10 Best Ironman Matches of All Time
Photo Credit: WWE
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Yesterday, the wrestling world was abuzz as TNA announced a thrilling Ironman match between Josh Alexander and Nic Nemeth for the TNA World Championship at the upcoming Emergence event. This announcement has invigorated fans and serves as a reminder of the unique excitement and anticipation that Ironman matches can generate. In light of this, we’ve decided it’s the perfect time to reflect on some of the greatest Ironman matches that have etched their mark in wrestling lore. Here, we recount ten iconic Ironman matches that have not only enthralled audiences but also defined careers and inspired future generations of wrestlers.
10. AJ Styles Vs. Christopher Daniels
- Event: TNA Against All Odds (2005)
- Location: Impact Zone, Orlando, Florida
This 30-minute Ironman match was a pivotal showcase for the TNA X Division. The rivalry between AJ Styles and Christopher Daniels was rooted in mutual respect and fueled by their desire to be the best. Known for their athleticism and innovation, both competitors delivered an exhilarating match filled with dynamic sequences and near falls, embodying the “no limits” philosophy of the X Division. AJ Styles retained the X Division Championship, further establishing his legacy and reinforcing the division’s position as a platform for exceptional, high-stakes wrestling.
9. Bret Hart Vs. Owen Hart
- Event: WWF Live Event (1994)
- Location: Nassau Coliseum, Long Island, New York
Known as the longest Ironman match ever recorded, this encounter between Bret and Owen Hart ran an impressive 1 hour and 8 minutes, eventually concluding under sudden death rules. This epic match was a signature showcase of the deep-seated sibling rivalry that balanced family bonds with professional ambition. The narrative focused on Owen’s relentless pursuit to outshine Bret and step out from under his brother’s legacy. Throughout the contest, both brothers showcased their technical wrestling mastery, demonstrating fluid transitions and counters that captivated fans. Each grapple and reversal told the story of their complex relationship and competitive drive. The match, ultimately resulting in Bret overcoming Owen in the dramatic overtime, served not only as a testament to their endurance and skill but also as a pinnacle in storytelling within wrestling, cementing both Hart brothers’ legacies in pro wrestling history.
8. Randy Orton Vs. John Cena
- Event: WWE Bragging Rights (2009)
- Location: Mellon Arena, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
This epic 60-minute Ironman match was part of one of WWE’s most storied rivalries between Randy Orton and John Cena, competing for the WWE Championship. The contest was amplified by its no-disqualification and no-countout stipulations, allowing both competitors to explore creative and extreme tactics. Cena, embodying his “Never Give Up” mantra, faced Orton’s relentless and methodical offense. The match included the use of steel chairs, pyrotechnics, and the entire arena space, underscoring the depth of their vendetta. Cena’s victory, obtained through an astonishing display of endurance and willpower, concluded a truly grueling contest and further cemented both men’s legacies within WWE’s main event scene.
7. Chris Benoit vs. Triple H
- Event: WWE Raw (2004)
- Location: Tucson Convention Center, Tucson, Arizona
Occurring at the height of Chris Benoit’s legendary World Heavyweight Championship reign, this 60-minute Ironman match against Triple H took place on an episode of Monday Night Raw. Renowned for his technical expertise, Benoit faced the cerebral and strategic Triple H in a compelling contest that combined mental warfare with physical uproar. The match was characterized by its seamless blend of mat-based wrestling, submissions, and dramatic reversals. Throughout the match, interference from Evolution members added to the conflict, but Benoit’s determination and resilience shone through. The match maintained high energy and storytelling consistency, ending with Benoit retaining the championship, bolstering his role as a credible, resilient champion. This match served as a testament to Benoit’s ability to perform at a high level under pressure and contributed to his celebrated, albeit controversial, legacy.
6. Finn Bálor vs. Adam Cole vs. Johnny Gargano & Tommaso Ciampa
- Event: NXT Super Tuesday (2020)
- Location: Full Sail University, Winter Park, Florida
In a groundbreaking match format, four of NXT’s most celebrated competitors squared off in a 60-minute Fatal Four-Way Ironman match to determine the vacant NXT Championship holder. After Keith Lee vacated the title to move to the main roster, NXT leveraged the ironman stipulation to showcase the skill and storytelling prowess of Finn Bálor, Adam Cole, Johnny Gargano, and Tommaso Ciampa. Each wrestler brought a rich history and dynamic style to the match, forming temporary alliances and showcasing their individual wrestling styles to gain an advantage. The match exemplified the depth and diversity of the NXT roster with numerous close calls and high-stakes moments. Both Bálor and Cole ended the match tied, necessitating a sudden-death singles match the following week, which Bálor ultimately won to become the new NXT Champion. This match highlighted NXT’s commitment to in-depth storytelling and athletic excellence on the brand’s unique platform.
5. Triple H vs. The Rock
- Event: WWE Judgment Day (2000)
- Location: Freedom Hall, Louisville, Kentucky
This iconic 60-minute Ironman match for the WWF Championship exemplified the chaotic and theatrical nature of the Attitude Era. Engaged in a heated rivalry, Triple H and The Rock were pivotal figures within WWE’s top echelon. Their match was defined by its intensity and unpredictability, features emblematic of their era. Interferences from the McMahon family, DX, and the unexpected return of The Undertaker added layers to an already gripping narrative. The match played out as a quintessential Attitude Era spectacle with high drama, intense brawls, and swerves. Shawn Michaels served as the special guest referee, adding another volatile element to the proceedings. The Undertaker’s appearance, with his new “American Badass” persona, led to his interference in the match, directly impacting the final outcome. Despite being in control for much of the match, The Rock ultimately lost due to the chaos and interference, as Triple H was declared the winner by one fall. This match not only heightened the stakes for subsequent events but also underscored the compelling storytelling and character work of the time.
4. TJP vs. Josh Alexander
- Event: Before The Impact (2021)
- Location: Skyway Studios, Nashville, Tennessee
Set during the pandemic era, this 60-minute Ironman match for the Impact X Division Championship was a testament to both competitors’ resilience and innovation. The X Division, known for its “no limits” philosophy, showcased some of wrestling’s most high-risk and agile performers. TJP and Josh Alexander embarked on a tactical encounter, which highlighted their contrasting styles. Alexander, known as “The Walking Weapon,” brought a grounded, technical approach to match TJP’s speed and finesse, creating a dynamic clash. The match, which began on the Before the Impact pre-show and concluded during Impact Wrestling, ended with Alexander claiming victory, solidifying his reign and enhancing the prestige of the X Division. It demonstrated Impact Wrestling’s investment in long-form storytelling, reaching audiences worldwide with its blend of pure wrestling skill and compelling engagement.
3. Bayley vs. Sasha Banks
- Event: NXT TakeOver: Respect (2015)
- Location: Full Sail University, Winter Park, Florida
This historic matchup was central to the evolution of women’s wrestling in WWE. Bayley and Sasha Banks were key figures in redefining the women’s division, exemplifying athleticism, storytelling, and charisma. Following their incredible match at NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn, where Bayley won the NXT Women’s Championship, a rematch in the form of a 30-minute Ironman match was set. Held at Full Sail University, this contest was not only significant for the women’s division—it was crucial for the entire NXT brand, which prided itself on innovative and competitive wrestling. The match integrated the emotional journey and personal stakes brilliantly, culminating in Bayley retaining her title in front of an emotionally invested audience. The bout was widely praised for its storytelling depth, affirming the duo’s legacy and paving the way for future headline opportunities for female wrestlers across WWE.
2. Brock Lesnar vs. Kurt Angle
- Event: WWE SmackDown (2003)
- Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Taking place on network television, this Ironman match was a rare and valued treat for wrestling fans. The rivalry between Brock Lesnar and Kurt Angle was deeply rooted in their backgrounds as collegiate and Olympic wrestling champions. Both were known for their incredible physicality and wrestling aptitude. This match, for the WWE Championship, saw Lesnar exploiting the match stipulations brilliantly. By quickly getting disqualified to gain a strategic advantage via chair shots, he garnered early falls and maintained control. The match accentuated their competitive spirit, as Angle mounted a valiant comeback attempt, showcasing an array of suplexes and submissions. However, Lesnar’s cunning proved decisive, allowing him to recapture the WWE Championship, further embellishing his status as “The Next Big Thing” and adding another classic to WWE’s storied performances.
1. Bret Hart vs. Shawn Michaels
- Event: WrestleMania XII (1996)
- Location: Arrowhead Pond, Anaheim, California
This match is often hailed as one of the greatest in WWE history, pushing the boundary of what Ironman matches could represent. Scheduled as the main event of WrestleMania XII, it pitted two of the era’s premier wrestlers against each other for the WWF Championship. Bret Hart, the defending champion and technical maestro, was seen as the model of in-ring excellence and professionalism. Shawn Michaels, known as “The Heartbreak Kid,” was a rising star with charisma and a flamboyant style. The build-up to their encounter involved a narrative of respect and desire to prove who was the better wrestler, manifesting in the first 60-minute Ironman match, which ended in a dramatic sudden-death overtime after a 0-0 regulation period. Michaels’ victory, symbolized by his emotional celebration, marked a new chapter in WWE, leading to a series of legendary matches and cementing his legacy in the business.
Each match on this list demonstrates a unique blend of storytelling, athletic ability, and memorable moments that define the Ironman format’s prestige in professional wrestling. Whether it was the technical mastery, compelling character dynamics, or ground-breaking moments for wrestling equality, these matches each contributed significantly to the annals of wrestling history.
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