Lucha)

Chris Hero vs. Tomohiro Ishii (RevPro/NJPW Global Wars UK'16)

David Starr vs. WALTER (wXw Fight Forever Tour '17)

Jordan Devlin vs. Will Ospreay (Progress Chapter 72)

Ricochet vs. Johnny Gargano (NXT Takeover: Phoenix)

The Briscoes vs. The Young Bucks (ROH Best In The World '18)

AJ Styles vs. Daniel Bryan (WWE TLC '18)

RingKEMPF vs. Tyler Bateman/Brody King (PWG All-Star Weekend '18)

Bandido vs. Dragon Lee (PWG BOLA '19)

Black Taurus/Laredo Kid/Puma King vs. MexaBlood/Rey Horus (PWG BOLA '19)

CLaudio Castagnoli vs. El Generico (PWG Kurt Russellreunion)

Ketsuyori Shibata vs. Matt Riddle (RevPro High Stakes '17)

The Mack vs. Johnny Mundo (Lucha Underground Season 3)

Aztec Warfare Match (Lucha Underground Season 2)

Fenix vs. Mil Muertes (Lucha Underground Season 2)

Velveteen Dream vs. Tomosso Ciampa (NXT Takeover: War Games II)

Chihiro Hashimoto vs. Sareee (SENDAI Girls Big Show In Niigata)

Aleister Black vs. Velveteen Dream (NXT Takeover: War Games)

Moustache Mountain vs. O' Reilly/Fish (NXT Takeover: Brooklyn 4)

Riderick Strong/AOP vs. Sanity vs. Undisputed Era (NXT Takeover: War Games)

LA Park vs. Jacob Fatu (MLW Saturday Night Superfight)
Michael Elgin vs. Kenny Omega (NJPW G1 Special In USA)



As you could see, this decade was simply en fuego!  There were PLENTY of other top notched, spectacular matches that could've made at least the HM list.  Please go out of your way to peep these matches.  Not all of them can be so easily found, but if you can locate them, sit down and have a great time.  You won't regret a single match pointed out on here.  This was the most fun decade overall we've had since...well...last decade.  It's like the sport as a whole keeps getting better and better per decade.  It will be beyond intriguing to see how this decade winds up.  Let's hope it picks up where this leaves off and climb even higher.  Until next time folks!