AJ Styles Vs. Shinsuke Nakamura: Epic WWE Rivalry!
The AJ Styles versus Shinsuke Nakamura saga in WWE is one for the ages, guys! It's a narrative woven with incredible wrestling skill, intense drama, and a whole lot of near misses. When you think of dream matches that actually delivered, this one's right up there. Let's dive deep into what made this rivalry so captivating and why fans still talk about it today.
The Dream Match Build-Up
So, picture this: it's early 2018, and Shinsuke Nakamura has just won the Royal Rumble. The crowd goes wild! Everyone's buzzing about who he'll choose to face at WrestleMania. Then comes the announcement – he's going after AJ Styles for the WWE Championship. Boom! The wrestling world practically exploded. This wasn't just any match; it was a clash of two international superstars, both known for their amazing in-ring abilities and charismatic personalities. AJ Styles, the 'Phenomenal One,' had already proven himself as one of the best in the world, with a reputation for delivering five-star performances. Nakamura, 'The King of Strong Style,' brought a unique blend of striking and submission skills that had captivated audiences worldwide. The anticipation was off the charts because of their backgrounds in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). Fans who had followed their careers knew the kind of magic they could create together. The promos leading up to WrestleMania were intense, with both men showing respect but also a clear determination to walk out as champion. WWE did a fantastic job of highlighting their history and building the stakes, making it feel like more than just another title match. The stage was set for an absolute classic – or so we thought. Little did we know, this was just the beginning of a long and winding road.
WrestleMania 34: The Disappointment and the Turn
WrestleMania 34 finally arrived, and the atmosphere was electric. AJ Styles and Shinsuke Nakamura stepped into the ring, carrying the weight of huge expectations. But, honestly, the match didn't quite live up to the hype. It wasn't bad, not by any means, but it lacked that special something that everyone was anticipating. Maybe the pressure was too high, or maybe the chemistry wasn't quite there that night. Styles and Nakamura wrestled a technically sound match, exchanging moves and near-falls, but it never reached that next level of excitement. AJ Styles ultimately retained his WWE Championship, but the real shocker came after the bell. As Styles was celebrating his victory, Nakamura knelt before him, seemingly in a show of respect. Then, BAM! He hit Styles with a low blow, turning heel in the process. The crowd was stunned. This wasn't the Nakamura we knew and loved. He proceeded to deliver a vicious beatdown to Styles, solidifying his new, aggressive persona. This heel turn added a whole new layer to the rivalry. It wasn't just about the championship anymore; it was personal. Nakamura's actions injected a much-needed dose of animosity into the storyline, setting the stage for a series of rematches.
The Rematches: Backlash, Money in the Bank, and More
The rivalry between AJ Styles and Shinsuke Nakamura didn't end at WrestleMania; in fact, it intensified. Their subsequent matches at Backlash and Money in the Bank were defined by brutality and clever storytelling. At Backlash, the match ended in a no-contest after both men hit each other with low blows simultaneously. This frustrating finish only fueled the fire, leaving fans wanting more. The match at Money in the Bank was even more controversial. Nakamura repeatedly targeted Styles with low blows, knowing that he could get under his skin. Styles, known for his composure, started to lose control, blurring the lines between hero and villain. Nakamura eventually won the match by disqualification after Styles snapped and used a chair. These matches weren't always the cleanest or the most technically impressive, but they were incredibly engaging. They told a story of growing animosity and personal hatred. WWE cleverly used the low blow as a recurring theme, highlighting Nakamura's devious tactics and Styles's struggle to maintain his honor. While some fans were critical of the repetitive nature of the finishes, others appreciated the psychological depth it added to the rivalry. It wasn't just about winning or losing; it was about the war between two men who had developed a deep and bitter dislike for each other.
The Title Changes and the Final Showdown
The AJ Styles and Shinsuke Nakamura feud continued throughout the summer of 2018, with several more matches and confrontations. Styles eventually dropped the WWE Championship to Samoa Joe, but the rivalry with Nakamura remained a constant presence. The two men continued to clash in various matches, including a Last Man Standing match, where the brutality reached new heights. Finally, at Crown Jewel in November 2018, Nakamura lost the United States Championship to Rusev, seemingly bringing an end to their on-screen feud. While the rivalry may have had its ups and downs, there's no denying the impact it had on WWE programming. It showcased the incredible talent of both AJ Styles and Shinsuke Nakamura, even if the matches didn't always live up to the initial expectations. The storyline was filled with twists and turns, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. The heel turn of Nakamura was a bold move that added a new dimension to his character. It allowed him to explore a darker, more aggressive side, which resonated with many fans. The rivalry also highlighted Styles's ability to adapt to different opponents and storylines. He proved time and again why he's considered one of the best in the world.
Legacy and Impact
Looking back, the AJ Styles versus Shinsuke Nakamura rivalry will be remembered for its potential and its moments of brilliance. While some fans may feel it didn't fully deliver on the dream match expectations, there's no denying the impact it had on WWE. It elevated both men and created some memorable moments. The storyline demonstrated the importance of character development and long-term storytelling in professional wrestling. It also showed how a simple element, like the low blow, could be used to create drama and tension. The rivalry served as a reminder that even the most anticipated matches can have unexpected twists and turns. It taught us that sometimes, the journey is just as important as the destination. And while we may have wished for a few more five-star classics, we can still appreciate the effort and the passion that both AJ Styles and Shinsuke Nakamura brought to the table. Ultimately, their feud will be remembered as a compelling chapter in WWE history, filled with drama, controversy, and unforgettable moments.