Braun Strowman vs. Chris Jericho: A Clash of Titans in WWE History

Oct 26, 2025 by miodeya.com 69 views

Braun Strowman vs. Chris Jericho: A Clash of Titans in WWE History

The WWE universe has witnessed countless unforgettable rivalries, but few stand out quite like the one between the monstrous Braun Strowman and the supremely talented Chris Jericho. This feud, while not a lengthy one, was marked by explosive encounters, hilarious banter, and a genuine sense of animosity that captivated audiences worldwide. This article delves into the history of this compelling rivalry, exploring the key moments, matches, and the lasting impact it had on both performers’ careers. Understanding the context of this feud requires acknowledging the landscape of WWE in which it unfolded. Braun Strowman, after breaking away from the Wyatt Family, was being aggressively pushed as a dominant monster heel. His size, strength, and surprisingly agile movements for a man of his stature made him a formidable opponent. Management clearly saw him as a future main event player and were keen to establish him as an unstoppable force. On the other hand, Chris Jericho was a seasoned veteran, a master of reinvention, and someone who could elevate any storyline or opponent he was paired with. Jericho’s ability to connect with the audience, whether as a heel or a face, was unparalleled. His wit, charisma, and in-ring prowess made him the perfect foil for the relatively inexperienced Strowman at the time. The contrasting styles and personalities of these two wrestlers created a unique dynamic that resonated with fans. Strowman’s raw power clashed with Jericho’s cunning and experience, resulting in a series of entertaining and memorable encounters. Their matches weren’t always technical masterpieces, but they were always filled with drama, intensity, and a palpable sense of danger. The feud also highlighted Jericho’s willingness to put over younger talent, a testament to his commitment to the wrestling business.

The Genesis of the Feud

The Braun Strowman and Chris Jericho rivalry didn’t explode onto the scene overnight. It was carefully built, starting with subtle interactions and escalating into full-blown animosity. The seeds were sown during a period when Strowman was running roughshod over the entire roster, decimating local competitors and even established stars. Jericho, ever the opportunist, saw Strowman as a threat to his own position and the security of his best friend, Kevin Owens, who was then the Universal Champion. This initial protective stance gradually morphed into a personal vendetta, fueled by Jericho’s ego and Strowman’s relentless aggression. One of the early catalysts for the feud was Jericho’s interference in Strowman’s matches. Jericho would often attempt to distract Strowman, hoping to give his opponents an opening. These tactics, while unsuccessful in preventing Strowman from winning, served to infuriate the monster and draw his attention to Jericho. The verbal exchanges between the two were also a highlight of this period. Jericho, with his sharp wit and signature catchphrases, would attempt to verbally jab Strowman, often referring to him as a “stupid idiot.” Strowman, in turn, would respond with threats of physical violence, emphasizing his superior size and strength. These confrontations, both physical and verbal, helped to build the tension and anticipation for their eventual showdown. The use of Jericho’s signature “List of Jericho” also played a role in the feud. Strowman, predictably, found himself on the list, often near the top. This further fueled the animosity, as Strowman saw the list as a sign of disrespect and a challenge to his dominance. The storyline was cleverly crafted to play on the strengths of both performers, highlighting Jericho’s cunning and Strowman’s raw power. It was a classic David vs. Goliath scenario, with Jericho attempting to outsmart the much larger and stronger Strowman. This dynamic resonated with fans, who were eager to see if Jericho could find a way to overcome the monster.

Memorable Matches and Moments

Their matches, while not always technical clinics, were captivating due to the contrasting styles and personalities on display. One standout moment was during a WWE Monday Night Raw episode. Braun Strowman was in the midst of delivering a brutal beatdown to a local competitor when Chris Jericho’s music hit. Jericho sauntered down to the ring, microphone in hand, and proceeded to berate Strowman, calling him everything from a “stupid idiot” to a “waste of space.” Strowman, initially unfazed, grew increasingly irritated by Jericho’s taunts. The tension escalated until Strowman finally snapped, chasing Jericho around the ring and eventually catching him. What followed was a display of Strowman’s incredible strength as he tossed Jericho around like a ragdoll. This segment perfectly encapsulated the dynamic of their rivalry. Jericho, the master manipulator, using his words to get under Strowman’s skin, and Strowman, the unstoppable force, reacting with sheer brute force. Another memorable match took place at a WWE pay-per-view. The match was built as a clash of styles, with Jericho relying on his experience and technical skills to try and outmaneuver Strowman. Strowman, on the other hand, sought to overwhelm Jericho with his size and power. The match was filled with near falls, dramatic reversals, and plenty of outside interference. Jericho, with the help of Kevin Owens, managed to gain the upper hand at several points, but Strowman’s resilience proved too much to overcome. In the end, Strowman emerged victorious, further cementing his status as a dominant force in WWE. Beyond the matches themselves, there were numerous other memorable moments that defined their rivalry. One notable instance was when Strowman destroyed Jericho’s car. Strowman, enraged by Jericho’s constant interference, targeted Jericho’s prized possession, crushing it with his bare hands. This act of destruction sent a clear message to Jericho that Strowman was not to be trifled with. The feud also featured several backstage brawls, showcasing the intensity of their animosity. These brawls often spilled into the arena, disrupting other matches and causing chaos throughout the show. They added a sense of realism to the rivalry, making it feel more personal and authentic.

The Impact on Their Careers

The feud with Chris Jericho proved to be a crucial stepping stone in Braun Strowman’s career trajectory. It allowed him to showcase his dominance against a credible and established opponent, solidifying his position as a rising star in WWE. Prior to the feud, Strowman was largely seen as a monster heel, but his interactions with Jericho revealed a more complex and nuanced character. The rivalry also helped to develop Strowman’s in-ring skills, as he was forced to adapt to Jericho’s technical style. He learned to work with a smaller, more agile opponent, and he improved his timing and coordination. This experience proved invaluable as he progressed to main event status. For Chris Jericho, the feud with Strowman was another example of his ability to reinvent himself and remain relevant in a constantly evolving wrestling landscape. Jericho, already a multi-time world champion, could have easily rested on his laurels. However, he chose to engage in a program with a relatively inexperienced performer, demonstrating his commitment to helping the next generation of wrestlers. The feud also allowed Jericho to showcase his comedic talents, as his interactions with Strowman were often filled with hilarious banter. His ability to make the audience laugh, even in the midst of a serious rivalry, was a testament to his versatility and charisma. Furthermore, the feud helped to elevate Jericho’s status as a veteran leader in WWE. He demonstrated his willingness to put over younger talent, and he provided valuable guidance and mentorship to Strowman. This earned him the respect of his peers and the admiration of fans. In conclusion, the Braun Strowman vs. Chris Jericho rivalry was a mutually beneficial partnership that helped to elevate both performers’ careers. It was a classic example of how a well-crafted storyline can enhance the appeal of professional wrestling and create lasting memories for fans.

The Legacy of the Rivalry

While the Braun Strowman vs. Chris Jericho rivalry may not be considered one of the most iconic feuds in WWE history, it left a lasting impact on both performers and the wrestling world. It served as a reminder of the importance of storytelling in wrestling, and it demonstrated the power of contrasting styles and personalities. The feud also highlighted the importance of veteran leadership, as Jericho’s guidance and mentorship helped to shape Strowman’s career. The rivalry is still remembered fondly by fans, who appreciate the entertainment value and the intensity of the matches. It is often cited as an example of how to build a credible monster heel, and it is used as a case study in wrestling schools and training programs. Furthermore, the feud helped to solidify Strowman’s position as a top star in WWE. He went on to headline several pay-per-views and win multiple championships, becoming one of the most recognizable faces in the company. Jericho, on the other hand, continued to reinvent himself, embarking on new ventures in wrestling and music. He remains a respected figure in the wrestling industry, and his contributions to the sport are widely celebrated. The legacy of the rivalry extends beyond the individual accomplishments of Strowman and Jericho. It also serves as an inspiration to aspiring wrestlers, demonstrating the importance of hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn from others. The feud is a reminder that success in wrestling is not just about physical ability, but also about character development, storytelling, and the ability to connect with the audience. In conclusion, the Braun Strowman vs. Chris Jericho rivalry may have been relatively short-lived, but it left a lasting impact on WWE and the wrestling world. It was a classic example of how to build a compelling storyline, and it helped to elevate both performers’ careers. The legacy of the rivalry continues to inspire and entertain fans, and it serves as a reminder of the power of professional wrestling.

Where Are They Now?

Since their memorable feud, both Braun Strowman and Chris Jericho have continued to carve out impressive careers in the wrestling world. Braun Strowman, after a rollercoaster ride in WWE, where he achieved championship success and became a prominent figure, eventually found himself released from the company. However, his passion for wrestling never waned, and he returned to WWE in 2022, much to the delight of his fans. Strowman continues to be a formidable force in the ring, utilizing his immense strength and size to dominate opponents. He is currently involved in various storylines, showcasing his growth as a performer and his commitment to the WWE Universe. Chris Jericho, ever the innovator and boundary-breaker, has continued to thrive outside of WWE. He became a pivotal figure in the formation of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where he serves as a wrestler, creative consultant, and mentor to younger talent. Jericho’s presence in AEW has been instrumental in the company’s success, as his experience and star power have helped to attract viewers and elevate the brand. He has also continued to tour with his band, Fozzy, showcasing his musical talents and connecting with fans on a different level. Both Strowman and Jericho have demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability throughout their careers. They have overcome challenges, reinvented themselves, and continued to pursue their passions. Their contributions to the wrestling world have been significant, and they continue to inspire fans and aspiring wrestlers alike. Their individual paths may have diverged since their feud, but the impact of their rivalry remains a memorable chapter in WWE history. The story of Braun Strowman and Chris Jericho is a testament to the enduring appeal of professional wrestling and the ability of its performers to connect with audiences on a deep and meaningful level.