WWE SmackDown Grades: Bryan Outlasts Hardy In Key Showdown
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1. Daniel Bryan vs. Jeff Hardy
Who would have ever thought two years ago that WWE fans would ever get to see Daniel Bryan vs. Jeff Hardy in a WWE ring? It seemed like an impossible long shot, but this year has taught fans to never count out The Yes Man.
After failing to qualify for the men’s Money in the Bank ladder match in his match with Rusev a couple weeks ago, Bryan got a second life of sorts by the tune of a one-on-one match with The Charismatic Enigma last night with the winner going on to face Samoa Joe next week with the winner of that match earning a spot in the Money in the Bank ladder match.
The match had a lot of expectations heading in and it’s safe to say it lived up to those expectations. It went back and forth with both men pulling out all the stops with Samoa Joe watching ringside on commentary. The action was intense and fast-paced, as expected with two superstars the caliber of Bryan and Hardy.
But in the end, the strategic Bryan played his cards right and focused on the injured leg of Hardy. He hooked Hardy in a painful submission that put all the pressure on his leg and the United States Champion had no choice but to tap out. Joe then approached Bryan and said he will make him tap out next week. Overall, Bryan vs. Hardy was a great match just like everyone thought it would be.
The Yes Man has another shot at Money In The Bank, but it will run through Samoa Joe next week after a great match with The Charismatic Enigma last night.
Next: WWE SmackDown Review For May 22 Show