The year 2025 in WWE had its flaws, but like many years in its storied past, it included several unforgettable matches that left a lasting impression on fans. Throughout 2025, WWE’s top stars delivered standout moments in the ring, featuring major title bouts, technical showcases, and intense brawls.
TheSportster’s unique rating system evaluates all primary WWE Premium Live Events, as well as episodes of Monday Night RAW and Friday Night SmackDown, to identify the best matches of the year, with comparisons made to ratings from Cagematch.net and Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.
10. Lyra Valkyrie vs. Becky Lynch (Backlash 2025) – TheSportster rating: 8.5/10
This match stood out as a technical masterpiece with sharp offense, counters, submissions, and dramatic nearfalls. Valkyrie impressed with her confidence and villainous tactics, which enhanced the storytelling, despite some questionable referee moments. Valkyrie’s win marked a significant milestone in her WWE women’s division career.
– Meltzer: 4.25 stars | Cagematch.net: 7.91
9. John Cena vs. Cody Rhodes (SummerSlam 2025 Sunday) – TheSportster rating: 8.5/10
After a disappointing WrestleMania main event, Cena and Rhodes bounced back with a lively WWE Title match. Cena, revived as a fan favorite, displayed high energy and dynamic ring work. The match included exciting spots and crowd-pleasing moments, ending with Rhodes hitting multiple Cross Rhodes for the win.
– Meltzer: 5 stars | Cagematch.net: 8.64
8. Six Team TLC (SummerSlam 2025 Sunday) – TheSportster rating: 8.75/10
Featuring six teams contending for the title, this TLC match stood out for its fluid structure and pacing, avoiding chaos despite many participants. Filled with spectacular spots and embedded character moments, Wyatt Sixx triumphed in a thrilling contest.
– Meltzer: 4.75 stars | Cagematch.net: 8.61
7. Sami Zayn vs. Ilya Dragunov (SmackDown October 17) – TheSportster rating: 8.75/10
Dragunov’s return brought one of the year’s best matches, a raw and physical fight for the United States Championship. The intense battle culminated with Dragunov defeating Zayn to win the title, delivering electrifying moments without relying on a complex storyline.
– Meltzer: 4.5 stars | Cagematch.net: 9.15
6. Gunther vs. CM Punk (SummerSlam 2025 Saturday) – TheSportster rating: 8.75/10
Gunther showcased dominance in a slow, methodical match against the resilient underdog Punk. Wrestling a classic battle of tactics and endurance, Punk’s comeback culminated in two GTS strikes to capture the World Heavyweight Championship, setting up a major cash-in by Seth Rollins.
– Meltzer: 4.5 stars | Cagematch.net: 8.61
5. Street Profits vs. DIY vs. Motor City Machine Guns (SmackDown April 25) – TheSportster rating: 8.75/10
Three teams demonstrated why they deserved WrestleMania status in a chaotic yet thrilling Tables, Ladders & Chairs match. The crowd loved every moment, with all wrestlers shining as the Street Profits successfully defended their WWE Tag Team Titles.
– Meltzer: 5 stars | Cagematch.net: 9.32
4. Gunther vs. John Cena (Saturday Night Main Event December) – TheSportster rating: 9/10
One of the most controversial matches in WWE history, this bout told the story of Cena’s heroic final effort and eventual defeat. Despite technical imperfections, the match excelled with storytelling, psychological depth, and an emotional crowd, culminating in Cena’s submission.
– Meltzer: 4.5 stars | Cagematch.net: 8.25
3. Roman Reigns vs. CM Punk vs. Seth Rollins (WrestleMania 41 Saturday) – TheSportster rating: 9/10
This WrestleMania main event felt like a heavyweight showdown with strong storytelling and character psychology. While not a technical clinic, the match’s pivotal moments were expertly built, ending with Paul Heyman outsmarting Reigns and Punk to secure Rollins’ victory.
– Meltzer: 4.75 stars | Cagematch.net: 8.81
2. Rhea Ripley vs. Iyo Sky vs. Naomi (Evolution 2025) – TheSportster rating: 9/10
The Evolution main event delivered fast-paced action and high-flying sequences mixed with powerful moves and crowd brawling. The match’s thrilling climax saw Naomi cash in Money in the Bank and claim the title in a dramatic finish.
– Meltzer: 4.75 stars | Cagematch.net: 9.33
1. Iyo Sky vs. Rhea Ripley vs. Bianca Belair (WrestleMania 41 Sunday) – TheSportster rating: 9.25/10
The top match of 2025 was a spectacular triple threat for the women’s world title, featuring intense rivalry and seamless flow. The fast, multi-person action highlighted each competitor’s strengths, culminating in Sky’s stunning moonsault for the win.
– Meltzer: 5 stars | Cagematch.net: 9.28
Fan Take: These thrilling matches of 2025 highlight WWE’s ability to blend athleticism, storytelling, and crowd engagement, keeping fans invested in the product. They also set the stage for future rivalries and champions, demonstrating why WWE remains a compelling force in sports entertainment.
