I think it was just a way to get Rey off TV for awhile, as well as put over Del Rio in the process, who I honestly really like after watching his debut, which may have been the most impactful debut since Carlito, getting a clean win over one of the most over guys in the company (which Carlito did when he went over Cena way back when).
I admit, I didn't have high expectations for the guy, but his whole deal interested me, from the Mexican JBL style of entrance, to his solid in ring skills (I also heard he has an MMA background) I am expecting big things from him.