WrestleMania 32: Jericho Vs. AJ Styles – A Classic Encounter

Alright, guys, gather 'round because today we're diving deep into one of those matches that just sticks with you, a true hidden gem from WrestleMania 32: Chris Jericho vs. AJ Styles. This wasn't just any match; it was a clash between a living legend, the Ayatollah of Rock 'n' Rolla, and a newcomer to the grandest stage of them all, a man who had captivated the world for years outside of WWE. Imagine the tension, the anticipation, the sheer excitement of seeing these two phenomenal competitors finally go head-to-head on the biggest platform. It was a moment that many fans, especially those who followed wrestling for years, had only dreamed of, and WrestleMania 32 delivered. This encounter was more than just a win or a loss; it was about establishing a new era, about proving who was truly the better man when the lights were the brightest. We're talking about a match that had incredible build-up, a compelling narrative, and delivered big-time in the ring. So, buckle up as we dissect every aspect of the Chris Jericho vs. AJ Styles WrestleMania 32 full match experience, exploring why it resonated so deeply with the WWE Universe and cemented its place as a memorable part of WrestleMania lore. This wasn't just a contest; it was a statement, a masterclass in storytelling and in-ring action that had everyone on the edge of their seats from start to finish. It’s a match that, years later, still sparks conversations and highlights how perfectly two different styles can mesh to create something truly special, something worthy of the WrestleMania stage. For many, it marked the true arrival of AJ Styles as a WWE superstar, while simultaneously reminding everyone just how adaptable and enduring Chris Jericho's talent really is. Let's get into the nitty-gritty, shall we?

The Unforgettable Build-Up to WrestleMania 32

The road to the Chris Jericho vs. AJ Styles WrestleMania 32 match was, frankly, phenomenal (pun absolutely intended!), and it all started with a shocking debut. For years, fans had dreamed of seeing AJ Styles step into a WWE ring, and at the 2016 Royal Rumble, that dream became a reality. The crowd absolutely erupted when his music hit, a moment that sent chills down spines worldwide. Styles immediately established himself as a legitimate threat, an incredible in-ring talent who could hang with anyone. This set the stage for his initial encounters with Chris Jericho, a veteran who, let's be honest, loves to test new talent. Their first few matches were an interesting mix of respect and rivalry. They teamed up as “Y2AJ” for a bit, even challenging for the Tag Team Championships, which felt like an unlikely but exciting alliance. There was a palpable chemistry between them, a back-and-forth rhythm that promised greatness. However, as is often the case with Jericho, the facade of friendship eventually crumbled. Jericho, ever the insecure genius, grew increasingly jealous of the adoration Styles was receiving, the "rookie" overshadowing the "legend". This simmering tension exploded when Jericho viciously attacked Styles after a tag team loss, slamming him through a television monitor and officially turning heel. This betrayal wasn't just a simple turn; it was personal. Jericho felt disrespected, felt that Styles hadn't earned his spot, and decided to take matters into his own hands. He wanted to teach the "newbie" a lesson, to remind everyone who the "best in the world at what he does" truly was. This shift from reluctant partners to bitter rivals perfectly fueled the narrative for a WrestleMania 32 showdown. The stakes weren't just about winning a match; they were about pride, respect, and establishing dominance. Jericho wanted to prove that experience trumps hype, while Styles aimed to show that he was exactly what the WWE Universe believed him to be: phenomenal. The promos leading up to the match were intense, with Jericho delivering his classic, cutting remarks, and Styles, though newer to the WWE style of promo, showing his fire and determination. Every segment, every interaction, built the anticipation for their grand collision. Fans knew that when these two finally met on the biggest stage, it wouldn't just be a wrestling match; it would be a battle for supremacy, a true test of wills and skill. This build-up, focusing on both the personal rivalry and the contrasting career trajectories, ensured that Chris Jericho vs. AJ Styles at WrestleMania 32 was destined to be a memorable encounter, brimming with emotion and high-octane action. It was a classic example of how to craft a compelling storyline that resonates deeply with the audience, making the payoff at WrestleMania all the more satisfying and impactful. The story wasn't just told in the ring; it was told in every glance, every word, and every brutal attack, making their eventual collision feel earned and hugely significant.

AJ Styles' WrestleMania Debut: A Dream Realized

For so many fans, the idea of AJ Styles finally making it to WWE was a fantasy, something that seemed almost impossible given his long and storied career outside the company. He was the face of TNA/Impact Wrestling for years, a global independent wrestling sensation, and the architect of countless five-star matches across various promotions in Japan and the US. When he finally debuted at the Royal Rumble, it wasn't just another entrance; it was the culmination of over a decade of dedication, hard work, and literally phenomenal performances. So, when the announcement came that he would be facing Chris Jericho at WrestleMania 32, it felt like destiny. This wasn't just AJ Styles' WrestleMania debut; it was a moment for every wrestling fan who had championed him for years, who knew the caliber of talent he possessed. The pressure on him must have been immense. Making your first appearance at WrestleMania, the grandest stage of them all, against a future Hall of Famer like Chris Jericho, is no small feat. This wasn't just about winning or losing; it was about proving himself to a mainstream audience, many of whom might not have been familiar with his extensive body of work. It was about showing that the "hype" was real, that the "Phenomenal One" could deliver on the biggest platform imaginable. His arrival in WWE was already a huge deal, but a WrestleMania match solidified his position. This match was his opportunity to showcase his unique blend of high-flying athleticism, technical prowess, and aggressive strike-based offense to millions. For Chris Jericho, this match also carried significance. As a veteran, it was his job to not only deliver a great match but also to help establish Styles as a main event player. He was essentially ushering in a new era, taking on the challenge of a competitor many considered to be the best in the world outside of WWE. The dynamic was perfect: the established legend trying to put the newcomer in his place, while the newcomer fought tooth and nail for his rightful spot at the top. This WrestleMania 32 match wasn't just a chapter in Styles' career; it was arguably the defining moment of his early WWE run, setting the tone for his future main event pushes and championship reigns. It was a statement to the world that AJ Styles belonged, that he wasn't just a great wrestler; he was a WrestleMania caliber superstar. His journey to this point, from independent shows to arenas packed with thousands, was finally culminating in the most iconic event in sports entertainment. The anticipation wasn't just for a match; it was for a moment in history, a validation for a wrestler who had earned every single bit of his success. Fans everywhere were buzzing about AJ Styles' WrestleMania debut, knowing that this was a pivotal moment not just for him, but for the landscape of WWE for years to come. It was the moment the Phenomenal One truly arrived, and he wasn't going to let anyone, not even Chris Jericho, stand in his way of etching his name into WrestleMania history.

The WrestleMania 32 Match: A Phenomenal Encounter

Alright, let's talk about the main event itself – the Chris Jericho vs. AJ Styles WrestleMania 32 full match. Man, what a showdown! When the bells rang, you could feel the electricity in the air at AT&T Stadium. This wasn't just a match; it was a pure wrestling clinic, a masterclass in psychology and high-octane action. From the get-go, both guys came out firing, trying to gain the early advantage. Chris Jericho, with his cunning veteran instincts, tried to slow the pace and use his vast experience to outsmart AJ Styles. He targeted Styles' neck and back, trying to ground the high-flyer and limit his aerial offense. Jericho was just brilliant in this match, showcasing his ability to adapt and control the rhythm, even against someone as explosive as Styles. But AJ Styles, the Phenomenal One, wouldn't be denied. He countered Jericho's methodical approach with his signature quickness, agility, and incredible striking ability. We saw some truly breathtaking sequences: Styles hitting incredible dropkicks, launching himself over the top rope with a forearm smash, and just generally defying gravity. The crowd was absolutely eating it up, guys, chanting for both competitors, showing just how invested they were in this battle. There were so many incredible near falls that had everyone on the edge of their seats, genuinely believing the match could end at any moment. Jericho would lock in the Walls of Jericho, wrenching Styles, only for Styles to show incredible resilience and fight his way out. Styles would hit his patented Phenomenal Forearm, only for Jericho to kick out at the very last second, to the collective gasp of the entire stadium. Each move felt significant, each counter felt earned, adding layers to the story they were telling in the ring. The psychology was spot-on: Jericho's frustration growing with every failed attempt to put Styles away, and Styles' unwavering determination to prove he belonged. It wasn't just a series of moves; it was a narrative unfolding right before our eyes. The pacing was excellent, building slowly, then escalating to a fever pitch with rapid-fire exchanges and high-impact maneuvers. You could see the desperation setting in for both men as the match wore on, pushing their bodies to the absolute limit. One of the standout moments came towards the end when Styles managed to hit a springboard 450 Splash, a move rarely seen from him in WWE at that point, but Jericho still found a way to kick out! It was a testament to Jericho's toughness and his willingness to go all out. However, the finish, for many, was a shock. After a grueling battle, it was Chris Jericho who ultimately picked up the win after reversing a Styles Clash attempt into a Codebreaker. The crowd, expecting Styles to win his WrestleMania debut, was left stunned. While some were disappointed with the outcome, the match itself was undeniably fantastic, a showcase of two of the very best squaring off. It was a contest filled with WrestleMania 32 highlights, from gravity-defying maneuvers to intricate technical wrestling, proving that both Jericho and Styles were, without a doubt, elite performers. Regardless of the finish, the Chris Jericho vs. AJ Styles WrestleMania 32 full match lived up to its incredible hype, delivering a thrilling and unforgettable encounter that showcased the best of professional wrestling.

The Lasting Legacy of Jericho vs. Styles

Even though the Chris Jericho vs. AJ Styles WrestleMania 32 match didn't have the outcome many fans expected – with Jericho securing the victory – its legacy is far more significant than just the final bell. For AJ Styles, despite the loss, this match was a pivotal moment that firmly established him as a top-tier WWE superstar. Guys, remember, this was his WrestleMania debut! To go toe-to-toe with a legend like Chris Jericho on the grandest stage and deliver a match of that caliber immediately silenced any lingering doubts about his ability to perform in WWE. The loss didn't hinder his momentum; in fact, it fueled it. Styles quickly bounced back, engaging in other high-profile feuds and within months, he was challenging for and eventually winning the WWE Championship. This WrestleMania 32 match proved that Styles was not just a phenomenal independent wrestler; he was a main event player in WWE, capable of delivering classic WrestleMania moments year after year. It opened the floodgates for his incredible run, which has seen him become one of the most decorated and respected superstars of his generation. For Chris Jericho, this match also added another feather to his already heavily adorned cap. It showcased his incredible versatility and his invaluable role as a veteran who can elevate new talent while still delivering a compelling performance. Jericho wasn't just winning; he was proving that even after decades in the business, he could still innovate, still surprise, and still steal the show. His heel work during this period, fueled by his jealousy of Styles, was masterful and truly engaging, reminding everyone why he’s considered one of the all-time greats. This particular feud with Styles and the WrestleMania 32 match specifically, marked a significant renaissance in Jericho's career, leading to his iconic "List of Jericho" run and other memorable angles that cemented his status as a living legend. The impact of Chris Jericho vs. AJ Styles reverberated through WWE, influencing storytelling and setting new benchmarks for in-ring quality. It was a testament to how two different styles can perfectly complement each other, creating a dynamic that keeps audiences enthralled. The match is frequently cited by fans as one of the standout matches from WrestleMania 32 and often pops up in discussions about great WrestleMania matches that didn't involve a championship. It’s a perfect example of how a well-told story, coupled with incredible athleticism, can create something truly timeless. This encounter solidified both men's places in wrestling history: Styles as the undeniable Phenomenal One of WWE, and Jericho as the eternal master of reinvention and a true WrestleMania icon. Its lasting legacy isn't just about the outcome; it's about the journey, the performances, and the indelible mark it left on the WWE Universe, proving that true talent always finds a way to shine, no matter the stage or the opponent. It genuinely remains a conversation starter whenever WrestleMania 32 highlights are discussed, and for good reason.

Final Thoughts: A WrestleMania 32 Classic

So, wrapping this up, guys, the Chris Jericho vs. AJ Styles WrestleMania 32 full match truly stands out as one of the most memorable and high-quality encounters from that particular WrestleMania event. It was more than just a contest of physical prowess; it was a deeply personal rivalry brought to the biggest stage, a clash of generations, and a testament to the incredible talent of both Chris Jericho and AJ Styles. For many, it represented the official arrival of Styles in WWE as a certified top-tier superstar, even with the surprising loss. His performance demonstrated that he belonged in the main event picture, capable of delivering WrestleMania classics with ease. Meanwhile, Jericho once again proved why he's one of the greatest of all time, showing his incredible ability to adapt, innovate, and carry a compelling storyline. He’s the kind of veteran you just know will deliver, and he absolutely did. The build-up was intense, the in-ring action was phenomenal, and the crowd was absolutely electric throughout. We saw dazzling aerial moves, brutal submissions, and near falls that legitimately made you gasp. This match had everything you could ask for in a WrestleMania encounter: drama, athleticism, and a story that truly resonated. It wasn't about a championship, but it felt like the most important match on the card because of the stakes involved – pride, respect, and the future of two incredible careers. If you're looking back at WrestleMania 32 highlights, you absolutely have to revisit Chris Jericho vs. AJ Styles. It's a match that showcases the best of professional wrestling and reminds us why we love this crazy, unpredictable business so much. It's a perfect example of how two different styles, when executed by masters, can create pure magic in the ring. So, next time you're feeling nostalgic or just want to watch some top-tier wrestling, pull up the Chris Jericho vs. AJ Styles WrestleMania 32 full match. You won't be disappointed, because this one, without a doubt, is a certified WrestleMania 32 classic. It's a match that will be talked about for years to come, a true highlight in both men's incredible careers and a fantastic piece of WrestleMania history. It delivered on every front and exceeded expectations, proving that sometimes, the most compelling stories are told not with belts, but with pure, unadulterated passion and skill. What a ride, guys, what a ride!