WWE Backlash’s Top 10 Matches of All Time, Ranked
By Grant Mannis
10. WWE Championship Match – WWE Backlash 2016
Dean Ambrose (c) vs. AJ Styles
The first match on this list is actually from the most recent installment of Backlash. Heading into the event, AJ Styles was riding a great deal of momentum. He had just defeated John Cena at SummerSlam, gaining a huge edge in their feud by going 2-0 against the veteran. No challenge appeared to phase the Phenomenal One, and so a shot at the WWE Championship was next in line for him.
Meanwhile, Dean Ambrose was in the midst of an entertaining (but somewhat underwhelming) reign as WWE Champion. The Lunatic Fringe was also a victor in his SummerSlam contest, having retained the belt against Dolph Ziggler. Rapidly establishing himself as an equal when compared to former Shield members Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins, Ambrose was on top of the world.
When the time came for these two to meet inside the squared circle, they produced a rather strong contest. Both managed to appear credible and worthy of fighting for the company’s top prize. The result itself could’ve gone either way, but it was a controversial ending that allowed one man to emerge victoriously.
Following an accidental bump to the referee, Ambrose was left struggling to his feet. Sensing a chance to take advantage, Styles would score a low blow before hitting the Styles Clash. A few moments later, the Phenomenal One was standing tall with his first WWE Championship. That night would mark the beginning of a strong title reign for Styles, which ultimately ended at the 2017 Royal Rumble.
As for Ambrose, he unsuccessfully attempted to regain his championship on several occasions. By the end of 2016, he transitioned to the midcard scene and found success as Intercontinental Champion.