In an electrifying episode of AEW Dynamite, fans witnessed a rollercoaster of emotions, from intense matchups to unexpected twists and turns. But it wasn’t just the in-ring action that stole the spotlight; it was the backstage drama and fallout that left the wrestling world buzzing. Here’s a recap of the good, the bad, and the downright ugly from this week’s episode:
**The Good:**
1. **Swerve Strickland vs. Samoa Joe Buildup:** AEW may have its ups and downs, but one thing it’s doing right is building anticipation for the clash between Swerve Strickland and Samoa Joe. The recent brawl between the two added fuel to an already fiery feud, promising an epic showdown at Dynasty.
2. **Jericho-Hook Storyline Development:** While Jim Ross’s absence was notable, the ongoing storyline between Jericho and Hook took an interesting turn. A mistake cost Jericho his match, possibly paving the way for a new alliance between Hook and Shabata, leaving fans intrigued about what’s next.
3. **Julia Hart’s Bright Spot:** In a division often criticized for its lack of depth, Julia Hart shines as a beacon of hope. Her charisma and in-ring skills make her a standout performer, offering a refreshing perspective in AEW’s women’s division.
4. **Penta Zero vs. Adam Copelan Match:** Penta’s singles match against Adam Copelan kept fans on the edge of their seats. While Copelan retained the title, Penta’s performance showcased his potential as a formidable singles competitor, adding depth to AEW’s roster.
**The Bad:**
1. **Overuse of the Whisper Bit:** The recurring Whisper Bit, this time involving Trent Beretta and Chris Lander, felt stale and uninspired. Wrestling fans deserve better than recycled gimmicks that add little to the overall storyline.
2. **Brody King’s Booking Woes:** Despite his potential, Brody King’s continued portrayal as a mid-carder undermines his credibility as a title contender. AEW must elevate King’s status to match his talent and potential impact on the roster.
3. **Disappointing Show Execution:** Last night’s episode failed to deliver on its promises, leaving fans underwhelmed and questioning AEW’s creative direction. From lackluster segments to questionable match bookings, it was a forgettable night for Dynamite.
**The Downright Ugly:**
1. **AEW’s Misguided CM Punk Footage:** AEW’s decision to air footage of CM Punk’s altercation with Jack Perry backfired spectacularly. Attempting to spin it into a storyline only exposed AEW’s desperation and lack of foresight, drawing comparisons to WCW’s infamous missteps.
2. **WWE’s Reaction to AEW’s Misstep:** Backstage reactions within WWE ranged from indifference to amusement, with many viewing AEW’s blunder as a gift that keeps on giving. CM Punk’s lack of punishment and the lukewarm response underscored WWE’s confidence in its own product.
3. **AEW’s Regret and Copyright Claims:** AEW’s attempt to contain the fallout by issuing copyright claims against those sharing the footage further highlights the organization’s regret over its ill-advised decision. The move only adds fuel to the fire, alienating fans and tarnishing AEW’s reputation.
4. **WWE’s Set Changes:** As WWE scales back its set designs for live events, opting for a more streamlined approach, it signals a shift towards maximizing ticket sales over extravagant production. While it may appease fans craving a more intimate experience, it also reflects the changing landscape of sports entertainment.
In conclusion, AEW Dynamite’s latest episode stirred up more controversy than excitement, with misguided decisions overshadowing any moments of brilliance. As AEW grapples with the aftermath of its misstep, WWE continues to assert its dominance, leaving fans and industry insiders alike questioning AEW’s trajectory in the ever-evolving world of professional wrestling.