Top 5 matches in WWE TLC history
WWE has one pay-per-view left in this whirlwind calendar year, a pay-per-view that most certainly promises drama. Around nine years ago, WWE altered the structure and line-up of their pay-per-views and focused on events named after different matches. Some of them were lame, especially the terribly named Fatal-4-Way. However, some of them caught on well and remain on the calendar to this very date. WWE Tables, Ladders and Chairs is part of this list.
For almost a decade, WWE has brought to us a night which features a barrage of weapon-based matches. We have seen TLC matches, Tables matches, Ladder matches and Chairs matches on this show on a consistent basis. We even saw a Stairs match at the 2014 edition of this pay-per-view. So with all these different stipulations, it is obvious that there will be high drama and carnage at the event.
There have been many memorable moments and matches at TLC since 2009, including shocking world title wins and spectacular debuts, among other things. A few of these matches stand out. These matches show how good TLC or ladder matches can really be. With high spots and high stakes involved, here are the five greatest matches in the decade-long history of the TLC pay-per-view. But first, here are a few honourable mentions.
- Sheamus vs John Morrison: Ladder Match (2010)
- Edge vs Rey Mysterio vs Alberto Del Rio vs Kane: TLC Match (2010)
- Dolph Ziggler vs John Cena: Ladder Match (2012)
#5 AJ Styles vs 'Demon' Finn Balor (2017)
This is the only regular singles match on this list and it wasn't even supposed to happen. The original plan heading into last year's TLC pay-per-view was to have Sister Abigail face off against the Pumpkin Demon. However, Bray Wyatt was struck with meningitis and was ruled out of the show just days prior.
This forced WWE to act drastically and come up with something big as a replacement. Hence, we got this dream match. AJ Styles and Finn Balor had never faced each other before, making this match even more special.
The hype was enormous and expectations were through the roof. Despite that, these two wrestling artists painted what was pretty much a masterpiece in the ring. They left it all at TLC in a match filled with brutal spots and seamless sequences.
The match came to an end when the face painted Irishman hit Styles with a devastating Coup de Grace, probably the best one he has ever hit. After the match, the two former Bullet Club leaders shared a collectively well-earned moment of respect. An incredible match followed by a sweet ending.