It’s All In Sunday as AEW looks to make history with the biggest wrestling event ever at Wembley Stadium.
We will be providing the latest odds for the show but always be careful when placing bets with real money, these numbers might change as the show gets closer to bell time.
MJF and Adam Cole will be pulling double duty as apart from wrestling in the first match of Zero Hour, they will also close the show with a one-on-one match for the AEW World title. Champ MJF remains favorite with 2/5 odds while Cole is 7/4.
CM Punk’s so-called “real” AEW World title is up for grabs against ROH TV champion Samoa Joe. Joe’s title is not on the line in this match and Punk is 1/10 clear favorite to retain while Joe is 4/1 for the upset.
Is this the end of the road for FTR’s reign as AEW Tag Team champions? That’s what the betting suggests. The Young Bucks are 8/13 favorites to regain the titles while FTR are 11/10 underdogs.
The AEW Women’s title will be decided in a four-way match as champ Hikaru Shida defends against Saraya, Toni Storm, and Britt Baker. Odds shifted slightly towards Saraya today with 10/11 and favorite while Shida is 11/8 and Storm and Baker are 11/2.
Will Chris Jericho be able to keep up with Britain’s own Will Ospreay? Bookmakers don’t think so as Ospreay is favorite with 1/6 odds while Jericho is 7/2.
The Golden Elite will team up to take on Bullet Club Gold and Konosuke Takeshita in an AEW/NJPW mashup. The team of Onega, Ibushi, and Page are 1/5 favorites to come out victorious this afternoon while the BCG and Takeshita are 3/1 in their odds.
Chaos and violence will surely be two things we will see in the Stadium Stampede match featuring a five-on-five match between Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli, Wheeler Yuta, Santana and Ortiz against Eddie Kingston, Orange Cassidy, Best Friends, and Penta. The BCC currently have the edge with 8/15 odds while the Kingston-led team are 5/4.
House of Black will defend their AEW World Trios titles against The Acclaimed and Billy Gunn. It’s interesting to see that The Acclaimed and Gunn are actually favorites to walk out as the new champions today with 8/13 odds in their favor while HOB are 11/10 to retain.
Two people will be going out in a coffin as Sting and Darby Allin team up to take on Swerve Strickland and Christian Cage in a coffin match. The faces are 1/8 favorites to win this while the heels are 9/2.
The ROH World Tag Team titles will be on the line in the Zero Hour show as Aussie Open defend against Adam Cole and MJF. The reigning champs are favorites with 4/11 odds while the challengers are 13/8 before they meet later in the evening.
The FTW title is the second title to be up for grabs in the Zero Hour show as Jack Perry defends against Hook. Perry is the underdog today with 13/8 odds while Hook is favorite to win with 2/5.
WWE World Heavyweight champion Seth Rollins broke down in the ring yesterday following the main event match at the non-televised live show at the Show Me Center in Cape Girardeau, Missouri.
Fans switched on their phone lights and started singing “He’s got the whole world in his hands” as Rollins addressed the crowd. This led the Rollins go down on his knee and cover his face to take a breather before he told them that every time he does his entrance and the song starts and people switch on their lights, it reminds him of Bray.
After thanking the crowd for allowing them to be there and wrapped it up, Rollins told them to “always follow the buzzards.”
During his match against Finn Balor, Rollins paid several tributes to Bray which the crowd obviously loved. Before the show there was a moment of silence for both Bray and Terry Funk.
The All In 2023 pay-per-view will be airing on different services depending on the country you live in.
For those in the United States and Canada, the show will air on traditional pay-per-view from the usual cable and satellite providers along with streaming on Bleacher Report for $49.99. All In will also be screened in select Dave & Busters and Tom’s Watch Bar locations.
FITE.TV will air All In for the majority of international markets and those with the AEW Plus subscription will receive a discount.
AEW announced that Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Brazil, and the United Kingdom will be able to stream the show on YouTube starting at 6PM BST. No pricing was announced.
Canada will also have the option to stream it on PPV.COM for $39.99 while those living in the UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Netherlands, Mexico, Brazil, France, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Poland, Portugal, Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, and Bulgaria can get it through DAZN PPV.
Sky Italia will air the show for fans in Italy while ESPN will screen it for those in Australia and New Zealand and those in India can watch it on EuroSport India and StarzPlay.
The Zero Hour show will be free for everyone on AEW’s YouTube channel.
Live today from Wembley Stadium in London, England and on pay-per-view, All Elite Wrestling presents the biggest wrestling event ever, All In. The full card is as follows:
PPV: MJF vs Adam Cole for the AEW World title; CM Punk vs Samoa Joe for the the “real” AEW World title; FTR vs The Young Bucks for the AEW Tag Team titles; Hikaru Shida vs Toni Storm vs Saraya vs Britt Baker in a four-way match for the AEW Women’s title; Malakai Black, Buddy Matthews, and Brody King vs Billy Gunn and The Acclaimed in a trios match for the AEW World Trios titles; Eddie Kingston, Orange Cassidy, Chuck Taylor, Trent Beretta, and Penta El Zero Miedo vs Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli, Wheeler Yuta, Santana, and Ortiz in a Stadium Stampede match; Darby Allin and Sting vs Swerve Strickland and Christian Cage in a coffin match; Kota Ibushi, Kenny Omega, and “Hangman” Adam Page vs Konosuke Takeshita, Juice Robinson, and Jay White in a six-man tag team match; Will Ospreay vs Chris Jericho.
ZERO HOUR: Mark Davis and Kyle Fletcher vs MJF and Adam Cole for the ROH World Tag Team titles; Jack Perry vs Hook for the FTW title.
The Zero Hour show starts at 5PM local time or Noon ET and airs on AEW’s YouTube channel while All In kicks off on pay-per-view at 6PM local time or 1PM ET.
Fans attending All In today should take a close look at the bag policy for Wembley Stadium and restricted items which are barred from entering the property.
Each person can only bring one small bag into the stadium, and it must not be bigger than 297mm x 210mm x 210mm. Bags that are half-full and folded over to reduce their size will not be accepted, so don’t try to cheat! Anyone carrying bags that do not meet this criteria will not be allowed into the stadium.
Anyone who purchases merchandise outside the stadium will need to display it in a clear, plastic bag on entry into the stadium.
Free refillable water stations are located inside Wembley and empty plastic reusable bottles are allowed inside the stadium. Metal bottles will not be permitted…not very environmental friendly, isn’t it? But throwing a plastic bottle will hurt less than a metal one, so maybe that’s the reasoning behind it!
Prohibited items include: Large umbrellas, aluminum and glass drink containers, plastic bottles over 500ml, alcohol, food and drink, pushchairs, selfie sticks, weapons and tools, flares, lasers, smoke devices and canisters, large-bodied cameras and camcorders, drones, and unauthorized musical instruments.
Also, Wembley Stadium is a cashless venue. Please be aware that no kiosks will accept cash. Contactless and card payments are the only form of payments accepted inside the stadium.
If you are traveling to Wembley Stadium for All In using trains, please be aware that there are several strikes going on that might effect the service.
There are three rail and London Underground services that run to Wembley Stadium: Wembley Stadium station (Chiltern Rail Services), Wembley Central station (Bakerloo Line & Overground services), and Wembley Park station (Metropolitan and Jubilee lines).
Following the conclusion of the event, access to public transportation will be slow and as you can expect, it will be very, very busy, and a long, long night for those seeking to go home.
If you are traveling by car, parking at Wembley Stadium is limited and pre-booking is required. If you’re reading this and thinking of going by car, it’s probably already too late to book a parking. You can also try your luck parking at some other place, but you will be probably ripped off in price and made to walk a mile or two.
If you are traveling by bus, the National Express is the official coach partner to Wembley Stadium. National Express drops off at the stadium from over 50 locations around the UK making it the easiest and most convenient way to travel to Wembley.
Doors open at 3.30PM and All In is expected to end around 10PM.
Chris Jericho made a surprise appearance at the RevPro event earlier today in London, England, and attacked Will Ospreay, his challenger at tomorrow’s All In.
Ospreay had just defeated Shingo Takagi in the main event of the show when a masked man jumped from behind to attack with several punches. The crowd booed big time and then the mystery man hit a Codebreaker on Ospreay for even more boos.
But when he unmasked to reveal himself as Chris Jericho, the crowd exploded in cheers before quickly turned to boos again.
Jericho then removed his shirt too and started flipping the crowd and hit the Judas Effect on Ospreay to finish him off.
AEW All In is finally just 24 hours away with a record-breaking crowd expected inside London’s iconic Wembley Stadium tomorrow.
We will present you the early betting odds for the card and will update these numbers tomorrow hours before the show. Please remember that odds will likely change so be careful if you are betting with real money.
In the AEW World title main event match, MJF will defend his gold against Adam Cole. MJF is expected to retain with 1/3 odds while Cole is 9/4 to get his first major title.
CM Punk thinks his world title is the real one since he never lost it so he’s also defending it on the show. Punk is 1/7 favorite to retain the title while the ROH TV champion Samoa Joe is 10/3 with his odds. Joe’s title is not up for grabs.
The AEW Women’s title is on the line in a four-way match with champion Hikaru Shida defending against Saraya, Toni Storm, and Britt Baker. Shida is favorite to retain with 4/5 odds while Britain’s own Saraya is 10/11. Former champions Storm and Baker are both with 11/2 odds.
Despite his arrest last week, Cash Wheeler will join Dax Harwood for their match against The Young Bucks for the AEW World Tag Team titles. The reigning champs are still favorite to keep their gold with 8/11 odds while the Bucks are 10/11.
Sting and Darby Allin team up to take on Swerve Strickland and Christian Cage in a coffin match. Much to no surprise, Sting and Allin are big favorites with 1/6 odds while their opponents are 7/2.
Chris Jericho, who will have Judas played live for his entrance, takes on Will Ospreay in another highly-anticipated match. Ospreay is 1/5 favorite to beat Jericho who is 10/3.
In a six-man tag match, The Golden Elite are 2/9 favorites to beat Bullet Club Gold and Konosuke Takeshita who are 11/4.
Will there will be new ROH Tag Team champions? Bookmakers think not as Aussie Open are 8/11 favorites to retain over Cole and MJF who are 1/1.
No odds are available at this point for the AEW World Trios title match and the Stadium Stampede.
Baccarat, a classic card game that has been popular for centuries, has continually evolved with time. Modern online casinos offer multiple variants of baccarat to cater to a diverse audience, each presenting a unique set of rules, betting options, and strategies. Let’s delve into some of the most engaging เว็บตรงบาคาร่า variants that promise to enrich your gaming experience.
Punto Banco
Punto Banco เว็บตรงบาคาร่า is arguably the most popular baccarat variant, especially in North America and online platforms. The game operates on straightforward rules: You can bet on the Player, Banker, or a Tie. The dealer takes control of the shoe and hands out the cards. Punto Banco is a game of luck, making it an ideal starting point for baccarat beginners.
Chemin de Fer
Famous European casinos’ Chemin de Fer adds an interactive twist to traditional baccarat. In this variant, players take turns being the ‘Banker,’ and the role rotates around the table. It does not introduce an element of เว็บตรงบาคาร่า strategy but makes the game more social, enhancing the overall experience.
Baccarat en Banque
Another European variant, Baccarat en Banque, distinguishes itself by using three decks of cards instead of the usual six or eight. Also, the role of the Banker is more permanent compared to Chemin de Fer. These เว็บตรงบาคาร่า differences create unique betting and strategy opportunities, offering a fresh take on the classic baccarat experience. Baccarat en Banque, differs mainly in its table layout and the fact it uses three decks instead of the usual six or eight. The role of the Banker auctioned to the player willing to take on the most significant risk. The game then proceeds with two player hands dealt against one banker hand.
Super Pan 9
Originating from the cardrooms of Los Angeles, Super Pan 9 uses a limited deck of 36 cards (A to 9). Players receive three cards instead of two, with the option for a fourth card. Fewer cards in play, the odds and probabilities differ significantly, making it a more dynamic and faster-paced game.
EZ Baccarat in เว็บตรงบาคาร่า
EZ Baccarat design speeds up gameplay eliminating the 5% commission charge on winning Banker bets. In exchange, if the Banker wins with a seven after the third card, all bets on the Banker become a push. This variant is ideal for those who find the commission calculations cumbersome and want a more streamlined game. Aiming to simplify the game and speed up the gameplay, EZ Baccarat เว็บตรงบาคาร่า eliminates the commission on banker bets. Instead, if the Banker wins with a total of seven, three cards considered a push. This variant also introduces side bets like the Dragon 7 and the Panda 8, adding extra dimension excitement for players.
Three Card Baccarat
Popular in Asian casinos, particularly in Macau, Three Card Baccarat is a thrilling variation of the classic game. As the name suggests, three cards dealt to the player and the Banker. The เว็บตรงบาคาร่า game offers additional betting options like betting on a three-card total of eight or nine or wagering on a particular three-card pattern.
Mini-Baccarat in เว็บตรงบาคาร่า
As the name suggests, Mini-Baccarat is a scaled-down version of the traditional game, perfect for casual gamers or those who prefer lower stakes. With smaller table sizes and fewer players, Mini-Baccarat in เว็บตรงบาคาร่า offers a more intimate and less intimidating environment.
Progressive Baccarat
Those chasing big wins, Progressive Baccarat offers a thrilling experience by adding a progressive jackpot feature. By making an additional side bet, players have the chance to win a growing jackpot with เว็บตรงบาคาร่า, which can sometimes reach life-changing amounts.
Live Dealer Baccarat
The advent of live streaming technology has given rise to Live Dealer Baccarat, where human dealers control the game from a studio. This variant captures the essence of a real casino experience, complete with interactive features, making it a hit among those who miss the atmosphere of a physical casino.
Speed Baccarat
If you are an experienced player looking for a fast-paced game, Speed Baccarat could be your ideal match. The game rounds are significantly shorter, usually lasting around 27 seconds, as opposed to the standard 48 seconds. This variant ensures players don’t have to wait long between hands, making it more intense and exciting.
Progressive Baccarat
Marrying the classic gameplay of baccarat with the allure of accumulating jackpots, Progressive Baccarat offers players an opportunity to win big. By placing a side bet, players win a substantial progressive jackpot, typically awarded for a specific hand, like a suited Ace and 8.
Conclusion
Choosing the baccarat variant can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Whether you are a novice looking for a straightforward version like Punto Banco or an experienced player seeking the complexities of Chemin de Fer, the baccarat world has something to offer everyone. As online casinos continue to innovate, we can look forward to even more exciting baccarat variants in future. So, dive in and enjoy the rich tapestry of options available to you in the enthralling world of baccarat.
WWE Superstars Karrion Kross, Scarlett, Braun Strowman, Shotzi and WWE Director of Longterm Creative Rob Fee all got the Bray Wyatt logo tattooed on their body yesterday.
Kross uploaded a video of the tattoos being etched as well as a group photo with the crew from Deep Search Tattoo in Clarksville, Indiana, located just across the Ohio river from where Smackdown took place in Louisville, Kentucky.
“The more he withdrew from the world around him, the more wonderful became his dreams,” Kross wrote, quoting American writer H. P. Lovecraft. “For Windham.”
Strowman, who has been out of action due to neck fusion surgery, was brought to Smackdown specifically for the Bray tribute and so was fellow Wyatt Family member Erick Rowan.
Former NXT North American champion and current WWE Superstar Bronson Reed announced that his wife Paige is pregnant with their first child.
“Thank you to all of those that reached out when I spoke about the IVF journey my wife and I have been on,” the Australian wrote on Instagram. “Paige has been an absolute rock star through the whole process and is truly my hero. We were successful and are expecting a baby girl! BIG DADDY COMING IN 2024!”
Reed posted a few months ago about the couple’s IVF plans, noting that while he doesn’t usually post non-wrestling stuff, it was important to use the platform for topics like this to encourage others who were facing difficulties conceiving to try IVF.
Two more matches were added to the upcoming Payback premium live event set for next weekend.
The United States title will be on the line as Rey Mysterio defends against Austin Theory while The Miz takes on crowd favorite LA Knight.
These two matches join Rollins vs Nakamura for the World Heavyweight title, Ripley vs Rodriguez for the Women’s World title, and Stratus vs Lynch in a cage match.
Also announced for the show is Cody Rhodes as the special guest of The Grayson Waller Effect.
Alexa Bliss recorded a video on social media remembering her friend Windham Rotunda.
Bliss explained that she planned to attend Smackdown but flight options were very limited and none would have arrived in Louisville, Kentucky in time before the show ended.
The former Raw and Smackdown Women’s champion described Windham as a creative genius who brought us an amazing gift in the form of Bray Wyatt’s character.
She said that her time with him was the most she’s ever had fun during her career. Bliss said she was thankful for him for allowing her to be a small part of his vision. Bliss had an alliance with Wyatt and jumped to the “dark side” between 2019 and 2020.
When she returned and eventually Wyatt was re-hired, there were rumors that the two would team up again but despite several hints along the way, it never happened.
Bliss praised Windham’s creativity and said the void he left could never be replaced by anyone. Bliss noted that Wyatt opened up the minds and eyes to a whole another world in the industry that no one thought could be done.
“We will continue to celebrate your life, your legacy, and the amazing human you are,” Bliss said.
AEW merchandise is expected to be red hot and fans will be able to get their hands on their favorite apparel today before All In starts.
AEW merchandise locations at various units operating along Wembley Way will be operating both today and tomorrow between 11AM and 7PM. Merchandise is also being sold at the All In Welcome Party today at BOXPARK Wembley.
For those who want to leave it up till they enter Wembley, merchandise will also be available on the concourse area tomorrow from 1PM to 1O:30PM.
Fans who will be walking into Wembley with their merchandise, please remember that a clear bag is required otherwise you will be denied entry. Free clear bags will be provided with any purchase.
AEW’s Chris Jericho paid tribute to Bray Wyatt last night during a Fozzy concert which was held at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town, London.
Clips making the rounds on social media show the former AEW champion praising Rotunda’s work before the crowd suddenly starts singing “He’s got the whole wold in his hands” with the band encouraging everyone to keep singing.
Wyatt’s death put a bit of a damper on the All In show which takes place tomorrow from a jam-packed Wembley Stadium. It’s unclear if AEW will honor Windham Rotunda at any point during the show.
The band Fozzy will be performing the song Judas live for Jericho’s entrance for his match against Will Ospreay.
WWE video editors had a busy two days as they had to prepare tribute videos for both Terry Funk and Bray Wyatt so they could air on Smackdown.
As it’s often the case in these unfortunate situations, WWE did not disappoint with the creation of two, three-and-a-half minute videos honoring the lives of the two departed.
Funk passed away on Wednesday at the age of 79 while Wyatt passed away unexpectedly on Thursday at the age of 36.
The influence of the Greek alphabet has been profound, permeating various aspects of life and knowledge—be it science, mathematics, philosophy, or even pop culture. While the script may be ancient, its role is far from outdated. Its legacy has stood the test of time, and its letters are still ingrained in our modern-day lexicon. How does the Greek alphabet continue to hold sway in the 21st century? Let’s explore.
The Greek alphabet originated around the 9th or 8th century BCE and is the oldest alphabetic system that has letters for vowels and consonants. Throughout history, it has been instrumental in the documentation of religious texts, scholarly works, and official records. Its characters have been etched into stone, written on papyrus, and printed in books. As civilizations grew, so did the influence of the Greek script, leading to its adaptation and modification by various cultures and languages.
The Greek alphabet’s importance in academia is undeniable. For centuries, Greek letters have been used as symbols and notations in various scientific fields. In physics, characters like alpha (α), beta (β), and gamma (γ) signify specific constants, particles, or phenomena. In mathematics, equations often feature Greek letters to denote angles or ratios. It’s no exaggeration to say that the Greek alphabet is woven into the very fabric of scientific understanding.
The medical world is no stranger to Greek letters either. Doctors and medical researchers frequently employ Greek terms to describe anatomical features, diseases, and medical procedures. For instance, the Hippocratic Oath, a fundamental ethical code in medicine, derives its name from Hippocrates, the ancient Greek physician. The Greek language and its letters serve as a basis for many medical terminologies, ensuring a universal understanding among healthcare professionals globally.
When it comes to technology, the Greek alphabet letter lambda (λ) has a prominent role. In computer science, it symbolizes lambda calculus, a formal system in mathematical logic and computation theory. In engineering, lambda is used to signify the wavelength of waves. Lambda’s ubiquitous presence underscores the alphabet’s flexibility and adaptability across different realms of knowledge.
However, it’s not just the sciences that embrace Greek letters; they’re also deeply rooted in culture and the arts. Sororities and fraternities in American colleges and universities often use Greek letters to identify their organizations. Films, books, and music also feature references to Greek letters and myths, illustrating the alphabet’s timeless relevance.
In modern linguistics, the Greek alphabet continues to be an object of study and fascination. Researchers delve into its history to understand the formation of other alphabets, such as Latin and Cyrillic. It has also become a subject of interest in comparative linguistics, offering insights into the development of written language over the centuries.
The recent global pandemic brought Greek letters into the spotlight in an unexpected way. The World Health Organization (WHO) adopted Greek letters like Alpha, Beta, and Gamma to label different variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This was done to avoid stigmatization of countries where these variants were first identified. This move highlighted the alphabet’s potential for universal communication, even in the face of global crises.
In conclusion, the Greek alphabet’s enduring influence cannot be overstated. From its ancient roots to its modern applications in fields as diverse as science, medicine, technology, and culture, it remains a potent symbol of human ingenuity and the quest for knowledge. Whether we’re looking at the name of a fraternity, a formula in a physics textbook, or a label for a virus variant, the Greek alphabet is a living testament to the interconnectedness of human civilization through time. As we venture further into the complexities of the modern world, it is clear that these ancient letters will continue to be our companions, guiding us towards new horizons of understanding.
WWE honored both Terry Funk and Bray Wyatt last night on a special episode of Friday Night Smackdown on FOX.
The broadcast started with an In Memory Of graphic featuring both Funk and Wyatt and that led to the whole WWE roster, including officials, on the top of the stage as the camera panned to show the fireflies.
Michael Cole then took over and explained how the WWE lost two of its family members and Smackdown would be a tribute to both men and invited everyone to join for a ten-bell salute.
Triple H stood front and center and was flanked by Cody Rhodes, and Wyatt Family members Braun Strowman and Erick Rowan, who now has the unfortunate distinction of having to go through two tribute shows for both Brodie Lee and Bray Wyatt.
Throughout Smackdown, several videos aired of both men’s accomplishments in the ring and several WWE Superstars talked about them, including Cody Rhodes who was brought in for an in-ring segment talking about Terry Funk.
It was an emotional night for all those involved and the broadcast ended with the arena slowing going to black, a lantern in the middle of the ring, an eerie silhouette of Bray Wyatt, and the WWE Universe honoring Wyatt by showing their fireflies while chanting “Thank you Bray.”
The last time Bray Wyatt appeared on WWE television was on the February 17 episode of Smackdown in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
On that night, Wyatt and Uncle Howdy – played by his real-life brother Bo Dallas – interrupted a Hit Row in-ring performance and attacked Top Dolla and Ashante “Thee” Adonis. Howdy took on Adonis while Wyatt applied the Mandible Claw on Dolla, then tossing him over. Wyatt then put the Mandible Claw on Adonis and threw him to Howdy, who performed the Sister Abigail.
Wyatt then grabbed the mic and issued a challenge to Bobby Lashley and Brock Lesnar, warning them that whoever wins their match, will get to face him.
The match never happened as Wyatt contracted COVID soon after and his health declined, preventing him from appearing at WrestleMania.
His last match on television was the Pitch Black match at the 2023 Royal Rumble against LA Knight. After that, Wyatt had seven matches, four at non-televised live events and three dark matches at Smackdown tapings, all against LA Knight.
His latest run in the company also featured a new theme song, titled Shatter, by Code Orange. Today, the band issued a small statement on X, honoring Wyatt.
“Rest In Power buddy. You helped make our childhood dreams come true. You rode for us at every single turn and truly believed in us. More than people even know. Thank you for letting us be a small part of your story. See you on the other side,” the statement read.
Yes it’s a little early but I won’t have chance to get this up otherwise.
Ahead of ‘the biggest event in wrestling history’, it’s time once again to overanalyze guys – and girls – fighting in tight shorts.
Quick reminder, there are three categories: star quality, match quality, build. If scores are even, matches’ll be ranked according to personal preference.
We’ll then predict the winner(s) of each contest.
(Cole vs MJF & Cole/MJF vs Aussie Open will be put together as one since it’s all part of the same story)
Without further ado.
MJF vs Adam Cole (AEW Title)
Star quality: 10 – This is the act that both smashed AEW’s merch records and added a good 200,000 viewers to Collision.
Match quality: 9 – They had an excellent scrap on Dynamite a few months back. Despite it being ‘cold’. And while it doesn’t seem fans especially want to see them fight, they can actually use that to their advantage. By teasing growing acrimony during the match, by teasing Cole turning, by teasing MJF reverting to type, by teasing a split the audience so desperately wants to avoid.
Build: 5 – The 08/16 Dynamite about summed this up. There was an excellent tete-a-tete with both guys explaining clearly what they’ve been through and what the title means to them. Sandwiched among some of the goofiest, most self-indulgent ‘comedy’ you’re ever likely to see.
Overall Score: 24
I’m totally confused by who’s winning after Cole’s meltdown Wednesday.
He was so overt the past two weeks that if he doesn’t go heel then his actions won’t make sense. He shrieked into the camera that he and Max had no issues, after the week before coming very close to superkicking him. And Strong promised we’d see the ‘real’ Cole, which to him means someone disloyal.
So I’m going to cheat and suggest two finishes. The first of which is the heel route: Cole and MJF lose to Aussie Open after Cole subtly undermines them. And in the main event he cheats to take the title, loses it to Punk next Sunday and sets up a babyface Max chasing his title from the guy who was the ‘real’ champ all along. Perhaps with Cole in the mix making it a triple threat.
Second is the babyface route. Which – gun to my head – is my prediction. But it’s close. This involves BtYBB taking the tag belts and Max holding onto his title in a clean finale. The show goes off the air with the crowd cheering. Everyone’s happy. On which more below.
WINNER: MJF
Better than You Bay Bay vs Aussie Open (ROH Tag Titles) (Zero Hour)
Star quality: 6 – Hardcore fans know how good Aussie Open are. But they’ve not been presented in a way to do anything other than drag Cole & MJF down a little. Especially when the same can be said of the ROH titles.
Match quality: 6 – This would be much higher if not for the fact priority one will be ensuring the show’s main event makes it to the ring. It’ll likely be a fun match focused on building to the Double Clothesline or Kangaroo Kick, with a little storytelling along the way.
Build: 2 – And it doesn’t matter. This is a loss leader of a wrestling match. There to ensure some extra people tune-in to Zero Hour. And that when they do they see 80,000 rabid fans already in their seats and going crazy for the hottest act in the company.
Which is exactly what’ll happen. Because Better than You Bay Bay have had the average American going gaga. So it isn’t hard to imagine how European fans will react to the first top-level AEW stars they ever see in-person.
While also adding some flavor to the main event. Whether that’s an argument, Max catching an inadvertent superkick or one of the two taking the bulk of the damage and being weakened ahead of their singles clash.
Overall Score: 14
Again, the obvious conclusion is the heel route. The faces failing in a way that adds tension to their match later on. But here’s the babyface one: BtYBB emerging victorious would provide a hell of a visual while ensuring the main card starts with a crowd already losing their minds.
Especially since it’s hard to see what Max will be doing the following Sunday. It’s either a rematch with Cole, a terribly rushed clash with Punk, or… could he and Cole face-off with the winners of FTR/Bucks with both sets of belts on the line?
Leaving a world title defense off a pay-per-view card is risky. But the Chicago faithful would likely be sated by Punk defending his ‘real’ title once more. And Collision’s ratings showed Max & Cole can draw very nicely as a tag. It’s even possible MJF could wrestle twice again and the cumulative matches actually lead to him losing the BBB.
All while prolonging their tag run and putting off either turning heel until they face-off once more at Full Gear. That’s what I’d do anyway.
I can’t say AEW will make this all make sense but I can say they’ve made it hard to predict. Which is probably the first time that can be said about one of Max’s title defences.
Whatever they go with, let’s just hope we don’t end up with a rematch after Roderick Strong and the Kingdom decide the world title match on ‘the biggest event in wrestling history’.
WINNER: Better than You Bay Bay
Samoa Joe vs CM Punk (‘Real World Title’)
Star quality: 8 – Punk’s presented as essentially the company’s top star; Joe disappears for periods but is mega-over whenever he does grace us with his presence since he has such a badass aura, mic skills and a well-earned level of respect among fans.
Match quality: 7 – They had a good one as recently as July. 80,000 people can only enhance that. Especially since Punk’s matches tend to have the liveliest atmospheres in AEW.
Build: 5 – It’s a real shame they cashed out on 20 years of history with one week’s notice. Because if Punk finally, finally conquered the Behemoth in front of the largest crowd in AEW history, it would’ve felt epic. As it stands, they’ve had to resort to ‘yeah you beat me but it wasn’t decisive’.
And Joe’s promos were generally strong in promoting this. But outside of costing Punk a trios match, he hasn’t really ‘got to’ Chicago Phil. And when he did, Punk quickly got his own back by introducing Joe’s face to his knee in about thirty seconds last Saturday.
Lastly, it’s also hard to understand why we were deprived of possibly the best promo battle of any match on the card.
Overall Score: 20
The title itself adds to an already bloated pool.
It also means there is zero chance Punk’s dropping it before facing the world champion. So Joe had to look overwhelming heading into the show. And didn’t.
WINNER: CM Punk
Chris Jericho vs Will Ospreay
Star quality: 8 – Jericho remains popular but fans do seem to be tiring of the act. As shown by the unenthusiastic singing of his theme recently. His confused booking hasn’t helped. Ospreay’s generally been booked among main eventers and sold as one of the best in the world.
Match quality: 7 – And the Englishman is likely the single-best performer gracing planet earth. While he’s had shoulder issues, it didn’t stop him dragging Tetsuya Naito to his best match in years as the G1 reached its crescendo. Nor is he likely to be lacking motivation in front of a record crowd of his countrymen.
Build: 5 – On the subject of which, an already confusing culmination to the Jericho/Callis storyline saw Ospreay positioned as the heel. So Jericho will make his first babyface outing against probably the most popular wrestler on the show.
At best fans will be split. Particularly since Jericho ‘turned’ babyface via being rejected by another heel. One who moments before he’d praised for being ‘just as low as I am’.
The strange positioning continued Wednesday with Ospreay cutting a total babyface promo. Slap a Carolina accent on his words and they could’ve been said by Dax. Thing is, it was excellent anyway.
The Brit was so serious about needing to win and why, that it raised the match at least a level. And while AEW probably shouldn’t have positioned him as the heel, his promo does at least work for the audience he’ll be performing in front of.
Overall Score: 20
There’ve been complaints about Ospreay not facing a fellow 5*+ guy. But Jericho is playing Tanahashi here. A big name both AEW and New Japan are happy with Ospreay beating. Presumably via interference to continue the Ocho’s feud with Callis & co.
WINNER: Will Ospreay
FTR vs the Young Bucks (Tag Titles)
Star quality: 6 – Since Collision started, FTR have been a consistent top act given match time and mic time, even bagging a dodo-rare pin over MJF. The same cannot be said about Matt & Nick Jackson.
Match quality: 10 – The bar here isn’t even ‘steal the show’. It’s hard to imagine these four have set their sights on anything less than the greatest tag match of all time. And they’re good enough to pull it off.
Build: 3 – The selling point of the match is: Who are the team of their generation?
The problem is the Bucks have not been presented at this level.
After Blood & Guts, AEW had a month-plus for them to talk about getting their belts back. The pairs could’ve spouted off from their respective shows until finally going face-to-face. Instead, the company assumed everyone’s a superfan who knows both teams are genuinely great in the ring. And that’ll do.
The good thing for all sides is the majority of folks in London are likely to know all this and treat both teams as such. And FTR saving the Bucks from a couple beatdowns was a nice touch. They don’t want there to be any doubt who the best truly is.
Which was also the message during their sitdown Wednesday. And Matt did have some good lines to add a little spice but it was too little, too late.
With just a little planning this could’ve been so much better.
Overall Score: 19
Cash Wheeler’s recent arrest is a monkey wrench. Since it seemed FTR were set for a long run as the faces of tag wrestling on the show that reps it hardest. If AEW don’t want the bad press or think he may be unavailable for periods, it’s possible they’ll switch to the Bucks. Who already have a tag feud going with the Gunns and seem destined to move on into an Elite/BCG beef.
While FTR don’t seem to have anything on the backburner. Leading us back to the possibility of their facing Max and Cole next week in a rematch if they do indeed retain. Another possible way to get the belts off Cash & Dax if that’s what the company wants.
WINNER: FTR
Kenny Omega, Hangman Adam Page & Kota Ibushi
vs
Switchblade Jay White, Juice Robinson & Konosuke Takeshita
Star quality: 7 – Again it’s striking how much better-used Collision talent is. Bullet Club Gold might not main-event every week but they are featured. While like the Bucks, Omega & Page just drifted after Blood & Guts. They remain popular but not at the level former world champions should.
Match quality: 9 – Sleeper’s probably a dumb word for this so let’s just say it’s got a damn good chance of stealing the show.
White and Omega are as good as it gets. Hangman’s not far off. Takeshita’s on his way. And Robinson at the very least held his own as part of the best tag all year. The only ‘if’ here is Kota Ibushi. Who did not look his best self in Boston. But there’s enough talent around him to prop him up. If indeed he needs it.
Build: 3 – I think AEW think they’ve done a magnificent job with the whole Omega/Callis/Takeshita angle.
I think they think they’ve properly explained why Callis turned on Omega. While in fact he was interrupted that first week and afterward offered only ‘You chose your friends’ platitudes.
I think they think Omega/Takeshita is a big-time feud. And to the connoisseur it is. But Takeshita’s won maybe once on tv and didn’t even have a meaningful sequence with Omega during Blood & Guts.
I think they think it’s heated. Despite both going a long time without mentioning the other. Takeshita’s anti-Elite promos stopped in early June and Kenny’s not exactly been desperate to get to either man. How many times has Callis cut an in-ring promo while courting Jericho? And how many times has Omega come out? Or even bothered warning Jericho about what he was getting into. It wouldn’t have been all that hard to tie these feuds together.
The fact is that as often happens the follow-up has fallen by the wayside because Callis has been occupied with Jericho and AEW don’t like multi-track feuds. Everything exists in its own little universe. Just ask Adam Cole who’s seemingly called ‘dibs’ on going after the title this summer.
And top that off with Omega easily dismissing Takeshita in the final angle Wednesday. When he needed to look strong.
Overall Score: 19
How does this play into All Out? Kenny & Page vs BCG? Kenny vs Jay? Most likely Omega vs Takeshita. While Hangman teams with the Bucks against BCG. Maybe even an Elite/BCG eight-man.
The heels should win here and I’d have Takeshita take it. But I don’t think they will. He’s never got the better of Omega and they don’t seem ready to properly get behind him. Bullet Club on the other hand have got the better of the Elite twice now. And this seems a show where they want to show a cheering crowd enjoying babyface wins.
WINNER: Kenny Omega, Hangman Adam Page & Kota Ibushi
House of Black vs the Acclaimed & Bad Ass Billy Gunn
Star quality: 7 – The Acclaimed remain popular but they’ve definitely cooled from their peak of a year ago. The House of Black simply refuse to allow their popularity to remain at the level of their booking.
Match quality: 5 – The heels here are so good this won’t drop below solid. If Bowens does the heavy lifting for his side it could be very good. Presumably Gunn will just take a hot tag since he’s never been big on selling (it’s a recurring joke on Mick Foley’s pod).
Build: 6 – I’m not personally into it. But it can’t be argued that there’s a progressive story brought up (almost) every week since Billy ‘quit’ on Collision. They’ve hammered the symbolism of his boots, the House mocked and destroyed them and Anthony Bowens’ very good, tearful acting made it seem like the Acclaimed really cared about getting their mentor back.
Overall Score: 18
The House seem to be a toy Tony Khan occasionally remembers is really fun to play with but quickly tires of. And the whole story here is the veteran who thinks he no longer has it but eventually overcomes.
Also, 80,000 people will bark. In case you’ve ever wondered what that sounds like.
WINNER: the Acclaimed & Bad Ass Billy Gunn
Best Friends, Orange Cassidy, Penta & Eddie Kingston
vs
Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli, Wheeler Yuta, Santana & Ortiz
(Stadium Stampede)
Star quality: 7 – The Best Friends have not been presented as a serious act but Cassidy, Kingston & Mox get some of the best reactions in the company. The rest of the BCC are serious upper-card acts and Penta’s one of those who has the rare gift of remaining more over than his push. I’ve always been really high on Santana: can talk, can work, has presence. Ortiz has been badly used since his partner was injured.
Match quality: 7 – Everyone here’s at least good. It certainly feels like we’ve seen the BCC brawling around an arena fairly recently. Because we have. Though this is less likely to include too much of the goofy comedy associated with previous Stampedes since last time Mox was challenged to one he said ‘Nah I ain’t doin that s***’. There will be blood.
Build: 3 – The Kingston/Claudio/Moxley story’s an interesting mix of intertwining friendships and hatreds. The rest of this has been a random bunch of tag & singles matches with each team getting a turn to win. It’s certainly hard to think of a reason for this being a Stadium Stampede match outside of We want to shoot a bunch of stuff at Wembley.
Overall Score: 17
Presumably this leads to Cassidy/Moxley at All Out. Though it does seem a little strange saving an International Title match for when the company is safely back on domestic soil. In terms of a winner, well, the Best Friends are easily the most expendable guys in the match. And it’s not generally a good idea to have guys lose their return match.
WINNER: Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli, Wheeler Yuta, Santana & Ortiz
Sting & Darby Allin vs Swerve Strickland & Christian Cage (Coffin Match)
Star quality: 7 –Sting’s a legend, Cage is an upper-card heel, Darby’s on the cusp of becoming a bonafide main eventer and Swerve’s recent tv time has at least become more consistent.
Match quality: 6 – Coffin matches always seem goofy outside of the Undertaker. Presumably it’ll be tornado-style too?
Whatever happens there are at least three good workers in there, two of whom are risk-takers at the best of times. God only knows what Allin might do when he feels the rush of a crowd that size. Let’s just hope they convince Sting to hit his big moves, beat his chest and leave the daredevil stuff to those with cartilage in their knees.
Build: 2 – I’d actually come around on the whole Fox story and this score was much higher before he was replaced by Christian. Since Fox was the tie that bound the whole story together. Now this is reduced to: you beat-up my protégé. Made worse by the fact that said protégé got a large measure of revenge Wednesday.
Topped off, of course, with a steaming pile of bog-basic cheap heat courtesy of Christian Cage. Who’s been doing excellent heel work on Collision without resorting to that stuff. Almost as if going back to Dynamite’s crash-tv made him lower himself.
Overall Score: 15
Darby’s competing for the TNT title the next week. Sting’s never lost in AEW and 80,000 people have not turned up to see him do so. And whoever does needn’t even take a pinfall. WHOSE LOSS? SWERVE’S LOSS!
WINNER: Sting & Darby Allin
Hikaru Shida vs Toni Storm vs Saraya vs Britt Baker (Women’s Title)
Star quality: 5 – None of these women are where they should be. Some of which is on the booking; some of which is not. In Shida’s case, she remains popular despite her routinely baffling disappearances from tv. In Storm’s, her recent title run was less-than an afterthought. Britt’s combined a lack of meaningful storylines with sub-par in-ring. And Saraya’s been underwhelming all-around since returning.
Match quality: 4 – This’ll either be wrestled at Storm & Shida’s level or Saraya & Baker’s. Neither Baker’s recent performances or Saraya’s in general suggest the former. Though the Brit’s home court popularity might help make bad=solid, solid=good.
Build: 1 – Three of the four won their way into this match through a tournament only slightly less prestigious than Pat Patterson’s in Rio. Including, confusingly, the champion herself. A ‘tournament’ also consisting of a single round against implausibly weak opponents.
This was the usual token gesture toward the women. Time for whom couldn’t be found on either Dynamite or Collision ahead of the big show.
Overall Score: 10
Six years ago, this’d be a foregone conclusion. But while belting Saraya might result in a nice pop, it wouldn’t be smart longer-term. Since she’s yet to rediscover her form between the ropes or on the microphone.
Nor would changing the belt again so quickly be smart against the backlash re: the women’s division. Since it’d totally undercut Shida.
WINNER: Hikaru Shida
Overall Thoughts
‘The biggest event in wrestling history’ is a difficult cross to bear.
AEW spent at least two weeks in July throwing a bunch of stuff out there on Wednesdays to fill tv time. Then spent the final two Dynamites cramming so many angles in that it felt like every babyface on the roster was attacked from behind.
The whole thing has been badly organized. To the degree that there were reports of talent being frustrated over not knowing whether they’d be on the card.
There’ve also been complaints, from fans anticipating bigger matches, about the card itself. It certainly doesn’t feel like the biggest show of all time. And last week’s tv might’ve been the weakest all year, stalling already slim momentum.
Nevertheless, I found myself getting excited merely typing some of these matches out. Particularly when imagining the crowd reactions.
And from the company’s perspective, this is a show which has already paid for itself with a gate of $10million and climbing. While All Out the week after is far more reliant on pay-per-view buys. Meaning it’s understandable they’ve jammed Kenny Omega into a six-man. And the BCC into yet another multi-brawl. Since they’ll presumably be relying on attractions such as Mox competing for Orange Cassidy’s title to persuade fans to shell out the following week.
Which is not to defend everything. Certainly it feels an exceptionally long time since the build to an AEW ppv has been strong. Yet sometimes it’s nice to simply enjoy the show for a few hours without worrying about All Out or Full Gear. Since that’s what wrestling’s supposed to be. Entertainment. An escape. And I plan on enjoying this show, this spectacle.
