WWE 2K games offer an immersive wrestling experience with endless customization options. If you’re looking to test your skills, why not set up a match where you start at a disadvantage? This can make gameplay more exciting and rewarding. Whether you’re aiming for a dramatic comeback or just want a bigger challenge, this guide will walk you through the steps to create the ultimate uphill battle in WWE 2K.
1. Adjust Match Rules to Favor Your Opponent
One of the easiest ways to start at a disadvantage is by tweaking match rules. You can do this by:
- Increasing the opponent’s momentum: This will allow them to hit their signature and finisher moves much faster.
- Disabling your resiliency: This makes it harder to kick out of pins, forcing you to be extra strategic.
- Setting up an Iron Man or Last Man Standing match: These require stamina and endurance, making it harder to recover from early setbacks.
To apply these changes, go to Match Options before starting a match and modify the rules accordingly.
2. Lower Your Superstar’s Attributes
If you want a true challenge, manually reduce your superstar’s stats. Here’s how:
- Go to Roster > Edit Superstars.
- Select your wrestler and lower key attributes such as Strength, Durability, and Reversal.
- Reduce momentum gain to slow down your ability to use finishers.
By doing this, you’ll feel the impact of every move, forcing you to rely on skill rather than stats.

3. Increase AI Difficulty & Boost Opponent’s Stats
For a more authentic challenge, crank up the AI difficulty settings. Follow these steps:
- Navigate to Gameplay Settings.
- Set the difficulty to Legend.
- Increase the opponent’s Grapple Damage, Finisher Strength, and Reversal Rate.
With these settings, your opponent will counter more frequently and deal heavy damage, making your victory harder to secure.
4. Set Up a Handicap or Gauntlet Match
Another way to start at a disadvantage is by facing multiple opponents at once. Try these match types:
- 2-on-1 Handicap Match: Battle against two superstars alone.
- 3-on-1 Handicap Match: A near-impossible challenge that tests your resilience.
- Gauntlet Match: Face multiple opponents one after another without regaining full health.
These match types push you to your limits and require smart in-ring tactics to survive.

5. Limit Your Moves and Abilities
To increase the difficulty further, restrict yourself to a limited moveset. Try the following:
- Avoid using finishing moves unless absolutely necessary.
- Don’t reverse attacks unless it’s a game-changing moment.
- Play with a character that lacks speed or strength.
This forces you to be strategic and creative with how you engage in the match.