WWE: The best matches, wrestlers, and more of 2023
By Mark Lynch
![WWE Royal Rumble WWE Royal Rumble](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_crop,w_2941,h_1654,x_0,y_614/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/images/GettyImages/mmsport/308/01hjd2xe5bzc1yck1xtq.jpg)
WWE Faction of the Year: Judgment day
There was a time when each member of Judgment Day had a title. Dominik was the NXT North American Champion, Finn Balor and Damian Priest were WWE Tag Team Champions, and Rhea Ripley was the WWE Women's World Champion. Everyone in The Bloodline had titles, but dissent within their ranks caused their downfall. Meanwhile, Judgment Day is still going strong. At least for now.
Honorable Mention: Damage CTRL
WWE Talker of the Year: Roman Reigns
It’s funny that this can be considered an off-year for the Tribal Chief. In 2023, Roman Reigns hasn’t defended his title or appeared on Smackdown much. Nevertheless, that hasn’t stopped fans from gravitating to him. His absence has made his appearances more captivating. Add that to his flawless promos and that makes him the most captivating person on the microphone.
Honorable mention: LA Knight
Champion of the Year: Gunther
Gunther has held the WWE Intercontinental Championship for over 550 days. Throughout his title run, he’s defeated Sheamus, Drew McIntyre, Shinsuke Nakamura, Rey Mysterio, The Miz, and more. His defense against Chad Gable is among the best matches of 2023. This shows that he isn’t just the longest-reigning Intercontinental Champion. He’s defending it against everyone.
Honorable mention: Seth "Freakin" Rollins
WWE Feud of the Year: Brock Lesnar vs. Cody Rhodes
Brock and Cody Rhodes put on three all-time great matches (Backlash, Night of Champions, SummerSlam) with Cody winning two out of the three. However, Cody didn’t just beat Brock. He had to overcome him. Lesnar took Cody to Suplex City, broke his arm, and dismantled him whenever he could. But Cody never backed down. You couldn’t have asked for a better story.
Honorable mention: Roman Reigns vs. Jey Uso