WWE Matches That Started as One-on-One but Became Multi-Man

In WWE history, fans have witnessed countless one-on-one battles, but sometimes, what begins as a simple singles contest escalates into an all-out war involving multiple competitors. Whether due to interference, authority decisions, or storyline twists, these matches often steal the spotlight by turning into unpredictable brawls. Moments like these add excitement and keep audiences guessing, transforming a regular match into a spectacle with higher stakes. From championship bouts to personal rivalries, these matches prove that in WWE, anything can happen when egos collide and alliances crumble. Here are four memorable WWE matches that started as one-on-one contests but turned into unforgettable multi-man showdowns.

1. WrestleMania 30: Randy Orton vs. Batista Turns into Triple Threat

Initially set as a one-on-one clash for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, Randy Orton and Batista were supposed to settle their differences at WrestleMania 30. However, thanks to months of fan support for Daniel Bryan and his rebellious “Yes Movement,” the storyline took a dramatic turn. After Bryan defeated Triple H earlier in the night to earn a spot in the main event, the match transformed into a triple threat. This addition completely changed the dynamics of the contest. Against all odds, Daniel Bryan overcame both former champions, winning the title in one of the most celebrated victories in WrestleMania history. The shift from singles to triple threat added emotional weight and created one of WWE’s most iconic moments.

2. WrestleMania 37: Roman Reigns vs. Edge Becomes a Triple Threat with Daniel Bryan

Originally announced as a dream one-on-one showdown between Roman Reigns and Royal Rumble winner Edge, the Universal Championship match at WrestleMania 37 had fans buzzing. But with Daniel Bryan inserting himself into the title picture after feeling wronged in previous encounters, WWE officials added him to the bout, making it a triple threat. This addition raised the stakes significantly, as it pitted three of WWE’s top stars against one another. The match was a brutal and intense encounter, with Reigns ultimately stacking Edge and Bryan for a dominant victory. This was a prime example of how WWE can amplify a high-profile contest by adding more layers and participants to raise drama and unpredictability.

3. No Way Out 2006: Kurt Angle vs. Undertaker Turns into Triple Threat with Mark Henry (Planned for WrestleMania 22)

Although Kurt Angle versus The Undertaker for the World Heavyweight Championship at No Way Out 2006 remained a classic one-on-one encounter, there were plans leading up to WrestleMania 22 that could have seen this rivalry become a triple threat with Mark Henry involved. WWE creative considered expanding the feud into a multi-man match before eventually deciding on separate storylines. While the final match at No Way Out stayed one-on-one, its build and aftermath were surrounded by hints that the bout could evolve into a triple threat. Mark Henry’s interference shortly after No Way Out added fuel to the idea, and although it didn’t materialize at the time, it remains an interesting case where plans nearly shifted into multi-man territory.

4. Royal Rumble 2015: Brock Lesnar vs. John Cena Becomes Triple Threat with Seth Rollins

Originally, Brock Lesnar was set to defend his WWE World Heavyweight Championship against John Cena at Royal Rumble 2015. But thanks to then-Authority member Seth Rollins cashing in on his Money in the Bank contract narrative, the match turned into a triple threat. This decision added a fresh and dynamic element, making it one of the most action-packed championship matches in recent memory. Rollins’s high-flying offense mixed with Lesnar’s raw power and Cena’s relentless style created a match full of near-falls and intense sequences. Ultimately, Lesnar retained the title, but Rollins stole the spotlight with his standout performance, proving that adding a third competitor can sometimes steal the show from the main players.

These matches remind fans why WWE remains unpredictable and thrilling. What begins as a traditional contest can explode into something far greater, delivering unforgettable moments and leaving fans on the edge of their seats. Whether it’s an underdog rising to the occasion or an unexpected participant shifting the balance, these multi-man evolutions are part of what makes WWE storytelling so exciting.