#3. WrestleMania XXVI Had an Iconic Build
Let’s take a trip back to 2010 before the Nexus ran roughshod over the entire roster. Bret Hart had finally returned to WWE more than a decade after the infamous “Montreal Screwjob.” Although he mended fences with Shawn Michaels, Vince McMahon maneuvered the real-life incident into a storyline between the Hitman and himself.
Simultaneously, WWE ran a World Title program between John Cena and Batista that was closely intertwined with the Hart and McMahon saga. The Animal stole the WWE Title from Cena after the Champ won the belt inside the Men’s Chamber. Batista vs. Cena was the ultimate dream match of the Ruthless Aggression Era, and we got it at WrestleMania XXVI.
However, HBK’s desperate attempt to break The Undertaker’s undefeated streak at WrestleMania was the primary selling point of Mania 26. The Showstopper lost to the Phenom at the 25th Anniversary of Mania. This was a blemish on his legacy, and he challenged Taker to a rematch.
The Phenom refused, and HBK entered the Royal Rumble to earn a match against Taker at Mania for the World Heavyweight Title. Michaels clawed his way, but failed to win the Rumble. His desperation grew to a point where he invaded the Elimination Chamber and cost the Deadman the World Title.
Eventually, Taker gave in to HBK’s pleas, but only after Mr. WrestleMania agreed to put his career on the line. The build had everything from drama to respect to jealousy to revenge, which is why the show holds a fond place in everyone’s heart.
