This week’s episode sustained the momentum of the Grand Slam Eliminator tournament featuring two significant bouts; Jeff Hardy versus Samoa Joe and Jay Lethal squaring off against Penta El Zero Miedo. Additionally, we witnessed The Young Bucks challenging Daddy Magic and Cool Hang Ang, followed by a dynamic six-woman tag match.
Let’s delve deeper into the events that unfolded on this Friday’s Rampage episode.
Penta El Zero Miedo vs. Jay Lethal
The show kick-started with an electric atmosphere as Lethal and Penta set the ring ablaze, barely containing their competitive spirit as the broadcast commenced. The match faced slight turmoil as Double J intervened, slightly hindering what could have been a smoother showdown between the proficient stars in the ring.
In spite of the disruptions and an episode with his mask, Penta managed to prevail, securing his position in the tournament. The bout was generally commendable but left room for a potentially more captivating encounter.
Winner: Penta El Zero Miedo
Grade: B+
Noteworthy Highlights:
- Penta graced the ring in striking white attire.
- Lethal’s association with industry legends like Ric Flair and Jeff Jarrett.
- Penta’s chops and piledriver were highlights of his performance.
Shida, Blue, and Baker vs. Valkyrie, Bunny, and Anna Jay
An enthralling trios match unfolded as the teams clashed, with Blue and Bunny setting the pace. While the match manifested the characteristic chaos of AEW trios face-offs, it witnessed moments of lackluster coordination.
Despite the turmoil, DMD clinched the victory for her team, leaving Shida discontented in the aftermath.
Winners: Baker, Blue, and Shida
Grade: C
Key Points:
- A glimpse into Jericho’s backstage relations.
- Valkyrie’s dominant presence in the ring, amplified by her distinctive hair and formidable spear move.
The Young Bucks vs. Matt Menard
Accompanied by Jake Hager, Menard and Parker stepped up to the challenge posed by the Jackson brothers. The match largely showcased the Young Bucks’ dominance, ultimately securing a win in a match that served more to highlight the Bucks on Rampage than anything else.
Winners: The Young Bucks
Grade: C-
Highlights:
- Jericho’s dual role as a commentator and active wrestler offered unique insights.
- Hager’s apparent disoriented state post separation from Jericho’s backup.
Samoa Joe vs. Jeff Hardy
The night reached its peak with a highly anticipated duel between Joe and Hardy in the Grand Slam Eliminator Tournament. Leveraging their rich history of collaborations across various platforms, the duo orchestrated a well-balanced battle, where Joe emerged victorious.
Winner: Samoa Joe
Grade: B
Highlighting Moments:
- Hardy’s enduring appeal and deep connection with the wrestling fanbase.
- Joe’s versatility that promises him a perpetual place in the wrestling domain.
This week’s Rampage might not have surpassed expectations but did not entirely disappoint either. While the central narratives remained largely unaffected, the Grand Slam tournament matches offered some worthy ring actions.
Jericho’s narrative from the commentary desk added an intriguing dimension to the storyline, opening potential avenues for future developments.
For viewers seeking the crux of this week’s action, the opening and closing matches stand as the go-to segments, promising a riveting watch.
Grade: B-
