.webp)
As the Hell in a Cell matches popularity surged, WWE recognized the financial potential of dedicating an entire pay-per-view event to it. In 2009, WWE held its inaugural Hell in a Cell pay-per-view. While it was an opportunity to showcase the match's intensity and history, it also became a platform to boost buy rates by featuring top programs of the time, whether or not they organically fit the Hell in a Cell concept.
Despite occasional fan backlash and the challenge of maintaining the match's original aura, the Hell in a Cell pay-per-view remains a fixture on the WWE calendar. Its presence has become a tradition that shows no sign of fading away, despite the evolving wrestling landscape.
The Hell in a Cell match was originally designed as the grand
finale to WWE's most heated rivalries and feuds. It served as the ultimate
battleground, where conflicts reached their boiling point, and Superstars
settled their scores with brutality and finality. Over the years, this match
type became synonymous with violence, drama, and unforgettable moments,
cementing its place in wrestling lore.
Now, let's delve into the annals of WWE history and relive the 20
greatest WWE Hell in a Cell matches ever. These are the battles that defined
eras, left fans in awe, and contributed to the enduring legacy of this
formidable structure. Each encounter tells a unique story, and together, they
represent the pinnacle of Hell in a Cell excellence.
20. The Undertaker vs. Brock Lesnar - Hell in a
Cell (2015)
Lesnar avenged himself late in the match by striking the Undertaker with a low blow. Then he slammed Undertaker onto the hard ring surface with a powerful F-5. Lesnar won the match thanks to this deft move.
19. Sasha Banks vs. Bayley - Hell in a Cell (2016)
In this match, the female superstars used the steel cage
itself, as well as various weapons, to create a truly unique and memorable contest.
One of the standout elements was their use of chairs, which had played a
significant role in their feud. Sasha Banks had faced defeat in every Hell in a
Cell match she had been in leading up to this moment, and Bayley, the defending
SmackDown Women's Champion, expected the same outcome. However, it was Sasha
who managed to dethrone Bayley, making her former best friend submit while
using a chair to add both insult and injury.
This real-life clash between best friends resulted in a remarkable bout filled with innovative action, impressive selling, and a storyline that made sense. The only drawback was that this match took place during an era without fans in attendance. If this contest had the opportunity to unfold in front of a live, enthusiastic audience, it might have easily claimed the top spot on the list of the greatest Hell in a Cell matches.
18. Randy Orton vs. Drew McIntyre - Hell in a Cell (2020)
Both wrestlers gave it their all during the match. McIntyre, the
WWE Champion at the time, wanted to keep the title, whereas Orton wanted to
take it. The Hell in a Cell stipulation intensified the fight.
They used steel chairs, kendo sticks, and tables as weapons during
the match. McIntyre and Orton showed their wrestling abilities by exchanging
powerful moves and finishing maneuvers. The match inside the cage put their
strength and determination to the test.
In the end, it was Randy Orton who emerged victorious, capturing
the WWE Championship and solidifying his dominance in the WWE. The 2020 Hell in
a Cell match between McIntyre and Orton will always be remembered as an
exciting and unforgettable moment in WWE history.
In the last moment, Orton won the Match by Hitting RKO and
became the New WWE Champion. proving himself within the WWE.
17. Cody Rhodes vs. Seth Rollins - Hell in a Cell (2022)
One of the fiercest rivalries in the WWE had been going on between
Rhodes and Rollins for months. Their rivalry came to a head in the Hell in a
Cell match, which was an absolutely epic performance.
Throughout the contest, Rhodes and Rollins both gave everything
they had and resisted giving up. Chairs, tables, and steel steps were among the
weapons they employed. Both of them suffered a great deal of harm.
Rollins was ultimately defeated by Rhodes after being struck in
the face with a sledgehammer and a Cross Rhodes. The match is a must-watch for
any pro wrestling fan because it was the epitome of what the sport can be when
it's at its best.
Rhodes' ability to wrestle despite having a torn pectoral muscle
made the match noteworthy as well. Just a few weeks prior to the match, he had
sustained the injury, but he was still determined to play. He put on a
performance that will be remembered for years to come as he wrestled the entire
match while wearing his arm strapped to his chest.
One of the hardest and most committed wrestlers in the business, Rhodes' triumph against Rollins at Hell in a Cell was a really amazing moment.
16. Sasha Banks vs. Charlotte Flair - Hell in a Cell (2016)
Charlotte Flair attacked Sasha Banks viciously prior to the start
of the match. As a result, there was a fierce altercation outside the ring that
included both Superstars scaling the cell and even dropping a powerbomb onto
the announcer's table. And all of this took place prior to the bell even
ringing!
Sasha Banks battled bravely from a disadvantageous position as the
match went on. She was violently thrown onto a table, but eventually succumbed
to Charlotte's devastating Natural Selection. Charlotte was able to win back
the RAW Women's Championship thanks to this triumph.
The first Hell in a Cell match featuring female WWE Superstars as
well as the first all-women main event in a main roster pay-per-view special
made this match exciting and historic for the WWE Universe. Although this match
set a new standard for women's wrestling in WWE, the subsequent matches
involving female Superstars managed to outperform it in terms of quality.
15. Randy Orton vs. Daniel Bryan - Hell in a Cell (2013)
Leading up to this encounter, there was a lot of drama and tension
between Randy Orton and Daniel Bryan. They both had their eyes on the WWE
Championship, and their rivalry had become deeply personal.
The Hell in a Cell match itself was a brutal and physically
demanding showdown. Inside the unforgiving steel structure, Orton and Bryan
gave it their all. They used steel chairs, kendo sticks, and other weapons to
inflict pain on each other.
One of the most unforgettable moments came when Bryan executed his
finishing move, the Running Knee, on Orton. The impact was bone-crushing, and
it looked like Bryan might win. But Orton, known for his resilience, fought
back.
Randy Orton secured the victory with the help of Shawn Michaels
and Triple H, became the New WWE Champion.
The Randy Orton vs. Daniel Bryan Hell in a Cell match in 2013 is
remembered as a classic encounter that showcased their wrestling skills and
their ability to tell a compelling story in the ring. It remains one of the
standout matches in WWE's modern era.
14. The Undertaker vs. Batista - Survivor Series (2007)
They had been fighting for the championship prior to the
match, and it had been one of the highlights in WWE during a somewhat dull
year. However, an injury had temporarily put an end to their feud.
Their rivalry continued within the steel building known as
Hell in a Cell. The duel lasted more than 20 minutes, with both guys striving
to win with their distinctive maneuvers. They kicked each other's finishers,
demonstrating their resolve to go away with the championship.
Batista eventually prevailed with some outside intervention, setting up a Triple Threat match at Armageddon the following month. Unfortunately, that match did not live up to the quality of the Hell in a Cell match, which was one of the year's best.
13. Bray Wyatt vs. Roman Reigns - Hell in a Cell (2015)
Before the match, there was a significant animosity between
Roman Reigns and Bray Wyatt. They had been feuding for a while, and this match
was their chance to settle their differences once and for all.
The match itself was a hard-hitting and intense battle. Both
Reigns and Wyatt used the steel cage to their advantage, incorporating it into
their moves and strategies. The brutal nature of the match added to the drama.
One of the most memorable moments came when Wyatt used a
steel chair to attack Reigns, showing his ruthless side. However, Reigns fought
back with equal determination When he Spear Wyatt to the table.
Near the conclusion of the match, Roman Reigns emerged
victorious, but the match left both men battered and bruised. This match showed
their resilience and their willingness to push their bodies to the limit.
Roman Reigns vs. Bray Wyatt at Hell in a Cell in 2015 is
remembered as a hard-fought and physically demanding match. It showcased the
intensity of their rivalry and their commitment to delivering a memorable
performance for the WWE Universe.
12. Triple H vs. Chris Jericho -
Judgment Day (2002)
Fans were ecstatic about this match since Triple H and Chris
Jericho were so dissimilar. They had their unique wrestling styles and persona.
Their wrestling skills were the only factor in the match.
They tried to outsmart each other and used their finishing maneuvers to
prevail. There were many times during the arduous battle when it seemed like
one of them would prevail.
The anxiety and excitement increased as the match
progressed. Despite there were occasions when it appeared as though one of them
might win, it didn't. Triple H and Chris Jericho worked well together in the
ring, and their performance was outstanding.
In the end, Triple H retained the WWE Undisputed
Championship.
The wrestling and storytelling in this match are legendary.
It proved how talented Chris Jericho and Triple H were. Fans of all ages, from
school childrens to college students, can enjoy and remember this Match.
11. Dean Ambrose vs. Seth Rollins - Hell in a Cell (2014)
At the Night of Champions pay-per-view, Rollins was set to fight
Roman Reigns. But Reigns had to have surgery for a hernia. Rollins decided to
face any challenger and got a big surprise when Dean Ambrose returned.
They brawled all over the place, and Ambrose came out on top.
These encounters didn't just give us thrilling fights; they also got the fans
super excited.
As Hell in a Cell approached in October, tensions between Dean
Ambrose and Seth Rollins had reached a boiling point. Their history together
made the Hell in a Cell stipulation the perfect choice to settle their score.
To build up the match, WWE brought in Mick Foley to deliver a speech to both
men, emphasizing how the Cell could change their careers. This added
anticipation to the already heated feud and elevated Ambrose and Rollins as top
stars in the company.
The match began with an electrifying moment as Ambrose climbed to
the top of the Cell. This move was unexpected, especially considering Rollins
had been portrayed as somewhat cowardly. Rollins's decision to climb and
confront Ambrose raised his stock among fans. The two Superstars brawled on top
of the Cell, creating a visually stunning spectacle that had the crowd on the
edge of their seats. Eventually, they made their way to the side of the
structure and both took a dramatic fall, crashing through the announce tables.
This fall was a significant moment, as it had been a long time
since anyone had fallen from the side of the Cell. The match continued with
Ambrose refusing to be taken out on a stretcher. This led to several minutes of
intense action, including big bumps, brawling, and memorable spots like the
reintroduction of cinder blocks and a table spot that looked terrifying. The
Money in the Bank briefcase also made an appearance, adding to the excitement.
Just as the match was reaching its climax, with all the elements in place for a
classic, something unexpected happened—the lights went out.
Initially, fans were confused, but then a lantern appeared in the
ring, emitting smoke and displaying a hologram. This distraction proved costly
for Ambrose as Bray Wyatt, who had been absent, emerged from the darkness to
attack him. This allowed Rollins to secure the pin and win the match. It was a
moment that had the potential to be as impactful as Kane's iconic Cell debut,
signaling a new chapter for Bray Wyatt.
Overall, this match was a rollercoaster of excitement and drama,
with twists and turns that kept fans on the edge of their seats. It showcased
the storytelling prowess of WWE and left a lasting impression on the WWE
Universe.
10. Sasha Banks vs. Becky Lynch - Hell in a Cell (2019)
Becky and Sasha are two of the greatest female wrestlers
ever, and this match showed why. It had creative moves, clear characters, big
personalities, and sharp wrestling—it had everything you'd want in a match like
this.
Becky was the RAW Women's Champion going into the match, and
she fought bravely. They did lots of different moves, like Innovative Meteoras,
Bexploder Suplexes, and Dis-Arm-Hers, but what stood out most was the story
they told during the match.
As the match went on, it was clear that these two were not
just fighting physically but also telling a great story in the ring. Their
chemistry and storytelling made the match really special.
In the end, Becky won by making Sasha give up to the
Dis-Arm-Her submission. This made Becky to retain the RAW Women's Champion and
added another great Hell in a Cell match to the history books.
The Lynch vs. Banks Hell in a Cell match in 2019 shows the
amazing talent and storytelling skills of these two fantastic female wrestlers.
It's a testament to their hard work and leaves a lasting impact on wrestling.
9. Brock Lesnar vs. The Undertaker - No Mercy (2002)
Brock Lesnar fought against The Undertaker at No Mercy in 2002. Before the match, there was a sense of anticipation and excitement in the air. Brock Lesnar was an up-and-coming powerhouse in WWE, while The Undertaker was a legendary figure with a storied history.The match itself was tough and intense. Both Lesnar and The
Undertaker were strong and determined. They did moves that made the fans very
excited.
One of the most memorable moments was when Lesnar give his
powerful finisher called the F-5 on The Undertaker. It showed how strong he
was. But The Undertaker didn't give up and fought back.
In the end, Lesnar won the match. solidifying his reputation
as a formidable force in WWE. This made him even more famous in the wrestling
world.
This match between Brock Lesnar and The Undertaker at No
Mercy in 2002 is a big part of Brock Lesnar’s career. He became the top star
on SmackDown, winning the 2003 Royal Rumble, and he got to be in the main event
at WrestleMania XIX against Kurt Angle. Beating The Undertaker helped him get
there.
9. The Usos vs. The New Day - Hell in a Cell (2017)
Leading up to this match, there was a heated rivalry between
The New Day and The Usos. Both teams were determined to prove that they were
the best in the tag team division.
Once the match began, it quickly turned into a fierce and
high-flying battle. The teams used the Cell to their advantage, incorporating
it into their moves and Brutality.
One of the most memorable moments came when Kofi Kingston of
The New Day performed a daring leap from the top of the Cell onto The Usos.
This high-risk move left the audience in awe.
In the end, The Usos managed to secure the victory, becoming
the new SmackDown Tag Team Champions. This match was a testament to the
athleticism and determination of both teams.
The New Day vs. The Usos at Hell in a Cell in 2017 is often
regarded as one of the standout tag team matches in WWE history. It showcased
the incredible teamwork and athleticism of these two talented teams and left
fans talking about it for a long time.
The New Day and The Usos pushed the boundaries of what a tag
team Hell in a Cell match could be, delivering a thrilling contest that
showcased their incredible chemistry.
7. The Undertaker vs. Triple H - WrestleMania XXVIII (2012)
The story leading up to this match was filled with drama.
The Undertaker had an impressive undefeated streak at WrestleMania, and Triple
H wanted to be the one to break it. The stakes were incredibly high.
The match itself was a brutal and intense battle. Both The
Undertaker and Triple H pushed themselves to their limits. They used their
signature moves and even brought weapons into the mix.
The drama peaked when Triple H hit The Undertaker with his
finishing move, the Pedigree, but The Undertaker managed to kick out. The
audience was on the edge of their seats, not knowing who would come out on top.
In the end, The Undertaker extended his WrestleMania streak
by defeating Triple H. This match was not just about winning or losing; it was
about the incredible performance both wrestlers put on for the fans.
The Undertaker vs. Triple H at WrestleMania XXVIII is
remembered as one of the greatest matches in WWE history. It showcased the
dedication and talent of these two legends and added another unforgettable
chapter to the legacy of WrestleMania.
6. The Undertaker vs. Edge - SummerSlam (2008)
The Undertaker and Edge have a lot of animosity between one
another. They had been at odds for a time, and this Clash was
their chance to finally put the dispute behind them.
The actual wrestling match itself was a classic, with both
competitors giving it their best. To outwit one another, they used a number of
techniques. The audience was on the edge of their seats due to the match's
intensity. Undertaker won this match, which cemented his legendary status, and
it featured devastating chair shots.
When The Undertaker used the Tombstone Piledriver, his
signature move, on Edge, it was one of the most unforgettable moments. This
action changed the course of the match and ultimately gave The Undertaker the
win.
The Undertaker vs. Edge match at SummerSlam in 2008 is also
regarded as one of the standout matches in WWE history. It showed the
incredible wrestling and storytelling abilities of both wrestlers and left a
lasting impact on wrestling fans around the world.
5. Shawn Michaels vs. Triple H - Bad Blood (2004)
The actual match was a tight, emotionally packed struggle. In
their attempt to establish their authority, Shawn Michaels and Triple H did not
spare any effort. They traded a barrage of powerful strikes, submission holds,
and strong moves.
The match took place inside a dangerous cage called Hell in
a Cell, which made things even more intense.
In the end, Shawn Michaels won the match by using his famous
move, Sweet Chin Music. This victory marked the end of their long and bitter
feud.
This match is remembered for the emotions and storytelling
involved. It showed how wrestling can tell a powerful story through physical
action. It was a significant moment in the careers of both Shawn Michaels and
Triple H.
4. Triple H vs. Cactus Jack - No Way Out (2000)
Within the ominous Hell in a Cell structure, the animosity between
these two Superstars reached its peak. Right from the start, the contest turned
into a chaotic and relentless display of violence. Triple H and Cactus Jack
used every part of the Cell and its surroundings to inflict pain on each other.
A memorable moment occurred when Cactus Jack introduced a
two-by-four wrapped in barbed wire into the match, raising the level of
brutality to new heights.
As the match unfolded, the brutality continued to escalate, with
both competitors enduring significant punishment. Notably, Cactus Jack suffered
a terrifying fall from the top of the Cell, crashing down onto the mat below.
Nevertheless, despite the extreme violence and pain, both Triple H
and Cactus Jack displayed remarkable determination. The climax of the match saw
Triple H execute his finishing move, the Pedigree, on Cactus Jack onto a bed of
thumbtacks, securing the hard-fought victory.
This Hell in a Cell showdown between Triple H and Cactus Jack is
etched in wrestling history, not just for its brutality but also for the
extraordinary resilience demonstrated by these two exceptional athletes.
3. Mankind vs. The Undertaker - King of the Ring (1998)
Before the match, there was a lot of bad blood between The
Undertaker and Mankind. They had a personal and bitter rivalry, and this match
was the culmination of their feud.
The match itself was incredibly brutal. Early on, Mankind was
thrown off the top of the Cell and crashed through a table below. It was a
shocking moment that left everyone in awe. Mick Foley, the man behind the Mankind
character, showed remarkable dedication to entertaining the fans by taking such
a dangerous fall.
Despite this shocking fall, Mankind continued to wrestle. The
Undertaker and Mankind then engaged in a series of painful moves, including one
where thumbtacks were spread on the mat. Foley's body bore the scars of this
intense battle, with thumbtacks actually sticking into his skin.
The match finally ended when The Undertaker chokeslammed Mankind
onto a pile of thumbtacks and then delivered his finishing move, the Tombstone
Piledriver, to secure the win. The Undertaker's victory marked the end of a
physically and emotionally exhausting contest.
This Hell in a Cell match is remembered not just for its violence
but also for the incredible determination shown by both wrestlers. It's a
reminder of the sacrifices that wrestlers make to entertain their fans and
create memorable moments.
2. Kurt Angle vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. The Rock vs. Rikishi vs. The Undertaker vs. Triple H - Armageddon (2000)
WWE gave a lot of attention to the Hell in a Cell match from Armageddon 2000. It included well-known wrestlers including Kurt Angle, Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, Rikishi, The Undertaker, and Triple H. This match is renowned for being extremely chaotic and featuring many well-known wrestlers.Each wrestler had their own issues with the other wrestlers. It
resembled a chaotic mass of conflicts and rivalries.
Due to the presence of six wrestlers inside a substantial steel
cage, this match was unique. Things became even more challenging because they
had to contend with the cage in addition to fighting one other. It became
chaotic right away.
During the match, each wrestler showed their own wrestling styles
and personas. The cage allowed them to do crazy things, like fighting on top of
it and crashing through it. One shocking moment was when Rikishi fell from the
top of the cage, which was really scary. This match delivered a series of
heart-stopping sequences that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
In the end, Stone Cold Steve Austin won the match and became the
New WWF Champion. This was a big deal in wrestling history, especially in the
Attitude Era, when WWF had lots of fans.
The Armageddon 2000 Hell in a Cell match is famous for having so
many big wrestlers and being really crazy. It's a great example of WWE's
ability to make exciting matches that fans love to watch.
1. The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels - Badd Blood: In Your House (1997)
Consider the atmosphere in the arena as the match began. The
Undertaker and Shawn Michaels put on a fantastic performance. They used the
steel structure of the Cell to make the match even more intense and exciting.
But the most unforgettable moment happened when the Cell's
door unexpectedly swung open. Out came a huge figure, later revealed as Kane.
He turned out to be The Undertaker's brother and made his first appearance on
WWE television. Kane's interference changed the course of the match and had a
big impact on WWE.
Even with the surprises and chaos, both The Undertaker
and Shawn Michaels demonstrated incredible tenacity. Despite Kane's
interference, the Undertaker eventually won the match, and it became a
watershed moment in his career.
The first Hell in a Cell match established a new standard
for future matches inside the Cell. It also added an intriguing twist to The
Undertaker and Kane's stories, further complicating their characters. This
match will be remembered as an important part of WWE's history.
The Hell in a Cell match concept has produced some of the
most memorable moments and unforgettable battles in WWE history. These 20 Hell in a Cell matches represent the pinnacle of this brutal and iconic stipulation, leaving
an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling.
%20(1).webp)
%20(1).webp)
%20(1).webp)
%20(1).webp)
%20(1).webp)
0 Comments