Último Dragón: More Belt Than Man

Perhaps with something to prove, Último Dragón promptly returned to WCW with his J-Crown and put it on the line against Rey Misterio Jr. at the World War 3 pay-per-view in November 1996. He ultimately prevailed in what was a spectacular match, thus getting some measure of retribution for his inability to beat Misterio for the Cruiserweight Championship a couple of months prior.

But it was clear that Último had more than just retribution on his mind. As he celebrated his victory with his manager Sonny Onoo, the latter looked into the camera and took aim at the reigning WCW Cruiserweight Champion Dean Malenko, saying, "get ready, you're next!"

Último Dragón's pairing with Sonny Onoo worked well, helping to further establish him as a heel and providing him with a very vocal mouthpiece. Onoo also helped Último carry his numerous title belts to the ring prior to his matches, and without this assistance it is unlikely that Último would have had enough energy left to actually wrestle. Nevertheless, it appeared the duo decided they still had enough strength in their arms to carry one more belt to the ring with them, and Último subsequently entered a feud with Dean Malenko, making good on Onoo's promise and eventually besting him for the title at Starrcade on December 29, 1996.