The WWE 2024 calendar is poised to leave a lasting impression on fans, not just due to the matches and memorable moments, but particularly because of the gripping rivalries that have unfolded through WWE programming. Far beyond mere bouts, it is these rivalries and engaging storylines that serve as the heartbeat of WWE, drawing fans back week after week. The year has seen several noteworthy feuds that certainly warranted attention.
As a notable mention, the rivalry between Chelsea Green and Michin evolved into a compelling midcard feud, highlighted by an entertaining Dumpster Match. Additionally, the dynamic between Chad Gable and Alpha Academy almost made it into the top ten until it lost momentum due to the introduction of the Wyatt Sicks storyline.
10 Oba Femi vs. Tony D’Angelo
Rocky III for the Wrestling World
Some may frown upon the Oba Femi versus Tony D’Angelo feud, considering it a rehash of Rocky III in both theme and dialogue. However, despite this homage, the NXT audience remained deeply invested in the unfolding drama, which added new complexity to these archetypal characters. Femi transformed from a dominating juggernaut into a vulnerable competitor, while D’Angelo’s journey depicted his acknowledgment of Femi’s daunting presence. Ultimately, D’Angelo’s overconfidence set the stage for a dramatic resolution.
The Story in #WWENXT with Tony D’Angelo and his Family vs Oba Femi is literally Rocky 3. pic.twitter.com/xkDXkEctHv — Phil Ouimette (@Philouimette_) September 18, 2024
9 Jaida Parker vs. Lola Vice
More Than Meets the Eye (Candy)
The days of WWE treating female performers solely as eye candy are long gone, yet the WWE Universe still expresses a keen interest in the female roster members. Particularly with Jaida Parker and Lola Vice—especially in light of Vice’s lively post-match celebrations—their rivalry showcased the brutal reality of them moving beyond perception. Their feud escalated quickly, transitioning into an intense Hardcore Match that left the crowd breathless. Parker delivered a savage blow to Vice during their encounters, and Vice’s MMA skills shone through during their NXT Underground clash. This heated rivalry marked a significant chapter in NXT’s storytelling.
8 Sami Zayn vs. Gunther
A Surprise Sleeper Pick
This rivalry didn’t evolve as notably as others but captured crowd investment over time. Initially, fans found it challenging to rally behind Sami Zayn as he stood against the undefeated Gunther for the Intercontinental Championship, especially with fan-favorite Chad Gable in contention. Nonetheless, as Zayn poured his heart into energetic promos leading to WrestleMania, he managed to win over the audience, culminating in a tremendous victory met with a theatrical eruption of cheers.
Furthermore, when Gunther later became World Heavyweight Champion, he sought redemption, reigniting his feud with Zayn. This midcard rivalry successfully crept into the main event arena, keeping fans captivated from beginning to end.
7 Cody Rhodes vs. Kevin Owens
Long-Term Storytelling Done Right
Reflecting the nuanced storytelling prevalent in the new Triple H era of WWE, the Cody Rhodes versus Kevin Owens rivalry matured slowly. Leading into Bash at Berlin, both men, as fan-favorite babyfaces, showed their camaraderie despite being in contention for the WWE Championship. However, an unexpected heel turn for Rhodes materialized when he aligned with the very Bloodline that Owens had opposed for years.
Critics may argue about the pacing in Paul Levesque’s story arcs, yet the meticulous build-up of this storyline yielded rich dividends. Observing their growing tension and escalation over time, culminating in their electrifying encounter at Saturday Night’s Main Event, has kept audiences captivated as they anticipate their clash in a Ladder Match at Royal Rumble 2025.
6 Bloodline vs. Bloodline
Expanding an Already Expansive Storyline
Since its inception in 2020, the Bloodline saga has captivated audiences for four years, establishing itself as the longest-running storyline in wrestling history. After Roman Reigns lost his WWE Championship at WrestleMania XL, it appeared the narrative trajectory could hit a dead-end. However, the emergence of Solo Sikoa breathed new vigor into the Bloodline saga, claiming his title as the new Tribal Chief and bringing fresh blood into the fold.
The ongoing power struggle between Sikoa and Reigns over the Ulla Falla has sparked anticipation among fans. Despite the risk of fatigue regarding such an extensive storyline, WWE has masterfully layered new elements into a narrative that has remained engaging for half a decade.
5 Andrade vs. Carmelo Hayes vs. LA Knight
Making the United States Championship Special Again
Among the standout storylines of 2024, several midcard feuds have emerged as extraordinary in their own right. This rivalry ignited when the then-babyface rookie Carmelo Hayes faced returning star Andrade, leading to a series of competitive bouts that tested their mettle. This initial confrontation transitioned into a heated Best of Seven Series, becoming increasingly intense as they exchanged victories, ultimately leading to a heel turn by Hayes.
As their rivalry intensified, the US Champion took notice, turning this escalating feud into a captivating Triple Threat match at Crown Jewel, which many hailed as the match of the night.
4 Bronson Reed vs. Braun Strowman
One Monster Gets Another Over
Looking back, the feud between Bronson Reed and Braun Strowman stands out as a remarkable success. While fans were initially drawn in by the spectacle of two colossal forces clashing, witnessing them engage in outrageous stunts and fierce matchups, this rivalry ultimately showcased Reed’s breakout potential.
Similar to Strowman’s ascent in 2017, this feud positioned Reed towards the forefront of WWE through jaw-dropping moments during their confrontations.
3 Rhea Ripley vs. Liv Morgan and Dom Mysterio
The Most Captivating Love Triangle in Years
In many ways, wrestling mimics a dramatic soap opera, and the romance angle introduced through Rhea Ripley, Liv Morgan, and Dominik Mysterio injected an added layer of intrigue to the narrative. This storyline struck a chord with fans, generating some of the loudest reactions of the year, particularly during Live Morgan’s and Dominik’s passionate on-screen moments during WrestleMania.
The “Liv Morgan Revenge Tour” embodied 2024, intertwining her quest against Ripley, who had the WWE Women’s World Title wrapped around her waist, fitting both powerful heel and beloved babyface against one another in a captivating duel.
2 Roman Reigns and The Rock vs. Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins
A Rollercoaster of Spontaneity
The narrative between Roman Reigns, The Rock, Cody Rhodes, and Seth Rollins represented the most unpredictable feud of 2024. What began as speculation for a dream match quickly transformed into a significant storyline involving crowd dissatisfaction over the potential sidelining of Cody Rhodes, who had earned his shot through the Royal Rumble.
This backlash sparked a surprising heel turn from The Rock, aligning with Reigns. In turn, Seth Rollins took on the role of protector for Cody Rhodes. The storyline’s evolution kept fans guessing, ultimately culminating in two highly anticipated main events that delighted audiences throughout its course, demonstrating a tantalizing mix of spontaneity and drama.
1 CM Punk vs. Drew McIntyre
Blood, Guts, and Hate
This rivaly emerged amidst unforeseen circumstances. Originally set for a CM Punk versus Seth Rollins feud, an injury sidelined Punk during the Royal Rumble, allowing Drew McIntyre to rise to prominence with chilling words: “I prayed for this and it happened.”These deeply resonant lines established a fervent connection between the two and set the stage for a rivalry filled with animosity and intensity.
McIntyre capitalized on Punk’s absence, generating heat that extended the feud beyond conventional boundaries. With the return of Punk, the rivalry escalated, incorporating unique elements like a friendship bracelet that would play a significant role in their ultimate confrontation. Few storylines in recent memory have captivated the WWE Universe as profoundly as this one.
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