WWE SummerSlam 2016 results: The Miz vs Apollo Crews full video highlights

WWE SummerSlam 2016 results and full highlights from The Miz vs Apollo Crews for the Intercontinental Championship

As Smackdown went live as part of the brand split, one of the first beneficiaries was rookie Apollo Crews. Though he fell short of becoming No. 1 contender for the WWE World title, he did win a triple threat to earn a match against The Miz. Their battle for the Intercontinental Championship would take place on Sunday at WWE SummerSlam 2016.

The Miz looked like a fiery young up-and-comer right after the bell, trying to assert his dominance as champion right away. He unleashed a fury of kicks and corner strikes on Crews immediately and wouldn’t let him breathe even just a little bit. However, you can only keep an athlete and powerhouse like Apollo Crews down but for so long.

Crews began fighting back with some big counter strikes of his own and then kipped up to show that he was ready to go. Just as he was getting his momentum rolling, though, Miz was able to find a way to counter. Crews went for a standing moonsault, but instead ate knees right to the gut. In doing so, he gave the champ time to regain his breath. Even still, though, Crews found a little more room and hit some of his fantastic aerial and athletic offense.

Just when it looked like Apollo might have a chance to hold a WWE belt for the first time in his career, though, the veteran savvy of Miz came to play. Crews got his foot tangled up by Maryse while getting into the ring, allowing The Miz to counter. He turned that counter into the Skull-Crushing Finale, which was good enough for the pin. The Miz wins and retains the Intercontinental title.

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Here’s a look at the full highlights from the match:

It was a strong showing by Crews, but The Miz retains. What happens next for both of these men will be fascinating to watch.