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#3 Braun Strowman versus Kevin Owens
Many contrasting moments during this match had some sort of story fuelling its purpose. Let us begin by asking ourselves- Is there any reward for either of the two competitors involved in this match?
The simple answer is- NO.
But there is something behind it that makes this contest so great. Storytelling.
Kevin Owens is a heel. But he is being portrayed as a helpless individual being pitted against a monster. As Corey Graves subtly puts it, Owens is the 'goat' from Jurassic Park, and Braun Strowman is the 'T-Rex'.
Strowman wants chaos. Owens wants freedom. And the steel-cage match will reward an ending to this story. There are several moments when Strowman could have easily escaped from the steel-cage.
However, this is more than something as mere as a simple victory. Owens would be more satisfied in being miles away from this monster rather than just simply win this match, and that is what makes this story so great.
The actions inside the ring perfectly fit this mentality. Owens is thrown and battered around the ring. But Strowman wants more chaos, and so the battering continues. Just when we think there is no hope left for poor Owens, the underdog turns the tables via a simple prop- handcuffs.
The handcuffs prevent Strowman from getting his hands on Owens. But we are once again reminded that Owens is a heel- as he mocks Strowman by performing the DX cross chop.
It also elevates the crowd response. Soon, our sympathies lie with Strowman- who is unfortunately manipulated by an individual that deserved all the beatings he received so far.
Just like any other good story, the villain should never push his luck, for the hero, Strowman is only angered further, that gives him the strength to not escape but simply break free of the handcuffs.
We all know what happens next. Braun Strowman rushes to the top, chasing Owens, with an undeniable agility that leaves the crowd in awe.
Strowman chokeslams Owen from the top of the cage and right through the announcer's table. This amazing spot is eerily reminiscent of Mankind falling from the top of the HIAC structure, which makes it all the better.
Owens has sacrificed his body for the sake of this amazing story (and booking). However, as always, just like Jurassic Park- the T-Rex always stands tall, and no matter how vicious it is, somehow our sympathies always lie with this giant carnivore- just like it does with Braun Strowman.
Props to both of these performers for displaying amazing storytelling, and in the end, it does not matter whether there is a championship belt for them or not, what does matter is that the fans left entertained. and that final spot will always be ingrained in our memory as a sign of respect for Owens (and this story)...
Do you agree with these decisions? Sound off your opinions in the comments section below!
