Dean Ambrose Vs. Chris Jericho: A WWE Rivalry Breakdown

The WWE universe has witnessed countless rivalries, but some feuds stand out for their intensity, unpredictability, and sheer entertainment value. One such rivalry is the clash between Dean Ambrose (now known as Jon Moxley in AEW) and Chris Jericho. This feud, which unfolded in 2016, was a masterclass in storytelling, character work, and in-ring action. Let's dive deep into what made this rivalry so compelling, examining the key moments, the psychology behind it, and its lasting impact.

The Genesis of the Feud

The seeds of this rivalry were sown in early 2016 when Chris Jericho, a veteran known for his innovative reinventions, turned heel, displaying a heightened sense of arrogance and self-importance. Dean Ambrose, on the other hand, was the unhinged, unpredictable lunatic fringe, a character beloved for his rebellious spirit and willingness to push boundaries. The initial spark ignited at WrestleMania 32 during a segment involving a plant named Mitch. Jericho, in a fit of pique, destroyed the plant, much to the chagrin of Ambrose. This seemingly innocuous act set the stage for a deeply personal and often bizarre feud.

The Plant That Started It All

Yes, you read that right – a plant. Mitch, Jericho's potted plant, became an unlikely catalyst for the Ambrose-Jericho feud. Jericho's over-the-top attachment to the plant and his subsequent destruction of it highlighted his increasingly delusional and self-centered persona. Ambrose, naturally, took exception to this, seeing it as an unnecessary act of aggression. This led to a series of confrontations, both verbal and physical, that escalated quickly. Guys, who would have thought a plant could trigger such chaos?

The Ambrose Asylum

Adding fuel to the fire was the introduction of "The Ambrose Asylum," Dean Ambrose's own in-ring talk show segment. Jericho, always eager for the spotlight, became a frequent guest, leading to more heated exchanges and physical altercations. The Ambrose Asylum provided a platform for Ambrose to mock Jericho, further enraging the veteran and intensifying the rivalry. These segments were often unpredictable and chaotic, perfectly mirroring the personalities of both performers.

Key Moments and Matches

The Ambrose-Jericho rivalry was punctuated by several memorable moments and matches, each contributing to the overall narrative and showcasing the unique talents of both wrestlers. From hardcore brawls to creative gimmick matches, their encounters were nothing short of captivating.

Extreme Rules 2016: Asylum Match

One of the most memorable matches in this rivalry was the Asylum Match at Extreme Rules 2016. This match was contested inside a steel cage with various weapons suspended above the ring. The stipulation added a layer of brutality and unpredictability, perfectly suiting the hardcore style of both Ambrose and Jericho. The match was a chaotic affair, with both men utilizing the weapons to inflict punishment on each other. In the end, Ambrose emerged victorious, but not without enduring a significant amount of punishment. The Asylum Match remains a highlight of their feud, showcasing their willingness to go to extreme lengths to gain the upper hand.

Payback 2016: The Pinfalls

Before the Asylum Match, Ambrose and Jericho faced off at Payback 2016. This match, while not as extreme as their later encounter, was still a highly competitive and entertaining affair. The back-and-forth action and near-falls kept the audience on the edge of their seats. Ultimately, Jericho secured the victory, evening the score in their ongoing feud. This match served as a crucial stepping stone, building anticipation for their eventual clash at Extreme Rules.

Money in the Bank 2016: Qualifying Match

Another significant moment in their rivalry was their Money in the Bank qualifying match. Both Ambrose and Jericho were vying for a spot in the coveted Money in the Bank ladder match. The stakes were high, and the match was fiercely contested. In a surprising turn of events, Ambrose defeated Jericho, earning his place in the Money in the Bank match, which he would ultimately win later that night. This victory further solidified Ambrose's momentum and added another layer of animosity to his feud with Jericho.

The Psychology of the Rivalry

Beyond the physical confrontations, the Ambrose-Jericho rivalry was also a battle of wits and psychological gamesmanship. Both men are masters of character work, and they used their skills to delve deep into each other's psyches, attempting to gain a mental edge. Jericho played the role of the arrogant veteran, dismissive of Ambrose's unconventional methods, while Ambrose reveled in pushing Jericho's buttons, exposing his insecurities and vulnerabilities.

The Arrogant Veteran vs. The Lunatic Fringe

The dynamic between the arrogant veteran and the lunatic fringe was a key element of this rivalry's success. Jericho, with his years of experience and numerous accomplishments, saw himself as superior to Ambrose, whom he viewed as a reckless upstart. Ambrose, on the other hand, saw Jericho as a pompous has-been, clinging to past glories. This clash of personalities created a compelling narrative, resonating with fans who enjoy seeing established stars clash with rising talents.

Mind Games and Mockery

Both Ambrose and Jericho employed mind games and mockery to get under each other's skin. Jericho would often belittle Ambrose, questioning his intelligence and sanity. Ambrose, in turn, would taunt Jericho, making fun of his age and perceived irrelevance. These verbal sparring matches added depth to the rivalry, making it more than just a series of physical encounters. The ability of both men to deliver cutting promos and engage in witty banter elevated the feud to another level.

The Impact and Legacy

The Dean Ambrose-Chris Jericho rivalry had a significant impact on both wrestlers' careers and left a lasting legacy in WWE history. It helped to solidify Dean Ambrose's status as a main event player, showcasing his versatility and ability to connect with the audience. For Chris Jericho, the feud provided an opportunity to reinvent himself once again, proving that he could still hang with the younger generation of talent.

Solidifying Dean Ambrose's Main Event Status

Prior to this feud, Dean Ambrose was already a popular figure in WWE, but his rivalry with Chris Jericho helped to elevate him to the main event scene. The high-profile matches and compelling storylines allowed Ambrose to showcase his skills on a grander stage, proving that he could deliver in the biggest moments. The feud also demonstrated Ambrose's ability to work with veterans, learning from their experience while also bringing his own unique style to the table.

Chris Jericho's Reinvention

Chris Jericho has a knack for reinventing himself, and his feud with Dean Ambrose was no exception. By embracing his arrogant, self-centered persona, Jericho was able to generate significant heat with the audience, proving that he could still be a top-level heel. The feud also allowed Jericho to showcase his comedic talents, as he often engaged in humorous segments and witty banter with Ambrose. This reinvention helped to extend Jericho's career and keep him relevant in a rapidly changing wrestling landscape.

A Memorable Chapter in WWE History

The Dean Ambrose-Chris Jericho rivalry is remembered as one of the most entertaining and well-crafted feuds in recent WWE history. The combination of intense matches, compelling storylines, and memorable moments made it a must-see attraction for wrestling fans. The feud also demonstrated the importance of character work and storytelling in professional wrestling, proving that a good narrative can elevate even the most basic matches. As fans, we can all appreciate the dedication and talent that both Ambrose and Jericho brought to this unforgettable rivalry. It's a chapter in WWE history that will continue to be talked about and enjoyed for years to come.