AJ Styles vs Dean Ambrose vs John Cena (WWE World Championship):
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Grade: 9/10
Although it was odd to see an expected main event open the show instead, it didn’t take away from the anticipation and quality of the bout. The crowd was incredibly hot from the get-go, and the wrestling display as always with these three men was wonderful.
A number of awesome spots (Cena’s double German Suplex, Styles’ double DDT) led to thrilling encounters between all three men involved, rather than throwing one man to the outside and having two competitors face off. The constant fast-pace of the match aided it as well, as the crowd reacted to every near fall for each man.
The furthered tension between Ambrose and Cena was a nice touch throughout the bout as well, and both Cena and Ambrose were protected for a future title shot by the fact that they made Styles tap out, albeit at the same time.
Although some may complain Styles tapping made him look weak, his eventual pin and win on Cena regained his momentum despite the submission to two holds earlier on. The decision to have Styles retain rather than rush Cena’s moment was also appreciated by fans (including me).
Overall, a wonderful bout that kept all three men strong and provided an incredible opener for the show.
