Throughout his career, Christian had always been one of the more under-the-radar performers on the WWE roster. He was part of a team in which his partner was perceived to be the star. When he split away from Edge, what he achieved versus what the Rated R Superstar did always paled in comparison. He was a great utility player and a strong entertainer but he never quite reached the top of the card. The unfortunate and premature retirement of Edge thanks to years of wear and tear on his neck freed up the World Heavyweight Championship. Alberto Del Rio was the rightful number one contender and Christian, to the surprise of some, won a battle royal to earn a shot at the gold at Extreme Rules. With the title being held up in a Ladder match, it appeared as though all of the ingredients were in place for Captain Charisma to capture his first championship. Fans waiting to see the talented Canadian celebrate his first title win were not disappointed as he overcame a very game Del Rio and a last ditch effort by the Mexican Superstar's heavy Brodus Clay to capture the World Heavyweight Championship for the first time in his Hall of Fame-worthy WWE career. The post-match celebration in which he embraces Edge and tears abound is emotional and a legitimate feel-good moment.
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.
