10 WWE Superstars Who Regretted Their WrestleMania Outings
Rick Boogs at WrestleMania 38
10. Kurt Angle vs. Kane (WrestleMania 18)
Kurt Angle has openly expressed disappointment with this match, citing rushed creative and a lack of importance on the card. His feud with Kane was finalized only weeks before the event, leaving little time for meaningful build. Placed in the middle of a stacked show, the match felt overshadowed. The finish, which was a quick roll-up, was especially frustrating for Angle, as it didn’t align with his submission-based identity. He later admitted the match never reached the level both men were capable of.
9. Rey Mysterio vs. Eddie Guerrero (WrestleMania 21)
Despite being widely praised, Rey Mysterio has said this match was difficult due to a wardrobe malfunction. His mask repeatedly came loose during key sequences, forcing him to adjust it mid-match. That distraction disrupted timing, particularly against Eddie Guerrero, known for his precision. While Guerrero still secured a clean win with a frog splash, Mysterio later revealed he was more focused on fixing his gear than enjoying the performance.
8. Bret Hart vs. Bob Backlund (WrestleMania 11)
Bret Hart has described this “I Quit” match as one of the worst of his career. The stipulation limited pacing, eliminating traditional near-falls and forcing a slower structure. Bob Backlund relied heavily on submission holds like the crossface chicken wing, leading to long, static sequences. Even with Roddy Piper as referee, the crowd remained disengaged. Hart later blamed creative direction, stating the match lacked the necessary structure to succeed.
7. Ultimate Warrior vs. Rick Rude (WrestleMania 5)
The Intercontinental Championship match between Ultimate Warrior and Rick Rude is remembered as much for its danger as its outcome. Rude nearly suffered a serious injury during a poorly executed suplex, reflecting concerns about Warrior’s in-ring control. At ringside, Bobby Heenan took a rough bump and reportedly sustained a legitimate neck injury. Despite Warrior winning the title, the match is often criticized for its unsafe execution.
6. Rick Boogs’ Injury (WrestleMania 38)
Rick Boogs experienced one of the most unfortunate WrestleMania moments in recent history. Teaming with Shinsuke Nakamura against The Usos, Boogs attempted a double military press on both opponents. His knee gave out instantly, resulting in a torn patellar tendon. The match had to be finished abruptly, and Boogs later suggested the injury may have been worsened by not being fully warmed up, halting his momentum at a crucial time.
5. Jack Swagger – Money in the Bank Ladder Match (WrestleMania 26)
Jack Swagger won the Money in the Bank contract, but the moment was overshadowed by an awkward finish. After climbing the ladder, he struggled for nearly 20 seconds to unhook the briefcase due to difficulty with the mechanism. The delay disrupted the crowd reaction and made the victory feel less impactful. Swagger later acknowledged how uncomfortable the moment was as it unfolded live.
4. Diesel vs. Shawn Michaels (WrestleMania 11)
Kevin Nash has been highly critical of this WWF Championship match. He claimed Shawn Michaels extended sequences to tire him out, allegedly due to frustration over not main-eventing the show. Nash also criticized the timing of key spots and the finishing jackknife powerbomb, calling it one of the worst of his career. Despite its historical significance, Nash believes the match exposed chemistry issues rather than delivering a classic.
3. Crash Holly – Hardcore Battle Royal (WrestleMania 2000)
The chaotic Hardcore Championship match featuring Crash Holly was designed around a strict 15-minute time limit, with the champion at the end declared the winner. However, confusion over timing led to Gerald Brisco being named champion prematurely. The planned final sequence never took place, resulting in visible confusion and reported backstage frustration due to miscommunication between referees and timekeepers.
2. Chris Jericho vs. Fandango (WrestleMania 29)
Chris Jericho has admitted he initially disliked losing to debuting Fandango. While he later understood Vince McMahon’s intention to create instant heel heat, the match itself had issues. Jericho’s Lionsault landed awkwardly, forcing a quick adjustment before the finish. Although the crowd later embraced Fandango, Jericho has said the match didn’t feel as smooth as it should have.
1. Velvet McIntyre vs. The Fabulous Moolah (WrestleMania 2)
The WWF Women’s Championship match lasted roughly 90 seconds and is remembered for its awkward execution. Velvet McIntyre suffered a wardrobe malfunction almost immediately, forcing her to adjust her attire during the match. The Fabulous Moolah quickly capitalized with a roll-up victory, cutting the match short. The abrupt finish and lack of sustained action made it one of the most underwhelming matches in WrestleMania history.
