Let's dive into the world of professional wrestling and explore the thrilling events that unfolded during the AEW Dynamite and Collision shows in Portland, Maine. This live, three-hour special was a crucial build-up to the highly anticipated AEW Double or Nothing event, and it did not disappoint!
The Main Event: Darby Allin's Title Reign Continues
One of the most captivating storylines of the night was the AEW World Championship match between Darby Allin and "Speedball" Mike Bailey. Despite the damage accumulated from previous matches, Allin managed to retain his title in an epic battle. The match showcased the resilience and determination of Allin, who is now gearing up for an even bigger challenge - a Title vs. Hair match against MJF at Double or Nothing. Personally, I think this adds an intriguing layer of intensity to the championship narrative, as the stakes are now personal for both competitors.
Tag Team Turmoil and Title Defenses
The AEW World Tag Team Championship match between FTR and The Conglomeration was a highlight, with FTR retaining their titles in a hard-fought battle. The addition of a gold watch and Stokely to the mix added an element of surprise and strategy to the match. Meanwhile, the AEW Continental Championship Eliminator match between Jon Moxley and Kyle O'Reilly ended in a 20-minute time limit draw, setting up an intriguing no-time-limit championship match at Double or Nothing.
Anything Goes, Anything Goes!
Mark Briscoe and Tommaso Ciampa's Anything Goes match was a brutal affair, with both men leaving nothing on the table. The use of weapons, from kendo sticks to staplers, showcased the intensity of their rivalry. Briscoe's decisive victory after months of frustration was a satisfying conclusion to this bloody encounter.
Injuries and Withdrawals
Unfortunately, not all stories had happy endings. Willow Nightingale, the TBS Champion, was forced to withdraw from the Owen Cup and relinquish her title due to a shoulder injury. This development adds an element of unpredictability to the Owen Cup and the AEW Women's World Title picture.
A Preview of Things to Come
The show also featured several matches that served as previews for the upcoming Double or Nothing event. Will Ospreay's victory over Katsuyori Shibata sets the stage for a highly anticipated dream match against Samoa Joe. The 8-Woman Tag Match, featuring AEW Women's World Champion Thekla, provided a glimpse into the competitive spirit of the division.
Jericho, the Young Bucks, and a New Team Name
In a unique moment, Jericho and the Young Bucks came together to form a new team, with a playful combination of their names - Y2Jackson. Their match against Ricochet, Don Callis Family's Andrade El Ídolo, and AEW National Champion Mark Davis showcased their chemistry and the potential for future collaborations.
A Boiling Point for Okada and Takeshita
The complicated history between Kazuchika Okada and Konosuke Takeshita reached a boiling point, setting the stage for their match at Double or Nothing. The tension between these two wrestlers is palpable, and their encounter promises to be a highlight of the event.
The Road to Double or Nothing
As we head into Double or Nothing, the AEW roster has set the bar high with their performances in Portland. The show was a perfect blend of intense matches, captivating storylines, and personal rivalries. It leaves fans eagerly anticipating the outcomes of the upcoming event.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the way AEW has crafted these narratives, building upon the personal connections and rivalries between its wrestlers. From the ongoing feud between Allin and MJF to the evolving dynamics within the tag team divisions, every match has a deeper context.
In my opinion, the AEW roster has a unique ability to tell compelling stories through their in-ring performances, and this show was a prime example of that. It's a testament to the dedication and creativity of the wrestlers and the promotion as a whole.
As we look ahead to Double or Nothing, the stage is set for an explosive event. The outcomes of these matches will undoubtedly shape the future of AEW, and I, for one, am excited to see how these stories unfold.
