Top 12 Ranked WrestleMania Pay-Per-Views in WWE History

WWE WrestleMania stands as the pinnacle event in the realm of professional wrestling. Since its inaugural broadcast in 1985 on closed-circuit television, it revolutionized the landscape by marrying celebrity culture with wrestling like never before. While it may not have been the very first major wrestling event—having debuted 18 months after NWA’s Starrcade—it undeniably reshaped global perceptions of wrestling entertainment.

Throughout its extensive history, WrestleMania has delivered unforgettable moments and spectacular shows. While certain editions may shine brighter than others, many classic WrestleMania events continue to resonate with fans. In this article, we will explore the greatest WrestleMania pay-per-views (PPVs) ever to grace the squared circle.

As of March 31, 2025, by Mark Sammut: The anticipation for WrestleMania 41 is building as it approaches its dates on April 19 and 20, 2025. Although the promotional hype appears less vigorous compared to the previous year’s buildup, the lineup is impressively shaping up. Notable storylines include a heel turn for John Cena as he prepares to face Cody Rhodes, while Randy Orton and Kevin Owens look to conclude their bitter rivalry. Headlining the card, CM Punk is set for a thrilling showdown against Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins, and fans are eager to see Iyo Sky, Bianca Belair, and Rhea Ripley engage in a highly anticipated triple-threat match.

Will WrestleMania 41 earn its place among the most memorable WrestleManias in history? Only time will tell.

12 WrestleMania 18

Cagematch Score: 6.63

• Date: March 17, 2002
• Location: SkyDome in Toronto, Ontario

Pivotal in defining a one-match show, WrestleMania 18 is primarily remembered for the electrifying showdown between The Rock and Hulk Hogan, which garnered one of the most passionate crowd responses ever witnessed. Although the match adhered to straightforward wrestling fundamentals, the fans’ fervent engagement made it a timeless spectacle. Surprisingly, amidst a roster filled with talent, WWE missed the opportunity to showcase a stronger card, punctuated by numerous lackluster bouts. Thus, while this WrestleMania may not rank among WWE’s elite, it features a match renowned for its crowd intensity and cultural footprint.

11 WrestleMania 26

Cagematch Score: 7.23

• Date: March 28, 2010
• Location: University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona

In a highly anticipated rematch, Shawn Michaels faced The Undertaker in a career-threatening clash, building upon their previous year’s masterpiece. This match, alongside a riveting World Championship contest between Chris Jericho and Edge, formed the backbone of a memorable WrestleMania. Additionally, John Cena’s face-off against Batista showcased two of WWE’s breakout stars from 2005, creating an electrifying environment. Although Bret Hart’s return fell flat in execution, the nostalgia left fans with cherished memories.

10 WrestleMania 28

Cagematch Score: 7.28

• Date: April 1, 2012
• Location: Sun Life Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida

The lengthy build-up that began at the previous year’s event culminated in an iconic showdown between John Cena and The Rock in the main event of WrestleMania 28. Although the match itself may not have been the highlight of the night, the year-long storyline warranted its prime placement. Additionally, The Undertaker faced off against Triple H for the second consecutive year, contributing to the event’s allure. CM Punk’s bout against Chris Jericho for the WWE title emerged as a standout match, though overshadowed by the main event glamour. The night’s initial moments were marred by Sheamus’ swift victory over Daniel Bryan, a result that significantly boosted the latter’s career trajectory.

9 WrestleMania 10

Cagematch Score: 7.79

• Date: March 20, 1994
• Location: Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York

Despite featuring only two closely contested matches, WrestleMania 10 is renowned for its memorable encounters that justify revisit. The iconic ladder match for the Intercontinental Championship between Shawn Michaels and Razor Ramon delivered a historical performance, while the opening bout showcased Bret and Owen Hart in an unforgettable sibling rivalry, perfectly executed on the grand stage of Madison Square Garden. Although Yokozuna’s encounters with Lex Luger and Bret Hart were regarded as underwhelming, the build-up to the championship matches elevated the overall experience.

8 WrestleMania 31

Cagematch Score: 8.36

• Date: March 29, 2015
• Location: Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California

WrestleMania 31 generated significant buzz, particularly regarding Sting’s debut at the prestigious event. While he fell to Triple H, the match was skillfully executed, albeit muddled by excessive focus on WCW history. Fans expected a different outcome during the main event featuring Brock Lesnar and Roman Reigns, prompting WWE to pivot by allowing Seth Rollins to execute a timely Money in the Bank cash-in for the championship—an iconic moment that resonates to this day. Memorable highlights include Daniel Bryan’s victory in the Intercontinental ladder match and Rollins’ exceptional RKO finish against Orton.

7 WrestleMania 21

Cagematch Score: 8.66

• Date: April 3, 2005
• Location: Staples Center in Los Angeles, California

WrestleMania 21 is often seen as a mixed bag, where the highlight matches far outweigh the disappointments. This event marked the rise of John Cena and Batista as the WWE’s primary superstars for the next decade, each claiming their championship. The show opened with a classic bout between Rey Mysterio and Eddie Guerrero, and featured a wrestling exhibition between Kurt Angle and Shawn Michaels—two matches that stole the spotlight. The Undertaker’s encounter with Randy Orton also added to the event’s overall appeal, as it highlighted ‘Taker’s undefeated streak for the first time in a genuine narrative arc.

6 WrestleMania 39

Cagematch Score: 8.75 (Night 1), 6.75 (Night 2)

• Date: April 1 & 2, 2023
• Location: SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California

This WrestleMania showcased the true depth of the Bloodline saga, culminating in memorable moments. The first night concluded with Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens reuniting to claim the tag titles, while John Cena utilized his match to elevate new talent in the opener against Austin Theory. The family feud culminated with Rey Mysterio facing off against his son, Dominick. Rhea Ripley’s match against Charlotte Flair was a standout, featuring impressive performances and high stakes.

Unfortunately, the second night left fans divided, as many were eager for a title change after a lengthy reign from Roman Reigns—Cody Rhodes’ loss felt like an anticlimactic conclusion. Nonetheless, the night included wonderful matches such as Bianca Belair versus Asuka and Edge against Finn Balor, although both ended controversially. Nevertheless, the Intercontinental Championship triple threat featuring Gunther, Sheamus, and Drew McIntyre was undoubtedly the highlight, earning rave reviews.

5 WrestleMania 24

Cagematch Score: 8.61

• Date: March 30, 2008
• Location: Florida Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Florida

WrestleMania 24 was destined to serve as a poignant conclusion to an illustrious career when Shawn Michaels faced Ric Flair in what was heralded as his retirement match. Although Flair’s future path diverged from that ending, his last appearance in WWE remains etched in fans’ memories. In addition to this emotional chapter, The Undertaker continued his streak with a compelling encounter against Edge, while CM Punk seized victory in an engaging Money in the Bank ladder match. While the event could have benefited from further refinement, the positive moments overshadowed any shortcomings.

4 WrestleMania 40

Cagematch Score: 6.81 (Night 1), 9.07 (Night 2)

• Date: April 6 & 7, 2024
• Location: Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

After the disappointing aftermath of WrestleMania 39, WrestleMania 40 delivered a strong initial night and a stellar follow-up. Night One started with a solid matchup between Becky Lynch and Rhea Ripley, alongside highlights like Sami Zayn and Gunther’s outstanding battle. The narrative culminated in a pivotal tag team match that set the stage for Night Two. Unfortunately, Jimmy and Jey Uso’s overly reliant superkick match understated the overall excitement.

Night Two triumphed in delivering memorable bouts, featuring Drew McIntyre and Seth Rollins’ brief but thrilling World Heavyweight Championship contest, which included stars like CM Punk. While several early matches were lackluster, the show caught fire with a mesmerizing United States Championship triple threat. Ultimately, Iyo Sky and Bayley concluded the event with a match that resonated with craft and anticipation, as Cody Rhodes achieved the dream of defeating Roman Reigns, capping a significant comeback story.

3 WrestleMania 30

Cagematch Score: 8.58

• Date: April 6, 2014
• Location: Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana

WrestleMania 30 showcased the culmination of pivotal story arcs as Daniel Bryan’s underdog journey concluded in triumphant fashion, defeating Triple H at the start of the evening and later overcoming Randy Orton and Batista for the WWE Championship. Simultaneously, the unthinkable occurred when Brock Lesnar defeated The Undertaker, ending the legendary streak amidst a disappointing performance due to ‘Taker’s apparent injury. Although opinions vary on Lesnar’s victory, the moment undoubtedly remains one of the most shocking in WrestleMania history. However, the rest of the card did not deliver the same high caliber.

2 WrestleMania 19

Cagematch Score: 9.30

• Date: March 30, 2003
• Location: Safeco Field in Seattle, Washington

WrestleMania 19 experienced a rocky start, marred by a series of uninspired matches that struggled to engage the audience. Yet, the event regained its foothold thanks to an electrifying encounter between Chris Jericho and Shawn Michaels, showcasing their brilliant chemistry in a battle that ranks among their finest. The crescendo of the night featured a trilogy climax as Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock faced off once more, with Rock emerging victorious. The main event boasted a technical masterpiece with Brock Lesnar and Kurt Angle, albeit many suggest this match should have closed the evening to honor Austin’s retirement.

1 WrestleMania 17

Cagematch Score: 9.57

• Date: April 1, 2001
• Location: Reliant Astrodome in Houston, Texas

Often heralded as the pinnacle of WrestleMania events, WrestleMania 17 serves as the critical turning point in WWE history. Featuring the climactic main event between The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin, the fan-favorite characters transitioned into complex narratives that captivated audiences. Austin’s shocking alignment with Vince McMahon marked a significant shift in his character arc, showcasing the depth of storytelling during this era.

This WrestleMania was packed with memorable confrontations, including a technical showcase between Kurt Angle and Chris Benoit, a thrilling contest involving Chris Jericho and William Regal, and an unforgettable TLC tag team match featuring the Dudley Boys, the Hardy Boys, and Edge and Christian. The dramatic clash between Shane and Vince McMahon, set against the backdrop of WCW’s purchase, added layers of intrigue and emotional investment. Even today, WrestleMania 17 remains a gold standard for WWE events, with defining moments that resonate through wrestling history.

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