The history of WWE and the professional wrestling landscape was created by memorable, shocking, and impactful moments. These moments have shifted the trajectory of the wrestling world in the years that followed. From some of the biggest superstars going rogue to others being screwed in real-life, these are the five biggest game changing moments in WWE and wrestling history.
5. The Rock becomes ‘The Final Boss’
The Rock returned to WWE and took Cody Rhodes’ spot to have his dream match against his megastar cousin, Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40. However, the huge fan backlash to the decision led to WWE switching up their plans and letting Rhodes have the opportunity to ‘Finish The Story.’
But this led to The Rock turning heel and debuting a new persona ‘The Final Boss’ taking many characteristics from his Hollywood Rock gimmick and position as TKO Board member. The persona has become his current WWE identity and was a game-changing moment for WWE in 2024.
4. Steve Austin aligns with Vince McMahon
Stone Cold Steve Austin and Vince McMahon were considered to be one of the most heated rivals in WWE history. After years of warring, the world was shocked in the main event of WrestleMania 17. Austin took the aid of his rival, Mr. McMahon and beat down his other iconic rival and opponent, The Rock, to win the WWE Championship. The ending moment of the match saw Austin and McMahon shaking hands and created one of the most unlikely visuals in WWE history.
3. John Cena turns heel
The WWE Universe witnessed something that they never thought they would see at the 2025 WWE Elimination Chamber PLE. Cody Rhodes met John Cena in the ring right after he won the Men’s Elimination Chamber to earn the opportunity to face him at WrestleMania 41.
But they were interrupted by the arrival of The Rock and Travis Scott. After Cody rejected his offer to give up his soul and be his champion, “The Final Boss” gave the signal and John Cena hit Cody with a low-blow. Turning heel for the first time in two decades.
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2. Montreal Screwjob
In 1997, Bret ‘The Hitman’ Hart was set to leave WWE to join rival promotion, WCW. He was announced to wrestle his last match as WWE Champion in his home country of Canada against his heated rival, Shawn Michaels. However, Hart refused to drop the title to him in Montreal. This led to former WWE Chairman Vince McMahon screwing Hart out of the title live on television.
As Shawn Michaels had Bret Hart in the sharpshooter, McMahon called for the bell, despite Hart not tapping. This famously came to be known as ‘The Montreal Screwjob’ and is one of the most important nights in the history of the business.
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1. Hulk Hogan joins the nWo
Hulk Hogan is credited for being one of the biggest megastars in professional wrestling history. He was beloved by children and millions more worldwide. Hogan’s red and yellow colors, captivating persona, and larger-than-life gimmick made him a Real American hero. However, at WCW Bash at the Beach 1996, he shocked the world by abandoning his American colors and siding with the Outsiders, Scott Hall and Kevin Nash. The trio formed the notorious nWo faction. That night marked a huge shift in the world of professional wrestling and the true beginning of the Monday Night Wars.
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