WWE SmackDown Grades: Daniel Bryan Fights For His Dreams

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1. Randy Orton vs. Rey Mysterio

The return of the sadistic version of Randy Orton has given his character new life over the past few months.  He has been on a mission to take out fan favorites such as Jeff Hardy, but as of late, he has found a new target in the returning Rey Mysterio.

Orton’s issues with Mysterio began at Crown Jewel when Mysterio got a surprising win over Orton in the World Cup tournament.  The Viper wanted revenge and he would get the chance last night in the main event against Mysterio.  This would be the first time these two competed on SmackDown in over 12 years, but it would be worth the wait.

In a relatively short amount of time given how talented both superstars are, they made sure to leave a mark.  The action was very good throughout this match with both men looking impressive, but one major moment towards the end changed everything and got the match in the favor of Orton.  After Mysterio hit Orton with a 619, The Viper wisely rolled out of the ring to the outside.

From that point, Mysterio tried sliding out from under the bottom rope to the outside with a splash, but Orton countered it into a spectacular RKO on the outside.  He finished it off with another RKO in the ring to get the win.  The Viper tried to take off Mysterio’s mask on several occasions, but he attacked him after the match and wound up doing just that.  This feud has potential and last night was a step in the right direction.

The Viper wants to take Mysterio’s identity and by hook or crook, he did so last night after an impressive match followed by a vicious post-match attack.

Final Grade: A-