Despite what the branding suggests, pro wrestling in 2025 doesn’t resonate with me at all. This is why I was eager to rewatch the Men’s War Games match from Survivor Series 2022. I felt similarly disconnected that year, yet this match reignited my passion for professional wrestling, and I will always treasure that period when wrestling seemed top-tier for about nine months. Like another writer at WINC, I was curious if this match would revive my love for wrestling, and if you’re curious about the outcome, just take a look at the word count on this slide.
One of the highlights of this match is how aware the performers are of the audience’s emotions. We’re in an age where promotions focus on “Feeling You See.” Although the Bloodline acted as heels, the crowd simply couldn’t boo Sami Zayn at this time, with his “honorary” status elevating the entire faction into fan favorites. This gave the babyfaces, Team Brawling Brutes, an edge, even though, traditionally, heels should dominate War Games. The match kicks off with Pete Dunne (still using the name “Butch” in pay-per-views) putting Jey Uso through a series of punishing submissions, with Jey’s struggle generating crowd support—a perfect strategy.
However, the key story revolves around the tension between Zayn and his longtime rival Kevin Owens, posing the question of betrayal by the end. Fans anticipated the Bloodline would turn on Sami, and WWE clearly understood this dynamic. Owens warned Sami about the potential betrayal, while Roman Reigns fueled the doubt about Zayn’s loyalty, creating a compelling narrative. The match explores Zayn’s allegiance and whether he will be accepted or rejected by the Bloodline. A pivotal moment occurs when Jimmy Uso attempts to escape the cage to assist Jey, but Roman intervenes, instead sending Sami to help Jey, underscoring the early tension between Sami’s intentions and the group’s trust in him.
This is why Zayn and Owens refrained from direct confrontation for most of the match. Throughout previous encounters, the Bloodline relentlessly targeted Owens, yet Zayn observed neutral ground, never aiding either side—this only heightened the Bloodline’s suspicions. When the War Games action commences, Owens successfully delivers a Stunner to Reigns. Yet again, Zayn avoids attacking Owens and instead disrupts the referee’s count. This leads to an intense exchange where both Owens and Jey accidentally collide with Zayn, breaking his neutrality.
Ultimately, one of the finest decisions in the standout storyline of the Bloodline was Zayn’s moment of betrayal, striking Owens with a low blow and then pinning Jey to secure victory in the historic Men’s War Games match. Here lies a narrative of a man making the painful choice to abandon an old friend for an emotionally manipulative new family. The bad guys prevail, and good-hearted individuals face defeat. In theory, the audience should be disheartened.
Instead, the crowd erupts with joy when Jey, who had initially doubted Sami, embraces him wholeheartedly, solidifying Sami’s place in the Bloodline. No one in the audience wanted to see betrayal—their desire for the “Honorary Ace” to continue was palpable, but WWE had other plans. This moment was monumental for fans and marked a significant turn for Zayn, who went on to produce some of the best work of his career in the ensuing months. Such moments, exclusive to professional wrestling, remind me why rewatching this now, even after 800 words, fills me with admiration for this wild and vibrant art form.
Written by Miles Schneiderman
</div>Fan Take: This match exemplifies the intricate storytelling that captivates wrestling fans, blending drama and emotions seamlessly. Its implications extend beyond entertainment, suggesting a potential shift in how narratives may unfold in the WWE, reinforcing the unpredictable nature that fans adore.
