Top Chris Benoit Matches You Need To See

Alright guys, let's dive into the squared circle and talk about some absolute classics. When it comes to pure in-ring talent, few could touch Chris Benoit. His technical prowess, intensity, and ability to tell a story with his body were legendary. Today, we're gonna break down some of his most iconic matches available on the WWE Network. Get ready, because these are the bouts that cemented his reputation as one of the greatest technical wrestlers of all time. We're talking about matches that had the crowd on the edge of their seats, moments that are still talked about today, and performances that showcased the very best of what professional wrestling can be. Whether you're a longtime fan or just getting into the wrestling scene, these are the must-watch encounters that define a career, showcasing a level of skill and dedication that's hard to match. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's relive some of the pinnacle moments in wrestling history.

The Crippler Crossface and Beyond: Benoit's Technical Masterclass

When you talk about Chris Benoit, the first thing that often comes to mind is his incredible technical skill. He was a true technician of the ring, capable of executing complex maneuvers with frightening precision. His signature move, the Crippler Crossface, wasn't just a submission hold; it was a statement. It symbolized his relentless pursuit of victory and his ability to break down any opponent. But Benoit was so much more than just one move. He had an entire arsenal of suplexes, chops, and counters that made his matches a joy to behold for wrestling purists. He approached every bout like a legitimate contest, focusing on the psychology and the physical struggle between two athletes. This dedication to realism, combined with his innate talent, allowed him to craft matches that were both thrilling and believable. You could feel the impact of every slam, the strain of every submission, and the sheer exhaustion of the competitors. His matches weren't just about high spots; they were about the build-up of tension, the strategic exchanges, and the ultimate catharsis when a winner was finally declared. The WWE Network is a treasure trove for fans looking to witness this kind of wrestling artistry. You can go back and see how he meticulously worked over opponents, using his strength and agility to exploit weaknesses. His stamina was also phenomenal, allowing him to maintain a high pace throughout his matches, often engaging in long, drawn-out battles that kept the audience utterly captivated. The intensity he brought to the ring was palpable; you could see the fire in his eyes and the determination etched on his face. This wasn't just a performance for him; it was a deeply personal battle every single time he stepped through those ropes. We'll be diving into specific matches where this technical brilliance truly shone through, showcasing his unparalleled ability to connect with the audience through pure, unadulterated wrestling.

Match 1: Chris Benoit vs. Kurt Angle (SummerSlam 2001)

This match, guys, is an absolute barnburner. If you want to see two elite athletes going toe-to-toe in a pure wrestling clinic, this is the one. From the opening bell, you could feel the intensity. Benoit and Angle had a history, and it absolutely spilled into this match. They knew each other's every move, and it showed. What made this bout so special was the sheer pace and technicality. They exchanged holds, counters, and near-falls with breathtaking speed. You saw German suplexes galore, innovative reversals, and a story told entirely through their in-ring work. The crowd was absolutely electric, feeding off the energy of these two warriors. Benoit's explosive offense combined perfectly with Angle's grounded, powerhouse style. There were moments where you genuinely thought the match was over, only for one of them to kick out at the last possible second. This wasn't just a display of strength; it was a battle of wits and wills. They targeted limbs, they countered finishers, and they pushed each other to their absolute limits. The storytelling was impeccable – every move had a purpose, every struggle in a submission hold felt desperate and real. Benoit’s stamina was on full display here, as he kept up with Angle’s relentless pace, even managing to hit his signature flying headbutt. The near-falls were incredibly well-timed, making the audience gasp with every count of two. It felt like a true championship contest, even though it wasn't for a main title at the time. The sheer athleticism on display was astounding; they executed moves that are incredibly difficult and dangerous with a fluidity that made it look almost easy. The intensity in their eyes, the grit on their faces, and the roar of the crowd all combined to create a truly unforgettable experience. This match is a prime example of why Benoit was considered one of the best technical wrestlers ever, and why Kurt Angle is right up there with him. It’s a match that wrestling fans should study, a masterclass in how to build drama and excitement through pure wrestling skill. It really showed the peak of their rivalry and what happens when two of the best collide with everything on the line.

Match 2: Chris Benoit vs. Triple H vs. Shawn Michaels (Backlash 2004)

Okay, this triple threat match is a modern classic, and it's a prime example of Benoit's ability to shine in a multi-man environment. He walked into this match as the World Heavyweight Champion, and he had to defend that title against two absolute legends. What makes this bout stand out is the incredible chemistry between all three men. They all have different styles, but they meshed together perfectly. Benoit, the technical master, had to contend with Triple H's power and Shawn Michaels' high-flying, charismatic style. The pace was relentless. You had Benoit and Triple H battling on the outside while Shawn took to the skies, and then the dynamics would shift. Benoit’s brutal offense, especially his German suplexes, was on full display. He was able to take down both opponents, showcasing his strength. The psychology was brilliant – you saw alliances form and break, moments of desperation, and the constant threat of a surprise pinfall. The ending sequence, with Benoit finally locking in the Crippler Crossface on Triple H for the win, was iconic. It was a moment of pure triumph, a testament to his hard work and dedication. This match wasn't just about showcasing individual talent; it was about how they worked together to create a compelling narrative. The crowd was absolutely invested, roaring with every near-fall and every power move. Benoit’s ability to absorb punishment and keep coming back was on full display, as was his resilience. He was the underdog champion in many ways, facing two of the biggest stars in the company. The storytelling was superb, with each wrestler getting their moments to shine and build momentum. The physicality was intense, and the drama was high throughout. This match is a perfect illustration of Benoit's skill in a high-stakes, multi-man environment, proving he could carry a main event with the very best. It’s a bout that highlights his endurance, his technical acumen, and his sheer determination to prove himself as the top champion. The shocking submission victory solidified his reign and left a lasting impression on wrestling fans everywhere. It truly was a masterclass in triple threat dynamics.

Match 3: Chris Benoit vs. Bret "The Hitman" Hart (Edge v. Benoit: WrestleMania XX)

While not a direct one-on-one, the historical significance and the wrestling pedigree of this encounter make it a must-see. This was a moment where wrestling royalty met. Bret Hart,