10 Great Matches Hidden On WWE PPV Kickoff Shows

7. Kalisto Vs. Ryback (Payback 2016)

The Usos New Day
WWE.com

It's a shame that Ryback decided to get himself fired from WWE when he did, because it felt as though he was finally finding his feet as a powerhouse. Though often buried in the midcard, Ryback was quietly producing some of his career's best work in 2016. He and Kalisto were in the midst of a textbook big man vs. little man feud throughout the spring, and while their WrestleMania 32 Kickoff bout was fun, the quality escalated on Payback's pre-show one month later.

Their United States title fight wasn't long, but the Chicago crowd were into it. It helped that Ryback decided to copy hometown boy CM Punk's signature ring entrance, but Kalisto was the real standout. The former Lucha Dragon is one of the best underdogs in the business: his elite bumping and selling always elevates his opponents, and while Ryback lost, Kalisto did his best to make 'The Big Guy' look like an imposing monster.

It turned out to be Ryback's last match in WWE. He decided to post the misguided Tumblr rant that ultimately sealed his demise the very next evening, while Kalisto dropped the US Title to Rusev three weeks later.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.