At Judgment Day 2000, **Chris Benoit defended the WWF Intercontinental Championship against Chris Jericho in a submission match that highlighted both competitors’ technical wrestling prowess and storytelling in the ring. The bout unfolded as a physical, methodical battle with both men targeting body parts and working through counters, strikes, and submission holds rather than chasing traditional pinfall-focused offense. Early on, Jericho used chops and armbars to stay competitive, while Benoit responded with shoulderbreakers, a diving headbutt, and methodical pressure that isolated Jericho. The match spilled to the floor at times, with both men using the environment to gain advantage, but Benoit repeatedly demonstrated resilience and ring awareness. Amid stiff exchanges and strategic holds — including Benoit countering Jericho’s Walls of Jericho attempts — the decisive moment came when Benoit applied the Crippler Crossface in the center of the ring, forcing Jericho to pass out rather than submit. With that, Benoit retained the Intercontinental Championship in a bout that reinforced his status as a tough, technically sound champion and continued the competitive rivalry between the two.
