Natalya's Best WWE Matches: A Look Back

Natalya Neidhart, a name synonymous with technical wrestling, has carved an impressive legacy in WWE. As a third-generation wrestler, Natalya carries the weight of a prestigious family lineage, and she has consistently delivered memorable performances throughout her career. This article explores some of Natalya's best full matches, highlighting her skills, resilience, and contributions to women's wrestling. These matches not only showcase her in-ring prowess but also her ability to connect with the audience and tell compelling stories. Natalya's dedication to the sport and her commitment to excellence make her a standout figure in WWE history.

Natalya vs. Charlotte Flair: NXT TakeOver (2014)

One of Natalya's most celebrated matches took place at NXT TakeOver in 2014, where she faced Charlotte Flair for the NXT Women's Championship. This match is widely regarded as a turning point for women's wrestling in WWE, setting a new standard for in-ring storytelling and athleticism. From the opening bell, both Natalya and Charlotte displayed a level of intensity and technical skill that captivated the audience. The match was not just about winning a title; it was about proving who was the better wrestler. The intensity was palpable, with each move executed with precision and purpose. Natalya, with her years of experience, brought a sense of veteran savvy to the contest, while Charlotte showcased the athleticism and raw talent that would soon make her a main roster star. The back-and-forth action kept fans on the edge of their seats, as both women traded near-falls and submission attempts. The storytelling was superb, with Natalya playing the role of the seasoned pro trying to hold off the up-and-coming challenger. Charlotte, on the other hand, was determined to prove that she belonged at the top of the division. The match built to a dramatic climax, with both women digging deep and pushing themselves to their limits. In the end, Charlotte emerged victorious, capturing the NXT Women's Championship and signaling the start of her ascent to the top of WWE. However, Natalya's performance was equally impressive, and she earned the respect of fans and critics alike. This match remains a classic example of what women's wrestling can achieve when given the opportunity and the platform to shine. It highlighted the importance of storytelling, technical skill, and athleticism in creating a truly memorable match. Natalya's contribution to this contest cannot be overstated, as she helped elevate Charlotte to new heights and set the stage for the women's revolution in WWE.

Natalya vs. Sasha Banks: Raw (2017)

In 2017, Natalya engaged in a fierce rivalry with Sasha Banks, culminating in several high-profile matches on Raw. One particular match stands out for its intensity and emotional depth. Natalya and Sasha have great chemistry together, and their matches always deliver drama. Their Raw encounter was no exception, as they went to battle with a clear objective: to prove who was the superior wrestler. The match began with a flurry of offense from both women, each trying to gain an early advantage. Natalya used her technical prowess to ground Sasha, while Sasha relied on her speed and agility to create openings. The back-and-forth action kept the crowd engaged, as both women traded blows and near-falls. What made this match particularly special was the underlying storyline. Natalya and Sasha have a history of mutual respect and animosity, and their rivalry was fueled by personal pride. They both wanted to prove that they were the best, and they were willing to do whatever it took to achieve victory. As the match progressed, the intensity increased, with both women becoming more aggressive and desperate. They pulled out all the stops, using every move in their arsenal to try and gain the upper hand. The match reached its climax with a series of near-falls that had the crowd on their feet. Both women refused to give up, and they continued to fight with everything they had. In the end, Natalya managed to secure the victory, but it was a hard-fought battle that left both women battered and bruised. This match was a testament to their skill, determination, and passion for wrestling. It also highlighted the importance of storytelling in creating compelling matches that resonate with fans. Natalya and Sasha's rivalry was one of the most memorable of 2017, and their matches on Raw were a showcase of their talent and dedication.

Natalya vs. Ronda Rousey: Money in the Bank (2018)

Natalya's match against Ronda Rousey at Money in the Bank in 2018 was a significant moment in her career. Facing the Baddest Woman on the Planet was a daunting task, but Natalya stepped up to the challenge and delivered a memorable performance. This match was highly anticipated, as it pitted Natalya's technical wrestling skills against Ronda's MMA background. The contrast in styles made for an intriguing dynamic, and fans were eager to see how the two women would match up. From the opening bell, Ronda came out aggressively, using her striking and grappling skills to try and overwhelm Natalya. Natalya, however, was able to weather the storm and use her experience to counter Ronda's attacks. The match quickly became a battle of wills, with both women refusing to back down. Natalya used her technical expertise to try and ground Ronda, while Ronda relied on her strength and speed to create openings. The back-and-forth action kept the crowd engaged, as both women traded blows and submission attempts. What made this match particularly special was the underlying storyline. Natalya and Ronda had formed a close friendship in the months leading up to the match, and their rivalry was built on mutual respect and admiration. They both knew that they had to put their friendship aside in order to compete at the highest level, but they also understood that their bond would remain strong regardless of the outcome. As the match progressed, the intensity increased, with both women becoming more determined to win. They pulled out all the stops, using every move in their arsenal to try and gain the upper hand. The match reached its climax with a series of near-falls that had the crowd on their feet. In the end, Ronda emerged victorious, but Natalya's performance was nothing short of heroic. She proved that she could hang with the best in the world, and she earned the respect of fans and critics alike. This match was a testament to her skill, determination, and passion for wrestling. It also highlighted the importance of storytelling in creating compelling matches that resonate with fans. Natalya and Ronda's rivalry was one of the most memorable of 2018, and their match at Money in the Bank was a showcase of their talent and dedication.

Natalya vs. Becky Lynch: SummerSlam (2019)

The SummerSlam 2019 match between Natalya and Becky Lynch for the Raw Women's Championship was a hard-hitting, submission-based battle that showcased both women's toughness and technical skill. Natalya, a veteran known for her grappling expertise, challenged Becky, The Man, in her prime. From the start, the match was designed to be a gritty, realistic contest. Both women immediately went for takedowns and submission attempts, highlighting their knowledge of wrestling fundamentals. Natalya's strategy focused on utilizing her signature Sharpshooter, while Becky aimed to lock in the Dis-Arm-Her. The atmosphere was intense, with the crowd split between supporting the established veteran and the fiery champion. Every near-submission brought the audience to the edge of their seats, emphasizing the danger and skill involved. Natalya's resilience was on full display as she fought out of multiple Dis-Arm-Her attempts, showcasing her experience and determination. Becky, equally impressive, countered Natalya's Sharpshooter attempts with innovative escapes and transitions. The match reached a fever pitch as both competitors traded submission holds, each refusing to give in. In the end, Becky managed to trap Natalya in the Dis-Arm-Her, forcing her to tap out. The match was a testament to both women's abilities and their commitment to delivering a believable and exciting contest. Natalya proved that she could still compete at the highest level, while Becky further solidified her status as one of the top stars in WWE. Their SummerSlam encounter remains a highlight in both of their careers, showcasing the blend of technical wrestling and storytelling that makes WWE so captivating.

Natalya vs. Shayna Baszler: SmackDown (2020)

Natalya's SmackDown match against Shayna Baszler in 2020 was a clash of styles, pitting Natalya's technical wrestling against Baszler's MMA-inspired brutality. This match was designed to be a physical, hard-hitting affair, with both women showcasing their unique strengths. From the opening bell, Baszler used her striking and grappling skills to try and overwhelm Natalya. Natalya, however, was able to use her experience and technical expertise to weather the storm and create openings. The match quickly became a battle of wills, with both women refusing to back down. Baszler targeted Natalya's limbs, using a variety of joint locks and submissions to try and weaken her. Natalya, in turn, focused on using her wrestling skills to control Baszler and set up her signature Sharpshooter. The back-and-forth action kept the crowd engaged, as both women traded blows and submission attempts. What made this match particularly special was the intensity and physicality. Both women were willing to push themselves to their limits in order to win, and they delivered a truly memorable performance. As the match progressed, the intensity increased, with both women becoming more aggressive and desperate. They pulled out all the stops, using every move in their arsenal to try and gain the upper hand. The match reached its climax with a series of near-falls that had the crowd on their feet. In the end, Baszler managed to secure the victory, but Natalya's performance was nothing short of impressive. She proved that she could hang with the best in the world, and she earned the respect of fans and critics alike. This match was a testament to her skill, determination, and passion for wrestling. It also highlighted the importance of diverse styles and storytelling in creating compelling matches that resonate with fans. Natalya and Baszler's rivalry was one of the most memorable of 2020, and their match on SmackDown was a showcase of their talent and dedication.

Conclusion

Natalya's contributions to WWE extend far beyond individual matches. She has been a consistent presence in the women's division for over a decade, serving as a mentor to younger talent and a role model for aspiring wrestlers. Her dedication to the sport, her technical skill, and her unwavering commitment to excellence have made her a beloved figure among fans and peers alike. Natalya's best matches are a testament to her talent and her ability to connect with the audience. They showcase her versatility as a performer and her willingness to adapt to different styles and storylines. As she continues her career in WWE, there is no doubt that Natalya will continue to deliver memorable performances and inspire future generations of wrestlers. Her legacy as one of the greatest female wrestlers of all time is secure, and her contributions to the sport will be remembered for years to come. Whether it's a classic encounter from NXT TakeOver or a hard-fought battle on Raw or SmackDown, Natalya always brings her A-game, making her a true icon in the world of professional wrestling.