Shawn Michaels vs. Chris Jericho (WWE 3/30/2003)

Was sure that this had been nominated but couldn't find a thread. Anyway, I rewatched this for basically no other reason than it having one of the most beautiful settings I can remember for a wrestling match, though I didn't expect much out of the ring work given neither guy is one of my favorites. Really, why doesn't everyone talk up how beautiful this match is with it taking place at in front of a blue sunset sky with a great looking set on a semi-open stadium? Anyway, I was pleasantly surprised at the ring work, hence the review. The match's story is all about Jericho coming in focused and eager to prove himself as having surpassed his idol but still getting outworked no matter what he tries. The opening headlocks looked good and featured both some good character and some learned psychology. Watch for Jericho to go for the same head scissors counter out of a headlock that Michaels used earlier in the match and for it not to work. The transition into striking moves when Jericho gets chippy was well done. Felt appropriate for him to work on Michaels' back as a desperation move and there was neat counter with him turning a Michaels' dropkick on the outside into the Walls of Jericho. Maybe there could have been more drama if Michaels sold his back more when he was on offense, but him not going all-in with the selling still worked for the match's story. Both guys pull off some well executed flying moves with believable set-ups. Jericho doing the kip-up and his own Sweet Chin Music are obvious highlights, but I also appreciated the subtle differences he worked in to create an uncanny valley feel. I also thought the stretch run was pretty well done in Jericho's frustration mounting until he's more or less broken after Michaels reaches the ropes on a Walls applied in the center of the ring.