WWE has a tradition of celebrating July 4th by holding special live shows or taping episodes in advance to honor America’s independence. These events, while sometimes outside the main storylines, consistently deliver exciting and action-packed wrestling matches.
It’s fascinating to revisit WWE shows from past Independence Days and rank the top matches from this date. Over the years, WWE has aired Monday Night Raw, Friday Night SmackDown, ECW on SyFy, and even a special “Beast in the East” event on July 4th, providing a wide variety of memorable bouts.
One notable match was the tag team showdown on WWE Raw, July 4, 2005, where Shawn Michaels and Hulk Hogan defeated Carlito and Kurt Angle in a 12-minute and 34-second contest. This match is infamous as it featured Michaels turning heel by delivering his Sweet Chin Music alongside Hogan, setting up an even bigger match at SummerSlam. Given the star power, the audience was highly engaged. Although the action was straightforward, especially considering Hogan’s age, he delivered his signature moves while others contributed with impressive lifts and fast-paced sequences, resulting in a well-structured and exciting tag team match.
On WWE SmackDown, July 4, 2000, Kurt Angle defeated Chris Jericho in a fast, technical bout lasting just over 5 minutes. Despite being taped and aired later, the match was intense and featured some interference by Stephanie McMahon, which added drama to the solid in-ring performance.
At WWE Raw, July 4, 2022, a lively six-man tag team match saw Bobby Lashley and The Street Profits triumph over Alpha Academy and Theory in a 10-minute match full of dynamic action. Gable stood out with world-class sequences, while Lashley and The Street Profits brought energy and intensity, making for an enjoyable contest.
Seth Rollins faced Dolph Ziggler in a singles match on WWE Raw, July 4, 2016, where Rollins, playing the heel, defeated the face Ziggler in an 11-minute and 15-second bout. While not their best, the match added quality to the card due to the wrestlers’ chemistry.
John Morrison and Jeff Hardy clashed on WWE SmackDown, July 4, 2008, in a 12-minute and 50-second match that showcased their smooth and fluid styles. Hardy secured the win, building momentum towards his WWE Championship pursuits.
The WWE Beast in the East event on July 4, 2015, featured a thrilling match where Chris Jericho defeated Neville in a 16-minute technical and high-flying encounter. Despite lacking a storyline build, the match was entertaining, with both showing great strength.
In a heated feud on WWE Raw, July 4, 2022, Becky Lynch defeated Asuka in an intense 11-minute and 40-second bout marked by personal hostility and fierce competition. This match kept the crowd engaged with its fast pace, physicality, and emotional energy.
Finally, the top Independence Day match arguably took place at the WWE Beast in the East, July 4, 2015, where Finn Balor defeated Kevin Owens for the NXT Championship in a nearly 20-minute high-stakes match. Balor’s dynamic Demon Persona and Owens’ controlled aggression created a captivating showdown that the crowd loved.
Fan Take: These July 4th WWE matches are more than just celebrations; they highlight some of the most compelling and intense wrestling moments. For WWE fans, these bouts offer memorable showcases of talent and storytelling that enhance the sport’s legacy and keep audiences eagerly anticipating future Independence Day events.
