Rey Mysterio Retains United States Title After Beating Austin Theory At WWE Payback 2023

In a thrilling and electrifying showdown at WWE Payback 2023, Rey Mysterio solidified his place as one of the most enduring and legendary figures in professional wrestling. The living legend, Rey Mysterio successfully defended his United States Championship by overcoming the relentless challenge of Austin Theory in a match that will undoubtedly go down in the annals of WWE history.

The anticipation for this title bout had reached a fever pitch, and the match delivered on all fronts. Rey Mysterio and Austin Theory showcased their incredible athleticism, in-ring prowess, and storytelling abilities, leaving the WWE Universe on the edge of their seats.

The match’s climax came when Mysterio executed a textbook-perfect victory roll, pinning Theory and sealing the victory. With this win, Mysterio continued his storied career as a multiple-time United States Champion, adding another illustrious chapter to his legacy.

This thrilling encounter was not a standalone event but the culmination of a riveting storyline that had been building for months. It all began on the August 11th episode of SmackDown when Rey Mysterio managed to best Austin Theory, capturing the United States Championship for the third time in his illustrious career.

This victory, however, marked the end of Theory’s impressive 257-day reign as the United States Champion, placing him in the record books as one of the title’s longest-reigning champions, only surpassed by the likes of Dean Ambrose and MVP.

The journey leading to this epic rematch was far from straightforward. Several weeks prior, a modified tournament had been orchestrated to determine the next challenger for Theory’s United States Championship. 

Mysterio outshone his competitors in a high-stakes Fatal 4-Way match, facing off against LA Knight, Sheamus, and Cameron Grimes. Meanwhile, Santos Escobar secured his shot at the title by defeating AJ Styles, Grayson Waller, and Butch, leading to a highly anticipated singles match between the LWO stablemates.

In a twist of fate, Rey Mysterio stepped into the void left by Escobar’s unfortunate injury, agreeing to face Austin Theory for the United States Championship. The opportunity presented itself, and Mysterio seized it with an unwavering determination to reclaim the title he had just won.

The ensuing match saw Mysterio exhibit his unparalleled agility, resilience, and technical prowess. In a moment that defined his career, Mysterio bested Theory once again, capturing the United States Championship.

Austin Theory, having tasted the bitterness of defeat, was determined to regain the title he had held for a significant portion of the past year. A match was set up to determine the first contender for Mysterio’s title, pitting Theory against LA Knight. In a contest filled with high drama and action, Theory managed to secure the victory, thanks in part to an untimely interference by the shrewd and opportunistic Miz.

WWE Payback 2023 was the stage for the ultimate showdown between Rey Mysterio and Austin Theory. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both superstars delivering their best. But it was Mysterio who proved victorious yet again, retaining his United States Championship and etching his name in the annals of WWE history.

As the WWE Universe celebrated Mysterio’s remarkable victory at Payback, it was clear that his legacy as a United States Champion would continue to shine brightly. Rey Mysterio’s journey to greatness is far from over, and with each successful title defense, he cements his status as an iconic figure in the world of professional wrestling.