In conclusion, 2014 was a significant year for the world of professional wrestling. The WWE continued to evolve and adapt, while independent promotions thrived and TNA struggled to stay afloat. The year saw the rise of new stars, like Daniel Bryan, Seth Rollins, and Roman Reigns, and marked a turning point in the careers of many wrestlers.
Seth Rollins betrayed Roman Reigns and Dean Ambrose.
It remains the most shocking result in professional wrestling history. While controversial, the decision effectively turned Brock Lesnar into the "Final Boss" of the promotion—an unstoppable force of nature that would define the title picture for the next two years. 2014 wrestling
For the WWE, 2014 was a year of transition. With the retirement of The Undertaker and the eventual departure of CM Punk, the company was in need of new stars to step up and carry the torch. And step up they did. The likes of Daniel Bryan, John Cena, and Randy Orton continued to shine, while new talent like Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins, and Roman Reigns began to make their mark.
The second half of 2014 was defined by the breakup of The Shield. In June, Seth Rollins famously turned on his brothers by hitting Roman Reigns in the back with a steel chair, aligning himself with Triple H and The Authority. This led to a fantastic summer program: Rollins as the duplicitous architect, Reigns as the silent powerhouse babyface, and Dean Ambrose as the unhinged lunatic chasing Rollins across the country (culminating in a bizarre but fun Lumberjack match at SummerSlam). In conclusion, 2014 was a significant year for
While the stories were compelling, the in-ring work of was world-class. Here are the five essential matches that defined the year:
Premiered in October 2014 on the El Rey Network. Seth Rollins betrayed Roman Reigns and Dean Ambrose
, ending his legendary 21-0 undefeated streak at WrestleMania [5, 32]. The "Yes!" Movement: Daniel Bryan