10 Best WWE Intercontinental Title Matches Ever
2. Randy Orton Vs Cactus Jack (Backlash 2004)
Often neglected in debating classic Intercontinental scrapes due to the feud centring around personal hatred rather than a chase for a championship, Randy Orton's successful defence of the gold against Mick Foley's most dangerous alter-ego was a thrilling turning point for the 'Legend Killer' during a divisive year for the Evolution star.
Orton had hoofed Foley down a staircase, spat in his face and even pinned him at a WrestleMania to build to the battle so the entitled brat was entitled to be bratty as the clash commenced. His arrogant default setting also betrayed his will to survive.
Fought under hardcore rules, Jack initially dragged Orton kicking and screaming out of his comfort zone but was soon wailing himself as Randy unlocked the vicious side that had shown itself enough to earn a place alongside Triple H, Ric Flair and Dave Batista in the first place. Having travelled to the depths of depravity in a bloody battle over weapons with the 'Hardcore Legend', Orton earned his pay and the fans' respect by taking a barebacked bump into hundreds of thumbtacks.
He visibly shook in shock at the pain, with the camera wisely lingering on his shimmering and shredded back. Ultimately fearless of future reprisals, he scored an RKO on to a barbed wire baseball bat to well and truly earn a pyrrhic victory.