Dean Ambrose & Chris Jericho: WWE Rivalry, Highlights & More
The WWE universe has witnessed countless rivalries, but some feuds stand out due to their intensity, unpredictability, and sheer entertainment value. One such rivalry that captivated fans was the clash between Dean Ambrose and Chris Jericho. Their contrasting personalities, in-ring styles, and compelling storylines made for a memorable chapter in WWE history. This article delves into the details of their feud, exploring the key moments, matches, and the overall impact it had on both superstars' careers. So, buckle up, wrestling fans, as we take a trip down memory lane to relive the epic rivalry between Dean Ambrose and Chris Jericho!
The Genesis of the Feud
The animosity between Dean Ambrose and Chris Jericho didn't erupt overnight. It was a slow burn, fueled by subtle jabs, backstage encounters, and a growing sense of mutual disdain. Initially, both superstars were navigating their own paths, with Jericho as the established veteran and Ambrose as the rising star looking to make a name for himself. However, their paths inevitably crossed, leading to a collision course that would ignite a heated rivalry.
The seeds of their feud were sown in early 2016 when Jericho began to take issue with Ambrose's growing popularity and perceived arrogance. Jericho, always one to protect his spot at the top, saw Ambrose as a threat to his status. He started to belittle Ambrose in interviews and on social media, questioning his credentials and suggesting that he was nothing more than a flash in the pan. Ambrose, never one to back down from a challenge, responded in kind, mocking Jericho's age and accusing him of being out of touch with the modern wrestling landscape. These verbal sparring matches set the stage for a physical confrontation that was inevitable.
The tension escalated during various segments on WWE television. One memorable incident involved Jericho destroying Ambrose's potted plant, Mitch, a gag that highlighted Jericho's character's penchant for over-the-top antics and Ambrose's unhinged persona. This seemingly trivial act of vandalism was symbolic of Jericho's attempt to get under Ambrose's skin and disrupt his momentum. The destruction of Mitch further fueled Ambrose's anger and solidified his resolve to teach Jericho a lesson.
As the feud intensified, it became clear that this was more than just a simple rivalry. It was a clash of generations, a battle between the established star and the up-and-comer, and a personal vendetta fueled by ego and resentment. The WWE universe eagerly anticipated their first official match, knowing that it would be a brutal and unforgettable encounter. The stage was set for Dean Ambrose and Chris Jericho to settle their differences in the squared circle, and fans were ready to witness the fireworks.
Key Matches and Moments
The rivalry between Dean Ambrose and Chris Jericho was defined by several intense and memorable matches. Each encounter showcased their unique styles and added fuel to the already burning fire. Let's revisit some of the key matches and moments that highlighted their feud:
Payback 2016
Their first major encounter took place at Payback in May 2016. The match was a hard-fought battle that showcased both superstars' strengths. Jericho, with his experience and cunning, tried to outsmart Ambrose, while Ambrose, with his relentless energy and unpredictable offense, kept Jericho on his toes. The match was filled with near falls, reversals, and high-impact moves, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. Ultimately, Ambrose emerged victorious, pinning Jericho after a grueling contest. This win established Ambrose as a legitimate threat to Jericho and further intensified their rivalry.
Extreme Rules 2016: Asylum Match
Following their match at Payback, the feud escalated to a new level of brutality with the introduction of the Asylum Match at Extreme Rules. This match type, unique to Ambrose, featured a cage surrounded by various weapons, creating a chaotic and dangerous environment. The Asylum Match perfectly suited Ambrose's hardcore style, but Jericho proved that he was more than capable of holding his own in such a setting. The match was a war of attrition, with both superstars utilizing the weapons at their disposal to inflict damage on each other. From kendo sticks to barbed wire, the Asylum Match was a spectacle of violence and mayhem. In the end, Ambrose once again emerged victorious, further solidifying his dominance over Jericho. This victory not only gave Ambrose bragging rights but also cemented his reputation as one of the most hardcore superstars in WWE.
Money in the Bank 2016
Their rivalry continued to simmer even after Extreme Rules, with both superstars engaging in backstage brawls and verbal confrontations. At Money in the Bank, Ambrose and Jericho participated in the Money in the Bank ladder match, adding another layer to their ongoing feud. Although neither superstar won the briefcase (which was ultimately won by Ambrose himself), their interactions during the match were noteworthy. They targeted each other throughout the contest, preventing each other from climbing the ladder and showcasing their animosity in front of a global audience. This further fueled their rivalry and hinted that their feud was far from over.
The Highlight Reel
Throughout their feud, Jericho frequently used his talk show segment, "The Highlight Reel," to taunt and antagonize Ambrose. These segments were often filled with insults, challenges, and physical altercations. Ambrose, in turn, would often crash "The Highlight Reel," disrupting Jericho's interviews and turning the segment into a chaotic brawl. These interactions added a comedic element to their rivalry while also highlighting the deep-seated animosity between the two superstars. The Highlight Reel became a battleground for their egos, with each superstar trying to outdo the other in terms of wit and aggression.
These key matches and moments defined the rivalry between Dean Ambrose and Chris Jericho, showcasing their contrasting styles, their willingness to push the limits, and their ability to captivate the WWE universe. Each encounter added another layer to their feud, making it one of the most memorable rivalries in recent WWE history.
Impact on Their Careers
The rivalry with Chris Jericho had a significant impact on Dean Ambrose's career, elevating him to new heights and solidifying his status as a main event player. Prior to the feud, Ambrose was already a popular and respected superstar, but his rivalry with Jericho helped him to break through to the next level. The high-profile matches, the intense storylines, and the exposure on WWE television all contributed to Ambrose's growing popularity.
The feud allowed Ambrose to showcase his versatility as a performer. He proved that he could not only deliver in hardcore matches like the Asylum Match but also hold his own against a seasoned veteran like Jericho in more traditional wrestling contests. The rivalry also allowed Ambrose to develop his character further, highlighting his unpredictable and unhinged persona. His interactions with Jericho brought out a new level of intensity and aggression in Ambrose, making him an even more compelling and captivating character.
For Chris Jericho, the rivalry with Dean Ambrose served as a reminder of his enduring relevance in the WWE. Despite being a veteran of the industry, Jericho proved that he could still hang with the younger generation of superstars. The feud allowed Jericho to showcase his adaptability and his ability to reinvent himself. He embraced the role of the arrogant and condescending veteran, using his wit and experience to get under Ambrose's skin. The rivalry also allowed Jericho to demonstrate his commitment to putting over new talent, as he was willing to lose matches to Ambrose in order to help elevate him to the next level.
Moreover, the feud with Ambrose helped to solidify Jericho's legacy as one of the greatest performers in WWE history. His ability to consistently deliver compelling storylines and entertaining matches, even after decades in the business, is a testament to his talent and dedication. The rivalry with Ambrose was just one example of Jericho's ability to adapt to the changing landscape of professional wrestling and remain a top-tier performer.
In conclusion, the rivalry between Dean Ambrose and Chris Jericho had a profound impact on both superstars' careers. It elevated Ambrose to new heights, solidifying his status as a main event player, and it reminded the WWE universe of Jericho's enduring relevance and his commitment to the industry. Their feud will be remembered as a classic example of how a well-crafted storyline and compelling characters can create a memorable and impactful rivalry.
The Legacy of the Feud
The rivalry between Dean Ambrose and Chris Jericho may have ended, but its legacy continues to resonate with WWE fans. The feud is remembered for its intensity, its unpredictability, and its sheer entertainment value. It showcased the best of both superstars, highlighting their strengths and pushing them to their limits. The matches were exciting, the storylines were compelling, and the overall impact on WWE programming was undeniable.
One of the key reasons why the feud is so fondly remembered is the chemistry between Ambrose and Jericho. They had a natural rapport with each other, both in and out of the ring. Their contrasting personalities and styles meshed perfectly, creating a dynamic that was both captivating and unpredictable. They were able to play off each other's strengths and weaknesses, creating a rivalry that felt authentic and personal.
Another reason why the feud is so memorable is the creativity and innovation that went into the storylines and matches. The introduction of the Asylum Match, for example, was a stroke of genius that perfectly suited Ambrose's hardcore style. The use of "The Highlight Reel" as a platform for insults and challenges added a comedic element to the rivalry while also highlighting the deep-seated animosity between the two superstars. These creative touches helped to elevate the feud above the average wrestling rivalry and made it a truly unique and memorable experience.
Furthermore, the rivalry between Dean Ambrose and Chris Jericho serves as a reminder of the importance of storytelling in professional wrestling. The feud was not just about two superstars beating each other up; it was about a compelling narrative that drew fans in and made them care about the outcome. The storylines were well-developed, the characters were believable, and the overall arc of the rivalry was satisfying. This is a testament to the skill and creativity of the WWE writers and the performers themselves.
In conclusion, the legacy of the feud between Dean Ambrose and Chris Jericho is one of excellence, innovation, and compelling storytelling. It is a rivalry that will be remembered for years to come, and it serves as a reminder of the power of professional wrestling to entertain, inspire, and captivate audiences around the world. Whether you're a longtime WWE fan or a newcomer to the sport, the feud between Dean Ambrose and Chris Jericho is a must-see for anyone who appreciates great wrestling.