Professional wrestling has long been a stage for dramatic turns and unexpected alliances. Among the most compelling narratives are those built on betrayals—moments that not only stunned audiences but also reshaped the course of WWE history. Here’s a look at some of the most shocking betrayals that have left an indelible mark on the wrestling world.
1. The Montreal Screwjob (1997)
Perhaps the most infamous betrayal in wrestling history, the Montreal Screwjob occurred at Survivor Series when Vince McMahon orchestrated a real-life double-cross against Bret Hart. Hart, who was set to leave WWE for WCW, was denied his planned exit by being forced to submit to Shawn Michaels, despite not agreeing to the finish. This incident blurred the lines between fiction and reality, leading to a deep-seated animosity between Hart and McMahon that would last for years.
2. Shawn Michaels Turns on Marty Jannetty (1992)
In a shocking moment on The Barber Shop, Shawn Michaels superkicked his tag team partner Marty Jannetty and threw him through a glass window, signaling the end of The Rockers. This act of betrayal not only marked Michaels' transition to a singles career but also solidified his reputation as a master of dramatic storytelling in the ring.
3. Seth Rollins Betrays The Shield (2014)
During a six-man tag match, Seth Rollins shocked the WWE Universe by attacking his Shield brothers, Roman Reigns and Dean Ambrose, with a steel chair. Aligning himself with Triple H and The Authority, Rollins' betrayal marked the end of one of WWE's most dominant factions and propelled him into the main event scene.
4. Paul Heyman Turns on CM Punk and Roman Reigns (2025)
At WrestleMania 41, Paul Heyman, who had been aligned with Roman Reigns for years, betrayed both Reigns and CM Punk during a triple-threat match by low-blowing both men and assisting Seth Rollins in securing the victory. This unexpected turn led to Heyman forming a new faction, "The Vision," with Rollins, Bron Breakker, and Bronson Reed, signaling a significant shift in WWE's power dynamics.
5. The Usos Turn on Roman Reigns (2024)
In a dramatic turn of events, The Usos, Jimmy and Jey, betrayed Roman Reigns during a tag team match at Night of Champions. After an accidental attack on Reigns, The Usos walked out on him, leading to a civil war within The Bloodline faction. This betrayal culminated in a match at Money in the Bank, where The Usos defeated Reigns and Solo Sikoa, marking a significant shift in the faction's hierarchy.
6. Liv Morgan and Dominik Mysterio's Betrayal of Rhea Ripley (2024)
At SummerSlam, Liv Morgan retained the Women's World Championship after what appeared to be accidental interference from Rhea Ripley's on-screen love interest and Judgment Day stablemate, Dominik Mysterio. However, post-match, Mysterio turned on Ripley by kissing Morgan, signaling the end of their partnership and Ripley's exit from Judgment Day.
7. John Cena Attacks R-Truth at Backlash Press Conference (2025)
In a surprising post-event incident at the Backlash press conference, Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena attacked veteran wrestler R-Truth by slamming him through a table. This unprovoked attack stunned fans and media, adding an unexpected twist to an already eventful night.
These betrayals have not only shocked fans but have also been pivotal in shaping the careers of those involved and the direction of WWE storylines. Each act of treachery has added a layer of complexity to the narratives, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats and eagerly anticipating the next unexpected turn.
