Dean Ambrose Vs. Chris Jericho: The Ambrose Asylum Match!
Hey guys! Let's dive into one of the most unforgettable and brutal matches in WWE history: Dean Ambrose versus Chris Jericho in the Ambrose Asylum match. This wasn't your typical wrestling match; it was a chaotic, weapon-filled showdown inside a steel cage with various torturous instruments hanging above the ring. If you're a fan of hard-hitting action and creative violence, this is one you definitely need to remember.
Setting the Stage
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the match, let’s set the scene. The rivalry between Dean Ambrose (later known as Jon Moxley in AEW) and Chris Jericho had been brewing for weeks. Both superstars are known for their unpredictable nature and unmatched charisma, making their feud incredibly personal and intense. Jericho, the seasoned veteran with a massive ego, and Ambrose, the unhinged lunatic fringe, were a combustible combination. The Ambrose Asylum match was the perfect way to let their animosity explode. The concept itself was unique: a steel cage match, but instead of just escaping to win, the cage was adorned with weapons like barbed wire bats, nunchucks, and other instruments of destruction. This stipulation added a layer of anticipation and brutality that had fans on the edge of their seats.
The match took place at the Extreme Rules pay-per-view in 2016. The buildup included Jericho destroying Ambrose’s beloved potted plant, Mitch, which, if you know anything about wrestling, is a deeply personal attack! This act of plant-based violence only fueled the fire, driving both men to seek extreme retribution. Their promos leading up to the match were gold, filled with scathing insults and promises of pain. Jericho, with his signature arrogance, constantly belittled Ambrose, while Ambrose, in his unstable way, promised to make Jericho suffer. The intensity was palpable, making the Ambrose Asylum match one of the most highly anticipated bouts of the event. It wasn't just about winning; it was about inflicting as much punishment as possible.
The Mayhem Begins
From the moment the bell rang, the chaos was unleashed. Both Ambrose and Jericho wasted no time in utilizing the cage and the array of weapons hanging above the ring. The early moments saw a flurry of strikes and slams, with each man trying to gain the upper hand. Jericho, ever the strategist, attempted to control the pace, but Ambrose’s unpredictable style kept him on his toes. The weapons came into play quickly, with Ambrose being the first to introduce a barbed wire bat into the equation. The sight of Jericho getting thrashed with the barbed wire immediately set the tone for the rest of the match. It was clear that this wasn't going to be a technical masterpiece but a violent and unforgiving brawl. The crowd was on its feet, roaring with every strike and near fall.
Jericho, not one to back down, soon retaliated, using the steel cage to his advantage. He repeatedly slammed Ambrose into the unforgiving steel, showcasing his ruthlessness. The nunchucks also made an appearance, with both men attempting to wield them effectively. However, the confined space of the cage made it difficult to execute any elaborate maneuvers. Instead, the weapons were used for close-quarters combat, adding to the brutality of the match. The match was a back-and-forth affair, with momentum shifting constantly. There were moments when Jericho seemed to have the upper hand, delivering his signature Codebreaker, but Ambrose, known for his resilience, always found a way to kick out. The sheer will of both competitors was on full display, making it clear that neither man was willing to concede.
Key Moments and Nasty Spots
There were several standout moments that made the Ambrose Asylum match so memorable. One of the most gruesome spots involved Jericho taking a vicious bump onto a pile of thumbtacks. Ambrose, always looking for innovative ways to inflict pain, had scattered the tacks across the ring, and Jericho paid the price. The visual of Jericho’s back covered in thumbtacks was shocking and cemented the match’s place in wrestling history. It was a reminder that this was extreme rules, and the competitors were willing to go to extreme lengths to win.
Another key moment was when Ambrose locked Jericho in the Walls of Jericho, using the steel cage to amplify the pressure. Jericho, known for his submission expertise, was clearly in agony, but he refused to tap out. The crowd was on the edge of their seats, wondering if Jericho would succumb to the pain. However, in a display of sheer determination, Jericho managed to break free, turning the tables on Ambrose. The intensity of the match was relentless, with both men pushing themselves to their physical limits. It was a testament to their professionalism and their desire to deliver a memorable performance for the fans.
The Conclusion
In the end, Dean Ambrose emerged victorious, but not without a fierce battle. The final moments of the match saw Ambrose delivering Dirty Deeds onto a pile of weapons, securing the pinfall victory. The crowd erupted as Ambrose stood tall, covered in sweat and bruises, but triumphant. It was a hard-fought win that validated Ambrose’s status as one of WWE’s top stars. The Ambrose Asylum match was a defining moment in his career, showcasing his willingness to take risks and his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations.
For Jericho, the loss was a bitter pill to swallow. However, he proved once again why he is considered one of the greatest performers of all time. His dedication to his craft and his ability to generate heat were on full display. Even in defeat, Jericho managed to elevate the match and solidify his status as a top-tier heel. The Ambrose Asylum match was a testament to his longevity and his unwavering commitment to entertaining the fans.
The Aftermath and Legacy
The Ambrose Asylum match left a lasting impact on both Dean Ambrose and Chris Jericho. For Ambrose, it was a signature victory that helped solidify his position as a main event player. It showcased his ability to thrive in extreme environments and his willingness to push the boundaries of sports entertainment. The match also helped to further define his character as the unhinged lunatic fringe, a persona that resonated with fans around the world.
For Jericho, the match added another chapter to his storied career. It demonstrated his versatility and his ability to adapt to different styles and stipulations. Despite the loss, Jericho’s performance was widely praised, and the match is often cited as one of the highlights of his later WWE run. It served as a reminder that even after decades in the business, Jericho could still deliver top-quality performances and captivate audiences.
The Ambrose Asylum match itself is remembered as one of the most unique and brutal matches in WWE history. The combination of the steel cage, the array of weapons, and the intense rivalry between Ambrose and Jericho created a memorable spectacle. It was a match that pushed the boundaries of what was acceptable in WWE at the time and left a lasting impression on fans. It’s a match that is still talked about today, and it serves as a testament to the creativity and dedication of both Dean Ambrose and Chris Jericho.
In Conclusion
The Dean Ambrose versus Chris Jericho Ambrose Asylum match was a masterclass in violence, storytelling, and sheer wrestling entertainment. It was a match that had everything: a heated rivalry, creative stipulations, and two of the most talented performers in the industry. If you haven’t seen it, do yourself a favor and check it out. You won’t be disappointed! It’s a wild ride from start to finish, and it’s a perfect example of what makes professional wrestling so captivating and unforgettable. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to witness the mayhem of the Ambrose Asylum!