Survivor Series is a staple event of WWE. After several years of traditional 5-on-5 matches, often featuring Raw versus SmackDown for brand dominance, WWE shifted to using the WarGames format. Originating in WCW and gaining popularity in NXT under Triple H’s leadership, WarGames initially brought fresh excitement to the main roster. However, over time, many fans found these matches monotonous and lacking purpose. It’s now time for WWE to move away from the dual-ring cage concept and explore new ideas.
WarGames matches began as intense battles in WCW, featuring two rings enclosed by one large cage, creating thrilling spectacles—though some exceptions like the 1998 Warrior match were less well-received. When WCW folded in 2001, WarGames disappeared until Triple H revived it in NXT, where it fit perfectly. However, once introduced to the main WWE roster, the gimmick started losing its appeal. The recent matches have felt forced, with minimal violence, making the cage seem more decorative than functional. Compared to AEW’s Blood & Guts matches, WWE’s WarGames appears watered-down. WWE should consider shelving WarGames for a few years, using it only sparingly to preserve its impact.
Survivor Series originally launched in 1987 with matches pitting heroes (babyfaces) against villains (heels), often led by icons like Hulk Hogan. With the brand split in the 2000s, the event transitioned to Raw versus SmackDown showdowns, creating a platform for stars from separate brands to compete. However, as the brand split blurred with regular crossovers, the concept lost its excitement and became a predictable Red versus Blue showdown. If WarGames is to be retired, Survivor Series should reclaim its identity as a brand supremacy battle showcasing the best talents from Raw and SmackDown, provided WWE enforces a strict brand split again and raises the stakes beyond just team colors.
The current state of professional wrestling faces challenges, especially under recent WWE leadership changes. After an initially promising creative direction from Triple H, WWE under TKO has seen increasing criticism for overproduced shows, pricey tickets, and recycled storylines. The company relies heavily on surprise returns and heel turns instead of making matches genuinely matter. Survivor Series could reinvigorate fan interest by attaching meaningful rewards to victories—such as granting the winning team a coveted position in the Royal Rumble or the power to select title challengers. This would heighten drama and investment in the matches. WWE must innovate at Survivor Series next year, moving away from WarGames and low-stakes contests to make each match count. Fans crave significance in outcomes rather than mere shock moments, which have proven ineffective and divisive.
Fan Take: For WWE enthusiasts, this shift away from WarGames back to a more competitive, high-stakes Survivor Series could renew passion for the annual event and restore meaningful rivalries between brands. By elevating the importance of these matches, WWE has the potential to rekindle excitement and engagement in the sport, proving that story and stakes still matter in wrestling entertainment.
