This week’s episode of Collision intensified the anticipation for the WrestleDream pay-per-view set for September 23, while simultaneously featuring several matches unrelated to the PPV.
On Saturday, we witnessed two championship battles; FTR defended the AEW tag titles against The Workhorsemen, and Luchasaurus put the TNT Championship on the line in a triple threat match, facing Darby Allin and Christian Cage.
In matches without titles at stake, Jay White clashed with Andrade El Idolo, Hook partnered with RVD against Matt Menard and Angelo Parker, and Ricky Starks and Bryan Danielson engaged in a Texas Death Match.
Let’s delve into the highlights of Saturday’s Collision episode.
Luchasaurus vs. Darby Allin vs. Christian Cage (TNT Title) Collision opened with a dynamic TNT title triple threat match. Luchasaurus and Christian, though opponents, entered the arena together, essentially transforming the match into a handicap against Allin. Despite this, Allin’s audacious style kept the duo at bay for a while.
An impending victory by Luchasaurus was interrupted by Cage, seeking to prolong Allin’s punishment. This decision proved pivotal, as Cage seized the opportunity to pin and claim the belt.
Post-match, Cage and Luchasaurus remained amicable, leaving fans curious about the longevity of their alliance.
Winner: Christian Cage Grade: B+
Hook and RVD vs. Daddy Magic and Cool Hand Ang Hook and RVD, exhibiting dominance from the onset, faced Daddy Magic and Cool Hand Ang in an energetic tag team match. RVD’s signature moves, coupled with Hook’s prowess, secured their victory in a match that was both predictable and entertaining.
Winners: Hook and RVD Grade: B-
Julia Hart vs. Kiera Hogan Julia Hart triumphed over Kiera Hogan in a singles match that saw Hart continue her pursuit of AEW glory, challenging Kris Statlander for the TBS title at WrestleDream.
Winner: Julia Hart Grade: C+
Andrade El Idolo vs. Jay White El Idolo and White delivered a memorable performance, showcasing their prime abilities. Despite external interventions and a ringside filled with Bullet Club Gold members, White secured the win, leaving room for a potential rematch.
Winner: Jay White Grade: A-
FTR vs. Workhorsemen (AEW Tag Titles) A short but exhilarating match saw FTR retain their titles against The Workhorsemen, with the audience reveling in the high-intensity competition.
Winners: FTR Grade: B-
Bryan Danielson vs. Ricky Starks The night culminated in a gripping Texas Death Match between Danielson and Starks. A relentless bout concluded with Danielson claiming victory, marking a fitting end to a week of riveting wrestling action.
Winner: Bryan Danielson Grade: A-
Final Thoughts This edition of Collision, with its diverse and compelling card, outshone Friday’s Rampage, marking a notable enhancement in wrestling entertainment. From Danielson and Starks’ thrilling encounter to the technical finesse exhibited by White and El Idolo, the episode was a blend of varied and memorable performances.
The rise of Julia Hart, Christian’s ascension to the TNT Championship, and the impactful debut of The Workhorsemen with FTR contributed to a satisfying conclusion to this week’s wrestling narrative.
Overall Grade: B+