Bray Wyatt, known for his innovative storytelling and unique character work, left an indelible mark on WWE history. His career featured some of the most imaginative and memorable matches in modern wrestling. Below, we rank five of Bray Wyatt’s greatest matches, showcasing his evolution from a compelling singles competitor to a master of cinematic wrestling experiences.
1. The Fiend vs. John Cena – WrestleMania 36: The Cinematic Masterpiece
Bray Wyatt’s career-defining moment came at WrestleMania 36 with the groundbreaking Firefly Funhouse Match against John Cena. This bout wasn’t a conventional wrestling match but a surreal, cinematic experience that blurred the lines between reality and kayfabe.
Set in the WWE Performance Center during the COVID-19 pandemic, the match showcased Wyatt’s alter ego, The Fiend, as a dark, unstoppable force who psychologically dismantled Cena by revisiting painful moments from Cena’s career. The match uniquely combined comedy, horror, and drama — from Cena revisiting his debut, to a surreal nWo appearance, to the chilling conclusion where The Fiend “erased” Cena from existence.
Sources close to WWE creative praised Wyatt’s visionary input, calling the match “a groundbreaking redefinition of how wrestling can be presented.” It didn’t just entertain but also immortalized Wyatt as one of wrestling’s most imaginative storytellers[1][6].
2. The Fiend vs. Daniel Bryan – Universal Championship Strap Match, Royal Rumble 2020
This brutal, hard-hitting encounter between The Fiend and Daniel Bryan is widely regarded as the greatest strap match in WWE history. The feud itself was a perfect clash of characters: The Fiend as a monstrous, psychologically menacing champion, and Bryan as an unyielding, noble warrior.
The match was physically intense and emotionally charged, with both men pushing each other to their limits. It told a compelling story of darkness versus resilience, with The Fiend eventually retaining his Universal Championship. This match highlighted Wyatt’s ability to work a violent, visceral contest while maintaining narrative depth, playing a major role in his respected Universal title run[2][5].
3. Wyatt Family vs. The Shield – Survivor Series 2013: Group Powerhouse Showdown
One of Bray Wyatt’s standout performances came as the leader of the Wyatt Family in a classic 5-on-5 Survivor Series elimination match against The Shield. This bout was a showcase of Wyatt’s skills as both a competitor and a leader, elevating his faction’s eerie and menacing presence.
The match was a highlight for fans who appreciated the synergy between the two dominant factions of the era. Wyatt’s family emerged victorious, solidifying his status as a top heel and master manipulator in WWE’s team-based storytelling[3][7].
4. Bray Wyatt vs. Daniel Bryan – Royal Rumble 2014: The Singles Star Emerges
Before The Fiend or the Firefly Funhouse existed, Bray Wyatt and Daniel Bryan’s Royal Rumble 2014 clash marked a pivotal moment in Wyatt’s singles career. The bout opened the event and was an instant classic, pitting two of WWE’s most talented performers against each other.
Wyatt earned a hard-fought victory, ending their feud in a match that many consider the peak of his early singles work. The match was praised for its storytelling and showcased Wyatt’s potential to be a top-tier singles star long before his eventual championship reigns[4][5][7].
5. The 2017 Elimination Chamber Match – WWE Elimination Chamber 2017
Bray Wyatt’s first WWE Championship win was secured in a highly competitive Elimination Chamber match featuring top stars like John Cena, AJ Styles, Dean Ambrose, Baron Corbin, and The Miz. Despite the star-studded lineup, Wyatt stood tall, pinning AJ Styles to become champion.
This match is significant because it represented the culmination of years of character development. Wyatt proved he could hold his own among the company’s elite and deliver compelling storytelling within a high-stakes multi-man environment. WWE insiders have noted that this victory was a crucial turning point for WWE to back Wyatt as a top guy[5][7].
A Legacy of Creativity and Respect Behind the Scenes
According to a WWE insider, “Bray was never just a wrestler; he was a visionary. Behind the scenes, he brought fresh ideas that challenged and expanded what wrestling could be, especially during difficult times like the pandemic. Many in the locker room respected his dedication to craft and innovation.”
Wyatt’s willingness to push boundaries, from his eerie promos to cinematic matches, has left a lasting influence on WWE’s creative landscape. While some booking was inconsistent, his creativity and commitment to his characters are universally praised by peers and fans alike.
Where to Watch These Matches
All of Bray Wyatt’s greatest matches, including the Firefly Funhouse Match and his Championship-winning bouts, are available on the WWE Network. These matches offer a comprehensive look back at one of the most uniquely talented performers in recent WWE history.
Bray Wyatt’s career was marked by fearless innovation and storytelling artistry. These matches stand as testimony to his legacy — a complex performer whose vision changed how WWE narratives are told both inside and outside the ring.