On the December 18, 2009 episode of SmackDown, Rey Mysterio and Batista clashed in an intense grudge match. Once close friends, their relationship had turned bitter after Batista’s shocking heel turn at Bragging Rights 2009. The Animal blamed Mysterio for costing him the World Heavyweight Championship and viciously attacked him, setting up a deeply personal rivalry.
Heading into this match, Mysterio was still recovering from previous beatdowns but refused to back down. Batista, now fully embracing his ruthless persona, looked to destroy Rey once and for all.
As the bell rang, Mysterio used his speed and agility to avoid Batista’s overwhelming power. He darted around the ring, delivering quick kicks and hit-and-run offense, frustrating The Animal. However, Batista eventually caught him mid-air and launched him across the ring with a devastating spinebuster.
The former World Champion methodically picked apart Mysterio, using his strength advantage to dominate. He tossed Rey into the barricade, stomped him down in the corner, and delivered a thunderous powerslam. Despite the punishment, Mysterio refused to quit, showcasing his incredible resilience.
As Batista attempted a Batista Bomb, Mysterio countered with a hurricanrana, sending him into position for the 619. The crowd erupted as Rey connected with his signature move, but Batista managed to roll out of the ring before Mysterio could capitalize.
Frustrated, Mysterio attempted another high-risk move, but Batista caught him mid-flight and rammed him spine-first into the steel ring post. The referee checked on Mysterio, but Batista showed no mercy, dragging him back into the ring for a brutal Batista Bomb. Instead of going for the pin, Batista delivered multiple Batista Bombs, forcing the referee to stop the match via knockout.
With a sadistic smirk, Batista stood tall over his fallen former friend, sending a clear message to the rest of SmackDown. The decisive victory further cemented Batista’s dominance as a top heel, while Mysterio’s never-give-up attitude made him even more beloved by fans.
This one-sided destruction added another chapter to their rivalry, proving that Batista had fully embraced his vicious new persona at the expense of one of his closest allies.
