Dominik Mysterio is preparing to defend the Intercontinental Championship in a high-stakes match against AJ Styles, a rival he recently faced at SummerSlam. This upcoming bout, scheduled for WWE Raw on September 1 in Paris, will challenge Dominik’s hold on the title as Styles seeks revenge after their controversial encounter.
Their previous match saw Dominik use a tactical move by removing his boot and striking Styles with it, followed by a decisive Frog Splash from the top rope that allowed him to retain the Intercontinental Championship. Despite Styles appearing dominant throughout the match, this unexpected tactic gave Dominik the edge.
AJ Styles Demands a Rematch After Controversial SummerSlam Loss
Since that intense match, AJ Styles has made it clear he wants another shot at the Intercontinental Title. While Dominik, the heel champion, has avoided a rematch, Styles has actively interfered in his recent matches to unsettle him. At the AAA TripleMania event in Mexico City, Styles attacked Dominik mid-match for the AAA Grand Championship, delivering a punishing Styles Clash that cost Dominik the title opportunity.
Further escalations occurred on WWE Raw in Birmingham, England, when Styles defeated Dominik’s Judgment Day ally Finn Balor in a clean singles match without any outside assistance. Finn had insisted on no interference, a decision that backfired as Styles executed the Styles Clash and secured the victory.
Official Announcement of the Intercontinental Title Match in Paris
Following these events, Dominik and his faction, The Judgment Day, confronted WWE official Adam Pearce backstage, hoping to put an end to AJ Styles’ provocations. Pearce responded by confirming the next meeting between Dominik and Styles for the Intercontinental Championship on Raw in Paris. As Pearce made the announcement, Finn Balor could be seen laughing in the background, underscoring the tension surrounding the match.
AJ Styles, despite being a heel, enjoyed strong crowd support during his recent match against Cody Rhodes at Backlash France in Lyon, where fans enthusiastically sang his Phenomenal theme song. This fan backing presents an added challenge for Dominik during their upcoming contest in Paris.
Dominik Mysterio Reflects on His Role and Fan Reactions in WWE
Dominik Mysterio has been a consistent part of WWE for about five years and has embraced his heel persona for the past three years. His character, known as “Dirty Dom,” has sparked mixed reactions from fans, who often boo him but also sometimes chant his theme, creating a complex dynamic.
“I react to what is being given to me, right? As of now, they’ve been booing me, but every now and then they’ll chant that Dirty Dom song, and that Dirty Dom song, for one way or another, it always gets a crack out of me and I tend to break and smile because it’s… It’s funny hearing everyone singing it together because I’ve just been getting booed for years.I don’t know if I’ll ever embrace it because I haven’t changed anything about myself. I’ve just been Dirty Dom all the way. So the fact that the people still love it, I don’t know. We’ll have to wait and see. It’s got to be organic. You can’t force anything. You can’t force it.” —Dominik Mysterio
He acknowledges that a potential transition back to a babyface role in WWE cannot be rushed or imposed. Instead, it must develop naturally, reflecting an authentic connection with the audience.
Other Notable Developments in the Wrestling World
While all eyes focus on Dominik Mysterio’s Intercontinental Title defense, other significant moments have unfolded recently in professional wrestling. At AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door, Adam Copeland and Christian Cage secured their first tag team victory together in 14 years against Killswitch and Kip Sabian, demonstrating a powerful reunion for the duo.
AEW has also teased an ECW-themed tribute event, highlighting the promotion’s respect for wrestling history while continuing to innovate. Meanwhile, Mercedes Mone retained the TBS Championship, which she has held since May 2024, showing her dominance in AEW.
Adam Page successfully defended his AEW World Championship against MJF, overcoming the challenger’s deceptive tactics in a match with additional stipulations, further cementing his status as a top competitor.
WWE events drew considerable attention with recent appearances from top stars such as John Cena and The Undertaker, who attended Vince McMahon’s birthday party alongside other current WWE talents. Cena has remained in the spotlight amid his Farewell Tour, marking an emotional period for fans and the company alike.
Mercedes Mone has also expressed ambitions beyond wrestling, aiming to secure a role in the Fast & Furious movie franchise following her recent work in a holiday film, showcasing the diverse aspirations of wrestling superstars.
Upcoming Challenges for Dominik Mysterio and AJ Styles
The impending Intercontinental Championship match in Paris represents a critical moment for both Dominik Mysterio and AJ Styles. Dominik will need to defend his title against a relentless opponent fueled by recent personal attacks and fan support, increasing the stakes considerably. This confrontation not only affects their careers but also influences the momentum for The Judgment Day faction and the balance of power on WWE Raw.
The match is expected to generate significant attention, particularly given the growing tension and unresolved history between the two competitors, making it a must-watch event for WWE fans worldwide.
