#3. The Rock and Roman Reigns (c) vs. Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins at WrestleMania XL: Night One
We mentioned that Seth “Freakin” Rollins was the undisputed MVP of WrestleMania XL. His career-defining performance during the two-night fiesta was commendable. Rollins was expected to face CM Punk, but Punk suffered an untimely injury. However, the Visionary was compensated with a main event spot at Mania 40: Night One.
With the Final Boss on their side, the Bloodline was stronger than it had ever been. Cody Rhodes was their main target, but the American Nightmare found an unlikely ally in Rollins. The Visionary had plenty of history with the Tribal Chief and had all the tools to defeat him.
The story was about Rhodes and The Bloodline, but it was Rollins who paid the ultimate price. First, he teamed with Rhodes to take on Reigns and The Rock in the main event of WrestleMania Saturday. This was billed as “The Biggest Tag Team Match of All Time,” and it had all the makings of an epic clash.
The match started slowly as the four men stared each other down and built tension. Then, the Final Boss began with his antics. From tormenting the referee to hitting low blows to thrashing Rollins all over the stadium, he pulled his weight. Nonetheless, he paid the price as he took an accidental Spear from Reigns.
Rollins took a lot of punishment, too, including a massive Spear through the barricade. Unfortunately, the Visionary was unsuccessful in his goal. The Final Boss pinned the American Nightmare, making Rhodes vs. Reigns a Bloodline Rules match.2
The inaugural World Heavyweight Champion was crucial to the Bloodline story and the match, but he was still a side character. If he had been a more important part, this match would have had a higher place on this list.
#2. Cody Rhodes vs. Seth “Freakin” Rollins at WrestleMania 38: Night One
Every WWE fan knows that pro wrestling is all about unforgettable moments, and we saw one of the most feel-good returns of the modern era at WrestleMania 38. After 6 years away, Cody Rhodes, now a big Superstar, finally returned home as Seth “Freakin” Rollins’ mystery opponent.
It was a special occasion. Fortunately, the spectacular return was followed by an equally spectacular match. Rhodes and Rollins told a great story in the ring and stole the show. The American Nightmare threw shade at his past characters in WWE and showcased his improved arsenal in front of a packed crowd.
Cody Rhodes vs. Seth Rollins was not only the match of the night, but the best overall segment of the WrestleMania 38 weekend. The Visionary put Rhodes to the test that night. However, the American Nightmare wasn’t going to lose on his first night back as he executed a Tri-Fecta of Cross Rhodes to defeat Rollins.
#1. Roman Reigns vs. CM Punk vs. Seth “Freakin” Rollins at WrestleMania 41: Night One
Roman Reigns, CM Punk, and Seth “Freakin” Rollins have a storied past that includes everything from mentorship to betrayal. Since their paths were intricately intertwined, they were always bound to face each other. Thus, a colossal Triple Threat was booked for the main event of WrestleMania 41: Night One.
However, there was a catch. Paul Heyman, wanted by both Punk and Reigns, had to pick a side. The Father of ECW walked in with the Straight Edge Superstar, but his actions later in the night left everyone shocked beyond belief. WrestleMania 41 didn’t have many bright spots, but fans universally praised Reigns vs. Punk vs. Rollins.
Las Vegas saw a melee of signature moves and near falls. Ringside was a mess as the OTC smashed his rivals through the announce table. Nonetheless, the finishing sequence took the match to another level. With both his guys laid out, Heyman had a difficult decision to make on the spot.
“The Wise Man” first passed the chair to Punk, only to turn on his best friend and reunite with Reigns. However, Heyman had other ideas. He sold his soul to Seth “Freakin” Rollins, laying the foundation for the Vision. Thus, “The Wise Man” to Roman Reigns became “The Oracle” to Seth Rollins.
Rollins needed this win the most as he had been treated like a side character in the buildup. Nonetheless, by the time Mania was over, everyone knew that Rollins was indeed the Visionary who was always one step ahead.
