With Braun Strowman making it clear in recent weeks that he was eyeing Shinsuke Nakamura’s Intercontinental Title, The Monster Among Men had a prime opportunity to work toward a championship match by squaring off against Shinsuke in non-title action.

With Sami Zayn and Cesaro in Nakamura’s corner, The King of Strong Style found himself in a world of hurt at the hands of Strowman in the early goings. Zayn and Cesaro attempted to distract Braun throughout the contest, succeeding in the early goings by using the numbers advantage to down the massive Strowman. Braun battled back, however, and soon appeared to have Nakamura on the ropes. In the critical moments, Cesaro again attempted to interject, causing the referee to become distracted and allowing Zayn to slide the Intercontinental Title to Shinsuke.

WWE’s Rockstar wouldn’t get the chance to use it though, as Braun thwarted any plans, intercepting Nakamura’s attack and catching him with the Running Powerslam for the three-count. The Monster Among Men celebrated with the Intercontinental Title before Zayn quickly ran into the ring to snatch it from him, yet the overwhelming sensation still remained: Strowman was inching closer and closer to an Intercontinental Title opportunity.