WWE has provided countless memorable moments throughout its history, but not every match goes according to plan. Sometimes, circumstances force changes at the last minute, leading to match cancellations or unexpected alterations. These shifts can occur due to a range of reasons, such as injuries, scheduling conflicts, or even creative decisions. Despite the best efforts to create the most events, last-minute changes can sometimes result in the most memorable moments. This explores some of the most notable WWE matches that were canceled or altered just before the bell rang.
1. Seth Rollins vs. Bray Wyatt – WrestleMania 36
Seth Rollins vs. Bray Wyatt (Image via Getty)A planned match between Seth Rollins and Bray Wyatt at WrestleMania 36 was one of the major cancellations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rollins and Wyatt had built an intense rivalry leading up to the event, but WWE’s decision to hold WrestleMania behind closed doors caused significant changes to the card. Although fans expected the match to take place, WWE officials pulled the plug on the contest, choosing to feature other superstars on the show. Instead of this clash, Rollins engaged in a feud with Kevin Owens, while Wyatt’s storyline shifted, taking the rivalry in a different direction.
2. John Cena vs. The Undertaker – WrestleMania 34
One of the most anticipated matches that didn’t happen was John Cena versus The Undertaker at WrestleMania 34. Fans were clamoring for this bout for months, expecting a legendary showdown between the two icons. However, as the event approached, rumors began circulating that the match would not happen. Instead of a full-fledged match, Cena’s involvement took a different form. He sat in the audience, taunting Taker until the deadman emerged for a short but impactful match. While it wasn’t the epic encounter everyone hoped for, this decision left them with a lasting memory of an altered storyline.
3. Roman Reigns vs. Brock Lesnar – SummerSlam 2020
Roman Reigns vs. Brock Lesnar (Image via Getty)Originally, Roman Reigns was scheduled to face Brock Lesnar in a highly anticipated SummerSlam match in 2020. The build-up to this fight had fans on the edge of their seats, but the COVID-19 pandemic forced WWE to rework their plans. Roman Reigns, who had taken time off to protect his health during the pandemic, wasn’t cleared to return in time for the match. Instead, WWE chose to feature a different storyline, shifting the focus to Drew McIntyre and Randy Orton for the WWE Championship. This change left fans disappointed, but Reigns eventually returned to action at a later date, kicking off his dominant run as Universal Champion.
4. The Shield vs. The Wyatt Family – TLC 2013
A highly anticipated match between The Shield and The Wyatt Family was scrapped at the last minute during the TLC 2013 event. The match, initially planned as a tag-team affair, was changed due to unforeseen circumstances, including scheduling conflicts and a tight time slot. Instead of the originally booked match, WWE adjusted the storyline to feature a different match card, although fans had already expected a violent, high-stakes brawl between the two factions. Although The Shield and The Wyatt Family did face off in subsequent events, the last-minute cancellation left fans wondering what could have been.
While WWE has perfected the art of creating thrilling storylines, these instances prove that even the most carefully planned matches can be altered, canceled, or shifted unexpectedly. Whether it’s due to health concerns, logistical challenges, or changes in creative direction, fans have seen how unpredictability can shape the wrestling world. These examples show that in the WWE, nothing is guaranteed — even the most promising matchups can take a completely different path, and fans must always be ready for the unexpected.