WWE Survivor Series 2023: recap and grades

WWE held its final main roster pay-per-view of 2023 on Saturday with one of its most iconic events with a twist, Survivor Series: WarGames.

Five matches took place inside Allstate Arena − the home of WrestleMania 22 − just outside of Chicago on Saturday night, highlighted by the men's and women's WarGames matches.

The matches were full excitement, with the men’s and women’s WarGames matches living up to the billing. The WWE Universe got to see the return of Randy Orton after being out with an injury for 18 months. But the comebacks didn’t end there, as after the event ended, one of the biggest returns in recent memory happened, and it is sure to send shockwaves heading into 2024.

Punk's return was rumored soon after his departure from AEW with his return only seeing those rumors to fruition.

It came right after Orton's return helped lead his team of Seth Rollins, Cody Rhodes, Jey Uso and Sami Zayn to victory over Judgment Day.

The Viper's return also helped thwart a Rhea Ripley attempt to cash in on the Money in the Bank contract on behalf of Damian Priest.

Well after Orton got settled into the match, he unleashed an RKO from hell on JD McDonagh, who was thrown into the finishing move from atop the cage.

Meanwhile for the men Cody Rhodes, Jey Uso, Seth Rollins, and Sami Zayn will be joined by the returning Randy Orton in a bid to take down The Judgment Day. The "Viper" will compete for the first time in over a year, while Drew McIntyre will join forces with The Judgment Day. 

Elsewhere, Dragon Leewill be attempting to fight for the honor of Rey Mysterio and Carlito after Santos Escobar attacked both men. Zoey Stark will be challenging for the WWE Women's World Championship, while The Miz is facing GUNTHER for the Intercontinental Championship.

Gunther continued his record-setting reign as Intercontinental Champion by beating eight-time champion The Miz. Miz almost won by cheating, but Gunther proved to be the better man. His reign is now at 533+ days. 

Meanwhile, Santos Escobar, who betrayed Rey Mysterio and the L.W.O., beat Dragon Lee in an entertaining match. 

The Sporting News provided match grades and highlights from the Survivor Series event. Check it out! 

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Sarah H

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