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Mitchell’s NJPW AXS TV Report: New Japan Cup 2018 Finals!

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NJPW’s 2018 New Japan Cup has reached the finals! It will either be The Ace, Hiroshi Tanahashi, or the Submission Master, Zack Sabre Jr, that will win the cup and earn the right to challenge a top champion of their choosing! Will Tanahashi win to challenge Minoru Suzuki? Or will ZSJ make him #JustTapOut?

 

This review of The New Japan Cup 2018 will be as broadcast by AXS TV.
Therefore, all images are courtesy of AXS TV.

 

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • Hiroshi Tanahashi VS Zack Sabre Jr; ZSJ wins and will challenge Kazuchika Okada for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship at Sakura Genesis.

PLAY BY PLAY

AXS TV and NJPW review the finalists’ paths to this moment.

The Once in a Century Talent’s participation in this year’s New Japan Cup was unsure, given his injury at the hands of the Man with the Worst Personality, THE Minoru Suzuki. Suzuki won and now has the IWGP Intercontinental Championship. Hiroshi Tanahashi got through Taichi, Bad Luck Fale and even his teammate in Juice Robinson to get here. Should Tanahashi win, it’s almost certain his target would be Suzuki for sweet revenge. Meanwhile, Suzuki’s own protege, Zack Sabre Jr, proved he is both a Technical Wizard and a brutal brawler in his own right. ZSJ defeated Tetsuya Naito, Kota Ibushi and Sanada all through use of his unlimited arsenal of submissions.

ZSJ already has a victory over Tanahashi from the G-1 Climax last year, but Tanahashi also has a win over him in their own IWGP Intercontinental Championship match. This will be the rubber match between the two, who will win it all and call out the champion of their choice?

Two of the best in NJPW, but who will be THE New Japan Cup champion?

 

Hiroshi Tanahashi VS Zack Sabre Jr w/ Taka Michinoku!

As always, Taka Michinoku speaks before the match. “The finals of the 2018 New Japan Cup. Zack Sabre Jr. VS Hiroshi Tanahashi. Who wins?!” Fans choose Zack. “And who will take the cup?” Fans again choose Zack. Because the winner will be the man who can finish anyone anywhere with any hold, the man who has unlimited submissions, the man who defeated Naito, Ibushi and Sanada. That man is the Submission Master, ZSJ, Zack Sabre Jr! “To anyone who stands in Zack’s way, when he gets a submission”, you #JustTapOut! So Hiroshi Tanahashi, “C’mon over here!”

One of NJPW’s fastest rising stars takes on one of NJPW’s most decorated of all time. Tanahashi wants his IWGP Intercontinental Championship back while ZSJ wants to take the Rainmaker’s IWGP Heavyweight Championship. Who will win the cup to grant their wish?

NJPW on AXS takes a quick break, but comes back with the ring of the bell. This match has no time limit, so it can go as quick or as long as it takes. The fans already rally behind Tanahashi while he circles with ZSJ. ZSJ reaches at Tanahashi who keeps a safe distance. They tie up, ZSJ gets around to a waistlock but Tanahashi resists any other kind of hold. Tanahashi turns things around but ZSJ switches back. Tanahashi gets to the ropes, so ZSJ backs off. Fans rally again as the two circle. Tanahashi ties up with ZSJ but ZSJ spins and goes for the top wristlock. Tanahashi turns that back on him with strength and leverage, but ZSJ spins around to wrench Tanahashi’s arm. ZSJ wrenches more and brings Tanahashi down to the mat. Tanahashi sits up but ZSJ is all over his arm again.

ZSJ has Tanahashi on his hand and knees while torturing the other arm. Tanahashi stands and resists, and gets ZSJ in a drop toehold. Fans applaud while ZSJ reaches back for a chinlock. Tanahashi fights that off, then floats over to a facelock, but ZSJ slips out of that to put Tanahashi in a modified crossface. ZSJ grinds in elbows and fists while also going from chinlock to chinbar. He flips Tanahashi over to a cover, ONE. Tanahashi stands up while ZSJ backs off. They circle again while fans rally. Tanahashi is ready for ZSJ, and gets a leg. ZSJ leans back to slip out, but Tanahashi follows. Tanahashi grabs an arm but ZSJ resists the wristlock by clasping hands. Tanahashi rolls ZSJ and keeps on that arm.

ZSJ keeps his grip while Tanahashi sits on him, then ZSJ hooks around to bring Tanahashi to the mat. ZSJ wants an armbar but now Tanahashi clasps his hands together to resist. Tanahashi rolls towards ropes, but ZSJ traps a leg in a calf killer style hold. Tanahashi rolls over to get the ropebreak, so ZSJ has to let go, and Tanahashi rolls out of the ring. ZSJ waits for Tanahashi to return. Tanahashi makes sure his legs are good, as well as his arms, then he enters the ring. He and ZSJ circle again, then tie up, and Tanahashi shifts smoothly from wristlock to hammerlock to headlock. ZSJ fights back and tries to power out, but Tanahashi keeps a hold of him. Fans applaud as Tanahashi forces ZSJ to the mat.

ZSJ grinds his forearms into Tanahashi’s face but Tanahashi swats those away. They both stand up, but Tanahashi brings ZSJ back down with a headlock takeover. Only for ZSJ to get the headscissors! ZSJ squeezes Tanahashi’s head and neck with his figure-four knot. Tanahashi rolls around but ZSJ grinds in knuckles and elbows into Tanahashi’s back. Tanahashi powers out and goes for a cover, only for ZSJ to wrap him right back up in the headscissors! ZSJ props himself up to wrench Tanahashi’s neck, but Tanahashi works to roll ZSJ. Tanahashi pops out and floats over to a chinlock on ZSJ! Fans applaud this incredible exchange of technical skill.

ZSJ grabs at Tanahashi’s hair, then rolls around. ZSJ pushes against Tanahashi, then fights out. He powers out but Tanahashi runs him over. Tanahashi runs, ZSJ drops, so Tanahashi drops on him to get that headlock back! ZSJ resists again, hooking with his leg. Tanahashi swats the leg away and wrenches back. ZSJ tries again but can’t get Tanahashi’s head to go back. ZSJ tries with his hands now, getting them across Tanahashi’s face and nose. They battle with holds but Tanahashi pries free to keep his. ZSJ works again and gets the legs up, it’s headlock versus headscissors!

Tanahashi holds on to his hold and pops his head out of ZSJ’s. ZSJ rolls and sits up, then stands up. ZSJ looks for an opening but Tanahashi just switches sides of the headlock. Tanahashi switches back, then back again, keeping ZSJ guessing. ZSJ keeps trying, so Tanahashi hooks a leg to hit a headlock Russian leg sweep!

The Ace is in control while we go to break.

NJPW on AXS returns to fans rallying while Tanahashi stands up. Tanahashi drops an elbow, but is caught into ZSJ’s armbar! ZSJ can’t get the extension before Tanahashi scrambles and uses his legs for the ropebreak. ZSJ keeps on Tanahashi anyway, but lets go at the referee’s count of 4. Referee Red Shoes reprimands ZSJ but ZSJ catches his breath before going back for more. He grinds knees into Tanahashi while going after the arm. Tanahashi is still under the ropes, so Red Shoes tells ZSJ to break, but ZSJ keeps going. Tanahashi grabs the ropes, so ZSJ lets go this time. ZSJ watches Tanahashi check his arm. Tanahashi stands up, ZSJ gives him a European Uppercut. ZSJ gives Tanahashi another, so Tanahashi gives one back.

ZSJ picks the leg and brings Tanahashi down. He traps an arm, and pulls Tanahashi with a headlock. Tanahashi gets another ropebreak, and ZSJ is frustrated. ZSJ stomps Tanahashi, then toys with him with those kicks to the arm. ZSJ goes after the arm, and bends it from elbow to wrist. Tanahashi grits his teeth as he resists, and it forces ZSJ to use even his chin to force the bend. Tanahashi gives it one more go, but ZSJ Pele kicks the arm! ZSJ catches his breath while fans rally for Tanahashi. ZSJ stands on Tanahashi while pulling at limbs. Red Shoes backs ZSJ off and checks on Tanahashi. Tanahashi is good to continue, so ZSJ gives him another EuroUpper. Tanahashi retaliates with a body shot, so ZSJ picks a leg again and goes after that arm. ZSJ pulls Tanahashi in to the coil lock, then the other arm!

ZSJ has his foot on Tanahashi’s head as he pulls back on the arm. Tanahashi endures as he reaches with his legs agan, and gets another ropebreak. Fans applaud while ZSJ lets go. ZSJ keeps his cool while fans rally for Tanahashi again. ZSJ thinks on what to do next. He goes back after the arm and wrenches it, then wrenches the wrist. ZSJ goes left and right with the wrist, but Tanahashi fights back with body shots. Tanahashi fires off strikes on ZSJ, then whips ZSJ corner to corner. ZSJ reverses the whip but runs into Tanahashi’s boots. Tanahashi runs into a kick from ZSJ, then ZSJ whips, but Tanahashi comes back with a forearm smash.

Both men are down but the fans are applauding. The fans rally again while Tanahashi makes sure his arm is good. Tanahashi stands up and rocks ZSJ with forearms and body shots. Tanahashi scoop slams ZSJ, then climbs up, and hits a second rope senton!

Cover, TWO! Tanahashi keeps focus while fans chant “Go Ace! Go Ace!” Tanahashi fires off more body shots to ZSJ, then whips him corner to corner. ZSJ sticks out a boot but Tanahashi catches it, only for ZSJ to wrap him up in the Octopus Stretch!

ZSJ even pulls off Tanahashi’s sleeve to expose the athletic tape. He digs in elbows on Tanahashi’s ribs, then pulls back on fingers. Tanahashi endures it all, then uses power to get free and dragon screw ZSJ’s leg! Both men are down again, and fans rally for Tanahashi. Tanahashi stands up, and pulls his sleeve back down to cover his athletic tape wrap. Tanahashi runs but ZSJ is ready, and wrangles Tanahashi back into the hold, only for Tanahashi to reverse it onto him. ZSJ switches it right back, but Tanahashi switches it again. They move around in a circle, chasing the abdominal stretch, and it’s Tanahashi who gets the hold first. Tanahashi turns the hold into a pumphandle for a slam! Tanahashi can’t make the cover with his arms hurting him, but fans rally for him as he stands back up.

ZSJ slips out of the facelock to hop on for a sleeper hold! ZSJ then climbs around the front to get the triangle hold! Tanahashi holds on as ZSJ weighs him down and pulls him in. ZSJ is also careful not to end up in a cover. Tanahashi gets a second wind and he starts pushing ZSJ, but ZSJ hooks a leg to bring Tanahashi in deeper. Tanahashi won’t give in, he keeps pushing ZSJ. ZSJ keeps his shoulders up, but Tanahashi turns him enough to stomp him on the head. ZSJ starts to go limp, and Tanahashi breaks free, to go after the Cloverleaf!

Tanahashi turns ZSJ over, bending him sideways, but ZSJ works on an escape. ZSJ slips between the legs and drags himself to ropes, but Tanahashi drags him away! Fans are thunderous as Tanahashi sits down, but ZSJ slips around to pry his legs out. ZSJ hooks Tanahashi into the takedown, but Tanahashi clasps hands to resist the armbar. ZSJ slaps those hands, then pulls back. Tanahashi holds on, but ZSJ pries a single finger and undoes the grip! Tanahashi tries to roll so ZSJ quickly yanks on the arm, but Tanahashi stands up! He stands up for another dragon screw! ZSJ escapes the ring, clutching his leg. Michinoku coaches him up but the fans are on Tanahashi’s side as they rally. Tanahashi gets to a corner and climbs up, to FLY!

High Fly Flow Crossbody connects! Both men go down while we go to break.

NJPW on AXS returns again, and fans are thunderous while Red Shoes checks on Tanahashi and ZSJ. Both men are able to continue, so a ring count begins. It reaches 7 before Tanahashi stands. Tanahashi brings ZSJ up and puts him in the ring. Tanahashi waits for ZSJ to stand, then he runs, but into ZSJ’s EuroUpper. ZSJ throws Tanahashi to ropes but Tanahashi tumbles to the apron. Tanahashi brings himself back in, but ZSJ is ready, and goes after the legs. ZSJ drags Tanahashi into a kneebar, but Tanahashi drags himself to ropes for another ropebreak. ZSJ lets go and fans rally for Tanahashi again.

Michinoku coaches ZSJ to keep going, ZSJ stands and stomps on Tanahashi’s knee. He also kicks Tanahashi’s arm. ZSJ stands on the knee, pulls at the ankle, then stomps them both. Tanahashi writhes, but then fires himself up. ZSJ gives more toying kicks, but those only anger Tanahashi. Tanahashi blocks another kick, but ZSJ hops up into a guillotine. ZSJ gets body scissors, too, but Tanahashi endures to power ZSJ out into a swinging neckbreaker! Tanahashi holds on to ZSJ and gives him a second swinging neckbreaker, then stands him up for the third!

Tanahashi gets the cradle cover, TWO! Fans rally again while ZSJ flounders. Tanahashi fires up, gets to the apron, then climbs up, but ZSJ catches this second High Fly Flow Crossbody into a kneebar! ZSJ grapevines and twists Tanahashi’s ankle. Tanahashi endures, even as ZSJ sits up to add a heel hook. Tanahashi still gets the ropebreak, and ZSJ is further frustrated. Red Shoes checks on Tanahashi while ZSJ checks his own neck and shoulders. Tanahashi keeps going, but ZSJ stands up first. ZSJ gives a EuroUpper, Tanahashi gives back a forearm. ZSJ gives another EuroUpper, so Tanahashi gives one of his own. That shot sits ZSJ down, but he comes back for a flurry of EuroUppers. Tanahashi ducks the roundhouse but ZSJ sweeps the legs.

ZSJ stands up and takes aim from a corner. Tanahashi sits up, and blocks the Penalty Kick! Tanahashi dragon screws but ZSJ slips out to roll Tanahashi for the European Clutch bridging pin! TWO!! And Zack can’t believe it! Fans rally again while ZSJ catches his breath. ZSJ keeps his eyes on Tanahashi, and gives him more EuroUppers. Tanahashi stays standing to give a EuroUpper of his own. ZSJ falls but drags himself back up while Tanahashi hobbles over. ZSJ gives EuroUppers, Tanahashi gives one back that rocks ZSJ again. Tanahashi drags ZSJ up but his EuroUpper is blocked to a backslide attempt.

Both men fight the other, but ZSJ flips over to flip Tanahashi into the double wristlock back into the EuroClutch! TWO!! Penalty Kick! Cover, TWO, and ZSJ is furious. The fans are loving this match, though. They rally again while ZSJ waits for Tanahashi. Both men stand, and ZSJ goes after the leg. He wants the kneebar but Tanahashi sits down on the rolling takedown. Tanahashi pries ZSJ off the leg and goes for a full nelson. ZSJ uses his own leg to prevent it, then mule kicks Tanahashi away. ZSJ runs but into the slingblade! Cover, TWO, but Tanahashi gets the full nelson and Dragon Suplex!

Tanahashi bridges for the cover, TWO! But Tanahashi keeps going, getting himself to a corner and to the top rope. Fans are thunderous, Tanahashi hits THE High Fly Flow to ZSJ’s back. Then Tanahashi flips ZSJ over, and climbs back up. His leg slows him down but he still goes for High Fly Flow, only for it to flop! Michinoku coaches ZSJ up while the fans rally for Tanahashi one more time. Tanahashi’s leg bothers him again, but he still forces himself up. ZSJ also stands up, and goes after that very leg. Tanahashi slaps ZSJ away from a dragon screw, then rolls ZSJ back, to copy the EuroClutch! TWO, and ZSJ grabs Tanahashi into a sleeper, but then shifts to the calf killer!

Tanahashi writhes and flails, then rolls over only for ZSJ to roll him back. ZSJ moves Tanahashi all around to get back to the calf killer. ZSJ grabs both legs, keeping his leg hooked on, and drags Tanahashi away from the ropes. Tanahashi endures, uses the free leg to scrape ZSJ’s face, but ZSJ grabs that for a stretch muffler! Or as ZSJ calls it, Orienteering with Napalm Death!

Both of Tanahashi’s legs are being tortured now, with fans rallying, but Tanahashi taps! ZSJ wins!!

Winner: ZSJ, by submission

He did it! Zack Sabre Jr. does as Michinoku predicted, and wins the New Japan Cup with a submission. ZSJ denies Tanahashi his third career New Japan Cup victory, and we take a break as the young lions help Tanahashi to the back.

NJPW returns as Zack Sabre Jr. is presented the New Japan Cup trophy.

Michinoku also holds up ZSJ’s Revolution Pro Wrestling Undisputed British Tag Team and British Heavyweight Championships for the Technical Wizard. Michinoku then takes up the mic again to review, “The 2018 New Japan Cup, who is the champion?!” Congratulations, Zack, because you now have the right to challenge a champion for the April 1st event in Ryogoku, Sakura Genesis. Michinoku has a question, then. “What do you want next?!” ZSJ thinks on that a moment. “No question,” he says, “I want Okada.” Fans applaud that idea. Michinoku confirms, “The IWGP Heavyweight Champion, you have been chosen. Okada Kazuchika, c’mon over here!” And Okada appears!

The Rainmaker walks down to the ring, with Gedo in two. Fans chant “Okada! Okada!” as the IWGP Heavyweight Champion enters the ring. Michinoku knows Okada is a strong champion, but “faced with Zack Sabre Jr.’s submission holds… You JUST–” Gedo interrupts Michinoku!

Gedo takes that mic, and admits ZSJ has made a lot of guys tap out. ZSJ has incredible holds. But, they’re not gonna work on the Rainmaker. ZSJ can NOT make Okada tap out, and do you know why? Because Okada– Michinoku interrupts Gedo back!

Michinoku tells Gedo that ZSJ’s holds are on that “whole ‘nother level”, so he WILL take Okada out. As for Okada and ZSJ themselves, Okada simply holds up his title, while ZSJ holds up the middle finger. ZSJ it’s only going to be two weeks until Okada taps out. Okada says it’ll be two weeks until ZSJ goes down. Michinoku gives Okada some advice: when you get caught in one of ZSJ’s holds, “You JUST! TAP! OUT!”

As Okada and Gedo take their leave, Michinoku again reviews with the fans. “Who won the 2018 New Japan Cup tournament?” The man who can finish anyone anywhere with any hold, the man who has unlimited submissions, the man who defeated Naito, Ibushi, Sanada and now Tanahashi. And now he’s the man who will beat Okada, that man is the Submission Master, ZSJ, Zack Sabre Jr! Will Michinoku’s prediction come to fruition again at Sakura Genesis? Or will there be a Rainmaker lariat in his future?

 

Backstage interviews.

Hiroshi Tanahashi, exhausted as he is, manages to say, “It was in my reach, and then it wasn’t.” The Ace was about to catch up to the champion, but he’s still far away.

As for Zack Sabre Jr, a first-time New Japan Cup winner, ends it the way he started it: Orienteering with Napalm Death. Tanahashi was the old ace, ZSJ is the New Ace of NJPW. And Okada had a good run, but it’s time for a new, English champion. Michinoku points out ZSJ is already a champion in Revolution Pro, so all that’s left is Japan’s IWGP Heavyweight belt. Okada is powerful, no doubt, but now he will “experience a whole new kind of submission hold.” Okada can preapre all he wants, but he saw what happened to Tanahashi. The new era begins, it is the ZSJ Era. And those who stand in his way, #JustTapOut.

But Okada has something to say, too. “So, Zack Sabre Jr.” Congratulations on the win to be the best wrestler of the Spring. But ZSJ isn’t the best, Okada is the best. You aren’t the best until you beat Okada. “This is not a good matchup for you.” Ever since Okada became the Rainmaker, he’s only tapped out once. Only one man made him submit, so Okada looks forward to seeing what ZSJ tries. “Maybe I’ll give up. Or maybe I won’t.” Which means ZSJ either becomes the best, or he doesn’t. We’ll see at Ryogoku.

 


 

My Thoughts:

And incredible episode, and all with just one incredible match. Two of NJPW’s best today and this one match shows everything as to why they are two of the best. There was so much story focusing on how both men played the submission game. However, playing the submission game that ZSJ knows so well may have been Tanahashi’s downfall. Tanahashi had the size and strength advantage and should’ve tried harder to make this about strikes or slams, but he couldn’t get away from ZSJ’s holds. That is likely the point Gedo and Okada make with their promos. Okada can play the striking and power games better than ZSJ and those will be what helps the champion win. But win or lose, ZSJ is making great strides towards the top of NJPW, so he’ll surely be a top champion in the future.

My Score: 8.5/10


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Coverage

Mitchell’s ROH Results & Report! (3/28/24)

Look who finally decided to show up!

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Kyle Fletcher returns to ROH TV!

The ROH World Television Champion is finally back to defend his title! Will the Aussie Arrow hit Blake Christian through the All Heart?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • Dalton Castle VS Nick Comoroto; wins.
  • Top Flight VS ???
  • Evil Uno VS JD Drake w/ Anthony Henry; wins.
  • Cole Karter & Griff Garrison w/Maria Kanellis VS ???
  • Brandon Cutler & Colt Cabana VS ???
  • Diamante VS Kiera Hogan; wins.
  • Athena VS ???
  • ROH World Television Championship: Kyle Fletcher VS Blake Christian; wins and

PLAY BY PLAY

[Due to scheduling conflicts, coverage will begin later tonight]


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AEW Coverage

Mitchell’s AEW Dynamite Results & Report! (3/27/24)

BRUV! BRUV! BRUV!

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The #BillyGoat and The Wrestler finally meet again!

As AEW prepares for Dynasty, Will Ospreay prepares for Bryan Danielson by taking on the man he just beat, THE Katsuyori Shibata!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • Will Ospreay VS Katsuyori Shibata; Ospreay wins.
  • AEW World Tag Team Championship Tournament Quarterfinals: The Young Bucks VS Private Party; The Bucks win and advance to the semifinals.
  • AEW TBS Championship #1 Contender’s Fatal 4 Way: Kris Statlander VS Willow Nightingale VS Skye Blue VS Anna Jay; Willow wins and will challenge Julia Hart for the title.
  • AEW World Tag Team Championship Tournament Quarterfinals: Orange Cassidy & Trent Beretta VS The Undisputed Kingdom; Cassidy & Trent win and advance to the semifinals.
  • AEW World Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Swerve Strickland VS Konosuke Takeshita; Swerve wins and will challenge Samoa Joe for the title.

PLAY BY PLAY

Will Ospreay VS Katsuyori Shibata!

The Aerial Assassin wants to slay the American Dragon and prove himself the best wrestler alive today! But that means keeping pace with Bryan Danielson while doing things he’s never done before. Ospreay admitted he got “the piss” beat out of him seven years ago, but will he have redemption here tonight? Or is Ospreay still not better than The Wrestler?

The bell rings and the fans fire up already as these two circle. The fans sing “Ospreay~, Ospreay Ospreay Ospreay~! Ospreay~, Ospreay~!” while Ospreay and Shibata feel things out. Shibata avoids Ospreay’s takedown to then waistlock and bring Ospreay around. Ospreay moves, blocks the chinlock, but Shibata just slips around to another waistlock. Shibata gets a top mount and he eggs Ospreay on. They grapple, Shibata finds his way through to go for an arm, ARMBAR! Ospreay gets a ROPEBREAK and Shibata lets off quickly. The fans applaud this opening exchange and start to duel as the two reset.

The two feel things out to a knuckle lock, but then Ospreay kicks low and CLUBS Shibata. Ospreay then snapmares, puts on a chinlock, and he grinds Shibata down. Shibata endures, uses his own leg as a lever and pries the chinlock open. Shibata wrenches to wristlock, but Ospreay spins and breaks to trip Shibata with an ankle pick. Osprey has the toehold but Shibata turns over, uses his leg to reel Ospreay in for a headlock, and then hits the takeover! The fans cheer but Ospreay headscissors. Shibata moves around, pops free, and then stands to kick! Ospreay narrowly avoids it and the fans fire up again!

Ospreay takes a breath and the two reset again. They tie up collar ‘n’ elbow, but Shibata powers Ospreay back to ropes. The ref counts, Ospreay turns things around, but then Ospreay lets off slowly. But then Ospreay CHOPS! Shibata just gets in Ospreay’s face! Shibata knees low, bumps Ospreay off buckles, and he fires off forearms! The fans fire up, Shibata runs corner to corner, but Ospreay SHOTGUNS! The fans fire up and Shibata scrambles to a corner, Ospreay fires forearms on Shibata now, sits Shibata down with them, then fires up to go corner to corner, HYDRAULIC DROPKICK! Ospreay uses Shibata’s won move!

The fans fire up while Shibata bails out, and Ospreay PLANCHAS! Direct hit and down goes Shibata! The fans fire up again, the ring count starts, and Ospreay says, “Yes, bruv!” Ospreay brings Shibata up, CLUBS him and puts him in the ring. But Shibata gets moving, and he BOOTS Ospreay right down! Shibata goes out to fetch Ospreay but Ospreay fires forearms! Shibata just eggs Ospreay on! Ospreay fires more forearms but Shibata backs him down by just stepping forward! Shibata then UPPERCUTS Ospreay, and suplexes Ospreay to the floor! Then he KICKS Ospreay in the back! Ospreay writhes but Shibata leaves him behind.

The fans are torn as Shibata sits cross-legged in the ring while the count climbs. Shibata decides to go back out after Ospreay and put him in the ring. The fans rally and duel, Shibata stomps Ospreay around, then gets the legs to stomp. Shibata steps right through to the FIGURE FOUR! Ospreay blocks the main leg but Shibata powers through! Ospreay sits Shibata up and they start throwing forearms! The leglock is let go so Shibata can CLUB Ospreay! Ospreay CHOPS! And CHOPS! And CHOPS! Shibata fires a forearm, shoots around, SAIDO! Ospreay writhes again and the fans rally up as Dynamite goes picture in picture!

Shibata dusts himself off, drags Ospreay to center, and again steps through, only for Ospreay to again block the main leg! Shibata powers through to have the FIGURE FOUR! Ospreay endures, reaches out, but Shibata puts the pressure on! Ospreay falls back, but that makes this a cover, TWO and Ospreay sits back up! Ospreay works to turn things over but Shibata works to stop him! Ospreay tires again, and again, and he turns the hold over! Now Shibata endures! Shibata turns things right back over, but Ospreay has the ROPEBREAK! Shibata lets the hold go so he can shake out his own legs.

Shibata drops a knee on Ospreay’s knee! Ospreay goes to a corner, Shibata CHOPS! And CHOPS! Ospreay falls to his knees, so Shibata CLUBS him! Ospreay glares at Shibata so Shibata CHOPS and ROCKS him! Ospreay hobbles away, comes back, and he fires a forearm! Shibata eggs him on so Ospreay fires more forearms. Shibata ROCKS Ospreay with one! Ospreay goes to a corner and falls over. Shibata brings Ospreay up, whips him to KNEE him low, then CLUB him down, and KICK him in the back! Shibata KICKS Ospreay again, gives him some scuffing kicks, but now Ospreay sits cross-legged to egg Shibata on!

Shibata kicks, and KICKS, and Ospreay falls over! But then Ospreay gets up in a rage! Ospreay fires forearms, Shibata gives them back, and Ospreay fires a streak of ’em! Shibata ROCKS Ospreay, whips, and Dynamite returns to single picture as Ospreay handsprings and NEURALIZERS! The fans fire up while Ospreay gets up to TOSS Shibata out! Then Ospreay PLANCHAS but Shibata moves! Shibata kicks low, whips Ospreay into the LED barrier, then runs up to BOOT him! The fans fire up as the action comes to them, then Shibata brings Ospreay around. Shibata whips Ospreay back at the LED, but Ospreay leaps up and over!

Shibata runs up but Ospreay ROCKS him back! Ospreay uses the barrier to FLYING FOREARM Shibata down! Ospreay puts Shibata in, aims from the apron, and springboard for PIP PIP CHEERIO! Cover, TWO! Shibata stays in this but he’s dazed. Ospreay brings Shibata up, the fans sing again, but Shibata fights the underhooks. Ospreay fires Kawada Kicks, but Shibata stands. Ospreay CHOPS, but Shibata just gets in Ospreay’s face! Ospreay fires forearms but Shibata again backs Ospreay down by just stepping forward! Ospreay fires forearms again and again, but Shibata DECKS him! Ospreay sits up in a daze, so Shibata whips him and BOOTS him in a corner!

Shibata fires a flurry of forearms, then runs, but Ospreay follows to CHOP! But Shibata fires forearms and an UPPERCUT! Shibata runs, Ospreay follows again, BOOT! But Shibata just comes back with more forearms! Ospreay eggs Shibata on so Shibata CHOPS, JABS and repeat! Then CHOP, CHOP and CHOP! Shibata runs corner to corner to HYDRAULIC DROPKICK! The Wrestler shows Ospreay how that move’s done, and then he hauls Ospreay up. HALF HATCH! Cover, TWO! Ospreay shakes his head, he’s tougher than that! Shibata keeps his cool, he brings Ospreay up, and the fans rally again.

Shibata clamps on but Ospreay fights the cobra twist! Ospreay switches the twist onto Shibata! Shibata endures, switches it right back, but Ospreay fights his way around! Shibata shifts into an IRON OCTOPUS! Ospreay endures, fights his way around, ROPEBREAK! Shibata lets off to KNEE, and GERMAN SUPLEX! Ospreay lands out to SNAP GERMAN! But Shibata’s up to GERMAN SUPLEX! Ospreay avoids the boot to SUPERKICK! Ospreay whips, Shibata reverses but Ospreay handsprings, Shibata blocks the Neuralizer to the STF!! The fans fire up as Ospreay endures and Shibata has a higher angle on the hold! But Ospreay still gets the ROPEBREAK!

Shibata lets go, has Ospreay in a corner, and he brings Ospreay up to ROCK him with a haymaker! And another! The ref counts, Shibata lets off, and Ospreay sneaks up to SLAP! Shibata wobbles, but he CROSS COUNTER! Shibata KICKS Ospreay down, shakes out the stars, then sits Ospreay up so he can PENALTY- NO, Ospreay ducks! But the KICK from behind hits! Shibata runs again, PENALTY- NO, Ospreay blocks it this time! Ospreay stands to fire forearm after forearm, but Shibata ROCKS him! Ospreay shakes his head and fires up, and the fans are with him as he fires forearms! But Shibata ROCKS Ospreay with one!

Ospreay shakes his head, comes back to fire more forearms, but then Shibata ROCKS him again! Ospreay leans on Shibata, so Shibata fires a flurry of forearms! Shibata KICKS Ospreay down, but Ospreay springs up to ENZIGIRI! The fans are thunderous as both men are down! A standing count starts, Ospreay rises and he prepares the elbow! Shibata sits up, but he ducks the Hidden Blade! Shibata also ducks the roundhouse, to have the SLEEPER! Ospreay grits his teeth, reaches out, but Shibata gets that arm, SLEEPER SUPLEX! Ospreay staggers up but into the SLEEPER HOLD! Ospreay is fading already!

The ref checks Ospreay, and the hand drops once! The fans rally, and Ospreay gets a second wind! Ospreay fights up, runs to ropes and he TOSSES Shibata tot he apron! Shibata gets up but Ospreay avoids the shoulder ram to STOMP him! Ospreay then hurries to the corner, springboard, MISSILE DROPKICK! Shibata flops down, Ospreay calls his shot! Springboard, OSCUTTER!! Cover, ONE?!?! Shibata roars and LARIATS!! Cover, ONE?!?! Shibata and Ospreay DOUBLE LARIAT! And DOUBLE LARIAT! SUPERKICK from Ospreay and he calls it again, but Shibata SLEEPERS! Ospreay shifts around to SAIDO!

Shibata gets up, Ospreay runs in, HIDDEN BLADE!! Cover, TWO!?!? Shibata survives but Ospreay brings him in! Underhooks and STORM DRIVER 93!! But Shibata sits up with a roar! Ospreay HIDDEN BLADES!!! Cover, Ospreay wins!!

Winner: Will Ospreay, by pinfall

An instant classic to say the least, these two showed how elite Strong Style can be! But in the end, the Aerial Assassin avenges his defeat seven years ago! Ospreay shows Shibata respect with the deep bow, and Shibata returns it. Ospreay certainly looks ready for Bryan Danielson, but will he be able to slay The American Dragon and establish his Dynasty?

 

AEW takes a closer look at Bryan Danielson.

Excalibur narrates that you can ask any professional wrestler who is the greatest technician of this or any generation, and one name is on the list: Bryan Danielson. This unassuming kid from Aberdeen, Washington who traveled the world to become an all-time wrestling icon began his journey under the tutelage of Shawn Michaels, and The American Dragon was born. He made his name in the independent circuit before landing in ROH, where for nearly a decade, Bryan laid the promotion’s groundwork as a Founding Father of Honor. Bryan would main event from the very first event to winning multiple world championships.

Bryan would also go global with NJPW, and eventually WWE. But at the height of his career, having become one of the most decorated champions in pro-wrestling history, Bryan had what he loved above all else ripped away. Years of sacrifice for the sport that is his life left Bryan medically unable to compete. Yet, through unflinching determination to regain his ultimate passion, Bryan would fight the steepest of odds and make his in-ring return after three years away. And then in 2021, he shocked the world when he made his AEW debut, showing again why he is an all-time great, and testing the limits of his body against the best pro-wrestlers in the world today.

Bryan himself said he “will not go gently into that good night.” If this is his last year, he is calling his shots! This will be the most epic year of his career. And that means checking off the dream match of American Dragon VS Aerial Assassin! Who will prove they are THE best in the world today?

 

Backstage interview with The Young Bucks.

Renee Paquette is with the AEW EVPs, Matthew & Nicholas Jackson. Tonight, they are in action in the AEW World Tag Team Championship Tournament against a team that defeated them in the inaugural- Nick gets mad already and claims this is some kind of ambush! Such negativity! Unprofessional, Renee! Is this how she conducts all her other interviews? Where is Alex Marvez? Nick would rather Marvez conduct this interview, he’s also better looking. Matt calms Nick down and says they’ll circle back to that question. What they do want to talk about is that they returned to AEW a couple months ago, with some goals and objectives.

The first one being, well, retiring “Sting’s old ass.” Did that! Second goal: Restructuring The Elite. And how’d they do that? Well, they made some room and brought in The Rainmaker, Kazuchika Okada! By the way, did you see Okada’s big Continental Championship win last week? Holy crap that was awesome! And all on his own. Big surprise to everyone backstage, but of course Okada did that fair and square! Just like The Bucks will win tonight! They asked Rainmaker, come, chill out in the back, they’ve got this. But to the question, the biggest goal, the most important one out of everything, is to get their AEW World Tag Team Championships back.

And Renee mentioned the upset last time that ruined Matt’s entire life for an entire year. What do you do to right that wrong? You beat them back! You beat Private Party! See, lightning never strikes twice! And The Bucks will be one step closer to getting their titles back. Let’s have a great show, Renee’s doing awesome, fist bump. But one note: Maybe try smiling more. That’s all. Matt heads out and Nick still prefers Marvez. But will The Bucks really make up for the past? Or will history simply repeat itself?

 

Kazuchika Okada arrives in style!

Still driving the red Ferrari, the NEW Continental Champion is here to watch his pals in action.

 

AEW Double or Nothing is returning to Las Vegas!

Five years running, the AEW Memorial Day weekend tradition returns to Sin City and the MGM Grand! Tickets on sale this Saturday, 10 AM Pacific!

 

AEW World Tag Team Championship Tournament Quarterfinals: The Young Bucks VS Private Party!

We just heard from The Bucks about their goals for 2024, but they may have misinterpreted how things went down with Sting at Revolution. Will they make no mistake and come through on this match? Or will Isiah Kassidy & Marq Quen be the one getting their shot (shot shot) at the semifinals?

The teams sort out and Matt starts against Kassidy. The fans rally up while Matt offers a fist bump. Kassidy slaps that away and gets in Matt’s face! Matt pie faces Kassidy, so Kassidy pie faces back! They pie face more, then Matt kicks low! Matt whips, Kassidy rolls Matt up, TWO! Matt runs up, into another roll up, with bridge! TWO, and Matt CLOBBERS Kassidy! The fans boo but Matt brings Kassidy around. Tag to Nick and they mug Kassidy. The Bucks then double whip, but Quen tags in! Kassidy gets Matt, Quen sunset flips Nick, stereo covers! TWO!! The Bucks escape, then block kicks from Private Party.

Matt and Nick trade who has who, then they FLIP them both! Quen & Kassidy both land out, to SUPERKICK the Bucks! The fans fire up while the Bucks bail out, and Private Party builds speed! They DOUBLE DIVE and take The Bucks down! The fans fire up as Kassidy rains down fists on Matt! Quen & Kassidy bring Nick around to put him in the ring. Quen whips but Matt reverses, Quen gets sent over the barriers! Matt kicks Kassidy, whips him, but Quen helps Kassidy SILLY STRING to the floor! The fans fire up but Nick PENALTY KICKS Kassidy from the apron! Nick hurries but Quen meets him on the barrier!

Nick and Quen brawl, Nick pokes Quen in the eye! Nick then brings Quen up to SUPER FALCON ARROW to the floor! The fans lose their minds, The Bucks hurry back into the ring, and they want a count out! Quen writhes, we watch Okada approving backstage, and we pass 5 of 10! Kassidy hurries to get Quen up, but we’re past 7! 8! Quen flops in at 9! Nick stomps Quen around, then tags in Matt. The Bucks drag Quen up to double whip to ropes. But Quen ducks the double elbows to shove Nick into Matt! But Nick kicks low, and he suplexes Quen onto Matt’s knees! Then Nick BLASTS Kassidy down!

The Bucks soak up the heat from Quebec City, and then regroup as Dynamite goes picture in picture.

Matt paces around, stomps Quen, then CLUBS him down. Matt CLUBS Quen again, then pushes him to the ropes. Matt jumps to STOMP Quen down! The ref counts, Matt lets off and brings Quen up. Matt whips Quen to the corner hard and Quen bounces off buckles. Matt swaggers up, Nick soaks up heat from the fans, and Matt brings Quen around to scoop and SLAM! Tag to Nick and he slingshot SENTONS! Nick then runs to KNEE Quen in the back! Nick throws in KNEE after KNEE, then stares Kassidy down. The ref keeps Kassidy back, and Nick CHOKES Quen on the ropes! The ref misses all this because he’s arguing with Kassidy!

The ref finally looks over and Nick lets off, then they argue and that allows Matt to scuff Quen. Nick tags Matt in, they get Quen up and whip, but Quen reverses to send Nick to the corner! Nick goes up and over, Matt runs in but Quen ELBOWS him! Nick returns, he’s put on the apron. Quen runs up but Matt scoops! BACKBREAKER, and Nick slingshot LEG DROPS! The Bucks soak up more heat, Matt covers, Kassidy breaks it! Nick kicks Kassidy and TOSSES him out! Nick then goes out to reel Kassidy in! APRON POWERBOMB! Kassidy writhes while Nick soaks up more heat. But Quen throws body shots on Matt!

Matt CLUBS Quen, then brings him around for a chinlock. Quen endures, even as Matt leans on him, and Quen throws body shots. Dynamite returns to single picture as Matt trips Quen and CATAPULTS him into a GAMANGIRI! Nick goes up while Quen falls back, but Kassidy hurries over to SHOVE Nick down! The fans fire up, Matt rushes Kassidy but gets a HOTSHOT STUNNER for it! Quen runs up to SIDE EFFECT! The fans fire up and rally as Quen crawls, hot tag to Brother Zay! Kassidy dodges Matt, to HOTSHOT STUNNER Nick! Kassidy CLOBBERS Matt, CLOBBERS him again, then whips him to ropes.

Matt reverses, Kassidy slides out and avoids Nick, but is put back on the apron! Kassidy RAMS into Matt, mule kicks Nick, GAMANGIRIS Matt, then blows a kiss before he ASAI MOONSAULTS Nick down! The fans are thunderous as Kassidy gets back up to springboard and CROSSBODY onto Matt! Cover, TWO!! Matt survives and Kassidy is surprised! Quebec rallies for Private Party as Kassidy stalks Matt. Kassidy says “DELETE! DELETE!” and Matt stands, into the kick! TWIST OF- NO, Matt shoves Kassidy away, and Nick trips him up! Matt CLOBBERS Kassidy while fans boo. Matt drags Kassidy up and he tags in Nick.

The Bucks put Kassidy up top, CLUB him, and then climb up after him. Matt has the cravat, Nick is underneath, SLICED BREAD BOMB!! Cover, QUEN BREAKS IT! The fans fire up, Matt runs back in, but Quen dodges to PELE! Matt falls, flounders his way over to Nick, and Quen drags Kassidy to the Private Party corner. The fans rally, Kassidy reaches up, tag to Quen! Nick runs up, Quen fires forearms on him, on Matt, and back again! The fans rally but Matt kicks low. Matt scoops, Quen slips free, but Nick CLUBS Quen in the back, to GERMAN SUPLEX! Quen flounders to an apron and Nick goes out after him.

Nick stomps Quen, drags him up, and APRON GERMAN SUPLEXES!! Quen writhes, Nick puts him in, and tag to Matt. Matt says this is it! Nick goes up, Matt brings Quen up for the scoop, but Kassidy anchors Nick! Quen victory rolls, TWO!!! That was what got The Bucks last time but they managed to escape! Nick kicks Kassidy away, Matt ROCKS Quen, then CLUBS him again and again! Matt brings Quen around, Nick stands back up. Fireman’s carry, but Quen slips free to shove Matt into Nick! Kassidy gets in, Quen goes up to RANA, GIN ‘N’ JUICE!! Nick flounders out of the ring but Quen tags Kassidy.

Private Party gets Matt up, and they’re going to steal MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK!! Cover, NICK BREAKS IT! The fans boo as Nick hammers away on Kassidy! Nick points to someone, goes out of the ring, and he grabs the ring bell!? The fans boo as Nick is abusing his EVP power! But the ref grabs the bell from Nick! Kassidy LARIATS Nick, but Matt LOW BLOWS Kassidy! There goes fair and square! But wait, Quen has one of the title belts!! BELT SHOT!!! The fans fire up as Matt tastes karma! Cover, Nick helps with the ROPEBREAK!! Nick grins as he gets away with that one but Private Party cannot believe this!

Kassidy drags Matt over, he tags Quen, and Quen goes up. 630 SENTON FLOPS as Matt moves!!! Matt hurries to tag Nick, they get Quen up, for E V P TRIGGER!!! It wasn’t the cleanest but it was effective! Cover, The Bucks win!

Winners: The Young Bucks, by pinfall (advance to the semifinals)

Okada again nods his approval. The Rainmaker has a title, is it only a matter of time before Matthew & Nicholas join him?

 

BREAKING NEWS for Collision!

For starters, it’s back! Live this Saturday, 8 PM Eastern, and with the other AEW World Tag Team Championship Tournament Quarterfinals! The Infantry overcame The House of Black with help from Mark Briscoe, but now they’re looking to say yeah to beating FTR! Will Shawn Dean & Carlie Bravo be marching into the semifinals? Or will Dax & Cash prove they’re still Top Guys? And in their big return to action (no pun intended), Ricky Starks & “Big Bill” Morrissey take on Top Flight’s Dante & Darius Martin! Will this tournament soon be Absolute? Or will Angel Dorado & Air Wolf book themselves a flight to the semifinals?

 

Don Callis speaks.

“Tonight, Swerve’s House comes tumbling down. A tornado known as The Alpha, Konosuke Takeshita, is coming. Swerve, our résumé is very clear: We beat Kenny Omega not once but twice; we destroyed Chris Jericho; we destroyed Darby Allin. You wanna bring Prince Nana and the little back-up dance, you go right ahead. You are standing between us and what we want. I am so sick of hearing about Swerve’s House, this little fantasy you’ve constructed for yourself, because you see, your house is on my street. Your house is in the Don Callis Family’s neighborhood. And all those houses are mine. I take what I want, and then I take a little more.

“And tonight, Takeshita is gonna take everything from you, including your opportunity to become the #1 contender. Tonight, the Alpha burns it all down.” Callis has promised big things, but will Takeshita live up to these great expectations?

 

Mercedes Mone arrives backstage!

The CEO arrives in style, struts her way to gorilla, and is going to join commentary for this star-studded #1 contender’s match in the women’s division!

 

AEW hears from Darby Allin.

He’s hanging out with THE Tony Hawk pro-skater, and notes that originally, he was hoping to climb Mount Everest right about now for Tony’s charity, The Skatepark Project, but uh… broke his foot. So does Tony wanna tell us about the project? Of course. This is a foundation to bring public skate parks to underserved areas, operating for over 20 years now. They’ve funded the creation of almost NINE HUNDRED skate parks in that time, and it is important to Tony because it was never lost on him how lucky he was to have a skatepark to go to as a kid. It was his place of belonging and community, where he cut his teeth, and he wants to give that same access to skater kids all over the world.

Darby adds that he wouldn’t be here without skateboarding, so this cause means the world to him. If you wanna donate, just go to Skatepark.org to help out. Darby can’t climb a mountain, but this is Plan B. Darby lets his foot be part of Tony’s handstand grab in the halfpipe! We wish Darby a speedy recovery, and we hope the Skatepark Project has even greater success.

 

Backstage interview with Hook and Chris Jericho.

Renee is with the FTW Champion and The Ocho, and first congratulates Hook on that big win over Jericho last week. Renee brings up Jericho having a proposition for Hook, so what is up? Jericho says what’s up is that a few weeks ago, he said he wanted to see what it was like to face Hook 1v1, to see if Hook is as good as the people say. And after having that match, Hook exceeded expectations. Right out of the gate, he suplexed Jericho right on his head and he didn’t let off. Hook got his first pinfall win, and off Jericho, and Jericho is okay with that. Jericho is proud of Hook, because he saw some things he never had before.

Jericho’s never had a wrestling school, never managed anyone, but he’s also never been in the ring with someone like Hook. Hook’s skills are so highly tuned yet still raw. So Jericho wants to say that after 33 years in the business, if Hook wants any advice from Jericho, Jericho will gladly help sharpen Hook’s skills so he can be the world champion Jericho knows Hook can be. So like he said, if Hook wants his advice, Jericho is here for him. Hook appreciates the praise, and of course he’ll take that advice. He’s Chris Jericho. But being Chris Jericho, Hook knows who Jericho is. Okay, that’s fair. And Jericho knows who Hook is, and more importantly, who Hook can be.

Jericho offers a fist bump, Hook accepts, and Hook says, “Let’s get it.” Jericho says yeah, let’s get it, and he also fist bumps Renee. With The Wizard now his mentor, is it only a matter of time before the Cold Hearted Handsome Devil goes for the top prize in AEW?

 

Mercedes Mone makes her entrance!

The fans chant for the “C E O! C E O!” as she struts down to join commentary. We’re about to see the Galaxy’s Greatest, the Babe with the Power, Chicago Skye and the Star of the Show battle it out, who wins their shot at the Princess of the Black Throne?

AEW TBS Championship #1 Contender’s Fatal 4 Way: Kris Statlander VS Willow Nightingale VS Skye Blue VS Anna Jay!

The bell rings and Skye SUPERKICKS Kris! Willow LARIATS Skye! Anna rolls Willow up, TWO! Willow swings, but Anna wrenches to HOOK KICK! Anna whips, Willow reverses, but Anna uses that to LEG LARIAT Skye off the apron and onto Kris! Willow runs up but into a BOOT! Anna runs in to ELBOW Willow in the corner, ROCK her, then whip. Willow reverses, then fires up before she runs in, back body block! And clothesline! Snapmare, then BOOT! The fans rally, Willow runs, and she SPLASHES! Cover, TWO! Skye runs in to CLUB away on Willow, then bumps her off buckles. Skye stomps away in the corner but fans boo.

Willow elbows Skye but Skye CLUBS Willow then digs her boot in! Willow powers out of that, but Skye storms after Willow. Skye tries to suplex but Willow’s too strong! Willow wrenches out, but Skye kicks low. Skye then DDTS Willow down! Willow flounders, Skye hurries to cover, but Kris breaks it! Kris hauls Skye up to scoop and SLAM! Kris runs to SLIDING LARIAT! Anna adds a BASEMENT BLOCKBUSTER on Skye! Kris SLIDING LARIATS Anna! Cover, TWO! Kris scoops, Anna slips free and shoves, then follows, but Kris runs her over! The fans fire up as Kris flexes, and she gets Anna up. Kris runs, but Skye tirps her!

Skye spins Kris around to SUPERKICK! Willow POUNCES Skye, PERIOD! The fans fire up and Stokely Hathaway loves it! Willow tells Mone to remember that one, but the fans chant “C E O! C E O!” while Dynamite goes picture in picture.

Willow goes back tot he ring, but Anna HOTSHOTS her down! Anna tells Mone to watch her, but Kris trips Anna up! Kris throws hands and CLOBBERS Anna, then CHOPS her against the apron! Anna crawls away, Kris kicks her in the butt! Kris goes for Skye but Skye ROCKS her first! Skye CLUBS Kris, stalks her, but Kris hits back with body shots. Willow CLUBS Anna around the way, stomps her down, but Skye looms over Kris. Skye drags Kris up while Willow keeps on Anna. Skye SMACKS Kris off steps, and Willow scoop SLAMS Anna! Kris hits Skye back, CHOPS her against barriers, then keeps after her.

Anna SMACKS Willow off steps, CLUBS her, and Kris DECKS Skye! The fans fire up for Kris while Willow kicks Anna in return. Stokely coaches on his ladies, but Skye SUPERKICKS Kris! Anna and Skye mug Willow, then bring her up to double whip hard into the LED barrier! Willow writhes, but Kris DOUBLE SPEARS Anna and Skye! Kris puts Skye in, covers, TWO! Skye survives but Kris drags her back up. Kris CLUBS Skye, kicks, but Skye blocks to KNEE! That looks like something Mone does! Skye reels Kris in to SWINGING NECKBREAKER! Skye then runs, but Willow is up to SPINEBUSTER her down!

Willow sees Anna run up and takes a swing, but Anna catches her for a COMPLETE SHOT! Kris is back, and she DISCUS LARIATS Anna! All four women are down and even Mone is loving it. Dynamite returns to single picture as the four meet at center. Anna trades forearms with Kris while Skye trades shots with Willow. They go back and forth, stand back up, and the forearms fly harder! Willow and Anna ROCK Kris and Skye, then Anna BOOTS Willow! Skye runs to BOOT WASH Willow outta the ring! Kris runs in, Anna dodges but Skye blocks to send the arm into Anna anyway! But Kris still ROCKS Skye!

Kris CHOPS Anna, ROCKS Skye, repeat! Then ROUNDHOUSE for Anna! Skye is in a corner, Kris UPPERCUTS her! Kris reels Skye in, FISHERMAN BUSTER! Cover, TWO! Skye survives and Mone can’t help but love it. Kris kicks Skye away, drags Anna to the drop zone, then climbs up. But Anna ROCKS Kris first! Anna goes up after Kris, CLUBS away on her, and she SUPERPLEXES! Cover, Willow SENTONS them both!! The fans fire up, Skye blocks Willow to again Mone Knee! Skye tries to fireman’s carry but Willow fires elbows! Willow gut wrenches, BABE WITH THE POWER- RANA!! Cover, TWO!!

Willow stands, into a SUPERKICK! Skye runs, hops on, CODE BLUE!! Cover, KRIS BREAKS IT!! Kris saves her friend but also the match! Kris gets Skye up, POWER BREAKER!! Skye flounders away, Kris drags her back, but Anna hooks Kris into the Gory Especial! GORY BOMB onto Skye! Anna double covers, TWO!! Anna snarls, she drags Kris up by her hair, and she clamps on the QUEENSLAYER! But Kris powers out, and feeds Anna to Willow’s SHOTGUN! But now, Kris and Willow are the two standing tall. Willow says let’s do this, pal! Kris says okay, but then Skye LARIATS them both! No effect!

Kris & Willow kick Skye, whip her, but Skye ducks to send Willow into Kris! Then she SUPERKICKS, whips, but Willow reverses! Willow runs in but Skye dodges! Skye ROCKS Willow, but Willow comes back! Skye BOOTS Willow in the ropes, brings her to the apron, and full nelsons! Willow fights free, fireman’s carries, and APRON DEATH VALLEY DRIVERS!! Skye flops down, Mone’s jaw drops just like Quebec’s! Willow high fives the fans but Anna brawls with Kris! Anna clinches, Kris fights free and gut wrenches! The tuck and- VICTORY ROLL! TWO!! Anna hurries up, but Kris gets around! Anna tosses Kris out, to LEG LARIAT!

But Willow is back in, to gut wrench and BABE WITH THE POWER BOMB!!! Cover, Willow wins!!

Winner: Willow Nightingale, by pinfall (NEW #1 Contender to the AEW TBS Championship)

Mone says alright, she accepts Willow’s that good. But wait! JULIA HART runs in to BELT SHOT Willow from behind!! The fans boo but the Princess grins as she holds up the title. Then she glares at Mone over at the desk. Mone stands and walks right up to the ring. Julia holds the title up at Mone, then runs away before Kris can get her! Willow is still getting her shot at Dynasty, will she add that TBS Championship to her list of accolades? Or will the House Always Win?

 

Backstage interview with Dustin Rhodes.

Renee is with The Natural, and says he is currently 3-1 in 2024. Every time he steps back inside the ring, he reminds us all just how much of a badass he is. What is next for Dustin? He does feel he’s started 2024 with a bang. “Everybody on this roster is very, very talented. Every single match I’ve had here in five years has been really, really good. Bangers, all of ’em. Nothing’s different. Surprisingly, right now, at 55 years old, I’m still as passionate as I have ever been.” But then in steps The Butcher, belittling what Dustin is saying. Well what does Butcher want? He heard Dustin wants a fight. Oof, Butcher, your breath…

Butcher says it’s his mustache, it has its own musk. But look him in the eyes. Dustin wants a match? Remember that Bunkhouse Match? Oh yeah he does. Then how about Friday on Rampage, Dustin and Butcher cash some receipts? Oh, Butcher wants receipts? He thinks Dustin’s just some stepping stone? Oh absolutely. Well, if you want it, then you got it. Friday Night Rampage it is! But just remember this: You’re gonna find out why Dustin is The Natural Born Legend. Everyone loves Dustin, even Canada. Butcher can’t wait. This is gonna be quite the shootout, but will it be a good Friday for the living legend?

 

“Timeless” Toni Storm visited Turner Classic Movies!

Ben Mankiewicz introduces himself and then congratulates Toni Storm for not only being AEW Women’s World Champion, but also for “helping redefine the artistry of professional wrestling.” Toni says that’s so sweet. And she congratulates Ben on… whatever it is he does around TCM. One small note, though: crispen your annunciation. No one says “crispen” in America really, but sure, he’ll work on it. Now repeat after her. Chin up. Chin up. Tits out. Uh, no, he won’t say that. And watch for the shoe~! What? She tosses her shoe over her shoulder as she leaves, and now he understands. But will AEW’s leading lady continue to be a modern classic even through Dynasty?

 

Swerve Strickland speaks.

“Tonight comes down to Swerve and Takeshita, to be ranked number one. Now we all know, to be truly number one in the pro-wrestling industry, you gotta hold the AEW World Championship gold. And that is Samoa Joe. Takeshita, you’ve been probably one of the best competitors I’ve ever seen over the last couple months. You’ve been doing your thing. But our motivation’s been vastly different. Mine is for something bigger than me, and that’s history. I’m not taking this lightly. So Takeshita, after I get past you, it’s me and Samoa Joe, one on one, no distractions.”

Swerve then tells Joe, “I didn’t forget what you did to me. And when I finally get you one on one for that championship, you’ll never forget what I do to you.” Swerve’s House is ready, but will this soon be Swerve’s Dynasty?

 

AEW World Tag Team Championship Tournament Quarterfinals: Orange Cassidy & Trent Beretta VS The Undisputed Kingdom!

While Roderick Strong took away the AEW International Championship, Freshly Squeezed and his Best Friends feel stopping Matt Taven & Mike Bennett from getting more tag titles is fitting revenge. Will Cassidy & #JustTrent do whatever it takes to be avenged? Or will there only be more gold in the Kingdom’s future?

The teams sort out and Trent starts against Bennett. The bell rings, the two circle, but then Cassidy steps in? Cassidy says it’s okay, just hold on. He walks over and DECKS Taven! The fans fire up as Cassidy goes out after Taven, and Trent fires off on Bennett in a corner! Trent stomps away, Cassidy ROCKS Taven, then ROCKS him again! Trent keeps after Bennett, whips him to ropes but Bennett reverses to CLOBBER him! Taven turns things around on Cassidy to whip him into steel steps! Bennett whips Trent, Trent ducks and DIVES onto Taven! The fans fire up and Trent stands Taven up, but Bennett FLIES out onto them both!

The fans fire up as Cassidy climbs! Cassidy waves hi, then SUPER TRUST FALLS onto The Kingdom! The fans are thunderous as Best Friends shake hands! Trent gets Bennett in, Chuckie T gives him a supportive butt pat, and Trent storms into the ring. Bennett kicks low, CHOPS, then bumps Trent off buckles. Tag to Taven, The Kingdom stomps and mugs Trent, but the fans rally for Best Friends. Taven whips, Trent reverses but Taven goes up and over. Taven then dodges Trent to DROPKICK him down! Bennett cheers as Taven BLASTS Cassidy off the apron! The fans boo but Trent gets Taven for a GERMAN SUPLEX!

Trent GERMAN SUPLEXES again, but Taven throws elbows to fight the hattrick. Taven powers Trent into the corner, tags Bennett, and they mug Trent. Trent fights back with forearms and elbows, but Tavne CLAWS Trent’s eyes! The Kingdom double whips, but Trent holds ropes! Trent BOOTS Taven, dodges Bennett then drops down to STANDING METEORA! Taven mule kicks Trent then SUPERKICKS him down! Cassidy protests, the ref has him stay back, but the ref misses Bennett bring Trent to the apron! APRON PILEDRIVER!! Bennett scurries away and Roddy applauds as Dynamite goes picture in picture.

Roddy applauds, but Bennett talks smack on the fans in the front row. Bennett brings Trent up to then rebound and BOSTON BAYONET! Down goes Trent, but Bennett brings him back up and in. Cover, TWO! Trent stays in this but Bennett stays on him with a hard whip to the corner! Tag to Taven and then Bennett whips Trent back in for the BOOT! Trent goes up to MISSILE DROPKICK! Cover, TWO! Taven is annoyed with Trent’s toughness but he clamps on a chinlock. Trent endures as Taven leans on him, and then Bennett mocks Cassidy putting hands up. But instead of putting his hands into imaginary pockets, Bennett just flips everyone off.

The fans rally, Trent fights up and he throws body shots. Taven ENZIGIRIS Trent in return! Tag to Bennett and he runs up to basement BOOT! Cover, TWO! The Kingdom is frustrated but Cassidy coaches Trent up. Bennett brings Trent around to stomp him down, then eggs him on. Bennet SLAMS Trent’s arm off the mat, then stands Trent up for a snap suplex! Cover, TWO! Trent is tougher than that so Bennett tags Taven. Taven goes up and soaks up some heat, only for Trent to get up and bring him down into a SAIDO! Both men are down, Bennett is upset but Cassidy is fired up. Hot tag to Bennett, and he stops Trent from reaching Cassidy!

Dynamite returns to single picture as Bennett CATAPULTS Trent into a ROUNDHOUSE! Trent falls back, Taven goes up, ELBOW DROP! High stack, TWO! Trent is showing that grit but Bennett talks trash on Cassidy. Tag to Taven, The Kingdom whips to SPIENBUSTER and LIONSAULT, onto knees! Trent saves himself, hurries over, hot tags to Bennett and Cassidy! Cassidy bumps Bennett off buckles, goes up top, and CROSSBODIES! Then he runs at Taven, only to be put on the apron. Cassidy bumps Taven off buckles, goes up top again, and he CROSSBODIES Taven now! Cassidy keeps moving, ducks ‘n’ dodges Bennett to tilt-o-whirl, but Bennett stops it!

Bennett suplexes Cassidy, only to get STUN DOG MILLIONAIRE! But JUST THE TIP of the knee from Taven! Bennett gets Cassidy up, Taven is in the opposite corner, and they hit the PROTON PACK! Cover, TWO!! Cassidy survives and the fans fire up again! Chuck rallies Quebec but The Kingdom reset. Taven climbs, Bennett reels Cassidy in, but Trent SHOVES Taven down! Trent climbs, Cassidy turns things around on Bennett! STRONG ZERO BEACH BREAK!! Cover, TWO!!! Bennett survives #BeachZero but the fans rally up again. Cassidy drags Bennett up, tags Trent, and now Trent brings Bennett up.

But Taven SUPERKCIKS Trent! Cassidy leaps, Taven gets under, but Trent just uses that to TORNADO DDT! Cassidy tilt-o-whirl DDTS! Then BUSAIKU KNEE! The fans fire up as Trent and Cassidy… get distracted by Roddy holding up the International title! But then Chuck YANKS Roddy down! So Roddy DECKS the Kentucky Gentleman! Cassidy chases Roddy all around, Roddy drops the belt and Cassidy DIVES out onto him! Trent runs up on Bennett but runs into a kick! Bennett reels Trent in, but while the ref’s checking on Cassidy, Chuck TRIPS Taven! Trent trips Bennett, jackknife bridge, BEST FRIENDS WIN!!

Winners: Orange Cassidy & Trent Beretta (advance to the semifinals)

Turns out, two can play at the numbers game! Or is it six? Whatever! Best Friends are facing Young Bucks, making the semifinals that much bigger for both teams! Oh wait, Best Friends HUG, only for the Bucks to interrupt! Matthew & Nicholas are making sure everyone remembers the EVPs still have the power. But apparently not the power to make the Codyvator- er, EVP Lift, go any faster. Will Cassidy & Trent make the inaugural Dynasty PPV Freshly Squeezed? Or will the Bucks prove blood is thicker than Orange Punch?

 

Backstage interview with Kyle O’Reilly.

Renee is now with #CombatKyle and congratulates him on his big return win a couple weeks ago on Collision. How did it feel to finally be back in that ring? Kyle says you can prepare yourself mentally and physically, but there’s no way to get ready for what it’s actually like to get in that ring in front of a live crowd and pull it off. It felt good to rip the Band-aid off, it really did. But it is a deep, deep roster here in AEW, and there is no such thing as an easy match. True, so let’s talk Undisputed Kingdom. They came out there to celebrate with him, is he having any second thoughts on doing this alone?

Kyle says he loves those guys, but no, no regrets. He did it on his own in his return, he’ll do it on his own this week. Collision in London, Ontario, Kyle proves he belongs. Kyle is ready to chase the dragon, but will he be able to keep this going all on his own?

 

Adam “Edge” Copeland speaks.

The Rated R Superstar was backstage after Dynamite last week, and he said, “When you decide to dedicate your life to this, you dream of nights like this. Your hometown, against a man that you’ve known for 40 years, to hear that audience, to hear them sing my music to me. It’s one of those nights that I’ll take with me to the grave.” Edge is sore, bloody, but he got the TNT Championship. This feels like the first time he’s properly won a title since 2011. “Tonight, it felt like that chapter closed. That 40 year story is closed. It’s time to move on. It’s time for me to defend this TNT Championship. Collision, London, the Cope Open’s back.

“To anybody who wants to step up, feel free. There’s more at stake now, too, and I don’t plan on losing it any time soon.” Collision is about to get Rated R in its return, who looks to go toe to toe with the NEW Face of TNT?

 

MORE breaking news for Collision!

On top of the AEW World Tag Team Championship tournament, on top of The Cope Open, there will be a BIG Six Man Tag! Lance Archer & The Righteous tried to tear down the Swiss Superman, but now he’s got back-up! Bryan Danielson & Katsuyori Shibata are teaming with Claudio Castagnoli to take the fight to Vincent, Dutch & the Murderhawk Monster! Will this Collision prove #EverybodyDies? Or will The Wrestler make a great fit alongside the Blackpool Combat Club?

 

AEW World Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Swerve Strickland w/ Prince Nana VS Konosuke Takeshita w/ Don Callis!

We have heard from The Realest, and we heard from the head of the Don Callis Family. The time for talk is over, only actions can prove your worth! There can be only one, so who will be THE ONE that faces Samoa Joe in St. Louis?

The bell rings and of course Callis joins commentary, saying the French Canadians are outta control. Nana gets everyone chanting, “Whose House?” “SWERVE’S HOUSE!” as Swerve and Takeshita circle. They stare down, and Swerve surprisingly offers a handshake. Takeshita surprisingly takes it, but then neither man lets go. They use that as part of the grapple, and they move around to find openings. Swerve steps over, headlocks, but Takeshita wrenches out. Takeshita grinds the shoulder, Swerve trips Takeshita and has the leg, and then floats to headlock. Takeshita slips out the back to waistlock.

Takeshita shoots the half nelson for the cover, ONE as Swerve goes Matrix! The fans applaud the exchange as the two reset. Callis admits Swerve is a great athlete with sneaky strength, but Takeshita is still the best rope to rope wrestler in the company. The two tie up, Swerve headlocks, but Takeshita knuckle locks through to power up and put Swerve on the ropes. Takeshita lets off slowly, but then lands a cheap shot! The ref reprimands, Takeshita whips, but Swerve flips up and around and stares Takeshita down! Takeshita runs in, Swerve sunset flips, but Takeshita stays up. Swerve goes Matrix again to avoid the fist drop, and he rolls Takeshita up, TWO!

Swerve doesn’t let Takeshita go far, he floats around and rolls him for a short arm scissor! Takeshita hurries to the ROPEBREAK! Swerve lets go quickly and Callis admits Swerve has incredibly smooth transitions. The fans rally up, Takeshita rushes in but Swerve dodges to mule kick! Swerve whips Takeshita, Takeshita ducks ‘n’ dodges to TAKESHITA LINE! The fans are torn but Takeshita soaks up the heat. Swerve checks his jaw, and we see Samoa Joe watching backstage. Is Joe upset Swerve is struggling or angrily hoping Swerve loses? Takeshita storms up on Swerve, ROCKS him, then has him in a corner.

Takeshita digs boots in, the ref counts, and Swerve does his best to kick at Takeshita, but Takeshita lets off with a stomp. Takeshita whips, Swerve reverses and UPPERCUTS! Swerve then snapmares Takeshita to go up and FALLING UPPERCUT! The fans fire up and Swerve hits the Griddy! Callis says Swerve needs to learn, you don’t pander to the fans! Swerve drops a knee on Takeshita’s face, then clamps on with a chinlock. Takeshita fights up quickly but Swerve throws body shots. Swerve puts Takeshita in ropes, fires more body shots, then turns him for a NECKBREAKER HOTSHOT!

Takeshita writhes and flops to the apron while the fans rally up. Swerve drags Takeshita in, kneels on the cover, TWO! Swerve keeps cool and drags Takeshita up. Takeshita fires a forearm! Swerve gives it back, Takeshita gives another, and Swerve throws another! Takeshita grabs Swerve by the hair to Muay Thai KNEE him! Takeshita kicks, Swerve blocks, and Swerve slips around to clinch and BACKBREAKER! Swerve rolls into the facelock, but Takeshita suplexes first! BRAINBUSTER! Takeshita snarls while fans boo, and Swerve goes to a corner. The ref checks Swerve, Swerve says he’s fine but hard to say, and Takeshita storms over.

Takeshita brushes the ref aside, puts Swerve in a corner and he rains down forearms! Callis likes what he sees as Takeshita grinds the forearm in Swerve’s face. The ref counts, Takeshita lets off at 4, and Swerve clutches a shoulder. Takeshita drags Swerve up, ROCKS him, and Swerve leans against ropes to stay up. Takeshita stands Swerve up to ROCK him again, but Swerve SLAPS back! Takeshita fires a flurry of forearms, then runs in, only for Swerve to sidestep! SNAP GERMAN! But Takeshita’s right up to DECK Swerve! Swerve flops out of the ring and Dynamite goes picture in picture.

Takeshita shakes out his arms and scowls while the ring count climbs. Swerve is still down at 4 of 10 but Nana slaps the steps to rally the fans. Takeshita goes out to fetch Swerve, and he hammerlocks the bad arm to POST it! Swerve falls in a heap and Takeshita storms up on him, but the ref says to get this back in the ring. Takeshita drags Swerve up, puts him in the ring, then has Swerve under the ropes for the ROPE GUILLOTINE! Swerve sputters, goes to a corner, but he scowls as he works on the bad arm. Takeshita paces, Swerve turns around, into a HELLUVA KICK! Takeshita hauls Swerve up to scoop and SLAM!

Takeshita goes up the corner, soaks up the heat, and then SUPER SENTONS! Kneeling cover, TWO! Takeshita gives Swerve a taste of what he did earlier, but then drags him into a chinlock. Takeshita grinds Swerve down, even steps over to trap a leg, but Swerve still endures. Swerve reaches out, but then Takeshita pushes him down for a NECK TWIST! Takeshita then goes back for the chinlock, adding a rear mount for more leverage. Swerve still endures and Dynamite returns to single picture. The fans rally up, Swerve fights to his feet, but Takeshita pulls hair to wrangle Swerve back down! So Swerve twists Takeshita’s nose!

The fans rally, the ref reprimands both guys, so Swerve lets go to CHOP! Takeshita winds up to ROCK Swerve! Swerve ROCKS Takeshita, they go back and forth faster and faster! Takeshita winds up to ROCK Swerve again! Swerve leans on ropes again, Takeshita runs in, but Swerve TOSSES Takeshita up and out! Swerve then builds speed, and HANDSPRING RANAS! Swerve still managed that move even with the bad arm, and he puts Takeshita back in. Swerve goes up, Takeshita turns around, CROSSBODY! Cover, ONE!! Callis says that sends a message there, and Swerve definitely looks frustrated.

Swerve goes back to Takeshita to drag him up and fire fast hands! And even some kicks! Swerve winds up, but the bad shoulder holds him back! Takeshita DECKS Swerve again!! The ref checks Swerve as Swerve is in a daze, and Callis says to just call it now. But also, Callis wants Takeshita to show no mercy! Takeshita runs up, Swerve ducks the lariat! Swerve waistlocks, Takeshita switches and shoves Swerve to the apron, then Takeshita runs up. Swerve RAMS into Takeshita, but the shoulder hurts more! Swerve still goes up and over to get in, somersault, but into the fireman’s carry! LANDSLIDE! SHOTGUN BOOT!

Swerve tumbles out, the fans boo Takeshita as he builds speed, but Takeshita FLIES! Direct hit at the ramp and the fans can’t help but fire up! Takeshita hopes Joe saw that, and the fans rally for “A E DUB! A E DUB!” Takeshita drags Swerve up and around to go up the steel steps and to the apron. Takeshita grins as he steps back in with Swerve, and then Takeshita goes up the corner. Takeshita drags Swerve up and he wants to repeat Revolution! But Swerve throws hands to fight that off, and he then SLAPS Takeshita! And SLAPS! And SLAPS! Takeshita HEADBUTTS Swerve down! But Swerve takes out the legs!

Takeshita is stuck in the ropes, for the BOOT and DRAPING DDT!! Swerve goes up the corner, Callis is concerned but Takeshita stirs. Swerve aims to SKY TWISTER! Cover, TWO!! Takeshita survives and Swerve is frustrated again! Nana says he was close, and the fans know “This is Awesome!” Swerve hauls Takeshita up, goes to half nelson, but Takeshita fights it! Swerve still tries but Takeshita elbows him away. Takeshita reaches for a corner, Swerve reels him back in! But Takeshita switches to hop up, POISON-RANA!! Swerve staggers up, into a BLUE THUNDER BOMB!! Cover, TWO!!! Swerve survives and shocks Takeshita!

Takeshita snarls as Swerve stirs. Swerve slowly rises, Takeshita brings him around for boxing elbows! Then he ROCKS Swerve again! Swerve leans on the ropes again, Takeshita grabs at him, but Swerve hooks free with his leg to ROCK Takeshita with a right of his own! Takeshita sits back, shakes out the stars, and Swerve nods. Swerve runs up, blocks a boot, and he yanks Takeshita, somersault into the JUMP KNEE! Swerve ends up in a corner, but he goes up and over as Takeshita runs in! O’Conner but then EDDY GORDO RANA! Takeshita stands, into the SOMERSAULT FLATLINER! Cover, TWO!! Takeshita survives and Callis is worried now!

Swerve goes to the corner and fans fire up as he goes up! Swerve takes aim for the- Wait, Takeshita bails out to the apron. Swerve just adjusts to APRON KILL STOMP!!! Swerve pushes Takeshita back in while fans lose their minds! Swerve reloads as he climbs back up, for the KILL- POWERBOMB!! Flip through and suplex, BRAIN- NO, Swerve slips free to CHOP Takeshita on the neck! Then half nelson, BIG PRESS- NO, victory roll! Then the WHEELBARROW GERMAN!! Swerve flounders, sits up, into the POWER DRIVE KNEE!! Cover, TWO?!?!? Swerve survives and shocks everyone! Callis was even ready to celebrate!

The fans rally up as hard as they can, and Takeshita drags Swerve up again. Takeshita puts Swerve up top as fans hope they “FIGHT FOREVER!” Dynamite’s already into the overrun, hopefully they don’t go forever! Takeshita climbs up after Swerve, waistlocks, but Swerve fights the lift! Swerve throws hands then ELBOWS Takeshita down! Swerve adjusts, reloads, KILL- NO, Takeshita dodges! Takeshita then runs up, BLUE THUNDER- RANA! Swerve sends Takeshita into buckles! Takeshita falls back, into the HOUSE CALL! One more try as Swerve goes up! KILL STOMPS!!! Cover, TWO?!?!? HOW?!?!?

Callis is so excited, he loves the shock on the faces of Swerve and Nana! Swerve hurries to get Takeshita up, half nelsons, but Takeshita breaks free! Takeshita ducks the chop, then swings, but Swerve ducks the haymaker! RISING HEADBUTT!! Takeshita wobbles, but he JUMP KNEES in return!! Swerve stays up, runs up, POP-UP KILL STOMPS!!! Swerve hauls Takeshita up, half nelson, BIG PRESSURE DRIVER!!! Cover, Swerve wins!!

Winner: Swerve Strickland, by pinfall (NEW #1 Contender to the AEW World Championship)

Quebec is thunderous, Callis is upset, and from the looks of it, Samoa Joe is also unhappy he’ll have to face Swerve 1v1. Renee even walks over to ask him how he feels about having said 1v1 match with Swerve. Joe says, “How do I feel? What’s baffling to me is how he’s feeling right now. This is a man celebrating the biggest fate he’s ever gonna catch in his life. And next week, Swerve, when you walk down to that ring and you sign on the dotted line, I am gonna make sure that you UNDERSTAND what you are asking for. You think you’re ready? No. No. You’re not that man.” The King of Wrestling Television storms off, but will he lose his throne to Swerve’s Dynasty?


My Thoughts:

A great Dynamite here, so much great build towards Dynasty. Amazing opening match from Ospreay VS Shibata, great win from Ospreay so that he’ll be ready for Bryan, and then good move following it up with a career retrospective type hype video on Bryan. Awesome #1 contender’s Fatal 4 for the TBS Championship. We didn’t really get any fighting between Kris and Willow, which is actually quite clever, and great win for Willow. Julia of course goes after her, but I feel like that indicates Julia is losing the title and Willow will carry this belt in a feud with Mercedes Mone.

Really good promo from Dustin Rhodes and The Butcher to set up their match on Rampage, and I like that someone finally brought up the Bunkhouse match again. Really good little promo from Kyle O’Reilly to make it clear he’s having another match. And I like that AEW let Darby help plug Tony Hawk’s charity, I’m not even a skater but I appreciate them wanting to help all these kids out there who are or want to be. Good promo from Jericho and Hook to set up not a match but a manager-client relationship. You’d hope Jericho is going to be an honest manager but just as Hook implied, there is always a chance Jericho turns on Hook and we still get them fighting for the FTW title.

Great promo from Edge to give us his feelings after that big win in the I Quit match but to also pivot things towards the Cope Open’s return, just as I was hoping. A bit redundant, though, as they kinda snuck in the announcement during one of the tag matches. They should really just understand what the plan for the show is before having commentary bother with saying stuff like that. Anyway, the Cope Open is going to be awesome, can’t wait to see who becomes Edge’s first defense that he’ll of course win. And great though rather random bit with Toni Storm and Ben Mankiewicz, she didn’t even mention Deonna Purrazzo or Thunder Rosa. Maybe Tony Khan’s still writing that stuff.

A great promo from The Bucks with Renee to lead into their match with Private Party, and that was an awesome match. Of course The Bucks win, both because they’re definitely heading for the titles and they were going to get their win back after all these years. Best Friends VS The Kingdom was also great stuff, and I really liked Best Friends turning the cheat around on The Kingdom. Cassidy & Trent VS Bucks is going to be great, too, but as I’ve said before, this tournament has to be leading to Bucks VS FTR Round 4. FTR will beat Infantry, then beat winner of Top Flight VS Starks & Morrissey, Dynasty will add to AEW’s biggest tag team rivalry.

And of course, awesome stuff in the AEW World Championship story. Great promo from Callis and Swerve, amazing main event from Swerve VS Takeshita, like PPV level in itself. Swerve of course wins, and Samoa Joe had a great promo to respond to it. That contract signing segment will definitely be some good stuff, and their 1v1 match at Dynasty will be match of the year level for sure.

My Score: 9/10


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