Posted on 6/12/125 by Bob Magee
oni Storm, Hangman Page are in the Building
We kicked things off on Wednesday night by checking in with
AEW Women’s World Champion Toni Storm and Men’s Owen Hart
Cup Tournament winner Hangman Adam Page making their
entrances into the Moda Center. Storm entered in the back of
a peddlebike being piloted by Luther, while Hangman Page was
joined by Christopher Daniels, who had some advice for the
man who will challenge Jon Moxley for the AEW World
Championship at All In: Texas.
As Page made his way deeper into the building, we saw that
he and Daniels weren’t alone, as the Death Riders were
waiting and watching, following Page into the venue.
Swerve Strickland vs. Will Ospreay II Ends in a Time-Limit
Draw
Will Ospreay and Swerve Strickland faced off in an intense,
hard-hitting bout, built on Ospreay’s insistence that Swerve
make peace with Hangman Page and Strickland’s steadfast
refusal. The match opened with a respectful handshake,
signifying mutual respect despite recent tensions. Both men
displayed remarkable agility and endurance, engaging in
rapid exchanges and impressive aerial maneuvers, including
Ospreay's stunning Sasuke Special dive and Swerve's
impactful Swerve Stomp. Early on, Ospreay appeared to suffer
a broken nose, impacting his breathing but not diminishing
his offensive output.
Late in the contest, the competitors exchanged signature
moves, with Ospreay executing the Stormbreaker and multiple
Hidden Blade elbows, including a diving one through the ring
ropes, while Swerve countered with high-impact offense,
including a punishing Deadeye. Neither wrestler could
achieve a decisive pinfall, as they continually kicked out
of near-falls, demonstrating immense resilience.
Ultimately, the match reached its 30-minute time limit with
both wrestlers unable to secure victory, officially declared
a time-limit draw.
After the match, Swerve, despite exhaustion and injury,
proposed to continue the bout into "sudden death." However,
the moment was quickly interrupted as Jon Moxley and his
Death Riders (Wheeler Yuta, Claudio Castagnoli, and Marina
Shafir) stormed the ring.
The Death Riders were soon joined by the Young Bucks,
Matthew and Nicholas Jackson. The Bucks kicked Prince Nana
off the apron and handcuffed Swerve to the ropes.
The assault escalated dramatically when the Bucks retrieved
the infamous thumbtack-covered Swerve sneaker from Anarchy
in the Arena. As Matthew and Nicholas aimed a devastating
blow at the restrained Swerve, Ospreay heroically
intervened, throwing himself in harm’s way and absorbing the
brutal shot himself. Ospreay was left severely bloodied,
prompting immediate medical attention from ringside
physicians as the Bucks and Death Riders slinked away.
Don Callis Interrupts Kazuchika Okada
Backstage at AEW Summer Blockbuster, Renee Paquette spoke
with AEW Continental Champion Kazuchika Okada about his
upcoming "winner-take-all" match against Kenny Omega at AEW
All In: Texas. Renee highlighted the significance, noting:
"This will be the first time on American soil. Is this
version of Okada ready for this version of Kenny Omega?"
Before Okada could respond, Don Callis abruptly interrupted,
challenging Okada’s placement in the match with a
provocative series of questions:
"Why is it Okada in this match and not Kyle Fletcher? Has
Okada had a better six months in the ring than Kyle
Fletcher? Why is it Okada in this match and not Takeshita?
Has Okada had a better six months than Takeshita?"
Callis aggressively directed his frustrations at Okada,
asserting bluntly, "So maybe I should be addressing this to
you. Why is it not Kyle and Takeshita, and why is it you?
'Cause that makes me sick."
Unfazed by Callis’s insults, Okada forcefully silenced
Callis by grabbing his wrist, causing Callis to plead
desperately:
"Ow. Ow. Easy, easy. Please, please, please."
However, the rest of the Don Callis Family then appeared,
forcing Okada to relent. But he barely acknowledged the
Family, as Okada ended the encounter succinctly and sharply
with a single dismissive word directed at Callis:
"Bitch."
The Hurt Syndicate Takes Out Komander
Backstage, we saw video from earlier in the evening when
MJF, Bobby Lashley and Shelton Benjamin took out Komander,
who was slated to face The Hurt Syndicate alongside Kevin
Knight and Speedball Mike Bailey later in Summer
Blockbuster. With Komander taken out of action, Tony Khan
announced he would be replaced by Mascara Dorada.
Mistico Returns, MJF Lays Down a Challenge
Mexican legend Mistico squared off against Blake Christian,
as Mistico showcased his extraordinary agility, executing a
high-risk tope suicida that took out Christian. Christian
responded impressively, landing a precise springboard 450
splash, nearly securing an upset victory.
However, Mistico rallied, regaining momentum with his rapid,
signature springboard crossbody and ultimately clinching
victory with a perfectly executed La Mistica, forcing
Christian to submit and capturing a decisive win.
After Mistico’s victory, celebrations were abruptly
interrupted by the entrance of MJF alongside The Hurt
Syndicate (Bobby Lashley, Shelton Benjamin, and MVP). MVP
began assertively, declaring, "Attention, AEW viewing
audience, this is an official announcement from The Hurt
Syndicate," before handing over to MJF.
MJF mockingly congratulated Mistico, stating sarcastically,
"That was very impressive my friend. And it's not easy to
impress me since all these people know I'm the most complete
professional wrestler in the sport today." He then
challenged Mistico directly, announcing a match for the
upcoming Grand Slam Mexico event:
"I'm gonna give you a match next week at Grand Slam Mexico.
I look forward to ripping that dime store mask off your
stupid face."
Escalating tensions, MJF provocatively dropped a giant
American flag from the rafters and having red, white and
blue streamers launched into the room, leveraging the
patriotic symbolism to taunt Mistico further, boasting:
"God bless your American hero, Maxwell Jacob Friedman!"
Mistico confidently responded in Spanish, telling MJF he'd
see him in Mexico City. Angered by Mistico’s defiance, MJF
sharply retorted:
"You ain't Mistico to me, son. To me, you're still just
Sloppy Sin Cara."
The verbal confrontation erupted into physical chaos when
MJF and The Hurt Syndicate violently attacked Mistico,
aiming to unmask and humiliate him. However, the attack was
halted when Speedball Mike Bailey, Kevin Knight, and Mascara
Dorada rushed in to make the save, fending off the Syndicate
and protecting Mistico from further harm.
The Hurt Syndicate vs. Speedball Mike Bailey, Kevin Knight
and Mascara Dorada
AEW Summer Blockbuster hosted a heated trios bout featuring
The Hurt Syndicate (Shelton Benjamin, Bobby Lashley, and
MJF) against the agile team of Kevin Knight, Speedball Mike
Bailey, and Mascara Dorada. The contest began explosively,
with high-paced exchanges and impressive aerial attacks.
Mascara Dorada particularly showcased his remarkable
agility, landing a precise springboard crossbody, while
Kevin Knight's standout athleticism delivered a powerful
dropkick, stunning MJF.
However, The Hurt Syndicate utilized their significant size
and strength advantage, notably with Lashley delivering a
devastating spear and Benjamin executing impactful power
maneuvers. After a chaotic series of dives, including
Bailey's Triangle Moonsault and Dorada’s Shooting Star
Press, the match reached its climax.
In the critical moment, MVP interfered, striking Bailey's
knee with his cane. This distraction allowed MJF to
capitalize immediately, hitting a quick DDT, followed by his
decisive Heat Seeker to secure the victory for The Hurt
Syndicate.
Following their victory, The Hurt Syndicate escalated their
assault, targeting Mascara Dorada to humiliate him. MJF
aggressively attacked Dorada, aiming to unmask him—a grave
disrespect in lucha libre tradition. Despite Dorada's
resistance, MJF successfully ripped off his mask, leaving
Dorada covering his face and deeply humiliated.
Just as the situation appeared dire, Mistico swiftly
intervened, rushing the ring to make the save. Mistico
immediately targeted MJF, applying his signature submission,
La Mistica, forcing MJF to rapidly tap out, signaling a
symbolic victory ahead of their anticipated singles clash at
the upcoming Grand Slam Mexico event. The dramatic rescue
left Mistico standing tall, clearly sending a powerful
message to MJF and the entire Hurt Syndicate.
The Death Riders Send a Message to Hangman Adam Page
A disturbing scene unfolded as Hangman Adam Page was dragged
to the ring by the Death Riders—Jon Moxley, Claudio
Castagnoli, Wheeler Yuta, and Marina Shafir. Page, bound and
gagged, was thrown defenselessly into the ring, subjected to
a vicious assault from Castagnoli and Yuta, humiliating the
challenger mere weeks before his scheduled AEW World
Championship match against Moxley at AEW All In: Texas.
Jon Moxley coldly addressed Page, taunting and warning him:
"For a long time now, you have been searching high and low
for something. I don't know what it is you've been searching
for, but you have exactly four weeks to find it. You have
exactly four weeks to step up and become the man that
everybody wants you to become. And if you are not prepared
to do that, you can pack your shit and get the hell out."
In defiant response, Hangman courageously headbutted Moxley,
briefly retaliating despite being restrained. However, the
Death Riders immediately escalated their violence. Moxley
applied the brutal Bulldog Choke, and Claudio positioned a
steel chair around Page's neck, threatening severe injury.
Just as a catastrophic assault seemed imminent, The Opps
(Samoa Joe, Powerhouse Hobbs, and Katsuyori Shibata)—the AEW
World Trios Champions—rushed to the ring, thwarting the
Death Riders and rescuing Page from further harm. The Death
Riders quickly retreated, avoiding confrontation once
outnumbered.
Recovered and enraged, Hangman Adam Page made a fiery
promise:
"I have come too far and I am too close for them to be the
best that you've got because I would ride through death
itself to take that world championship. And if I find even
one of you tonight, I will take your heads."
Determined and chair-in-hand, Page set off to confront his
assailants, reaffirming his resolve heading into his highly
anticipated championship match against Moxley.
Anna Jay & Tay Melo vs. Megan Bayne & Penelope Ford
A highly charged women's tag team match unfolded featuring
the formidable duo of Megan Bayne and Penelope Ford against
the reunited "TayJay," Anna Jay and Tay Melo, marking Melo's
first in-ring action after a two-year absence.
Early in the match, Megan Bayne asserted dominance, using
her size and power advantage to control Anna Jay. Penelope
Ford complemented Bayne's brute strength with agile and
calculated attacks, driving Tay Melo into the steel ring
steps and applying pressure to Anna's vulnerable shoulder.
Despite their prolonged time apart, Anna Jay and Tay Melo
quickly rediscovered their chemistry, displaying
synchronized teamwork and resilience.
Melo made a spirited comeback, landing impactful strikes
including a strong Pump Kick and an innovative Modified Calf
Slicer submission on Bayne, nearly forcing a submission. A
chaotic exchange ensued as Anna Jay executed a bold diving
crossbody, only to be followed by Penelope Ford's impressive
Moonsault onto the floor, targeting both TayJay members
simultaneously.
Bayne responded with sheer power, hoisting both opponents
simultaneously for a devastating double slam. However, Tay
Melo seized a critical opportunity, skillfully reversing
Ford's offense into a Tay-KO. Melo secured the decisive
three-count, earning the comeback victory for her team.
Post-match, tensions remained high with Megan Bayne
aggressively confronting Anna Jay, but the moment belonged
definitively to Tay Melo and Anna Jay, triumphant in their
emotional and successful reunion at AEW Summer Blockbuster
Kenny Omega vs. Kazuchika Okada V – The Contract Signing and
the NEW AEW Unified Championship
Before the signing, Tony Schiavone introduced the
prestigious new AEW Unified Championship, showcasing unique
side plates representing both competitors—the Rainmaker for
Okada and the One-Winged Angel for Omega. With mutual
respect, Omega spoke earnestly to Okada, emphasizing, "Seven
years almost to the day we had our last match. Let’s leave
it all in the ring. One final time for everything." The
contract was signed swiftly, and it seemed a respectful and
historic bout was firmly set.
The moment was disrupted when Don Callis interrupted
proceedings. Omega quickly dismissed Callis, anticipating
his tactics: "You’re not gonna ruin this match... I know all
of your tricks." However, Callis cryptically countered, "You
didn’t know this one," leading to a shocking twist as Okada
suddenly attacked Omega from behind, aligning himself with
Callis.
Okada viciously assaulted Omega, using a steel baton
provided by Callis, targeting Omega's vulnerable midsection—
a particularly ruthless strategy given Omega’s known medical
history with diverticulitis. Omega collapsed under the
brutal, repeated strikes, rendered defenseless by Okada's
merciless attack. As medical personnel urgently attended to
Omega, Callis gloated from ringside, intensifying the
heinous nature of the assault.
Refusing to stop, Okada returned to inflict further
punishment on Omega despite the medical team's intervention
and Omega being strapped to a gurney. In a chaotic and
disturbing climax, Okada continued his assault, delivering
another devastating elbow drop to the midsection of Omega,
causing the International Champion to cough up a substantial
amount of blood as officials desperately tried to protect
Omega.
With the situation spiraling dangerously, Callis hurriedly
rushed Okada out of the ring area, fearing retribution. The
segment ended with AEW personnel urgently caring for a
severely injured Omega and leaving everyone stunned and
uncertain about Omega's condition leading into the historic
championship clash at All In: Texas, as Omega ultimately was
taken to a local hospital for treatment.
Kyle Fletcher vs. Anthony Bowens (with Adam Cole on
commentary)
Kyle Fletcher, accompanied by Lance Archer, faced Anthony
Bowens, who had Billy Gunn in his corner. AEW TNT Champion
Adam Cole joined the commentary team, offering insight and
expressing particular attention to Fletcher, a known rival.
The match started with high energy, featuring swift
exchanges and impressive agility from both wrestlers. Bowens
showcased his athleticism early with fluid dropkicks and a
precise fallaway slam, nearly securing an early victory.
Cole highlighted Bowens' momentum, acknowledging him as a
potential future contender to his TNT Championship, yet
confident Bowens wouldn't defeat him.
Kyle Fletcher, demonstrating resilience and power, regained
momentum after capitalizing on Bowens' hesitation. The
turning point occurred when Fletcher connected with a brutal
big boot, knocking Bowens from the apron, and followed it up
with a devastating twisting DDT from the turnbuckles, coming
close to victory.
Bowens fought back with determination, hitting a perfectly
executed Famouser reminiscent of his mentor Billy Gunn, but
Fletcher shockingly kicked out. After further intense
exchanges, Bowens launched an aerial attack to the outside,
momentarily staggering Fletcher. However, as the action
returned to the ring, Fletcher cunningly distracted Bowens
by confronting Billy Gunn, seizing the opportunity to
deliver a crushing Brainbuster, ultimately pinning Bowens
for the victory.
Cole expressed concern about Fletcher’s affiliation with the
Don Callis Family, acknowledging the danger they pose.
Still, Cole confidently declared readiness to face Fletcher
and his allies later in the night, reaffirming his own
resilience and preparedness for their upcoming eight-man tag
team encounter.
FTR Interrupt Atlantis Sr. and Atlantis Jr., Adam Cole Has
Enough, Chaos Ensues
A special in-ring appearance by lucha libre legends Atlantis
Sr. and Atlantis Jr. quickly turned chaotic. As Tony
Schiavone interviewed the iconic father-son duo, praising
their rich legacy in lucha libre, they were abruptly
interrupted by FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler)
accompanied by Stokely.
FTR disrespectfully confronted the Atlantis family,
mockingly calling Atlantis Sr. "washed-up" and declaring,
"nobody cares about your legacy." Atlantis Jr. defended his
father’s honor passionately, sparking a heated verbal
exchange that escalated to violence.
FTR viciously attacked both Atlantis Sr. and Jr., prompting
immediate outrage from the crowd. Before FTR could inflict
further harm, Adam Cole rushed into the ring from the
commentary desk, heroically coming to the aid of the lucha
legends. However, as Cole intervened, members of the Don
Callis Family swiftly arrived, aiming to capitalize on the
chaos.
Just when it seemed Cole and the Atlantis family were
overwhelmed, popular luchadors Bandido and Templario stormed
the ring, evening the odds. This fierce melee culminated
with Cole, Atlantis Sr., Atlantis Jr., Bandido, and
Templario standing united against FTR and the Don Callis
Family.
Big Bill and Bryan Keith Have New Challengers
In a backstage interview, Big Bill and Bryan Keith expressed
confidence following their recent victory, with Bill
emphasizing, "We said we were going to crack skulls and
stack W’s, and that is exactly what we did to Gates of
Agony." Bryan Keith acknowledged the intensity of their
street fight, noting appreciation for Bill's support: "For a
second in that street fight, I didn’t think I was gonna make
it, but I appreciate you having my back, Bill."
Their moment of reflection was abruptly interrupted by the
returning duo, The Workhorsemen—JD Drake and Anthony Henry.
Drake confidently confronted Big Bill, warning, "Don't let
the fact that we haven't been in an AEW ring in over a year
lead you to believe that we're not still two men that are
possessed and obsessed with success. Failure’s not an option
where we come from."
Accepting the challenge, Big Bill directly threatened, "If
you two want to get your skulls cracked, well then, by all
means," setting a confrontational tone for a potential
future matchup between the teams.
Julia Hart vs. AEW Women’s World Champion “Timeless” Toni
Storm (with Mercedes Moné on Commentary)
Empty heading
Toni Storm faced off against Julia Hart in a singles match,
as AEW TBS Champion Mercedes Moné joined commentary, notably
bringing multiple championship belts to ringside as she once
again partook in a steak dinner with quite the spread.
Before the match, Skye Blue interfered by attacking Storm,
causing her ejection from ringside. This left Storm
vulnerable and initially struggling to even stand. Julia
Hart immediately capitalized, aggressively dominating the
early match, landing relentless attacks, including a
moonsault that nearly secured victory.
Storm resiliently fought back, utilizing her powerful German
Suplex and signature Hip Attack. Despite Julia Hart’s
relentless pressure, Storm capitalized on a crucial error by
Hart—after Hart connected on another Moonsault attempt,
Storm smartly countered into a small package pin to secure a
hard-fought victory.
After the bell, an enraged Moné, dissatisfied with Storm’s
perseverance and victory, viciously blindsided Storm with an
assault from behind after taking a whiff of the AEW Women’s
World Champion, clearly aiming to weaken her ahead of their
upcoming title match at All In. Moné’s ruthless attack was
interrupted by Mina Shirakawa, who rushed the ring to
protect Storm, briefly driving Moné away.
However, Moné deceitfully feigned retreat before returning
with increased aggression, attacking Shirakawa as well and
standing dominantly over both women. Raising Storm’s AEW
Women's World Championship mockingly, Moné confidently
declared to Storm, "Kiss this title goodbye," smashing the
champion’s face into her own prized possession.
Ricochet’s Recruitment Continues
Backstage at AEW Summer Blockbuster, Ricochet confidently
reiterated his quest to assemble "the perfect group of
individuals" to achieve his championship ambitions. He was
interrupted by Lee Johnson, accompanied by Blake Christian,
who enthusiastically approached Ricochet, stating they
noticed Ricochet watching their recent match. Johnson humbly
admitted, "We've been thinking that we don't need something,
but we need someone."
Ricochet acknowledged their interest but responded
dismissively, remarking sarcastically that it was "pretty
embarrassing to watch two grown men go out week after week
and play make-believe Ricochet," calling their attempts
"pretty cringe." Despite conceding their recent in-ring
performances had been impressive, Ricochet bluntly told
Johnson and Christian they were still missing something
critical to meet his high standards, clearly leaving both
men frustrated and determined.
Mixed Trios Match: MxM Collection & Taya Valkyrie vs. Mark
Briscoe, Tomohiro Ishii & Willow Nightingale
An action-packed mixed trios match unfolded as Taya Valkyrie
joined forces with MxM Collection (Mansoor and Mace) against
the eclectic trio of Mark Briscoe, Tomohiro Ishii, and
Willow Nightingale.
The match erupted into chaos from the start, with intense,
high-energy exchanges. Notably, Mace displayed power moves,
while Mansoor’s agility shone through, highlighted by a
remarkable Sunset Flip Powerbomb. Briscoe utilized his
distinctive Redneck Kung Fu, creating several dynamic
moments. Willow Nightingale impressed, delivering impactful
moves, including a well-executed Shotgun Dropkick and
showcasing her relentless aggression.
In the climactic moments, the MxM Collection attempted their
devastating Doomsday Device, but Briscoe cleverly countered.
The finish came as Willow executed a powerful Gutwrench
Pickup powerbomb, securing the hard-earned victory for her
team in an exhilarating matchup.
Wheeler Yuta Reconnects with Kris Statlander
After the match, a backstage vignette aired featuring Kris
Statlander. Frustrated and emotional, Statlander dismissed
queries about her strained relationship with Willow
Nightingale, firmly stating, "I tried, but she's done with
me, so I'm done with that." Statlander passionately affirmed
her identity, emphasizing, "There is no other person on this
roster like me. So why isn't that good enough for anyone?"
This emotional moment was interrupted by former friend and
Best Friends stablemate, Wheeler Yuta. Approaching gently,
Yuta expressed empathy: "I know it's been tough with Willow
Nightingale … since you left the Best Friends." Offering
support, Yuta advised Statlander, "Forget about Willow
Nightingale and forget about what other people think of you.
Make your own choices," leaving Statlander contemplative yet
seemingly appreciative of the advice.
ROH World Champion Bandido vs. The Beast Mortos
In an electrifying contest during AEW Summer Blockbuster,
ROH World Champion Bandido faced off against the formidable
Beast Mortos of La Facción Ingobernable (LFI). The match
showcased a stark contrast of styles, pitting Bandido's
agility and quickness against Mortos' brute strength.
Mortos immediately asserted dominance, overpowering Bandido
with sheer force and delivering punishing moves, including a
devastating Tornado Suicide Dive and repeatedly targeting
Bandido’s mask—attempting to rip it off, an intense display
of disrespect in lucha libre tradition.
Bandido courageously fought back, demonstrating incredible
resilience and explosive athleticism. He executed a daring
dive, followed by a powerful Lungblower, showcasing his
tenacity. Mortos countered forcefully with an impactful
Tornado Bomb.
The match's breathtaking climax unfolded as both competitors
struggled atop the turnbuckles. Bandido successfully
countered Mortos' offensive maneuver, ultimately delivering
a remarkable, match-winning Moonsault Fallaway Slam from the
top rope. This impressive feat allowed Bandido to secure the
dramatic victory, cementing his stature as ROH World
Champion in a hard-fought and captivating battle.
Mercedes Moné’s Challenge Gets Accepted
Mercedes Moné confidently discussed her assault on Toni
Storm, asserting that she would soon claim the AEW Women's
World Championship at AEW All In: Texas. Renee Paquette then
addressed Moné's earlier challenge via social media for the
CMLL Women's World Championship.
The segment took a dramatic turn when reigning champion
Zeuxis unexpectedly appeared and directly accepted Moné's
challenge, emphatically declaring, "Challenge accepted",
officially setting their clash for AEW Grand Slam Mexico and
intensifying anticipation for this high-stakes encounter.
Hangman Page Lays Down the Law with the Young Bucks
Backstage at AEW Summer Blockbuster, Hangman Adam Page
anxiously checked on Will Ospreay, who had been violently
attacked earlier. Page's concern was abruptly interrupted by
the Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson). Attempting to
justify their actions, Matt Jackson claimed, "We were aiming
for Swerve," implying their interference was meant to help
Page's championship aspirations by distracting Swerve
Strickland.
Hangman angrily rejected their explanation, emphasizing he
had not communicated with them recently and had never
requested their assistance. He furiously warned them, "Stay
out of my business, stay out of Ospreay's business, and stay
out of Swerve’s business," threatening severe consequences
if they interfered again.
Unbeknownst to them, Prince Nana was secretly eavesdropping
behind the medical room door. Nana asked Swerve Strickland,
"Boss? Did you hear all of that?" to which a focused Swerve
replied ominously, "Every word," setting the stage for
heightened tensions and potential retribution.
Thekla vs. Queen Aminata
In her second AEW match at AEW Summer Blockbuster, "The
Toxic Spider" Thekla faced off against the formidable Queen
Aminata. From the start, Thekla showcased her distinctive
arachnoid-like style, utilizing her agility and unorthodox
wrestling stance, often retreating into the corner in a
spider-like position.
The match quickly intensified, with Queen Aminata initially
overpowering Thekla, delivering sharp strikes, aggressive
body blows, and a brutal headbutt in the corner. Aminata
demonstrated resilience, nearly securing victory with a
powerful double knee strike and a devastating slam from an
elevated position.
Thekla, however, displayed remarkable tenacity, frequently
utilizing inventive submissions and acrobatic maneuvers. She
trapped Aminata with a variety of unique holds, including a
leg scissor submission around the ropes, pushing referee
limits. Her agility culminated in a spectacular spear that
left Aminata vulnerable.
Ultimately, Thekla locked Aminata in her signature
submission hold, the Death Trap, a vicious bridging neck
crank. Aminata had no choice but to submit, granting Thekla
her second consecutive victory in AEW. Even after the bell,
Thekla maintained the hold momentarily, emphasizing her
ruthless persona and strong debut momentum.
Kip Sabian Gives Nick Wayne a Gift From Christian Cage
Backstage at AEW Summer Blockbuster, Nick Wayne and Kip
Sabian were set for an interview. Wayne immediately
questioned Christian Cage's whereabouts, to which Sabian
responded that Christian had decided to give Nick space due
to his recent hard work. Wayne then asked about his mother's
location, prompting Sabian to awkwardly suggest Christian
was spending time with her.
Sabian quickly shifted attention, revealing a surprise for
Wayne: a showcase of his "Best of the Super Genius"
highlights. Wayne was thrilled, gratefully acknowledging,
"Wow. You really did this for me. I love it." Sabian
emphasized Christian's appreciation, asserting Christian was
"really proud" of Wayne. He concluded cryptically,
underscoring Christian's influence by stating, "I don't know
where I'd be without him. And Nick, I don't know where you'd
be without Christian either," leaving Wayne thoughtful about
his relationship with Christian.
Paragon (Adam Cole, Kyle O’Reilly and Roderick Strong) &
Daniel Garcia vs. the Don Callis Family (Konosuke Takeshita,
Josh Alexander, Hechicero and Lance Archer)
In a fierce 8-man tag main event at AEW Summer Blockbuster,
Paragon (Adam Cole, Kyle O'Reilly, and Roderick Strong)
teamed with Daniel Garcia against the formidable Don Callis
Family—consisting of Konosuke Takeshita, Josh Alexander,
Hechicero, and Lance Archer.
The match began with technical exchanges between Garcia and
Hechicero, showcasing Garcia’s agile mat skills against
Hechicero's innovative grappling. Adam Cole swiftly
demonstrated his explosive offense, delivering impactful
strikes including a precise pump kick.
Lance Archer’s massive size and strength drastically shifted
momentum, overpowering opponents effortlessly, while Josh
Alexander, known as the "Walking Weapon," executed precision
strikes and displayed technical dominance. Kyle O'Reilly
endured significant punishment, isolated by quick tags from
the Don Callis Family, notably suffering a targeted knee
strike from Alexander.
Garcia revitalized his team mid-match, unleashing fiery
offense and resiliently engaging Takeshita. Takeshita
countered aggressively with powerful strikes, maintaining
intense pressure. A chaotic sequence unfolded as each
competitor unleashed devastating moves; Roderick Strong's
famous backbreaker offense came into play, and Cole
showcased resilience and strategy.
The match reached a controversial climax as referee Aubrey
Edwards was distracted, enabling Takeshita to deliver a
stealthy but devastating elbow strike to Strong. Alexander
seized the advantage immediately, capitalizing for a German
suplex and the pinfall victory over Paragon and Garcia.
Catch the historic AEW Grand Slam from Arena México in
Mexico City live Wednesday, 6/18, at 8/7c on TBS and
streaming on MAX!
Tickets On Sale Now! – www.AEWTix.com
And remember… We are AEW—Where The Best Wrestle!