WWE Payback 2016: 10 Awesome Moments

3. The Miz Retains The Intercontinental Title Amidst Chaos

aj styles roman reigns payback
WWE.com

The Miz has to be considered one of the more under-rated characters in WWE nowadays. Having survived a serious slump in fortunes post-headline appearance at WrestleMania XXVII in 2011, Miz has found his place as a mid-card villain who grates more than most. Having Maryse by his side is also a stroke of genius, she adds so much to the gimmick.

There was a lot to take in during the closing moments of The Miz vs. Cesaro for the WWE Intercontinental Title at Payback. On the surface, Miz managed to steal one from the 'Swiss Superman', but that's exactly how he should be booked. The wannabe Hollywood star is a cowardly opportunist, he'll take a win whatever way it comes to him.

Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens muddied the waters during the Intercontinental Title action. Their presence was welcome, because it provided ample distraction for Cesaro, leading to his downfall and defeat via roll up.

There was no need to take the belt from The Miz so quickly after he beat Zack Ryder to win it. The heel is a stellar champion right now, even if he does prove to be a placeholder long term.

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Lifelong wrestling, video game, music and sports obsessive who has been writing about his passions since childhood. Jamie started writing for WhatCulture in 2013, and has contributed thousands of articles and YouTube videos since then. He cut his teeth penning published pieces for top UK and European wrestling read Fighting Spirit Magazine (FSM), and also has extensive experience working within the wrestling biz as a manager and commentator for promotions like ICW on WWE Network and WCPW/Defiant since 2010. Further, Jamie also hosted the old Ministry Of Slam podcast, and has interviewed everyone from Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels to Bret Hart and Trish Stratus.