Chris Jericho vs. Sami Zayn
Result: Sami Zayn defeated Chris Jericho via pinfall
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
My first thought when Raw went to break and this match was announced: Sami would win a non title match because it’s WWE and that happens all the time. WHAT DO I WIN FOR GUESSING THAT?
The unorthodox offense of @iLikeSamiZayn fully on display against @IAmJericho! #RAW pic.twitter.com/bob9h8c3Yj
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 31, 2017
The #61MinuteMan seemed to struggle in the early part of the match, perhaps feeling the effects of the long time he spent in the Rumble. He really only got a brief advantage after using the referee as a distraction. Other than that, the entire first segment was Sami in control, or a wash.
.@ILikeSamiZayn aims to the limits of the #RoyalRumble's #61MinuteMan @IAmJericho LIVE on @WWE #RAW. pic.twitter.com/VwaRNcutyF
— WWE (@WWE) January 31, 2017
During the commercial break, Jericho took control just long enough for the show to return with Sami primed for his big comeback spot. But alas, it was thwarted, and Jericho got to bust out a hurricanrana in the corner.
He's the #61MinuteMan for a reason... #RAW @IAmJericho pic.twitter.com/PxlAKWMoSh
— WWE (@WWE) January 31, 2017
The Blue Thunder Bomb once again failed to win a match for Sami Zayn. But at least he always shifts his weight to actually put some pressure on his opponent’s chest.
Sami really plays the underdog role well, because you never really expect him to win. But when he does, it’s also never really unexpected. Does that make sense? Can an underdog be a favorite?
What a victory for @iLikeSamiZayn, who may have just earned himself a #USTitle opportunity! #RAW pic.twitter.com/45H1ER04pf
— WWE (@WWE) January 31, 2017
Tune in next week when Jericho faces Zayn again for the United States Championship, and wins because the title is actually on the line!