Ziggler Vs Del Rio: Money In The Bank 2013 Highlights
Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive into a classic showdown between Dolph Ziggler and Alberto Del Rio at Money in the Bank 2013. This match was more than just a fight; it was a clash of styles, egos, and championship aspirations. If you're looking for high-flying action, technical wrestling, and a gripping narrative, then you've come to the right place. Whether you remember watching it live or are discovering it for the first time, this match is a must-see for any wrestling enthusiast. We will explore the background, the key moments, and the lasting impact of this memorable encounter.
The Buildup: A Collision Course
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the match itself, let's set the stage. The tension between Dolph Ziggler and Alberto Del Rio had been simmering for weeks, fueled by Ziggler's World Heavyweight Championship win and Del Rio's burning desire to reclaim the title. Ziggler, the young, brash upstart, had captured the championship in a thrilling victory, while Del Rio, the proud and arrogant aristocrat, felt he was unfairly robbed of his glory. This clash of personalities and wrestling styles made for compelling television, with each man doing everything in their power to gain the upper hand.
The weeks leading up to Money in the Bank saw numerous confrontations between Ziggler and Del Rio. From heated verbal exchanges to brutal backstage brawls, their rivalry intensified with each passing day. Del Rio, known for his ruthless aggression, targeted Ziggler's injured head, hoping to weaken him before their championship match. Ziggler, however, refused to back down, showcasing his resilience and determination to prove that his championship win was no fluke. This intense rivalry created a palpable sense of anticipation among fans, who eagerly awaited their showdown at Money in the Bank.
One of the key elements of this rivalry was the involvement of AJ Lee and Big E Langston, who were aligned with Dolph Ziggler at the time. AJ, known for her unpredictable behavior, often interfered in Ziggler's matches, providing a crucial advantage. Big E, with his imposing size and strength, served as Ziggler's enforcer, ensuring that Del Rio didn't get away with his cheap shots. Del Rio, on the other hand, relied on his own cunning and aggression to try and neutralize Ziggler's support system. This dynamic added another layer of intrigue to their rivalry, making it more than just a one-on-one battle.
The Match: A Rollercoaster of Emotions
When the bell finally rang at Money in the Bank, the atmosphere was electric. The crowd was on its feet, eagerly anticipating the clash between Ziggler and Del Rio. From the opening moments, it was clear that this would be a physical and intense battle. Del Rio wasted no time in targeting Ziggler's head, delivering a series of brutal kicks and strikes. Ziggler, however, refused to go down easily, using his speed and agility to avoid Del Rio's attacks and mount his own offense.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both men exchanging control and momentum. Del Rio dominated for long stretches, using his size and strength to wear down Ziggler. He focused his attacks on Ziggler's head, trying to exploit the injury that had been aggravated in the weeks leading up to the match. Ziggler, however, showed incredible heart and resilience, absorbing the punishment and finding ways to fight back. He used his signature moves, such as the Zig Zag and the Fameasser, to try and turn the tide.
One of the most memorable moments of the match came when Del Rio locked in his signature submission hold, the Cross Armbreaker. Ziggler, writhing in pain, refused to tap out, showing his determination to retain his championship. The crowd was on the edge of their seats, wondering if Ziggler could withstand the excruciating pressure. Just when it seemed like Ziggler was about to give in, he managed to roll through and escape the hold. The crowd erupted in cheers, acknowledging Ziggler's incredible toughness and refusal to quit.
However, the turning point of the match came when Del Rio viciously attacked Ziggler's injured head, causing him to bleed profusely. The referee, concerned for Ziggler's safety, stopped the match and awarded the victory to Del Rio via technical knockout. The crowd was stunned into silence as Del Rio celebrated his championship win, while Ziggler lay motionless in the ring. It was a controversial ending, but it added another layer of drama to their already intense rivalry.
The Aftermath: A Bitter Pill to Swallow
The aftermath of the match was filled with controversy and resentment. Ziggler, furious at the way the match had ended, demanded a rematch, claiming that Del Rio had taken advantage of his injury. Del Rio, however, dismissed Ziggler's complaints, asserting that he was the rightful champion and that Ziggler was nothing more than a fluke. This led to a series of rematches between the two, each more intense and brutal than the last.
The rivalry between Ziggler and Del Rio continued for several months, with both men trading victories and losses. They faced each other in a variety of match types, including singles matches, tag team matches, and even a triple threat match involving John Cena. Their matches were always highly entertaining, showcasing their incredible athleticism and storytelling ability. However, the rivalry eventually came to an end, as both men moved on to other feuds and storylines.
Despite the controversial ending and the bitter aftermath, the match between Dolph Ziggler and Alberto Del Rio at Money in the Bank 2013 remains a memorable encounter. It was a clash of styles, egos, and championship aspirations, filled with high-flying action, technical wrestling, and a gripping narrative. Whether you're a longtime wrestling fan or a newcomer to the sport, this match is definitely worth watching.
The Lasting Impact: A Legacy of Excellence
The lasting impact of the Dolph Ziggler vs. Alberto Del Rio rivalry extends beyond their immediate feud. It showcased the importance of storytelling in professional wrestling, demonstrating how a well-crafted narrative can elevate a match from good to great. The rivalry also highlighted the contrasting styles of Ziggler and Del Rio, showcasing the diversity and athleticism that professional wrestling has to offer. Moreover, it cemented Ziggler's status as a main-event player and further established Del Rio as a top heel in the industry.
One of the key takeaways from this rivalry is the importance of character development. Both Ziggler and Del Rio had well-defined characters that resonated with the audience. Ziggler was the cocky, athletic underdog who always found a way to overcome the odds. Del Rio was the arrogant, wealthy aristocrat who believed he was entitled to everything. These contrasting personas made their rivalry all the more compelling, as fans were invested in seeing who would come out on top.
Another important aspect of this rivalry was the physicality. Ziggler and Del Rio didn't hold back in their matches, delivering a series of brutal strikes, kicks, and slams. They were willing to put their bodies on the line to entertain the fans, which is a testament to their dedication and professionalism. This physicality added a sense of realism to their rivalry, making it more believable and engaging.
In conclusion, the Dolph Ziggler vs. Alberto Del Rio rivalry at Money in the Bank 2013 was a classic example of professional wrestling at its finest. It had everything a fan could ask for: a compelling storyline, well-defined characters, intense physicality, and a controversial ending. Whether you're a longtime wrestling fan or a newcomer to the sport, this match is definitely worth checking out. It's a reminder of why we love professional wrestling and why it continues to captivate audiences around the world.
So, there you have it, folks! The Dolph Ziggler vs. Alberto Del Rio match from Money in the Bank 2013. What were your favorite moments from the match? Let us know in the comments below! And don't forget to like and subscribe for more wrestling content. Until next time, stay safe and keep wrestling!
