Pro wrestling history has no shortage of iconic moments, and New York State has played host to some of the greatest matches of all time.

From Madison Square Garden to Shea Stadium, these legendary bouts have shaped the industry and left an indelible mark on fans worldwide.

Let’s count down five unforgettable matches that put New York at the center of the wrestling universe.

5. Rey Mysterio vs. Kurt Angle – SummerSlam (August 25, 2002)

Location: Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale, New York

This match marked Rey Mysterio’s first major WWE pay-per-view appearance and his first clash with Kurt Angle. The fast-paced, high-energy contest nearly stole the show, combining Angle’s technical mastery with Rey’s innovative lucha offense. The bout ended with Angle forcing Rey to tap to the ankle lock, but it solidified Rey’s place as a future WWE star.

4. Triple H vs. Cactus Jack – Street Fight for the WWF Championship (Royal Rumble, January 23, 2000)

Location: Madison Square Garden, New York City

This brutal street fight featured extreme violence and storytelling as Triple H defended his WWF Championship against Cactus Jack. The match included barbed wire bats and tables, solidifying Triple H’s status as a top heel and Cactus Jack’s legacy as a hardcore icon.

3. Bruno Sammartino vs. Pedro Morales – WWWF Heavyweight Championship (September 30, 1972)

Location:Shea Stadium, Queens, New York

This historic match, part of the iconic “Showdown at Shea,” saw two beloved champions clash for the first time. The intense battle ended in a curfew draw, showcasing both stars' immense popularity. Bruno Sammartino and Pedro Morales delivered a classic that captivated the massive crowd.

2. Shawn Michaels vs. Razor Ramon – Intercontinental Championship Ladder Match (WrestleMania X, March 20, 1994)

Location:Madison Square Garden, New York City

This match revolutionized wrestling with its innovative use of the ladder and remains one of the greatest in WWE history. It set the gold standard for ladder matches and cemented Shawn Michaels and Razor Ramon as legends.

1. Hulk Hogan vs. The Iron Sheik – WWF World Heavyweight Championship (January 23, 1984)

Location:Madison Square Garden, New York City

The match that birthed Hulkamania. Hulk Hogan’s victory over The Iron Sheik ignited a cultural phenomenon, elevating WWF into a global powerhouse and making this one of the most significant matches in wrestling history.