AJ Styles Vs. Dominik Mysterio: A Raw Match Recap

Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive into a match that had everyone talking: AJ Styles vs. Dominik Mysterio on the October 17, 2022, episode of Monday Night Raw. This wasn't just any match; it was a clash of generations, a battle of experience versus youthful aggression, and a pivotal moment in the ongoing saga of the Mysterio family. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's break down this exciting encounter. We'll explore the build-up, the key moments, and what this match meant for everyone involved.

The Build-Up: Family Drama and Unexpected Alliances

Alright, guys, before we get to the match itself, we gotta understand the backstory. The feud between The Judgment Day and the Mysterio family was in full swing. Remember, the Judgment Day, led by the intimidating Finn Balor, had been tormenting Rey Mysterio and his son, Dominik, for weeks. Dominik, you know, the younger, slightly more rebellious Mysterio, had shockingly turned on his father and joined forces with the Judgment Day. This betrayal was the core of the storyline. It added a compelling layer of emotional depth to every match and promo. Every time Dominik stepped into the ring, there was this palpable tension, a feeling that something significant was always about to happen.

The presence of Rhea Ripley was important. Her role as the enforcer of the group was particularly effective. She often stood ringside, offering a silent but threatening presence, ready to interfere at any moment. Seeing her alongside Dominik was a constant reminder of his twisted allegiance.

On the other side of the ring, AJ Styles, a seasoned veteran and one of the most respected performers in the industry, became a key ally to Rey Mysterio. Their alliance was a bit unexpected, but it made perfect sense. Styles, with his vast experience and incredible in-ring skills, was exactly what Rey needed to counter the ruthlessness of The Judgment Day. The pairing added a dynamic that kept fans invested. The anticipation was intense leading up to this match. Would Dominik continue to embrace his dark side? How would AJ Styles navigate the family drama? This match was more than just a fight; it was a culmination of weeks of storytelling. The stakes were high, and the potential for drama was even higher.

Match Highlights: A Clash of Styles and Generations

So, the bell rings, and the match is on! The atmosphere was electric. AJ Styles and Dominik Mysterio were ready to put on a show. Right from the start, we saw a clear contrast in styles. Styles, the experienced wrestler, started with a mix of technical wrestling and high-flying moves. His speed, agility, and precision were on full display. He methodically worked on Dominik, using his signature moves like the dropkick and the phenomenal forearm to control the pace. On the other hand, Dominik was fueled by rage. He showed his aggressive side, using underhanded tactics and trying to wear Styles down with cheap shots. This was the result of his alignment with the Judgment Day. The match was a brilliant display of storytelling in the ring.

There were several key moments that really stood out. First, the near falls. These are always the most exciting. Dominik managed to hit a frog splash, a move usually associated with his father, and the crowd held its breath as the referee counted, nearly getting the pin. Styles also had some close calls, where Dominik would kick out at the last second. These near falls are essential. They build tension and keep the audience on the edge of their seats, making it seem like either wrestler could win at any moment. The match was filled with reversals and counters. Styles' ability to quickly adapt to Dominik's moves and Dominik's surprising resilience made for a fast-paced and unpredictable match. At one point, Dominik's Judgment Day allies tried to interfere, but Rey Mysterio and others came out to even the odds, adding another layer of chaos.

Furthermore, the impact of Rhea Ripley's presence was significant. She frequently tried to distract the referee and manipulate the match, which added to the tension. She played the role of the menacing enforcer perfectly, adding to the drama. The crowd was constantly on their feet, fully invested in every move. The combination of in-ring action, near falls, and the presence of outside interference made this match a true spectacle. It was a perfect blend of athleticism, storytelling, and high drama.

Key Moments and Turning Points

Okay, let’s dig into some of those key moments that really defined this match. One of the biggest turning points came when Dominik tried to use a weapon, a steel chair. But, as you all know, the referee spotted it and stopped him. This led to a heated exchange, and Dominik used the distraction to gain an advantage. Remember, the Judgment Day's tactics were never fair. They would use any means necessary to win. Dominik's willingness to cheat was a clear indication of his character's transition to the dark side. It was a stark contrast to his earlier, more innocent persona. This was a critical moment because it showed just how far he was willing to go. These types of moments are often used to define a wrestler's character.

Then came the involvement of Rhea Ripley. She was a constant threat, lurking around ringside, ready to interfere whenever possible. She played a pivotal role in the match. She would provide distractions, try to attack Styles when the referee's back was turned, and generally do everything she could to help Dominik. Her presence, along with the other members of the Judgment Day, added to the underhanded tactics used during the match. The interference was a key part of the match, adding another layer of drama and suspense, and raising the stakes.

Another significant moment came when Rey Mysterio got involved. He came to the ring to neutralize Finn Balor and the other members of the Judgment Day. This intervention was both expected and exciting. It added a layer of family conflict and a sense of hope for Styles. The sight of Rey Mysterio, the father, standing up to defend his friend, and trying to pull his son back from the brink of darkness, was powerful. The interplay between the father and son and the way Rey tried to influence Dominik were significant moments in the storyline.

The Finish: A Phenomenal Victory

So, with the match in full swing, and everyone on the edge of their seats, how did it end? AJ Styles was able to gain control, and set up for his finisher, the phenomenal forearm. With Dominik reeling, Styles didn't miss his chance. Boom! The phenomenal forearm connected, and the crowd went wild. The three count and it was over. Styles was victorious!

The ending was a perfect culmination of the match's narrative. Styles won clean. His win was a triumph of skill and experience over Dominik's aggression and cheating tactics. The victory was satisfying, and it served to highlight Styles' resilience and skill, as well as Dominik's defeat. However, it wasn't just a win for Styles. It was a sign of the underlying hope that Dominik might one day return to his family. This was a powerful ending, and it left fans wanting more.

Aftermath and Significance

After the match, the impact of the match extended beyond just the outcome. It played a significant role in continuing the feud between the Mysterio family and the Judgment Day. The story didn't end with this match; it evolved. The following weeks saw the family conflict escalate further, with Dominik becoming even more entrenched in his alliance with the Judgment Day. There were more matches, more brawls, and more emotional moments, all centered around the original conflict. The storyline between the Mysterio family and the Judgment Day was an important one in WWE. This match was a crucial part of the story. The events in this match helped to shape the future direction of the feud, adding new layers of complexity. It provided compelling content for viewers and contributed to the overall entertainment value of the show.

This match also showed how AJ Styles can continue to be a top-tier performer. His ability to deliver consistently high-quality performances, even at this stage in his career, is remarkable. The match also helped to elevate Dominik Mysterio. His heel turn and the association with the Judgment Day gave his character new life. It helped him to establish himself as a convincing villain, increasing his overall presence within the company. This match was a significant point in both their careers. It was a crucial match that shaped several storylines.

Conclusion: A Must-Watch Match

To wrap it up, the AJ Styles vs. Dominik Mysterio match on Raw from October 17, 2022, was a fantastic match. It had everything: great wrestling, emotional depth, and unexpected twists. It's a must-watch for any wrestling fan. The match gave us a compelling story. It showcased the talents of both wrestlers and furthered the ongoing story between the Mysterio family and the Judgment Day. It's a match that's worth revisiting, time and time again. So, if you haven't seen it, go check it out! You won't be disappointed!

Thanks for reading, and until next time, keep those wrestling memories alive!"