AJ Styles Vs. Shinsuke Nakamura: WWE Epic Rivalry

The AJ Styles vs. Shinsuke Nakamura rivalry in WWE was nothing short of a rollercoaster. Guys, buckle up as we dive deep into this electrifying feud that had fans on the edge of their seats. From dream match expectations to controversial finishes, this storyline had it all. We will explore the buildup, the matches, and the ultimate outcome of this memorable clash between two of the best in the world.

The Dream Match Buildup

Before their WWE encounters, AJ Styles and Shinsuke Nakamura had already built a reputation for themselves worldwide. Styles, known for his incredible in-ring ability and charisma, had dominated promotions like TNA and New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). Nakamura, with his striking charisma and unique wrestling style, had also made a name for himself in NJPW, where he held the Intercontinental Championship multiple times. The anticipation for their clash in WWE was immense, fueled by their previous encounter at Wrestle Kingdom 10 in 2016, where Nakamura defeated Styles in an instant classic.

When Nakamura made his debut in WWE, winning the Royal Rumble in 2018, fans immediately began salivating at the prospect of seeing him face Styles, who was then the WWE Champion. This set the stage perfectly for a WrestleMania showdown. The buildup was classic WWE, with both superstars trading verbal jabs and intense staredowns. The mutual respect was evident, but so was the burning desire to prove who was superior. The narrative focused on their journeys to WWE, highlighting their accomplishments and the anticipation surrounding this dream match. WWE did an excellent job of playing up the history between Styles and Nakamura, reminding fans of their epic encounter in Japan and teasing the potential for an even greater match on the grandest stage of them all.

However, the buildup wasn't without its flaws. Some critics argued that the storyline relied too heavily on their past history and didn't create enough unique moments to stand on its own. Despite this, the excitement was palpable, and fans eagerly awaited their WrestleMania 34 encounter.

WrestleMania 34: Disappointment or a Setup?

WrestleMania 34 arrived with massive expectations for the AJ Styles vs. Shinsuke Nakamura match. Unfortunately, the match didn't quite live up to the hype. While it wasn't a bad match by any means, it lacked the spark and intensity that many fans had anticipated. Both Styles and Nakamura are known for their ability to deliver show-stopping performances, but for some reason, this match felt a bit restrained. The wrestling was technically sound, but the chemistry seemed off, and the match lacked the emotional investment that had been built up during the feud.

The ending of the match added another layer of controversy. Styles defeated Nakamura to retain the WWE Championship, but immediately after the bell, Nakamura turned heel, delivering a low blow to Styles. This heel turn was unexpected and shocking, but it also left many fans disappointed. Some felt that Nakamura's character was better suited as a face, and that turning him heel was a mistake. Others saw it as a necessary move to inject some much-needed drama into the feud and extend it beyond WrestleMania. Regardless of one's opinion, the heel turn certainly got people talking and set the stage for a more intense and personal rivalry between Styles and Nakamura.

The aftermath of WrestleMania 34 saw Nakamura embrace his new villainous persona, becoming more aggressive and ruthless. He continued to target Styles, often resorting to underhanded tactics to gain an advantage. This marked a significant shift in the dynamic of the feud, as the respectful rivalry transformed into a bitter and personal vendetta.

The Low Blow Era

Following Nakamura’s heel turn, the AJ Styles vs. Shinsuke Nakamura feud took a decidedly more controversial turn, becoming infamous for its repeated low blows. This period was marked by several matches where the ending came about due to a low blow, either intentional or accidental. While it certainly added a level of intensity and unpredictability to their encounters, it also frustrated many fans who felt that it was a cheap and unsatisfying way to end a match. The constant use of low blows became a recurring theme, and while it did fit Nakamura's new heel persona, it also detracted from the overall quality of their matches.

One particular match that stands out is their encounter at Backlash 2018, which ended in a no-contest after both men delivered low blows to each other simultaneously. This finish was widely criticized for being anticlimactic and further diminishing the prestige of the WWE Championship. While the low blows were intended to add drama and heat to the feud, they ultimately became a crutch, overshadowing the wrestling ability of both Styles and Nakamura. Many fans and critics alike expressed their disappointment with the direction of the storyline, feeling that it didn't do justice to the talents of these two world-class performers.

Despite the criticism, the low blow saga did serve a purpose in solidifying Nakamura's heel character and creating animosity between him and Styles. However, the repetitive nature of the finishes ultimately hurt the feud, leaving many fans longing for a more decisive and satisfying conclusion.

The Grudge Matches

Despite the controversial finishes, the AJ Styles vs. Shinsuke Nakamura rivalry did produce some memorable grudge matches. Their bout at Money in the Bank 2018 was a Last Man Standing match, which allowed both men to unleash their aggression without the constraints of traditional rules. This match was brutal and hard-hitting, with both Styles and Nakamura pushing each other to their limits. The use of weapons and the creative spots made it a standout encounter in their feud. Although Styles ultimately won the match, Nakamura proved his resilience and determination, solidifying his status as a top-tier heel.

Another notable match was their encounter at Extreme Rules 2018, which was contested under Extreme Rules stipulations. This match was chaotic and unpredictable, with both men taking advantage of the no-disqualification environment. The use of tables, chairs, and other weapons added to the intensity of the match, and the crowd was fully invested in the action. While the match didn't have a clean finish, it was still a highly entertaining spectacle that showcased the aggression and animosity between Styles and Nakamura.

These grudge matches helped to elevate the feud and provide some much-needed excitement after the repetitive low blow finishes. They allowed Styles and Nakamura to showcase their versatility and creativity, proving that they were capable of delivering compelling and memorable performances, even under controversial circumstances.

The Final Chapter?

The AJ Styles vs. Shinsuke Nakamura rivalry eventually came to an end, with both men moving on to other storylines. While the feud had its moments of brilliance, it ultimately fell short of expectations due to the repetitive finishes and inconsistent booking. Many fans felt that the storyline didn't do justice to the talents of Styles and Nakamura, and that it could have been much better with more creative and decisive storytelling.

Despite its flaws, the feud did have a lasting impact on both Styles and Nakamura's careers. It helped to establish Nakamura as a top-tier heel in WWE, and it allowed Styles to showcase his resilience and championship pedigree. The rivalry also provided some memorable moments and matches that will be remembered by fans for years to come.

In hindsight, the AJ Styles vs. Shinsuke Nakamura feud can be seen as a missed opportunity. With better booking and more consistent storytelling, it could have been one of the greatest rivalries in WWE history. However, despite its flaws, it remains a memorable chapter in the careers of two of the most talented and charismatic performers in the world. Hopefully, WWE can learn from the mistakes made during this feud and ensure that future dream match scenarios are handled with more care and creativity.

So, what are your thoughts on this rivalry, guys? Let me know in the comments!