Dave Meltzer’s star rating system has become a hallmark in the world of professional wrestling. Since the 1970s, he has been meticulously evaluating matches from various promotions around the globe, assigning scores that reflect the quality of the in-ring action. While the majority of matches fall within the 5-star range, there have been several exceptional bouts that have exceeded this threshold. These matches, often regarded as classics, have left a lasting impact on wrestling fans and critics alike.
Johnny Gargano v. Adam Cole – 5.25 stars
Johnny Gargano’s journey to becoming the WWE NXT Champion was nothing short of inspiring. After an arduous battle, he finally achieved his dream in April 2019, defeating former champion Tommaso Ciampa. However, his reign was immediately put to the test when Adam Cole, the leader of the Undisputed Era faction, challenged him for the title at WWE NXT TakeOver: XXV.
The match was a showcase of technical prowess and high-flying action, with both competitors pulling out all the stops to secure victory. Gargano and Cole exchanged a flurry of near-falls and signature moves, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. In the end, it was Cole who emerged victorious, delivering a Panama Sunrise and a Last Shot to Gargano for the win. Meltzer awarded the match a rating of 5.25 stars, acknowledging the incredible display of athleticism and storytelling.
WALTER v. Tyler Bate – 5.25 stars
NXT UK TakeOver: Cardiff witnessed a clash of titans as WALTER defended his NXT UK Championship against Tyler Bate. The match, which lasted nearly 45 minutes, was a brutal and hard-hitting affair, with both competitors leaving everything in the ring.
WALTER, known for his devastating chops and powerhouse offense, was pushed to his limits by Bate, who displayed incredible resilience and fighting spirit. The match culminated in a climactic moment when WALTER delivered a devastating lariat to Bate, securing the victory and retaining his championship. Meltzer awarded the match a rating of 5.25 stars, recognizing the intensity and physicality of the encounter.
Lucha Brothers v. The Young Bucks – 5.25 stars
The rivalry between the Lucha Brothers (Pentagon Jr. and Rey Fenix) and The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson) reached its zenith at AEW All Out 2019. The two teams faced off in a ladder match for the AAA World Tag Team Championships, adding an element of danger and excitement to an already intense feud.
The match was a spectacle of high-flying acrobatics and daredevil stunts, with both teams pulling out all the stops to secure victory. From jaw-dropping aerial maneuvers to brutal ladder spots, the match had it all. In the end, it was the Lucha Brothers who emerged victorious, retrieving the titles and solidifying their status as one of the top tag teams in the world. Meltzer awarded the match a rating of 5.25 stars, recognizing the innovation and excitement it brought to the table.
Kota Ibushi v. Minoru Suzuki – 5.25 stars
During the G1 Climax 30 tournament, Kota Ibushi faced off against Minoru Suzuki in a hard-hitting and intense encounter. The match, which was far from a technical masterpiece, was a display of stiff strikes and relentless aggression.
Ibushi and Suzuki traded blows back and forth, each refusing to back down. The match reached a fever pitch as both competitors pushed each other to their limits. In the end, it was Ibushi who emerged victorious, hitting Suzuki with a Kamigoye for the win. Meltzer awarded the match a rating of 5.25 stars, recognizing the intensity and physicality of the encounter.
Kazuchika Okada v. Shingo Takagi – 5.25 stars
Also during the G1 Climax 30 tournament, Kazuchika Okada faced off against Shingo Takagi in a highly competitive and intense match. Both competitors brought their A-game, delivering hard-hitting strikes and high-impact maneuvers.
The match was a back-and-forth affair, with both Okada and Takagi refusing to give an inch. The action spilled to the outside of the ring multiple times, adding an element of unpredictability to the match. In the end, it was Okada who emerged victorious, locking Takagi in the Money Clip and causing him to pass out. Meltzer awarded the match a rating of 5.25 stars, recognizing the skill and determination of both competitors.
Kaira’s Take:
These matches represent the pinnacle of professional wrestling, showcasing the talent and dedication of the performers involved. They have set a high standard for future matches and have left an indelible mark on the wrestling world. As the wrestling landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see if any future matches can surpass the quality and excitement of these unforgettable encounters.
