The final AEW broadcast before the Full Gear event featured an extended episode combining “Dynamite” and “Collision” with significant build-up and stakes for Saturday’s big show. While the over three-hour event had many highlights, it also had its share of disappointments. Instead of recapping the results, this piece focuses on the emotional highs and lows of the night, such as the intense rivalry between Kyle O’Reilly and Jon Moxley, and the ongoing tension between Samoa Joe and Hangman Page. On the downside, the slow progression of the Young Bucks versus Don Callis Family feud and the lack of buildup for the AEW World Tag Team Championship were noticeable issues. Here’s a breakdown of the best and worst moments from Wednesday’s shows in Boston.
One standout was Mercedes Mone’s evolving “belt collector” character, who claimed the ROH Women’s Championship in her hometown, Boston. Despite mixed opinions about her gimmick, Mone’s victory over Red Velvet gave her a significant boost and set up future storylines leading into Full Gear. The match showcased excellent pacing and chemistry, even though the outcome was predictable. Mone’s reign as champion promises further intrigue, especially with Velvet returning from injury.
A major letdown was the way the upcoming Continental Classic tournament was announced. Although it’s a key event post-Full Gear and has been compared to New Japan Pro Wrestling’s prestigious G1 Climax, the announcement was relegated to a small on-screen banner, leaving many fans unaware. This understated presentation missed an opportunity to build excitement through bigger promotional efforts like a press conference or advance advertising, diminishing the tournament’s perceived importance, especially for newer viewers.
The intense build-up between Samoa Joe and “Hangman” Adam Page was another highlight. Their upcoming steel cage match for the AEW World Championship was well set up through a series of gauntlet matches, with Page overcoming multiple opponents, including a tactical showdown against Katsuyori Shibata. Joe’s frustration and growing desperation, paired with Page’s resilience and confidence, created compelling storytelling that elevated anticipation for their Full Gear clash.
Conversely, the Young Bucks’ storyline direction felt overly predictable and lacked fresh angles. The protracted feud over joining the Don Callis Family seemed to be headed toward a clear conclusion, and the stakes no longer seemed about money or loyalty but rather loyalty to a faction. This predictability dampened excitement in an otherwise strong episode, leaving fans uncertain whether the Bucks would return to their babyface status or continue down a more villainous path.
Another highlight was the escalating rivalry between Kyle O’Reilly and Jon Moxley, setting the stage for their No Holds Barred match at Full Gear. Both wrestlers showed fierce determination, especially in a thrilling tag match that showcased their aggressive styles. O’Reilly’s challenge and the emotional tension around Moxley’s character added weight to their upcoming bout, promising a dramatic confrontation.
A missed opportunity emerged in the final moments of the AEW World Tag Team Championship buildup. Despite solid story development between champions Brody King and challengers FTR, the show only featured a brief video exchange between teams, foregoing the chance for a live, intense face-off. This lack of final hype diminished the match’s build and was seen as a typical AEW misstep that could have been avoided with a more engaging segment.
Fan Take: This detailed review highlights the balance AEW must strike between exciting storytelling and effective promotion to keep fans fully engaged. With major events like Full Gear and the Continental Classic on the horizon, how AEW capitalizes on its momentum and story potential could significantly impact the company’s growth and influence in professional wrestling.
