Welcome to the world of professional wrestling! I’m Jeff Wolfe, your go-to source for all things wrestling. Today, we’ll be taking a look back at Payback 2013, a Father’s Day Fracas that took place on June 16, 2013, at the Allstate Arena in Chicago, Illinois. This event featured some intense matches and unforgettable moments. Let’s dive right in!
Pre-Show: Sheamus vs. Damien Sandow
The night kicked off with a pre-show match between Sheamus and Damien Sandow. This match was a result of Sandow testing Sheamus’ mental strength in a series of challenges. The match started with Sheamus showcasing his power, but Sandow fought back with a knee to the head. The action went back and forth, with both competitors giving it their all. In the end, Sheamus emerged victorious with a Brogue Kick, proving once again why he is a force to be reckoned with.
Intercontinental Title: Curtis Axel vs. The Miz vs. Wade Barrett
The Intercontinental Championship was on the line in a triple threat match between Curtis Axel, The Miz, and Wade Barrett. Axel was a last-minute substitute for the injured Fandango. Miz and Barrett had been feuding for weeks leading up to this match. The action was fast-paced and hard-hitting, with all three competitors vying for the prestigious title. In a surprising turn of events, Curtis Axel managed to secure the victory and become the new Intercontinental Champion. This unexpected win left the WWE Universe in shock and set the stage for Axel’s future as champion.
Divas Title: Kaitlyn vs. AJ Lee
The Divas Championship was up for grabs as Kaitlyn faced off against AJ Lee. This match had been building for months, with AJ manipulating Kaitlyn’s emotions and betraying their friendship. The two women put on a solid performance, showcasing their athleticism and determination. In the end, AJ Lee emerged victorious, capturing the Divas Championship. While the match was a step in the right direction for the Divas division, there was still work to be done to elevate the division to new heights.
US Title: Dean Ambrose vs. Kane
Dean Ambrose defended his United States Championship against the Big Red Machine, Kane. Ambrose had been on a dominant run as champion, but Kane was determined to dethrone him. The match was a hard-hitting affair, with both men giving it their all. In a surprising turn of events, the match ended in a countout victory for Dean Ambrose. While the finish was controversial, Ambrose proved that he was a fighting champion and was willing to do whatever it took to retain his title.
Smackdown World Title: Alberto Del Rio vs. Dolph Ziggler
Alberto Del Rio and Dolph Ziggler squared off in a highly anticipated rematch for the Smackdown World Title. Ziggler had won the title from Del Rio in a Money in the Bank cash-in, but a concussion had sidelined him for several weeks. The match was intense, with both men leaving it all in the ring. In a shocking turn of events, Alberto Del Rio reclaimed the title, leaving the WWE Universe in disbelief. The match showcased the resilience and determination of both competitors.
CM Punk vs. Chris Jericho
Two of the biggest names in professional wrestling, CM Punk and Chris Jericho, collided in an epic showdown. The match was a back-and-forth affair, with both men showcasing their technical prowess and high-flying abilities. The Chicago crowd was firmly behind their hometown hero, CM Punk, as he battled Jericho. In the end, Punk emerged