If you had asked me before Sunday night to highlight AEW’s top shows, I might have said: *All Out* 2021, *Revolution* 2020, *All In* 2023, and *Dynasty* 2024.
In 2026, one of these shows will certainly earn its place. But it’s tricky to say; I can’t really pick one.
At AEW’s big event, fans were treated to five hours of action-packed matches. Today, let’s dive into a review of each one.
FTR (Champion) vs. Adam Copeland & Christian Cage, I Quit Match (AEW World Tag Team Championship)
“I Quit” matches usually follow a familiar script, yet this opener added some unexpected twists that made it enjoyable. Christian’s quips, like “I hit your mother,” along with some clever reenactments by Cash Wheeler and Stokely Hathaway, kept things lively. The whole match entertained from start to finish, though I could have done without the cartoonish wooden plank with nails. Still, seeing Christian and Copeland share a moment with a gold coin after 25 years was a nice touch.
Kazuchika Okada (Champion) vs. Kishinosuke Takeshita (AEW International Championship)
This match has been anticipated for about a year. The bad blood between the two men led to a compelling fight for the International Championship. You could tell they were both on their game – Okada with his impressive Rainmaker and Takeshita countering with high-impact moves. After a challenging bout, Takeshita finally got a significant win on pay-per-view, setting up future confrontations.
Match Rating: 4.75/5 stars
Athena vs. Mina Shirakawa
In the first quarterfinal of the Women’s Owen Hart Memorial Cup, Athena took on Mina Shirakawa. They delivered a solid match, though it felt a bit rushed. It wasn’t a poor showing, but it didn’t quite reach great either. Athena’s win felt inevitable.
Jon Moxley (Champion) vs. Kyle O’Reilly (AEW Continental Championship)
Jon Moxley, undoubtedly one of the most pivotal wrestlers in history, showcased his skills yet again. The narrative between him and O’Reilly was captivating, with Moxley strategically targeting O’Reilly’s legs. However, O’Reilly proved quite the challenge, even making Moxley tap out. Ultimately, it was Moxley who turned the tables, winning with a submission of his own and showing mutual respect afterward.
Match Rating: 4.25/5 stars
Will Ospreay vs. Samoa Joe
Ospreay and Samoa Joe delivered a thrilling match, resonating with wrestling history. Ospreay started on fire, and the pace didn’t let up. They even paid homage to past classic bouts, which added a nostalgic charm. Ospreay’s strategy of targeting Joe’s arm ultimately paid off, allowing him to claim victory. It was a well-executed display by both men.
Match Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Swerve Strickland vs. Bandido
In this encounter, Swerve Strickland and Bandido brought something fresh to the ring. Strickland’s acrobatics and Bandido’s impressive counters made for an intriguing matchup. The innovative moves kept fans at the edge of their seats, and ultimately Strickland advanced to the semifinals.
Tecra (Champion) vs. Kris Statlander vs. Hikaru Shida vs. Jamie Hayter (AEW Women’s World Championship)
With Toni Storm and Mercedes Monet absent, Thekla reinvigorated the women’s division. This match delivered plenty of standout moments, especially when Hayter almost connected with a devastating finisher. As the chaos unfolded, Thekla found a way to capitalize, securing the victory amid the aftermath.
Team Jericho vs. Team Ricochet, Stadium Stampede
This match felt like it should have had a different title, but the chaos was expected. The highlights included some unexpected cameos and entertaining antics, with Kenny Omega delivering a mix of charisma and humor. The action was nonstop, though I think it could have been a bit shorter.
Match Rating: 3.75/5 stars
Darby Allin (Champion) vs. MJF (AEW World Championship)
Allin and MJF represent both the current and future of wrestling. Allin had a chaotic title reign, defending his title multiple times. However, his aggressive style eventually led to his downfall when he accidentally landed awkwardly. MJF took advantage, using a variety of moves to secure a decisive win with a top-rope tombstone piledriver. Allin’s brief reign will be remembered fondly, while MJF continues to solidify his place among the greats.
Match Rating: 4.75/5 stars
