WWE Matches That Were Stopped Due to Blood Loss

Professional wrestling often walks a fine line between performance and reality, but there are moments when things get so intense that officials are forced to step in. WWE, known for its high-octane action and dramatic storytelling, has sometimes had to stop matches due to excessive blood loss — putting performer safety above spectacle. While blood has historically been a part of wrestling’s raw emotion, modern regulations under the PG era make these moments rare and impactful. These matches not only disrupted storylines but also left fans and wrestlers stunned at how quickly things turned dangerous. Let’s explore some of the most notable WWE matches that were halted because of serious bleeding, reminding us of the unpredictable nature of this physically demanding sport.

1. Eddie Guerrero vs. JBL — Judgment Day 2004

One of the most infamous matches in WWE history, Eddie Guerrero’s clash with JBL at Judgment Day 2004, is remembered for the brutal amount of blood lost. A steel chair shot from JBL caused a massive gash on Guerrero’s forehead, leading to heavy bleeding that soaked the ring canvas. Despite continuing for several minutes after the injury, the match became so graphic that it was on the verge of being stopped. Though the referee allowed it to finish — with Guerrero retaining via disqualification — reports later revealed Eddie lost so much blood that he required immediate medical attention and several stitches backstage. This bout remains a defining moment when the physical risks of wrestling were impossible to ignore.

2. Becky Lynch vs. Bianca Belair — Raw (November 2021)

During a high-profile match on Monday Night Raw, Becky Lynch faced Bianca Belair in what was supposed to be another showcase of two top-tier athletes. However, midway through the match, Becky suffered a severe cut above her eye after a stiff strike from Bianca. Blood quickly poured down her face, alarming both officials and the audience. Medical staff had to intervene, and though Becky wanted to push through, the match was stopped prematurely to prevent further injury. This incident not only highlighted the intensity of women’s wrestling but also WWE’s modern approach to protecting its talent when real injuries occur during high-profile bouts.

3. Finn Bálor vs. Edge — Hell in a Cell, WrestleMania 39

At WrestleMania 39, Finn Bálor and Edge stepped inside Hell in a Cell for a highly anticipated grudge match. What fans didn’t expect was the sudden medical stoppage due to a deep gash on Bálor’s head. After Edge threw a ladder at Finn, the metal corner caught him flush, leading to a severe cut that bled profusely. WWE had to pause the action so medical personnel could treat Bálor right there in the ring — a rare sight at such a marquee event. Though the match resumed after treatment, the interruption made clear that even at the biggest show of the year, safety protocols are non-negotiable when bleeding becomes life-threatening.

4. Roman Reigns vs. Samoa Joe — Backlash 2018

Roman Reigns and Samoa Joe squared off at Backlash 2018 in a hard-hitting main event that had fans expecting a war. However, the match took an unexpected turn when Roman began bleeding from the mouth after a particularly rough sequence. While it wasn’t clear exactly when the injury occurred, the sight of Roman spitting blood prompted concern from officials and viewers alike. Though WWE didn’t stop the match outright, medical personnel closely monitored Reigns, and the pacing visibly slowed to ensure he wasn’t in serious danger. The fact that the match was nearly stopped underscores how even top stars aren’t immune to real-life consequences of in-ring violence.

These WWE matches that stopped or nearly stopped due to blood loss are stark reminders that wrestling, while scripted in outcome, carries very real risks. Moments like these show that despite the drive to entertain, the safety of performers will always be a top priority when things go too far.