WWE Battleground 2016: 10 Things You Probably Missed
6. Zack Ryder Made Sure His Elbow Connected With Rusev's Knee
There was a sense of 'seen it all before' about Zack Ryder's WWE United States Title challenge to Rusev at Battleground. Previously, it had been Titus O'Neil occupying that slot, coming out dressed in American colours to try and sell patriotism to the watching audience. Ryder did the same, wearing a red, white and blue ring jacket that almost harked back to Sting of the early-1990's.
In terms of actual bell-to-bell action, the United States Title bout was fine, and it had the right finish. On the comeback trail, Ryder went for a big elbow drop from the top rope, but his elbow connected with Rusev's knee, leaving the door open for the 'Bulgarian Brute' to finish Zack off.
The spot looked great, but eagle-eyed viewers will have noticed Ryder compensating for the positioning of Rusev's legs. He stopped his momentum mid-air, making sure he landed flush on the man's knee pad.
This didn't hurt the outcome of the match or anything, and didn't look especially false, but Ryder definitely moved his arm whilst soaring through the air.