Christian Vs. Shelton Benjamin: Survivor Series 2004 Throwdown!

Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive into a classic Survivor Series match from way back in 2004. We're talking about the clash between Christian and Shelton Benjamin. This wasn't just any match; it was a real test of skill, agility, and sheer determination. Both of these guys were hungry to prove themselves, and they brought their A-game to the Survivor Series stage. This match is one of those that many fans remember fondly, and we’re going to break down exactly why. So, buckle up as we explore all the high spots, the key moments, and the overall vibe of this memorable encounter.

Setting the Stage

Before Christian and Shelton Benjamin locked horns at Survivor Series 2004, both wrestlers were carving out distinct paths for themselves in WWE. Christian, known for his crafty and often controversial tactics, was trying to solidify his status as a top-tier heel. He was all about getting under people's skin and using every trick in the book to secure a win. On the other hand, Shelton Benjamin was the rising star, an incredibly athletic and naturally gifted performer who had already captured the Intercontinental Championship earlier that year. His background in amateur wrestling gave him a solid foundation, and his explosive moveset made him a threat to anyone he stepped into the ring with.

Their Survivor Series match wasn't just a random encounter. It was a carefully built storyline that highlighted their contrasting styles and personalities. Christian, with his smug demeanor, represented the established, cunning veteran, while Shelton embodied the up-and-coming, honorable athlete. The anticipation was high because fans knew that this match had the potential to be a show-stealer. The storyline leading up to the event saw Christian employing his usual mind games, trying to get under Shelton's skin and throw him off his game. Shelton, however, remained focused and determined to prove that he was more than just a flash in the pan. This clash of styles and personalities made their Survivor Series showdown a must-see event.

The Match Breakdown

From the opening bell, the match between Christian and Shelton Benjamin was a rollercoaster of action. Christian, ever the strategist, tried to ground Shelton early, using his experience to control the pace and wear down his opponent. He focused on wearing Shelton down with a series of holds and calculated strikes, aiming to sap his energy and limit his explosive bursts. However, Shelton's raw athleticism and unpredictable offense kept Christian on his toes. Shelton responded with high-impact moves and innovative counters, showcasing his incredible agility and strength. His signature spots, like the springboard bulldog, had the crowd on its feet.

The match was filled with near falls and momentum shifts. There were several points where it looked like either wrestler was about to secure the victory, only for their opponent to kick out at the last possible second. Christian used every trick in his arsenal, including utilizing the ropes for leverage and attempting to draw Shelton into traps. Meanwhile, Shelton relied on his pure wrestling ability and tenacity to stay in the game. One standout moment was when Shelton executed a remarkable counter, turning a potential submission hold into a pinning combination, nearly stealing the win. The back-and-forth action kept the audience on the edge of their seats, unsure of who would emerge victorious. The closing moments of the match were particularly intense, with both wrestlers pulling out all the stops in an effort to secure the win. In the end, Shelton Benjamin managed to defeat Christian. The crowd erupted as the referee made the final count, signaling Shelton's hard-fought victory. This win was a significant moment for Shelton, further solidifying his status as a rising star in WWE.

Key Moments and Highlights

Several moments truly defined the match between Christian and Shelton Benjamin. One of the most memorable was Shelton's incredible springboard bulldog, a move that showcased his amazing agility and timing. The crowd erupted every time he executed this signature spot, highlighting its impact. Another highlight was Christian's near-fall after using the ropes for leverage during a pin attempt. This moment perfectly illustrated his heel character, always willing to bend the rules to gain an advantage. The near fall had the crowd on its feet, anticipating a controversial finish, but Shelton managed to kick out just in time.

Another key moment was when Christian attempted to wear Shelton down with a series of submission holds. Christian's strategy was to ground Shelton and neutralize his high-flying offense. However, Shelton's resilience and determination allowed him to escape these holds, showcasing his toughness. Furthermore, there was a significant exchange where Shelton countered a DDT attempt into a backdrop, turning the momentum in his favor. This demonstrated Shelton's adaptability and ability to think on his feet. The match also featured several intense back-and-forth sequences, with both wrestlers trading blows and near falls, keeping the audience guessing until the very end. The ending sequence, where Shelton finally secured the win with a signature move, was a perfect culmination of the match's storytelling. The crowd's reaction to Shelton's victory was electric, solidifying his status as a fan favorite and rising star in WWE.

The Aftermath and Impact

Shelton Benjamin's victory over Christian at Survivor Series 2004 was a significant boost to his career. It solidified his status as a rising star in WWE and demonstrated his ability to compete with established veterans. This win helped propel him further up the card and cement his position as one of the company's top young talents. Following his Survivor Series triumph, Shelton continued to build momentum, engaging in high-profile feuds and consistently delivering impressive performances.

For Christian, the loss to Shelton was a temporary setback. Despite the defeat, Christian remained a prominent figure on the SmackDown roster, using the loss as fuel to further develop his character and storyline. He continued to be a top-tier heel, consistently finding new ways to antagonize opponents and captivate audiences. The match itself is remembered fondly by fans as a showcase of both wrestlers' talents. It's often cited as one of the standout matches from Survivor Series 2004, highlighting the athleticism, storytelling, and sheer excitement that both Christian and Shelton brought to the ring. The match is remembered for its intense action, near falls, and the clear contrast in styles between the two competitors. Over the years, the match has maintained its reputation as a hidden gem from that era of WWE. New fans continue to discover and appreciate the match through online platforms and WWE Network archives, solidifying its legacy as a memorable encounter in the careers of both Christian and Shelton Benjamin.

Why This Match Still Resonates

The Christian versus Shelton Benjamin match from Survivor Series 2004 still resonates with fans for several reasons. First and foremost, it was a fantastic display of in-ring action. Both wrestlers brought their A-game, delivering a fast-paced, exciting match filled with innovative moves and near falls. The match highlighted the contrasting styles of Christian and Shelton, with Christian's cunning and experience clashing against Shelton's athleticism and raw talent. This contrast made for a compelling narrative that kept viewers engaged from start to finish.

Additionally, the match was a significant moment in both wrestlers' careers. For Shelton Benjamin, it was a chance to prove himself against a seasoned veteran and solidify his status as a rising star. For Christian, it was an opportunity to showcase his ability to adapt and compete with younger, more athletic opponents. The Survivor Series stage provided a grand platform for both wrestlers to shine, elevating the match to a higher level of importance. The storytelling within the match was also top-notch. The match built upon the established rivalry between Christian and Shelton, incorporating elements of strategy, resilience, and determination. The near falls and reversals kept the audience guessing until the very end, creating a sense of drama and excitement that is often missing from today's wrestling matches. The match is a perfect example of how to blend athleticism and storytelling to create a memorable and impactful wrestling experience. Its legacy lives on through online highlights, fan discussions, and WWE Network replays, ensuring that new generations of wrestling fans can appreciate the skills and talents of Christian and Shelton Benjamin.