Christian Vs. Shelton Benjamin: Epic Survivor Series Showdown

Hey wrestling fans! Remember the electric atmosphere of the 2004 Survivor Series? One of the most underrated gems from that night was the captivating match between Christian and Shelton Benjamin. This wasn't just a random bout; it was a clash of styles, personalities, and championship aspirations, all unfolding on a grand stage. If you're a wrestling enthusiast, especially a fan of mid-2000s WWE, you probably remember this rivalry with fondness. Let's take a deep dive into this forgotten classic, breaking down the build-up, the match itself, and its impact on both performers.

The Build-Up: A Battle for the Intercontinental Title

Before we jump into the match, let's rewind and set the scene. In late 2004, Christian, managed by the lovely and cunning Trish Stratus, held the coveted WWE Intercontinental Championship. He was the epitome of a cocky, opportunistic heel, always looking for an edge and willing to bend the rules to retain his title. On the other side, we had Shelton Benjamin, a rising star in the company, known for his incredible athleticism and jaw-dropping moves. Coming from the stable with Charlie Haas and Kurt Angle, Shelton Benjamin was looking to establish himself as a singles competitor. The build-up to their Survivor Series encounter was filled with the usual WWE drama, with back-and-forth promos, sneak attacks, and the general feeling that something special was brewing. The key storyline revolved around Christian's underhanded tactics and Benjamin's determination to overcome them. The contrast was clear: Christian, the cunning veteran, versus Benjamin, the hungry young lion. The story was simple but effective: Could the young, high-flying phenom dethrone the veteran champion?

This storyline had everything you'd want in a wrestling feud. Christian was a master of his craft, getting nuclear heat from the crowd with his cowardly antics, while Benjamin was a charismatic babyface with the in-ring skills to match his popularity. The contrast in their styles was exciting as well; Christian was more methodical, using his intellect to dominate, while Benjamin was a human highlight reel, relying on his incredible athleticism and daredevil moves. This made for an exciting clash of styles, and fans were instantly invested. The anticipation was palpable, as the WWE Universe anticipated seeing if Benjamin could finally claim his first singles championship in the company. The match wasn't just about the title; it was about Benjamin proving he could hang with the best and take the next step towards superstardom. The storyline was great for Benjamin, who had become a fan favorite. The crowd loved his high-flying moves and his incredible athleticism, and the fact that he was so close to finally reaching the top made the audience even more invested in the feud. The combination of storytelling, in-ring action, and the promise of a title change made this build-up a success and generated a lot of buzz for their upcoming match.

The Match: A High-Flying, Hard-Hitting Classic

The match at Survivor Series was nothing short of a spectacle. Shelton Benjamin and Christian took their rivalry to the ring in a thrilling display of athleticism and storytelling. From the opening bell, the two wrestlers showcased their contrasting styles, with Christian employing his trademark heel tactics and Benjamin using his incredible athleticism to mount an impressive offense. Shelton Benjamin, eager to capture his first singles title, came in with a fire that was evident from the start. His agility and explosiveness were on full display as he countered Christian's early attempts to slow the pace, and fans were immediately drawn into the match. Benjamin's offensive showcase of high-flying maneuvers, including his signature springboard moves, kept the crowd on the edge of their seats. Every move told a story, and the audience was completely invested in the match. The audience was hooked on Benjamin's high-flying and his ability to counter Christian's attempts to control the match. He showed remarkable resilience, and his never-give-up attitude perfectly embodied the underdog spirit.

Meanwhile, Christian was his usual cunning self, exploiting every opportunity to gain an advantage. He used his veteran experience to control the pace of the match, often resorting to underhanded tactics to wear down Benjamin. He used the ropes to his advantage, frequently distracting the referee to allow him to commit fouls. Christian's heel persona was on full display as he masterfully played the role of the opportunistic villain, drawing both boos and cheers from the audience. Every move he made was calculated to wear down Benjamin and steal a victory. The back-and-forth action was amazing to watch, with near falls that had everyone biting their nails. Christian did everything in his power to slow down the match and exploit any opening to gain an advantage. His tactics kept the fans guessing, adding an element of unpredictability to the match. The crowd responded with a mix of cheers and jeers, acknowledging his impressive skills and hatred for his character. The contrast between Christian's underhanded tactics and Benjamin's high-flying offense made for a captivating display of athleticism and storytelling. The match was a true example of how two different styles could create an exciting and memorable match, making it a standout moment for both competitors.

The climax was an amazing rollercoaster of near falls, reversals, and high-risk maneuvers. The fans were on their feet, yelling and chanting, as both wrestlers threw everything they had at each other. The drama was really building as the pace of the match intensified with near falls. It was just a matter of time before one of them would go down. The crowd roared with anticipation as Benjamin attempted his finishing move, but Christian managed to reverse it. It was like something out of a movie. The moments that followed are forever etched in the memories of the fans. After a thrilling back-and-forth exchange, Christian, with a bit of help from a cleverly timed distraction, was able to secure the victory, retaining his Intercontinental Championship. The match ended with a controversial finish, perfectly fitting Christian's character, as he capitalized on a moment of weakness to steal the win. Despite the loss, Benjamin's performance cemented his status as a future star and the match was a testament to his incredible athleticism and determination. The end of the match left fans wanting more and further fueled the rivalry between the two wrestlers. Both wrestlers left it all in the ring, and the crowd showed their appreciation with a standing ovation, making it a memorable encounter.

Aftermath and Lasting Impact

Although Shelton Benjamin didn't win the Intercontinental Championship at Survivor Series, the match was a significant moment in his career. It solidified his position as a rising star and a major player in the mid-card division. The performance he delivered was nothing short of amazing, and he proved that he could hang with the best. This match was a testament to his talent and hard work, and it paved the way for future opportunities. The fans responded positively to his performance, which further elevated his popularity and gave him the confidence to strive for greater achievements in the company. Although he did not win the title, he earned respect and recognition for his talent and potential. This was more than just a match; it was a launching pad. The match also helped elevate Christian, showcasing his ability to deliver a great match with any opponent. He further proved his worth as a top heel, always capable of generating heat and making opponents look great. This win helped him retain his championship and continue to build his legacy as a prominent figure in WWE. He also proved that he had the ability to go toe-to-toe with the best in the business. The match was a success for both wrestlers, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

The feud between Christian and Benjamin didn't end with this match, as the rivalry continued for several weeks. Their feud was highlighted by more matches, including a rematch on Raw, which further amplified their intensity and competitiveness. This series of matches kept fans engaged and eager to see what would happen next, as both wrestlers continued to develop. The chemistry between Christian and Benjamin was undeniable, which was evident in their matches. Their ability to deliver compelling performances contributed to the success of their rivalry, keeping audiences invested. This further established them as top performers. The matches were a testament to their dedication to the craft, and the WWE Universe appreciated their hard work. The legacy of Christian vs. Shelton Benjamin at Survivor Series 2004 goes beyond the match itself. It's a reminder of a time when WWE was filled with exciting rivalries and when mid-card feuds could be as compelling as those at the top of the card. It's a testament to the talent and dedication of both Christian and Shelton Benjamin, who delivered a match that continues to be remembered fondly by wrestling fans.

Conclusion: A Match That Still Resonates

In conclusion, the Christian vs. Shelton Benjamin match at Survivor Series 2004 was a hidden gem. It had a compelling build-up, exciting in-ring action, and a finish that kept fans talking. It was a showcase of both wrestlers' skills, and it highlighted the importance of storytelling in wrestling. Christian and Shelton Benjamin created a memorable match that continues to resonate with fans to this day. It's a must-watch for any wrestling fan looking to revisit a classic from the mid-2000s era of WWE. This match is a perfect example of what makes wrestling so exciting. It's a reminder of the power of a well-told story, great in-ring performances, and the passion of the wrestlers. If you've never seen it, do yourself a favor and check it out. You won't regret it!