WWE is known for its dramatic storytelling, larger-than-life characters, and moments that keep fans talking for years. Few moments are as memorable as a well-executed heel turn — especially when it happens on a grand stage like a pay-per-view (PPV). A superstar switching allegiances from beloved hero to villain often flips entire storylines upside down and creates unforgettable rivalries. These moments can ignite the WWE Universe, giving fans something to cheer or boo for months. Whether it’s a betrayal of a trusted partner or a sudden act of aggression, these turns are pivotal moments in WWE history. Below are some of the most famous PPVs that featured surprise heel turns, forever altering careers and storylines.
1. WrestleMania X-Seven: Stone Cold Steve Austin Aligns with Mr. McMahon
Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. Vince McMahon (Image via Getty)WrestleMania X-Seven is often called one of the greatest WWE events ever, but what made it stand out was Stone Cold Steve Austin’s unexpected heel turn. During the main event against The Rock for the WWF Championship, Austin did something nobody saw coming — he shook hands with long-time nemesis Mr. McMahon. After battling The Rock in a brutal No Disqualification match, Austin used a steel chair repeatedly on The Rock, with McMahon assisting. The moment left fans at the Houston Astrodome stunned as Austin, the symbol of rebellion, joined forces with his biggest rival. This heel turn added a new layer to Austin’s character, though it was met with mixed reactions because of his immense popularity as a face.
2. SummerSlam 2005: Hulk Hogan vs. Shawn Michaels — Michaels Turns Heel
SummerSlam 2005 featured a dream match between two of WWE’s biggest icons: Hulk Hogan and Shawn Michaels. In the weeks leading up to the match, Michaels, known for his charisma and athleticism, suddenly turned on Hogan during an episode of Raw, delivering Sweet Chin Music to the legend. This heel turn was unexpected because Michaels had been a face for quite some time. The turn was amplified by Michaels’s over-the-top antics and mocking promos that built incredible tension before their clash. At SummerSlam, despite playing the heel role to perfection, Michaels would ultimately lose to Hogan. His character work during this rivalry, however, reminded fans of just how good he was as a villain when the moment called for it.
3. Survivor Series 1998: The Rock Joins The Corporation
The Rock Joins The Corporation (Image via Getty)Survivor Series 1998 hosted the “Deadly Game” tournament to crown a new WWF Champion. The Rock, seen as the people’s choice throughout the night, made it to the final round against Mankind. Fans were solidly behind The Rock, expecting a heroic win. But in a twist during the finals, The Rock made a deal with Vince McMahon and The Corporation, betraying the fans and Mankind to secure the title. This event marked the rise of The Corporate Champion, turning The Rock into one of the most charismatic and hated heels in WWE. The swerve added depth to his character and set the stage for some of the most entertaining promos and rivalries of that era.
4. Payback 2013: Paul Heyman Turns on CM Punk
CM Punk and Paul Heyman were one of the most dynamic alliances in modern WWE, but all good things must end. At Payback 2013, Punk returned after a hiatus and faced Chris Jericho. While Punk won that match, the tension with Heyman had been brewing. Things came to a head at Money in the Bank 2013, but it was at Payback where the seeds of betrayal were clearly sown. The official turn happened soon after when Heyman cost Punk his match against Brock Lesnar, but Payback was the turning point when fans first saw cracks in their partnership. Heyman’s betrayal led to an intense feud between Punk and Lesnar, driven by personal betrayal and fueled by Heyman’s expert mic work.
These WWE PPVs remind fans why they love wrestling — for its unpredictable twists and evolving characters. Heel turns, especially when executed at major events, are moments that create new narratives, rivalries, and unforgettable television. Whether it was a legend turning against the fans or a trusted ally stabbing a friend in the back, each of these moments left an imprint that WWE audiences still talk about today.