WWE Fast Lane: 6 Things You Need To Know About Reigns Vs. Bryan

4. Their Last Singles Match Was Really Good In September 2013

The last time Bryan had a televised singles match against Roman Reigns was September 16, 2013 in Cleveland, Ohio. It’s been a while. One night earlier, Bryan won the WWE Title from Randy Orton at Night of Champions and then at the start of Raw he had the title stripped from him due to the ref Scott Armstrong counting fast. Remember that stupid storyline?

Their match was really good. They were given 18 minutes in the main event slot, which is definitely on the long end of TV matches, even in a main event spot. This was when The Shield were still heels while Bryan was as popular as ever, so the crowd was into the match.

The match was not a carry job by Bryan. Reigns held his own and I really liked all of the power spots they did. Bryan’s arguably the best in-ring performer in WWE, but it’s not always easy for opponents to keep up with him because of his speed and athleticism. Roman did a good job of mixing in his power moves. It ended thanks to Randy Orton interfering when Bryan was about to win, so it was a DQ finish.

It would be interesting to get Roman’s take on the match because this was likely one of the most high profile singles matches in his career in that first year on the main roster. He really excelled in the role.

If Bryan didn’t get hurt last year perhaps they would have had more matches, but that’s a positive thing going into Fast Lane because when they wrestle there it’s going to be fresh. Most people don’t remember the September 2013 match even though it was good.