At SummerSlam 2009, Rey Mysterio defended his Intercontinental Championship against the up-and-coming Dolph Ziggler in a high-energy showdown that proved why the IC Title has always been a showcase for some of WWE’s best in-ring action.
Ziggler, hungry for his first major championship, entered the match with confidence, eager to dethrone the veteran Mysterio. Rey, on the other hand, was determined to continue his reign and prove that he could outlast any challenger, no matter how young or talented. From the opening bell, both competitors displayed their unique styles—Ziggler with his technical prowess and aggressive offense, and Mysterio with his signature speed and high-flying abilities.
Early on, Ziggler used his strength advantage to control the pace, grounding Mysterio with punishing holds and targeting his midsection to neutralize his aerial offense. The challenger showed impressive resilience, countering Rey’s agility with well-timed reversals and near falls that had the Los Angeles crowd buzzing. Mysterio, however, refused to stay down, using his quickness to create separation and set up his high-flying attacks.
As the match progressed, the action intensified. Ziggler nearly secured the victory multiple times, coming close to winning with a brutal Zig Zag and a devastating gutbuster from the top rope, but Mysterio miraculously kicked out each time. Frustration began to set in for Ziggler as the champion continued to survive.
In the closing moments, Mysterio reversed a powerbomb attempt into a hurricanrana, sending Ziggler into position for his signature 619. The champion then followed up with a perfect springboard splash, securing the three-count and retaining his Intercontinental Championship.
Though Ziggler fell short, his performance solidified him as a future star, while Mysterio continued his legendary run as one of WWE’s most beloved champions. Their match remains one of the most underrated classics in SummerSlam history, a testament to both men’s incredible talent and chemistry inside the ring.