The Phenomenal One has picked up quality wins over a number of Superstars, all former intercontinental champions, but missing was that one high-profile victory on pay-per-view that won over the crowd and earned the trust of WWE Universe members unfamiliar with his work elsewhere. He got it Sunday night, and definitively with a Calf Crusher to boot. The win comes at the expense of a Superstar in Jericho that fans absolutely respect and adore. He is a credible star, the first-ever Undisputed WWE champion and one of the greatest of his generation. His name carries considerable weight in the industry so beating him still means something. That it came as strongly at it did, in as hard-fought a match as it did, only helped Styles gain legitimacy as he continues to search for that all-important connection with the WWE Universe. The crowd was hot, they appreciated the efforts of both Superstars, and the result was the best match on the card.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
