WWE has never shied away from pushing creative boundaries when it comes to match types. Over the years, fans have witnessed a mix of high-octane bouts and downright strange stipulations. Some of these unique match types were designed to escalate rivalries, while others simply left audiences scratching their heads. Whether it was for entertainment, storyline progression, or pure spectacle, WWE has delivered some unforgettable — and often bizarre — match formats. These matches broke away from tradition and created moments that are still talked about today. Here’s a look at four of the most bizarre match stipulations to ever take place inside (and outside) a WWE ring.
1. The Kennel from Hell Match
The Kennel from Hell Match (image via Getty)At Unforgiven 1999, WWE presented what many consider one of the oddest and least successful concepts: the Kennel from Hell match. This bout was a combination of a traditional steel cage surrounded by a larger Hell in a Cell structure. The twist? Guard dogs were placed between the cages to prevent escape.
On paper, it was meant to create a vicious atmosphere, but the execution was far from intimidating. The dogs were visibly disinterested, even relieving themselves around the ring rather than attacking the wrestlers. Al Snow and Big Boss Man battled in a setting that was more awkward than brutal. This match has since gained legendary status for its sheer absurdity and is often cited when discussing WWE’s strangest creative choices.
2. The Punjabi Prison Match
First introduced at Great American Bash 2006, the Punjabi Prison Match was designed to suit The Great Khali’s imposing persona. The match featured two massive bamboo cages — one surrounding the ring and another larger structure outside of it. To win, a competitor had to escape both enclosures.
While the concept was visually unique, it presented major challenges. The bamboo made visibility difficult for fans and cameras alike, and the structures was awkward for the performers. Despite these issues, the match remains one of WWE’s most talked-about gimmick matches, having returned for a few high-profile rivalries. Its distinct look and complex rules make it stand out among WWE’s most unusual match stipulations.
3. The Inferno Match
The Inferno Match (image via Getty)When WWE wanted to crank up the danger factor, they introduced the Inferno Match, a bout where the ring is surrounded by flames. The objective was simple but terrifying — set your opponent on fire to win. First used in 1998 between The Undertaker and Kane, this match added real fire as a legitimate threat, making it one of WWE’s riskiest ideas.
Although the visual of flames shooting up with every move was impressive, safety precautions made it clear the fire was mostly for spectacle. Even so, watching superstars avoid the fire while executing high-impact moves brought a different kind of tension. The Inferno Match is rarely used due to its inherent danger, but its fiery presence is unforgettable in WWE history.
4. The Eye for an Eye Match
At The Horror Show at Extreme Rules 2020, WWE introduced the Eye for an Eye Match, where the goal was to extract your opponent’s eye. Rey Mysterio faced Seth Rollins in a gruesome contest that blurred the lines between storyline and spectacle.
The match’s dramatic nature pushed creative storytelling to its limits. WWE used cinematic effects to “show” Rey Mysterio losing his eye — though fans were quick to spot the fake eyeball used in the scene. While the match received mixed reactions, it stood out for how far WWE was willing to go to bring a rivalry to its peak. This match remains one of the most extreme and bizarre ideas ever attempted in a WWE ring, pushing the limits of what could be shown on a wrestling broadcast.
From flaming rings to bamboo cages and disinterested dogs, these matches show WWE’s willingness to experiment — for better or worse. Each of these stipulations carved a unique place in wrestling history, sparking debates and keeping fans talking long after the final bell.