The Big Show vs. Chris Jericho feud in 1999 remains a memorable storyline for wrestling fans. This rivalry showcased the contrasting styles and personalities of two major stars during the Attitude Era. Let's dive into the details of this iconic feud, exploring its origins, key matches, and overall impact.

Origin of the Feud

The genesis of the Big Show vs. Chris Jericho rivalry can be traced back to late 1999. At the time, Chris Jericho, known for his witty remarks and unparalleled in-ring skills, had already established himself as a rising star in WWE. The Big Show, on the other hand, was a dominant force, leveraging his massive size and strength to intimidate opponents. Their paths collided when Jericho began to mock and belittle The Big Show, setting the stage for a heated and personal feud.

Jericho's character was all about arrogance and showmanship. He would often cut promos that were both hilarious and cutting, targeting The Big Show's size and perceived lack of agility. These verbal jabs infuriated The Big Show, who was portrayed as a proud but easily provoked giant. The contrast in their personas – Jericho's quick-wittedness against Big Show's brute strength – made for compelling television. The storyline was brilliantly crafted to capitalize on their differences, drawing fans into the escalating conflict. WWE knew they had something special with these two, and they weren't afraid to push the boundaries to create must-see moments.

The initial encounters were mostly verbal, with Jericho cleverly avoiding direct physical confrontations. This built anticipation and further fueled the animosity. The fans were eager to see Jericho finally get his comeuppance, or to witness The Big Show unleash his fury on the smaller, more agile Jericho. The early stages of the feud were a masterclass in storytelling, drawing the audience in with each passing week. Little did we know, this was just the beginning of a rollercoaster ride filled with unexpected twists and turns. These initial interactions were crucial in setting the tone for what would become one of the most talked-about feuds of the year.

Key Matches and Moments

One of the defining matches in the Big Show vs. Chris Jericho feud occurred at a pay-per-view event in December 1999, Armageddon. This match was built up with weeks of intense promos and backstage brawls, making it a highly anticipated showdown. The match itself was a brutal affair, with both men pulling out all the stops to gain the upper hand.

Jericho, despite being significantly smaller, used his speed and technical skills to evade The Big Show's powerful attacks. He employed a strategy of hit-and-run, frustrating the giant and keeping him off balance. The Big Show, in turn, relied on his immense strength, delivering devastating blows and showcasing his dominance. The match was filled with near-falls and dramatic moments, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. One memorable spot saw Jericho attempting to take down The Big Show with a series of dropkicks, only to be swatted away like a fly. Another highlight was when The Big Show launched Jericho across the ring with a thunderous throw, demonstrating his raw power. The intensity of the match was palpable, and the crowd was electric.

Ultimately, The Big Show emerged victorious, but not without Jericho putting up a valiant fight. The match solidified The Big Show's status as a top-tier monster heel, while also elevating Jericho's credibility as a resilient and resourceful performer. The bout was a testament to their chemistry in the ring and their ability to tell a compelling story through their actions. It wasn't just about winning or losing; it was about showcasing their characters and pushing each other to their limits. This match is still talked about today as one of the highlights of their feud, and a classic example of how to create a memorable wrestling rivalry. It was a perfect blend of athleticism, storytelling, and sheer entertainment value.

Another memorable moment was on an episode of SmackDown!, where Jericho, with the help of The Rock, managed to trap The Big Show in a backstage area. They proceeded to humiliate him by covering him in garbage and other debris. This segment was classic Attitude Era humor, designed to generate heat for Jericho and further enrage The Big Show. These moments of humiliation added another layer to the feud, making it more personal and emotionally charged. It wasn't just about winning matches; it was about pride and respect.

Impact and Legacy

The Big Show vs. Chris Jericho feud had a significant impact on both their careers. For Chris Jericho, it was a crucial step in his ascent to becoming a main event player. By feuding with a dominant force like The Big Show, Jericho proved that he could hang with the top stars and deliver compelling performances, even against seemingly insurmountable odds. This feud helped solidify Jericho's reputation as one of the most versatile and entertaining performers in WWE history. He demonstrated his ability to generate heat, deliver memorable promos, and put on exciting matches, regardless of his opponent's size or stature.

The Big Show, on the other hand, benefited from the feud by further establishing himself as a credible and imposing threat. His matches with Jericho showcased his power and dominance, reinforcing his image as a force to be reckoned with. The feud also allowed him to display a more vulnerable side, as Jericho's taunts and antics often got under his skin. This added depth to his character and made him more relatable to the audience. While he was always known for his size, this feud helped him showcase his ability to tell a story and connect with the fans on an emotional level. The Big Show solidified his role as one of the most recognizable and enduring figures in wrestling.

Beyond their individual careers, the Big Show vs. Chris Jericho feud contributed to the overall excitement and appeal of the Attitude Era. The feud's blend of humor, aggression, and compelling storytelling captivated audiences and helped to define the era's edgy and unpredictable style. It was a time when anything could happen, and the Big Show vs. Chris Jericho feud perfectly embodied that spirit. It wasn't just about wrestling; it was about entertainment, drama, and pushing the boundaries of what was acceptable on television. This feud is a testament to the creativity and innovation that defined the Attitude Era and continues to influence wrestling today. It was a time of larger-than-life characters, outlandish storylines, and a relentless pursuit of entertainment. The feud reminded us why we loved wrestling.

In conclusion, the Big Show vs. Chris Jericho feud in 1999 was a memorable and impactful rivalry that showcased the best of both performers. Their contrasting styles and personalities made for compelling television, and their matches were filled with drama and excitement. The feud helped to elevate both their careers and contributed to the overall appeal of the Attitude Era. It remains a classic example of how to create a compelling and enduring wrestling rivalry.