The main event of the show saw Chris Jericho battle King Barrett in a Street Fight, as voted on by the fans. The match was the product of an old grudge between mentor and protege, something Barrett revealed during pre-taped promo earlier in the show. The two wrestled a very good match, using the steel ring steps, a kendo stick and a steel chair to cater to the stipulations. At numerous times throughout the match, though, chants of "we want tables" rang throughout the Santander Arena. Back in control after taking a wicked beating at the hands of his former NXT rookie, Jericho marched around the ring, grabbing materials from underneath the ring to a growing chorus of boos before finally dragging out the table. When the finish arrived and Jericho sent Barrett into it, the table did not break. Instead, the 2015 King of the Ring ate a Code Breaker and was pinned for the three count. Not willing to send fans home upset, Jericho had a brief conversation with the referee, who then relayed the message to Barrett. Seconds later, the King reentered the squared circle, sneak attacking the Tough Enough host. Jericho got the best of him and, this time, sent Barrett crashing through the table. A veteran of the industry, Jericho understood the importance of paying off the spot. His ability to improvise, to set up a post-match angle in which the fans would get their wish, not only made the audience much happier but added a bit of unpredictability to the proceedings. Only someone who has wrestled thousands of matches and been in comparable situations can think fast enough to make that work. It did and the fans responded in kind, greeting the spot with a roar of approval and the former undisputed champion with a ferocious pop.
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.
