Kurt Angle vs. Chris Benoit at Judgment Day 2001 is widely regarded as one of the best pure wrestling matches in WWF history, especially during the height of the Attitude Era when in-ring technical showcases were less common on major cards.br br The match was built around intensity, realism, and technical excellence. From the opening moments, both men wrestled with urgency and aggression, treating the bout like a legitimate competition rather than a spectacle-driven contest. Benoit focused heavily on precise strikes and targeting Angle’s ankle, aiming to neutralize Angle’s amateur wrestling base. Angle countered with relentless mat wrestling, throws, and submissions, constantly shifting momentum.br br The core story was equal skill, different weapons:br br Benoit relied on sharp execution, toughness, and calculated offense.br br Angle used leverage, conditioning, and an expanding submission game to survive and adapt.br br As the match progressed, the pacing remained tight and physical, with minimal downtime. Every hold, counter, and transition felt purposeful, building tension through struggle rather than crowd brawling or interference. The crowd responded strongly as the contest escalated into a battle of endurance and willpower.br br The finish came after a dramatic exchange where Angle ultimately forced Benoit to submit, a decisive but hard-earned victory that reinforced Angle’s legitimacy as a top-tier in-ring performer while keeping Benoit strong in defeat.