Thomas Brunt's Top 5 Best WWE Matches of 2016 (So Far)

By Thomas Brunt

​It is already June, and what a historic year it has been and with the brand split changes coming next month so who knows what the WWE has in store for us the second half of 2016.  While there has been some stuff we'd probably rather forget as is this case with any year, we have also been treated to some great in ring action.

​Here are my picks for best (main roster) matches of the year, because there is no way I could put a top 5 list together the way NXT has dominated.

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5. Sami Zayn vs. Kevin Owens (Payback)

WC fans rejoice! The expectations for both this match and the pay per view were high, and all the performers delivered here. It was the match we should have gotten instead of the "annual" ladder match.  Story telling and history should play a big part, and the way WWE built the story up was great. Epic on both sides of the coin. Rating: 3.75/5.00 


4. Kevin Owens vs. Dean Ambrose For the Intercontinental Championship (Royal Rumble)

Last Man Standing Matches can be very hit or miss, luckily it was not a miss here. I liked the use of the weapons as it didn't feel forced because their was storyline and purpose behind it all. Very physical match. Good story, good performers great match. Rating: 4.00/5.00  

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​3. Sami Zayn vs. Cesaro vs. The Miz vs. Kevin Owens: Intercontinental Championship (Extreme Rules)

Wow. I can't say anything that has not been said about this match already. I am glad to see a mid card title being elevated in such a manner. Micheal Cole even said it was a MOTYC, and it's rare occurrence, but the statement made sense and I agreed with him. I liked how the ending made The Miz look, and it did in a way that doesn't suggest he was "carried" to a great match, either. Rating: 4.05/5.00


2. Dean Ambrose vs. Triple H: WWE World Heavyweight Championship (Roadblock)

The fans hatred of a predictable and inevitable WrestleMania main event outcome gave fans some extra incentive to tune into at the first ever show house pay-per view, or special. The idea and toying around of a third triple threat 'Mania main event in a row gave this an extra exciting feel, besides some crisp in ring action, and believable nearfalls on Ambrose' part, including a three count that was ruled in favor of "The Game" are why I enjoyed this match as such. This also proved Ambrose as a legit guy, as if we didn't really know already. Rating: 4.15/5.00 

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​1. Charlotte vs. Becky Lynch vs. Sasha Banks: WWE Women's Championship (WrestleMania 32)

Yes, I am putting over the women, here. In what was, for the most part a pretty forgettable WrestleMania these three stole the show. I think this was when Ric Flair interfering with Charlotte's matches was still a little cute, yet also starting to get old. I have not actually seen it in its entirety since WrestleMania, but I do remember it had me in suspense with the nearfalls and spots, and with it taking place on the grandest stage, and for being for the new Women's title, I feel those factors are enough to help elevate it to my favorite of the year so far. Rating: 4.25/5.00


SEE ALSO: "WWE: Why The Roman Reigns Experiment Has Failed"

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