WWE Pay-Per-View (PPV) events are often defined by their high-octane action, unforgettable moments, and larger-than-life personalities. But sometimes, the presence of a special referee changes everything. A special referee can turn a match into a dramatic rollercoaster, with their unique role injecting tension, chaos, or even surprise. These moments are pivotal to the storyline, as special referees can either favor one competitor, create a controversial finish, or even play a surprising role in the outcome. This takes a look at some of the most iconic WWE PPV matches featuring special referees. These bouts will go down in history, not just for the wrestling action but because of the incredible twists brought by the special guest officiating.
1. Shawn Michaels as Special Referee: The Undertaker vs. Triple H – WrestleMania 28
Triple H vs. The Undertaker (Image via Getty)At WrestleMania 28, two of WWE’s most iconic figures, The Undertaker and Triple H, faced off in a Hell in a Cell match. What made this match even more thrilling was the presence of Shawn Michaels as the special referee. The match was a part of The Undertaker’s undefeated streak at WrestleMania, which was on the line. With Michaels involved, the tension was through the roof, as he was an integral part of both men’s careers.
Shawn Michaels, who had a storied history with both men, added an emotional element to the match. The challenge for Michaels was to maintain neutrality while still having personal stakes in the outcome. His friendship with both competitors raised the stakes, making it clear that any decision he made could lead to a backlash. His role as a referee amplified the drama, especially during key moments of the match when it seemed like he might be forced to make a controversial call.
The match itself was a brutal, back-and-forth contest, and Michaels was put in a difficult position when both men pushed him to make calls that could decide the winner. Michaels’ hesitation and conflict added to the match’s drama. Ultimately, The Undertaker’s streak continued, but Michaels’ involvement made this match one of the most memorable in WrestleMania history.
2. Mike Tyson as Special Enforcer: Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. Shawn Michaels – WrestleMania 14
Mike Tyson (Image via Getty)WrestleMania 14 featured one of the most iconic moments in WWE history when “Stone Cold” Steve Austin faced Shawn Michaels for the WWE Championship. But the match was made even more exciting by the involvement of boxing legend Mike Tyson as the special enforcer. Tyson’s presence created a massive buzz, as his unpredictable nature brought an element of danger to the match.
Tyson’s role was to serve as the enforcer, meaning he was there to make sure the match remained fair and to intervene in case of any outside interference. His involvement instantly added credibility to the match, as fans knew he had no love for either wrestler and could be a wildcard. The tension rose when Tyson appeared to have a soft spot for Austin, which led to one of the most jaw-dropping moments of the match. Tyson, in a twist, turned on Shawn Michaels and counted the pinfall in favor of Austin, crowning him as the new WWE Champion.
This match is widely regarded as one of the most significant in WWE history, as it marked the beginning of the “Stone Cold” era and the rise of the Attitude Era. Tyson’s role as the special enforcer was crucial, and his unexpected actions helped make this match a turning point for WWE.
3. Earl Hebner as Special Referee: Bret Hart vs. Shawn Michaels – Survivor Series 1997
Bret Hart vs. Shawn Michaels (Image via Getty)The Montreal Screwjob at Survivor Series 1997 is perhaps the most controversial moment in WWE history, and it all revolved around the special referee, Earl Hebner. The match itself between Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels for the WWE Championship was already filled with tension. However, what happened during the match would go down in infamy due to the role of the special referee.
Bret Hart, who was set to leave WWE for WCW, was unwilling to drop the WWE Championship to Shawn Michaels in his home country of Canada. Vince McMahon, worried about the outcome and how it would be handled, concocted a plan to have Hebner call for the bell while Michaels had Hart in a sharpshooter, even though Hart had not submitted. The moment that Hebner rang the bell became the most controversial finish in wrestling history.
The betrayal of Bret Hart was, and the aftermath led to a real-life fallout that reverberated throughout WWE for years. Earl Hebner’s role as the referee in the Montreal Screwjob has made this match legendary, as it played a pivotal part in shaping the trajectory of WWE during the late 1990s. The incident is still discussed and analyzed today, cementing its place as one of the most iconic WWE moments ever.
4. The Rock vs. John Cena – WrestleMania 28
The Rock vs. John Cena (Image via Getty)When The Rock faced John Cena at WrestleMania 28, it wasn’t just a dream match between two of WWE’s biggest superstars—it was a clash of eras. Adding to the spectacle, WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair was chosen as the special referee for this highly anticipated encounter. Flair’s presence was significant, as his legendary status in the industry gave the match an extra layer of importance.
As a referee, Flair was tasked with maintaining control of what was sure to be an intense match between two powerful personalities. Flair, known for his flamboyant nature and rich history in the business, added a unique flavor to the match. The buildup to this match had fans wondering if Flair, a former champion and mentor to many wrestlers, would show any favoritism. Would he favor The Rock, or would he side with the younger Cena?
The match itself was an epic contest, with both competitors pulling out all the stops to claim victory. Flair’s role as the referee was tested on multiple occasions, especially when it came to calls that could determine the winner. Despite the tension, Flair remained impartial, making the final moments of the match even more electrifying. The Rock ultimately defeated Cena, but the presence of Ric Flair added another unforgettable layer to the experience, making this match one of the most iconic of its time.
Final Thoughts
Special referees have added drama, chaos, and excitement to some of WWE’s most memorable PPV matches. From Mike Tyson’s turn to Earl Hebner’s controversial call, these special guest referees have been central to the storytelling that makes WWE so unique. Their involvement has not only enhanced the matches themselves but also created moments that will be talked about for generations to come. Whether they brought fairness, betrayal, or sheer unpredictability, these special referees have cemented their place in WWE history.