Kurt Angle Names Chris Benoit His Greatest Rival In Blind Top 10 Ranking

Kurt Angle has named Chris Benoit as his greatest rival after completing a blind ranking of his top 10 opponents on the Stiff Shot Podcast.

Benoit and Angle had a lengthy rivalry during their WWE careers, particularly in the early 2000s. They were also part of the highly regarded “SmackDown Six” period. Their matches were built heavily around technical wrestling and in-ring performances. Angle has previously spoken highly of Benoit’s ability inside the ring.

Angle was given names one at a time and had to place each wrestler on the list without knowing who would come next. The former WWE and TNA World Champion ranked Shawn Michaels second and Eddie Guerrero third. The Undertaker, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, and Brock Lesnar followed. Benoit ultimately landed at No. 1. John Cena, Shane McMahon, Samoa Joe, and Nigel McGuinness completed the top 10. (Via Fightful)

Angle’s full ranking was: 1. Chris Benoit 2. Shawn Michaels 3. Eddie Guerrero 4. The Undertaker 5. “Stone Cold” Steve Austin 6. Brock Lesnar 7. John Cena 8. Shane McMahon 9. Samoa Joe 10. Nigel McGuinness

Jeff Jarrett was briefly included during the blind ranking before Angle decided to remove him.

Angle explained that his rivalry with Jarrett was more connected to the personal storyline involving Karen Jarrett.

“Probably Double J because I don’t think our rivalry was, it was more about the ex than it was the matches. I’m really into the matches and the performances, so I’d have to pull Double J out.”