The Ultimate Cage Escape: WWE's Most Unforgettable Moments
Get ready for a thrilling journey through the world of WWE's cage matches, where the line between victory and defeat is thin, and the door to triumph is always within reach. From iconic climbs to unexpected escapes, these are the moments that have left fans on the edge of their seats.
The Door of Destiny
In the realm of WWE, a cage match isn't just about climbing over the top; it's about the dramatic exit through the door. This simple act has produced some of the most memorable moments in wrestling history, often leaving fans in awe and controversy.
One such instance occurred when Jesse Ventura expressed outrage at Damian Priest's victory over Drew McIntyre on Saturday Night's Main Event. Ventura's argument? Priest simply walked out the door, a method he deemed too easy and even cowardly. But is there more to this escape than meets the eye?
Bye, Bye Bruno
In a brutal encounter in 1976, Stan Hansen's errant body slam left Bruno Sammartino with a legitimate neck injury. Sammartino, the reigning champion, sought revenge at Madison Square Garden, where he embarrassed Hansen and showcased his dominance. During Hansen's escape attempt, Sammartino's cunning tactics unfolded. He yanked Hansen by his trunks, exposing his backside to the cheering crowd, stomped his groin, and then casually walked out the door, leaving Hansen in disarray.
Sammartino's dominance continued against Larry Zbyszko four years later at Shea Stadium. He battered his former pupil and then, in a dramatic finish, walked out the cage door, securing his victory and leaving Zbyszko in his wake.
Roman Retains
Roman Reigns, the Undisputed Universal Champion, faced a formidable challenger in Kevin Owens during the pandemic. Their steel cage match on SmackDown in December 2020 was a battle of endurance. Owens capitalized on a missed spear, delivering a Stunner and nearly ending Reigns' historic reign. But Jey Uso's timely intervention changed the tide. He handcuffed Owens to the chain-link fence, trapping him. Despite the odds, Owens fought valiantly, managing to exit the cage through the door, inches above the floor.
Reigns' triumph was bittersweet, as Owens' struggle drew a sly smile. The champion's mockery of Owens added fuel to the fire, and the final moments showcased Reigns' ruthless determination. The match's dramatic conclusion left fans with a lasting impression.
The Lucky Escape
Sometimes, success in the cage isn't about guts; it's about luck. On October 17, 1983, Jimmy Snuka and Don Muraco's rivalry reached its peak at Madison Square Garden. Snuka, in control, delivered a devastating headbutt and a flying headbutt, sending Muraco over the ropes. As Muraco tumbled towards the cage door, the referee opened it, and Muraco's momentum carried him out of the ring, securing a lucky victory.
Snuka's fury fueled his pursuit of Muraco, leading to a legendary leap from the top of the cage, showcasing his awe-inspiring abilities.
Cody and Drew's Hellish Encounter
As Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre prepare for the brutal Three Stages of Hell match, the stage is set for a potential cage escape that could etch their names in WWE history. Rhodes' recent victory over McIntyre in a steel cage match at a live event in Worcester, Massachusetts, demonstrated the classic escape route: climbing over the top.
The upcoming match on SmackDown may see Rhodes repeat this feat, but with McIntyre's potential interference, the outcome is uncertain. The match's stakes are high, and WWE might opt for a dramatic escape finish, allowing the loser to maintain their dignity in defeat.
The Three Stages of Hell match promises to be an epic clash, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this former friends' saga.
