5 Best Wrestling Matches of 2002

#2 Chris Benoit vs. Kurt Angle – Unforgiven 2002

This is an awesome pure wrestling match that needs to be seen based entirely on the in-ring action. There’s little in terms of storyline here; it’s merely two outstanding technicians fighting to determine which of them is the better scientific wrestler.

This match was such a pleasure to watch. Angle and Benoit showed their standout amateur wrestling skills by moving like lightning in the ring, switching positions and advantage so quickly you could barely keep up. At one point, they even managed six pin attempts in quick succession followed by a beautiful bridge.

This wasn’t a violent brawl or a gimmick match; it was pure wrestling, and these two wrestlers got a standing ovation within the first five minutes. The fans applauded the mat work, which was a nice thing to see in those days, especially after years of crazy gimmicks and a wanton disregard for old-school grappling.

Almost every move was reversed or blocked in some way, which made the moves more exciting and meaningful when they actually landed. Yet no matter how much they fought, they were completely even at all times.

For example, Angle and Benoit executed back-and-forth German suplexes: five from Angle and three from Benoit. This moment also got the fans to give a standing ovation, which said a lot about their respect for these two wrestlers.

Finally, Kurt Angle showed just how smart of a wrestler he was. Not only did he reverse out of Benoit’s Crippler Crossface by grabbing Benoit’s ankle while still, but he also pushed the rope with his free foot as Benoit reached for the rope while locked in Angle’s own Crossface.

This is a must-see for anyone that wants to learn how to wrestle and make the most out of so little. They use logic, technique and only a limited amount of moves in the match, yet it was enough to get a standing ovation from the crowd several times.