Skimming through 40 years of history, it’s clear that WWE values the surprise nature of impromptu matches and will clearly continue to employ them – there were five such bouts during the last three WrestleManias – going forward. Whether they are celebrated or reviled will depend on the circumstances surrounding each one.

The excitement around WrestleMania 41 is palpable. Everyone is talking about undisputed WWE champion Cody Rhodes vs. John Cena after Cena shockingly joined The Rock in attacking Rhodes. What appeared to be a dream match between enduring heroes Rhodes and Cena took a sudden turn after Cena turned heel for the first time in two decades.