WWE has given fans countless moments of jaw-dropping action and drama, but there are certain instances that stand out because they seem to defy the odds. One of the most electrifying occurrences in pro wrestling is the kickout after a devastating finisher. The moment when a competitor kicks out of a move that is traditionally a match-ender is something every WWE fan remembers. Whether it’s a championship match, a rivalry feud, or a high-stakes showdown, these moments keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Here are some of the most remarkable kickouts in WWE history, where a wrestler fought through incredible odds, and the fans were left in awe.
1. Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker – WrestleMania 25
Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker (Image via Getty)At WrestleMania 25, Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker created one of the greatest matches in WWE history. The moment that fans still talk about is when Michaels was kicked out of The Undertaker’s Tombstone Piledriver. After both superstars had given everything they had, Taker hit his signature move, and the audience was sure the match was over. However, Michaels surprised everyone by powering out of the pinfall, making it one of the most unforgettable moments on the Grandest Stage of Them All.
This kickout wasn’t just about survival; it was about the resilience of both competitors and their desire to win at the highest level. It helped solidify their legendary status in WWE.
2. Brock Lesnar vs. The Rock – SummerSlam 2002
At SummerSlam 2002, Brock Lesnar, the rising star, took on The Rock for the WWE Undisputed Championship. Lesnar dominated most of the match, but when The Rock hit his Rock Bottom finisher, fans thought it was over. But Brock, showing his incredible strength and determination, kicked out just before the three-count. The sheer physicality of Lesnar’s kickout left the crowd in disbelief.
This kickout wasn’t just surprising because of the move; it was the moment that officially established Lesnar as the next big thing in WWE. The strength to overcome The Rock’s finishing move signified Lesnar’s dominance and set the stage for his incredible career.
3. John Cena vs. Shawn Michaels – WrestleMania 23
John Cena vs. Shawn Michaels (Image via Getty)John Cena and Shawn Michaels put on a thrilling match at WrestleMania 23 for the WWE Championship. Toward the end of the match, Michaels hit his famous Sweet Chin Music, a devastating move that often guarantees a win. Cena was down, and it seemed certain that Michaels would claim the title. But out of nowhere, Cena kicked out at the last second, showing incredible resilience and heart.
This moment was a defining moment in Cena’s career, proving that he could hang with one of the best in the business. The kickout was a testament to Cena’s will to fight and his ability to endure even the most dangerous of moves.
4. Daniel Bryan vs. Triple H – WrestleMania 30
At WrestleMania 30, Daniel Bryan faced Triple H in a match that would determine his place in the main event later that evening. Towards the end, Triple H nailed Bryan with a Pedigree, which is usually a match-finishing move. As the referee counted, the crowd was sure that Bryan’s journey would come to a tragic end. But in an incredible display of heart and resilience, Bryan kicked out of the Pedigree, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
This kickout was one of the most emotional moments in recent WWE history. It symbolized Bryan’s struggle to earn respect in WWE and his determination to overcome every obstacle in his path. Fans cheered wildly as they saw Bryan fight through the odds, which made his eventual victory at the end of the night even more rewarding.
The kickouts after finishing moves in WWE are a testament to the heart and resilience of the athletes who perform in the ring. These moments remind us why we love professional wrestling – the unpredictable nature of every match. Whether it’s a championship on the line or a bitter rivalry coming to a head, these devastating finisher kickouts will forever remain etched in WWE history. Each of these instances elevated the superstars involved, showcasing their incredible athleticism and mental toughness to survive when no one thought they could.