Rey Mysterio Vs. Seth Rollins 2020: The Epic Rivalry
The WWE rivalry between Rey Mysterio and Seth Rollins in 2020 was nothing short of a captivating saga, filled with intense matches, personal vendettas, and dramatic turns that kept fans on the edge of their seats. This feud transcended the typical wrestling storyline, delving into deeply personal territory and showcasing some of the most compelling narratives WWE had crafted in recent years. For those who witnessed it, and for newcomers eager to explore WWE's rich history, let's dive deep into what made this rivalry so memorable and impactful.
Genesis of the Grudge
The seeds of this heated animosity were sown in May 2020, during an episode of Monday Night Raw. Seth Rollins, then portraying a messianic, almost cult-leader-like character, targeted Rey Mysterio, claiming that Rey was a sacrifice needed for the greater good of WWE. This bizarre rationale led to a brutal attack where Rollins, aided by his disciple Murphy, viciously assaulted Mysterio, ramming his eye into the corner of the steel steps. This gruesome incident immediately set the stage for a deeply personal and vengeful feud. The visual was shocking, and WWE masterfully used it to generate intense heat for Rollins, establishing him as a true villain. Mysterio, a beloved figure known for his high-flying acrobatics and underdog spirit, became the sympathetic victim, drawing instant empathy and support from the WWE Universe. This attack was not just a physical assault; it was a declaration of war, setting the tone for the months of conflict that would follow.
The injury angle was brilliantly executed, blurring the lines between reality and storyline. Rey Mysterio's absence following the attack only fueled the anticipation for his eventual return, with fans eagerly awaiting the moment he would exact his revenge on Rollins. WWE capitalized on this anticipation, using video packages and social media to keep the feud at the forefront of fans' minds. The narrative was compelling because it tapped into basic human emotions: justice, revenge, and the desire to see good triumph over evil. Rollins’ character, with his self-righteous and holier-than-thou attitude, made him the perfect foil for Mysterio, whose humility and resilience endeared him to fans of all ages. The contrast in their personas amplified the intensity of their conflict, making it more than just a series of wrestling matches; it was a battle of ideologies and moral principles.
The Fallout and Escalation
Following the initial assault, the rivalry quickly escalated, involving not just Rey Mysterio but also his family. Dominik Mysterio, Rey’s son, became increasingly involved, adding another layer of emotional depth to the storyline. Dominik's presence turned the feud into a family affair, with the Mysterios uniting against the common enemy in Rollins. This dynamic resonated strongly with audiences, as it highlighted the themes of family loyalty and protection. Rollins, ever the antagonist, used Dominik's involvement to further taunt Rey, often employing psychological warfare to gain an advantage. He would manipulate situations and exploit vulnerabilities, demonstrating his cunning and ruthless nature. Murphy, Rollins' loyal disciple, also played a crucial role in the escalating conflict, often serving as Rollins' muscle and interfering in matches to ensure his master's victory. However, Murphy's allegiance would later be tested, adding another layer of intrigue to the unfolding drama.
The involvement of Rey's wife, Angie, and daughter, Aalyah, further intensified the personal nature of the feud. Rollins' manipulative tactics extended to attempting to turn Aalyah against her own family, creating a rift that added emotional complexity to the storyline. This level of personal intrusion made the feud feel incredibly real and consequential, blurring the lines between the scripted world of wrestling and the raw emotions of human relationships. The Mysterio family's struggle against Rollins became a compelling narrative that drew viewers in week after week. Each family member's reaction to Rollins' actions added layers to the story, making it relatable and emotionally engaging.
Key Matches and Moments
Eye for an Eye Match
One of the most controversial and talked-about matches of this rivalry was the "Eye for an Eye" match at The Horror Show at Extreme Rules in July 2020. The stipulation was as gruesome as it sounded: the only way to win was to extract your opponent's eye. This match was highly anticipated due to its shocking premise and the sheer brutality it promised. While the execution was more theatrical than graphic, the visual of Rollins appearing to remove Mysterio's eye (with the help of special effects) was undeniably memorable. The match itself was a brutal affair, with both competitors utilizing various weapons and tactics to gain the upper hand. The ending, though controversial, solidified Rollins' status as a ruthless and sadistic villain, willing to go to any lengths to achieve victory. It also added another layer of sympathy for Mysterio, who was portrayed as a resilient warrior willing to sacrifice everything for his family and his principles.
The controversy surrounding the match stemmed from its violent nature and the implications of the stipulation. Some fans found it distasteful, while others appreciated the shock value and the way it advanced the storyline. Regardless of opinion, the "Eye for an Eye" match remains one of the most talked-about moments of the Mysterio-Rollins feud, demonstrating WWE's willingness to push boundaries and create memorable (if polarizing) content.
Dominik's Debut
Another pivotal moment in this rivalry was Dominik Mysterio's in-ring debut at SummerSlam 2020. Dominik faced Seth Rollins in a Street Fight, a match that showcased his potential as a future WWE star. Despite ultimately losing, Dominik put on a valiant performance, demonstrating his athleticism, resilience, and willingness to stand up to Rollins. This match was significant not only because it marked Dominik's official entry into the world of professional wrestling but also because it further intensified the personal stakes of the feud. The sight of Rey Mysterio watching his son compete against Rollins added an emotional layer to the match, making it more than just a physical contest; it was a battle for family honor and legacy.
Dominik's performance in the Street Fight earned him widespread praise from fans and critics alike. He proved that he was more than just Rey Mysterio's son; he was a legitimate competitor with the potential to become a major star in his own right. The match also allowed Rollins to further solidify his role as the calculating and manipulative antagonist, using every opportunity to exploit Dominik's inexperience and vulnerabilities. The dynamic between the two wrestlers was compelling, with Dominik's youthful energy and determination clashing against Rollins' seasoned experience and ruthless tactics.
Steel Cage Showdown
In September 2020, Rey Mysterio and Seth Rollins clashed inside a steel cage, adding another layer of intensity to their rivalry. The steel cage match is a classic wrestling stipulation designed to prevent outside interference, ensuring a definitive and decisive outcome. This particular match was a brutal and hard-fought affair, with both competitors pulling out all the stops to gain the upper hand. The close confines of the cage amplified the physicality of the match, with both Mysterio and Rollins utilizing the steel structure to inflict punishment on their opponent. The match was filled with near falls and dramatic moments, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.
The steel cage match provided a sense of finality to the Mysterio-Rollins feud, even though the rivalry would continue to evolve in the following months. It was a fitting culmination of their intense and personal conflict, showcasing the physical and emotional toll that the feud had taken on both men. The match also allowed both Mysterio and Rollins to demonstrate their resilience and determination, proving that they were willing to endure immense pain and suffering in pursuit of victory. The steel cage served as a symbolic representation of the cage of animosity and hatred that had enveloped their lives, trapping them in a cycle of violence and revenge.
The Unfolding Drama with Aalyah
One of the most controversial and dramatic aspects of this feud was the storyline involving Rey Mysterio's daughter, Aalyah. As the rivalry progressed, Aalyah developed a surprising and somewhat controversial romantic interest in Murphy, Seth Rollins' former disciple. This plot twist added a layer of soap opera-esque drama to the feud, blurring the lines between wrestling and reality television. Aalyah's attraction to Murphy was met with skepticism and disapproval from her family, who viewed him as an enemy and a betrayer. However, Aalyah remained steadfast in her affections, leading to heated arguments and emotional confrontations within the Mysterio family.
This storyline was controversial due to the age difference between Aalyah and Murphy, as well as the fact that Murphy had previously been associated with the villainous Rollins. Some fans found the plotline distasteful and unrealistic, while others were intrigued by the dramatic potential and the way it added complexity to the overall feud. Regardless of opinion, the Aalyah-Murphy romance became a significant talking point, generating buzz and discussion both online and offline. The storyline also allowed WWE to explore themes of love, forgiveness, and redemption, as Murphy eventually turned against Rollins and aligned himself with the Mysterio family.
The Aalyah-Murphy storyline ultimately led to a reconciliation between Murphy and the Mysterio family, as he proved his loyalty and genuine affection for Aalyah. This development provided a sense of closure to the feud, as the Mysterios were able to move forward and put the past behind them. However, the controversial nature of the storyline ensures that it remains a memorable and talked-about aspect of the Mysterio-Rollins rivalry.
The Aftermath and Lasting Impact
While the core of the Mysterio-Rollins feud concluded in late 2020, its impact reverberated throughout WWE in the months and years that followed. Dominik Mysterio, in particular, benefited greatly from his involvement in the rivalry, establishing himself as a legitimate competitor and eventually forming a successful tag team with his father. The Mysterios became the first father-son duo to win the SmackDown Tag Team Championship, cementing their legacy as one of the most beloved and respected families in WWE history.
Seth Rollins continued his run as one of WWE's top villains, utilizing the momentum gained from the Mysterio feud to further elevate his status. He remained a consistent presence in the main event scene, engaging in high-profile rivalries with other top stars. The Mysterio-Rollins feud also demonstrated WWE's willingness to push boundaries and take risks with their storytelling, even if it meant courting controversy. The feud's blend of intense action, personal drama, and shocking twists made it a memorable and impactful chapter in WWE history. For fans who followed the rivalry closely, it remains a testament to the power of compelling storytelling and the enduring appeal of professional wrestling.
In conclusion, the WWE rivalry between Rey Mysterio and Seth Rollins in 2020 was a complex and multifaceted saga that captivated audiences with its intense action, personal drama, and shocking twists. From the gruesome "Eye for an Eye" match to Dominik Mysterio's in-ring debut and the controversial Aalyah-Murphy romance, the feud was filled with memorable moments that continue to be discussed and debated by fans today. The rivalry not only elevated both Mysterio and Rollins as performers but also demonstrated WWE's ability to create compelling and emotionally resonant storylines that transcend the boundaries of professional wrestling.