On **November 22, 2016**, WWE fans were treated to an intense and highly competitive showdown on **SmackDown LIVE** as **Becky Lynch defended her SmackDown Womenâs Championship against Natalya**. This match was more than just a title defense; it was a clash of two of the most skilled female wrestlers in WWE, each determined to prove their dominance.
Becky Lynch, known as **âThe Irish Lass Kicker,â** had established herself as a fighting champion, while **Natalya, a veteran with a rich wrestling lineage,** was hungry for championship gold. The stage was set for an electrifying encounter that had the WWE Universe on the edge of their seats.
## **The Build-Up: Why This Match Was Personal**
The rivalry between Becky Lynch and Natalya had been brewing for months. Their history in WWE was filled with battles, betrayals, and mutual respect, making this encounter even more significant.
– **Becky Lynchâs Rise to Champion:** After winning the **SmackDown Womenâs Championship at Backlash 2016**, Becky had defended her title against all challengers. She prided herself on being a champion who never backed down from a fight.
– **Natalyaâs Veteran Instincts:** As a member of the legendary **Hart Family**, Natalya carried the weight of wrestling royalty on her shoulders. She believed she was the rightful champion and that her technical wrestling skills would outmatch Beckyâs brawling style.
– **Championship Stakes:** With the title on the line, this match wasnât just about personal prideâit was about **cementing a legacy in the SmackDown Womenâs division**.
The WWE Universe knew they were in for an incredible match, and these two competitors did not disappoint.
## **Match Breakdown: A Clash of Styles and Strengths**
### **Opening Moments â A Technical Chess Match**
The match started with both competitors feeling each other out. Natalya, known for her technical prowess, attempted to take Becky down with **chain wrestling and submission holds**, but Becky countered with her impressive agility and striking ability.
– Natalya applied an **armbar takedown**, trying to weaken Beckyâs dominant arm early in the match.
– Becky responded with **a series of deep arm drags**, showing her ability to keep up with Natalyaâs technical approach.
The early exchanges showcased why both women were among the most skilled wrestlers in the division, with neither competitor gaining a clear advantage.
### **Momentum Shifts â Natalyaâs Aggression Takes Over**
After a few minutes of back-and-forth action, **Natalya took control of the match** by using her strength and experience to wear Becky down.
– She **drove Becky into the turnbuckle** with a forceful Irish whip, knocking the wind out of the champion.
– She followed up with a **devastating snap suplex**, reminding the audience of her technical mastery.
– Natalya applied the **Sharpshooter**, her signature submission hold, bringing the crowd to its feet as Becky struggled to reach the ropes.
The champion was in serious trouble, and for a moment, it looked like **SmackDown LIVE might see a new Womenâs Champion**.
### **Beckyâs Comeback â The Heart of a Champion**
Just when it seemed like Becky was on the verge of losing, **she dug deep and fought back with relentless intensity**.
– Becky **countered the Sharpshooter attempt**, rolling Natalya into a **small package pin**, nearly stealing the victory.
– She then delivered a **Bexploder Suplex**, shifting the momentum in her favor and energizing the crowd.
– With the WWE Universe firmly behind her, Becky unleashed a flurry of **forearm strikes and a flying leg drop from the second rope**.
The match had become a true war of attrition, with both competitors refusing to back down.
### **The Final Moments â Dis-Arm-Her for the Win**
As the match reached its climax, **Natalya attempted one last power move**, looking to secure the win. However, Becky was ready for her.
– Natalya lifted Becky for a **powerbomb**, but Becky countered by shifting her weight, landing on her feet.
– In a flash, Becky trapped Natalyaâs arm and **locked in the Dis-Arm-Her**, her devastating submission finisher.
– Natalya fought desperately, but the pain was too much, and she had no choice but to **tap out**.
Becky Lynch had successfully defended her **SmackDown Womenâs Championship**, proving once again why she was a dominant force in WWE.
## **Aftermath: What This Match Meant for Both Superstars**
### **Becky Lynchâs Legacy as Champion**
With this victory, Becky Lynch **solidified her reputation as a fierce and resilient champion**. Her ability to withstand Natalyaâs technical expertise and adapt her strategy in the ring showed why she was the face of the SmackDown Womenâs division at the time.
### **Natalyaâs Pursuit of Championship Gold Continues**
Although Natalya came up short, **her performance earned her the respect of fans and fellow superstars**. She would continue to chase championship opportunities, proving that she was still a major threat in the division.
## **Legacy of This Match**
This match was a **classic representation of what made womenâs wrestling in WWE so exciting**âskill, storytelling, and pure athleticism. It demonstrated:
– **Becky Lynchâs resilience as a fighting champion.**
– **Natalyaâs technical brilliance and submission expertise.**
– **The growing importance of the SmackDown Womenâs Championship in the WWE landscape.**
Looking back, this match was a stepping stone for Beckyâs future success, as she would go on to become one of the most dominant and beloved womenâs champions in WWE history.
## **Conclusion**
đ„ **Becky Lynch vs. Natalya on SmackDown LIVE (November 22, 2016) was a thrilling battle that showcased two of WWEâs finest female athletes.** With high stakes, intense action, and a dramatic finish, it was a match that highlighted the evolution of the womenâs division.
As Becky celebrated her hard-fought victory, the message was clearâ**The Irish Lass Kicker was here to stay, and she wasnât backing down from any challenge.** đđ„
đŹ **What was your favorite moment from this intense showdown? Let us know in the comments below** đđ„