In recent WWE Raw developments, Bulgarian Brute Rusev has openly criticized Dominik Mysterio, the current WWE Intercontinental Champion, calling him out for his dishonest tactics and perceived lack of wrestling acumen. Despite the harsh critique, Rusev did offer some begrudging respect for Dominik’s title reign, creating an intriguing dynamic between the two rivals in WWE’s latest storyline.
Rusev’s Frustration with Dominik’s “Cheating Ways”
Rusev, a seasoned WWE competitor and former United States Champion, has been vocal about his disdain for Dominik Mysterio’s underhanded methods inside the ring. Sources close to WWE indicate that backstage, Rusev has been particularly annoyed by Dominik’s penchant for bending the rules, including frequent interference and “cheating” to secure victories. At the September 29, 2025 Monday Night Raw event, Rusev faced Dominik in a tense Intercontinental Championship match, where Dominik successfully defended his title thanks to outside interference, notably from Penta El Zero M and others[1][3].
Rusev’s words were clear: “Dominik might have two daddies, but that won’t help him know what it takes to be a real champion.” This jab references both Dominik’s lineage, being the son of WWE legend Rey Mysterio, and his association with Cody Rhodes backstage, implying that despite these advantages, Dominik lacks genuine wrestling skill. Industry insiders suggest that Rusev views Dominik as an unearned favorite pushed by legacy and connections, rather than merit earned through hard work[4].
The Irony of “Two Daddies” in a Wrestling Family
Dominik Mysterio’s background is unique in WWE, being the son of a Hall of Famer, Rey Mysterio, and having close ties to Cody Rhodes, who acts almost like a mentor or “second daddy” figure. This phrase, used mockingly by Rusev, highlights how Dominik benefits from wrestling lineage and mentorship.
However, Rusev’s argument underscores a common wrestling narrative: legacy alone doesn’t make a champion. Despite Dominik’s lineage, Rusev believes victory demands more than name recognition; it requires toughness, skill, and honor in competition. WWE fans have witnessed Dominik’s growth but also his reliance on outside help to retain the Intercontinental title, which Rusev openly challenges as being undeserved[1][2].
Rusev’s Respect for the Title, Not the Champion
While Rusev has little respect for Dominik personally, he did express respect for the Intercontinental Championship itself, recognizing its prestige in WWE history. A WWE insider revealed that backstage, Rusev often speaks respectfully about the title’s legacy, even when targeting the current holder.
“Rusev knows the championship means a lot and he wants to carry that legacy forward properly,” the insider said. “He’s less concerned about Dominik’s pedigree and more about proving himself worthy by taking that title rightfully, no gimmicks, no dirty tricks.”
This respect for the title fuels Rusev’s motivation to dethrone Dominik cleanly, emphasizing his own credentials as a former United States Champion and a legitimate contender[4]. Fans saw Rusev aggressively pursue Dominik across multiple Raw episodes in October 2025, including matches where Dominik’s allies intervened repeatedly to preserve his reign[1][5].
Dominik’s Title Defenses and Controversies
Dominik’s tenure as Intercontinental Champion has been marked by intense rivalries and some controversy. His matches against Rusev have generated significant buzz for their dramatic storytelling and crisp in-ring action. Notably, the October 20, 2025 Raw showdown saw Dominik successfully defend his championship despite Rusev’s relentless offense and near-comebacks, thanks in part to interference from his allies and Penta El Zero M’s timely involvement[1].
Critics of Dominik cite these repeated interventions as a sign that he leans heavily on “cheating” tactics, a narrative that Rusev has amplified publicly. This storyline elevates the drama for WWE audiences, pitting the scrappy legacy star backed by “two daddies” against the tough, no-nonsense veteran eager to reclaim prestige through pure skill[2][3].
What’s Next for Rusev and Dominik?
WWE creative appears invested in extending this rivalry through the coming weeks, potentially culminating in a high-stakes match where Rusev aims to win the Intercontinental Championship cleanly, silencing Dominik’s critics once and for all. Wrestling insiders speculate a stipulation match, possibly a no-disqualification bout or a submission match, would best showcase both superstars’ strengths and resolve the ongoing tension.
A source inside WWE hinted, “Expect Rusev to get more aggressive, pushing Dominik to his limits every week. Dominik knows his days as champion are numbered if Rusev’s on a mission.”
For Dominik, defending the title without cheating would mark a new chapter and earn him greater respect in the locker room and with fans[4]. His growth into a legitimate champion versus a protected legacy babyface is a storyline arc WWE is carefully developing.
Final Thoughts: Wrestling Legacy vs. Hard-Earned Respect
The rivalry between Rusev and Dominik Mysterio underscores a broader theme in professional wrestling: the balance between heritage and hard work. Rusev’s sharp remarks about Dominik having “two daddies” serve to question how much legacy alone counts in a sport that values skill, determination, and heart.
At the same time, Dominik’s championship run is a notable achievement for someone still early in their career, showing promise beyond his family name. WWE fans eagerly await the next chapter in this heated rivalry, where Rusev looks to prove that experience and honor can still triumph over lineage and shortcuts in professional wrestling.