AJ Styles and Kevin Owens didn't wait for the match to officially start. They started trading blows during the introductions.
Shane McMahon tried to maintain order as the rivals brawled in and out of the ring.
KO grounded Styles, but spent a lot of time bickering with the ref. The champion fired back with devastating counters.
McMahon got in the way of a 450 splash from Styles and the impact slowed his reaction to Owens hitting the Pop-Up Powerbomb. A second collision left Shane-O-Mac out of position for a potential Styles' win.
Champion and challenger slugged it out, trying to finish each other off.
Owens thought he won, but Styles' foot was on the rope during the three-count. That left KO livid and he and McMahon fought. Styles took advantage, nailing his foe with the Phenomenal Forearm and the Styles Clash to secure the win.
Styles wins via pinfall to retain the U.S. title.
Memorable Moments and Quotes
- Owens and Styles trade a flurry of slaps and punches.
- "You fall off buildings and get back up, but can't get over there for a three-count?"—Owens to McMahon.
- Owens hit a swinging fisherman's suplex from the top rope.
- Owens kicks out of the Styles Clash.
In the most intense match together, Owens and Styles thrived in what is surely the end of their rivalry.
Owens' attitude entertained. He and Styles shook the ring with big move after big move.
And WWE deftly used McMahon's presence here. He didn't only add drama but built the foundation for what should be a stellar feud between KO and McMahon. That will give KO something high-profile to do while freeing Styles up for a fresh challenger.
Smart booking all around.
