The Best WWE PPV in 2019: A Deep Dive into Survivors Series and Beyond

When it comes to choosing the best WWE pay-per-view (PPV) of 2019, one title stands out in the memory of many fans: Survivors Series. This event, held on November 10, 2019, was not just a showcase of top-notch in-ring action, but also a milestone in WWE's brand-warfare era. Let's explore why this particular PPV was so special and analyze other contenders that made 2019 a memorable year for WWE fans.

Survivors Series: The Show That Divided and United WWE

Set against the backdrop of WWE's brand-warfare era, Survivors Series became a melting pot of WWE, AEW, and NXT. The event marked the first and (as of this time) the only inclusion of NXT in a WWE PPV, creating a unique blend of talent that mined the depth of WWE's roster. The build-up to the event was filled with intrigue, with storylines such as the rivalry between The Revival (FTR) and The Undisputed Era (AEW) and the compelling feud between Becky Lynch and Rhea Ripley vying for the Women's Championship.

Key Matches at Survivors Series 2019

Several matches at Survivors Series 2019 were highlights, each offering a unique blend of flair and tension:

Revival vs. The Undisputed Era: This epic battle pitted two of pro-wrestling's top teams against each other. Despite the match ending in a no-contest, the sheer intensity and high caliber of athleticism made it a memorable moment. Becky Lynch vs. Rhea Ripley: This women's championship match was a beautiful showcase of unparalleled athleticism and drama. The match provided fans with a true show of the year contender, filled with moments that both entertained and moved the audience. Ricochet vs. Matt Riddle: Another thrilling match that ended in a no-contest, this clash between two gifted wrestlers added to the event's eclectic mix of high-stakes and unpredictability. Adam Cole vs. Daniel Bryan: This nighttime match, often hailed as the match of the night, showcased raw intuition, skill, and a deep-seated rivalry that was truly captivating. Even with a non-finish, the match was a highlight of the event. Brock Lesnar vs. Rey Mysterio: This legendary match was a testament to both wrestlers' enduring careers. The tactical brilliance of Lesnar and the memorable sizeweight pegging by Mysterio made this a true classic. Roderick Strong vs. Shinsuke Nakamura vs. AJ Styles: The triple-threat match between three top-tier wrestlers was a thrilling three-way battle that delivered a perfect storm of entertainment, skill, and intense wrestling.

Notable Moments and Hypothetical Deceptions

Despite the stellar matches, some moments at Survivors Series 2019 were met with a mix of surprise and apprehension. For instance, the seemingly inexplicable stretcher job the night of the show by Tony Storm and Io Shirai, following their suffering at the hands of the powerful Carmella, generated a significant amount of fan speculation and discussion. Similarly, Braun Strowman's bizarre count-out in a triple-threat match, despite the fact that count-outs are illegal in such matches, managed to shift the narrative and add a layer of unpredictability to his storyline.

However, these moments, rather than detracting from the event, added to its mythology and cemented the place of numerous performers, most notably Rhea Ripley and Keith Lee, as stars within the WWE ecosystem.

The PPV of the Year Contenders

While Survivors Series 2019 claimed the top spot in many fans' hearts, there were other PPVs that competed for attention throughout the year. Let's delve into the best of the rest to see who came close to stealing the spotlight:

NXT TakeOver: New York

This event, notably, stands out as the best for many fans due to the Gargano vs. Cole match, which was undoubtedly the match of the year. This title bout was fierce and tactical, showcasing the skills and range of both wrestlers. Given the entire PPV was centered around this match, the event felt purposeful, focused, and entirely satisfying. The memorable factor was a match that resonated not just in the moment but also in the long-term history of the brand.

AEW Double or Nothing

AEW Double or Nothing on May 26, 2019, also presents a strong contender for the year's best PPV. The event was emotionally charged, with many standout moments, particularly in singles matches and tag team bouts. The structure and pacing of the event were masterfully handled, providing fans with a continuous flow of excitement and a sense of progression.

Conclusion

In the annals of WWE history, Survivors Series 2019 stands out as a unique and memorable event that brought together WWE, NXT, and AEW in a way that few PPVs have achieved. While other PPVs also offered thrilling matches and standout moments, Survivors Series 2019 remains the most comprehensive and enthralling showcase of talent and storytelling in 2019. It's not just about the main event; it's about the atmosphere, the unpredictability, and the overarching narrative that made it a true show of the year.