Live from the Nationwide Arena | Columbus, OH | Crowd Size: 19,222
SEGMENT ONE
In the cold open to the tenth installment of All Elite Wrestling’s Dynamite, our cameras take us to the green room, where Kevin Nash, Scott Hall, and Randy Savage are shown lounging in the green room. The atmosphere is light, filled with laughter and post-holiday cheer.
Kevin Nash: So, guys, how were your holidays? Any wild New Year’s resolutions?
Scott Hall: Well, yo, my resolution is to finally kick that bad habit. You know, the one where I can’t resist throwing toothpicks at people during interviews.
Everyone laughs, especially the Macho Man, who is sporting a Santa hat.
Macho Man Randy Savage: Ooh, yeah! My resolution is to perfect the art of delivering Christmas presents with a flying elbow drop. I’ve been practicing on those inflatable snowmen in my yard, brother!
The laughter slowly fades, as Hulk Hogan enters the room, looking defeated.
Kevin Nash: Hogan, my man! What’s got you looking like you just found out they canceled ‘Hogan Knows Best’?
Hulk Hogan: No, brother, it’s even worse. I just had a meeting with Sami Zayn. Tonight, we’re up against the Dark Order.
The room falls silent for a beat.
Kevin Nash: (mockingly) Dark Order, huh? That’s fantastic news! You’re the only guy I know excited to get paid for doing nothing!
Scott Hall: (cool and collected) Nash, we actually get to work for our paychecks tonight!
Macho Man Randy Savage: But look at it this way, Hulkster. At least you can use the footage for your show! It’s a win-win!
Nash chuckles, and Hall, with a toothpick dangling from his mouth, leans back.
Scott Hall: Well, boys, if things get too intense tonight, I’ll just start chuckin’ toothpicks at the Dark Order. Maybe they’ll surrender before the match even starts!
Hall, Nash, and Savage erupt into laughter as Hogan barely musters up a smile.
At ringside, Arn Anderson and Kevin Kelly welcome us to Columbus, Ohio, for our tenth installment of AEW Dynamite! Kelly says that 2024 is off to a wild start, recapping the highlights of last week, including the shocking debut of Logan Paul, the firing of Eric Bischoff and the appointment of Sami Zayn as the Director of Operations, and the chaotic main event scene that saw the Inner Circle tested by AJ Styles, Bryan Danielson, Kenny Omega, and the debuting ‘Hangman’ Adam Page! Anderson notes that these four men all have history with one another, but whatever differences they may have were tossed to the side to deal with the Inner Circle. Tonight, we’ve got four huge matches, including our main event, which will see Proud & Powerful defend their AEW Tag Team Titles against the Usos!
They’re interrupted as Sasha Banks’ music hits, and The Boss makes her way to the announce table. Anderson welcomes the Knockouts Champion to the desk, and asks her what’s on her mind. Banks says that she’s out here because she knows that every woman on the roster is gunning for her, and she wants a front row seat to the battle we’re about to witness between Ronda Rousey and Rhea Ripley!
Match #1 | Exhibition Match
Rhea Ripley (0-0) vs. ‘Rowdy’ Ronda Rousey (0-0)
As the bell sounds, Kevin Kelly notes that the bad blood between these two has come to a boil, citing their first encounter back in the summer and their backstage brawl last week. Anderson says Rousey’s got a chip on her shoulder as she never actually lost the EWA Knockouts Championship, and was forced to vacate the belt upon the company’s rebranding to All Elite Wrestling. Banks says she’s tired of that caveat every time we see Rousey, and she has no problems showing ‘The Baddest Woman on the Planet’ who the boss really is.
The match kicks off with a thunderous lock-up. Rousey quickly transitions into a tight wristlock, but Ripley responds with a display of strength, effortlessly lifting Ronda and countering with a devastating backbreaker. Rousey, undeterred, fights back with a series of strikes and judo throws. Ripley, known for her resilience, absorbs the punishment and unleashes a barrage of powerful kicks.
Arn Anderson: This is a clash of styles, but both these women are absolute powerhouses. What a way to kick off Dynamite!
The match swings back and forth, with near falls and impactful maneuvers keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. Ronda attempts her signature armbar, but Ripley powers out, showcasing her sheer strength. Rousey is able to follow it up with a series of suplexes and throws, as Sasha Banks notes from the desk that Rousey is looking like she could be a frontrunner for a title shot after all.
Suddenly, the attention shifts from the action in the ring as Nyla Rose’s music hits! Nyla slowly stalks her way down the aisle, momentarily distracting Rousey from the task in the ring.
Kevin Kelly: What’s Nyla Rose doing here? This match is intense enough!
The distraction is enough to throw Rousey off her game. Rhea goes on to turn things around, hitting Rousey with the Capoeria Kick, and following it up with a delayed vertical suplex before tossing Rousey to the outside, where Nyla Rose stocks her.
Kevin Kelly: I thought this beef between Nyla Rose and Ronda Rousey was settled on the third episode of Dynamite when Rousey defeated her in a one on one match, but it looks as if Nyla is still harboring some resentment!
Suddenly, Sasha Banks jumps from the announcer’s booth and onto the ring apron, drawing the attention of Knockouts Official Kenzie. As Kenzie turns to deal with Banks, Rose capitalizes, and nails Rousey with a devastating spear into the steel steps! Kenzie misses the attack, but feels the momentum, turning to see what the commotion is. Before Kenzie has too much time to assess the situation, Rhea launches herself to the outside, hitting Rousey with a cannonball from the apron!
Arn Anderson: I wouldn’t say Sasha and Nyla are necessarily friends, but sometimes two enemies can work together in tandem to take out a challenger!
Kenzie begins a 10-count as both Rousey and Ripley are shaken from the action. At six, Ripley is back in the ring and Rousey dives into the ring at 9 to a massive pop, as the fans in Columbus attempt to rally behind Rousey, who is practically facing a three-on-one challenge at this point.
With the momentum shifting, Rhea scoops the dazed Rousey up for a belly to back facebuster. Ripley executes a spinebuster, shaking the ring, and then hoists Rousey onto her shoulders for the Rip Tide. The crowd erupts into boos as Rhea connects with the devastating move. Rhea smiles deviously and covers Rousey, as Kenzie counts the three!
Kevin Kelly: What a hard-hitting match, but I can’t help but feel we’ve been cheated out of what could have been a classic tonight. The interference from Nyla Rose and the distraction from Sasha Banks changed everything!
Arn Anderson: In the world of professional wrestling, you have to be ready for anything. Dynamite is living up to its name tonight.
Winner: Rhea Ripley (1-0)
Match Time: 13:17
As Ripley’s music plays, Nyla Rose slowly ascends the ramps, her eyes fixated on Ronda Rousey, laid out in the center of the ring. Rhea cautiously celebrates her victory as she stares down Sasha Banks. Anderson and Kelly say the Knockouts Division has never been this stacked, and Ripley will undoubtedly set her sights to the champion before long.
SEGMENT TWO
Dave Matthews: Ladies and gentlemen, my name is Dave Matthews, not to be confused with the popular singer-songwriter. Normally, I pride myself on being the only backstage correspondent to offer my guests a chair, but given who I’m standing by with tonight, I figured for my safety that would not be a wise decision.
The camera pans to show Dave Matthews’ guest, the Beast Incarnate, Brock Lesnar!
Dave Matthews: Brock, at Starrcade, you were seemingly screwed out of the AEW World Heavyweight Championship by Darby Allin. You then went on to take out your frustrations on Orange Cassidy. How are you feeling tonight?
Brock Lesnar, with his trademarked intensity in his eyes, prepares to respond as the camera pans once more to reveal the legendary Paul Heyman!
Paul Heyman: Allow me to introduce myself, Dave. Ladies and gentleman, my name is Paul Heyman, and I am the advocate for the BROCK LESNAR! Now, to answer your question, Brock Lesnar is feeling a mix of emotions. He was indeed screwed out of the AEW World Heavyweight Championship at Starrcade, but you see, that only fuels the fire within him.
Heyman smirks, looking confident as he continues.
Paul Heyman: You see, eventually my client will conquer Darby Allin. In fact, he will decimate him. Darby Allin is a fly in the face of Brock Lesnar, who is pound for pound the most gifted and capable man to ever enter a pro wrestling ring. And when he does get his hands on Darby, he’ll then turn his attention back to the AEW World Heavyweight Championship, and that belt will be around the waist of my client, it’s rightful owner. Long gone are the days where my client will not be taken seriously, and with me at his side, we’re launching a rocket to the back of the beast and we’re heading into the stratosphere! Unfortunately for Orange Cassidy, he was in the wrong place at the wrong time. And tonight, my client is going to settle that score. The only thing that will be freshly squeezed is the skull of that idiot.
Lesnar nods in agreement, his focus unwavering.
Dave Matthews: Strong words, Paul. Brock, any thoughts on your match against Orange Cassidy tonight?
Lesnar, looking both determined and annoyed by Matthews persistence, finally speaks.
Brock Lesnar: Darby Allin messed with the wrong guy at Starrcade, and he will pay for it. But tonight, Orange Cassidy is in my way. Doesn’t matter if it’s Darby or anyone else, they’re all just obstacles. I’ll conquer them all.
The camera zooms in on Lesnar’s intense expression as Paul Heyman smirks confidently, setting the stage for what promises to be a high-stakes encounter later in the night.
Back at ringside, Anderson and Kelly are in disbelief at what we just saw. Kelly says that Heyman’s reputation as a promoter is up there with the greats, but now we’re going to see what he can do as the advocate for Brock Lesnar. Anderson notes that Lesnar has always been at his best when he’s being directed just a bit, noting his previous relationship with James E Cornette as his manager.
Match #2 | Six-Man Exhibition
The Dark Order (Evil Uno, Stu Grayson, & Jon Silver) vs. Scott Hall, Kevin Nash, & Hulk Hogan
The match kicks off with Evil Uno and Scott Hall in the ring. Hall uses his signature toothpick flick, taunting Uno. The action is fast-paced as Uno and Hall exchange strikes and grapples.
Kevin Kelly: We’ve got a classic clash of styles here, folks. The Dark Order’s sinister tactics against three legends.
As the match progresses, Jon Silver and Stu Grayson showcase their agility and teamwork, isolating Hall in their corner. The crowd is torn between the classic legend’s nostalgia and the Dark Order’s unorthodox style.
Hogan, on the apron, seems reluctant to get involved. He’s tagged in by Hall, but Hogan hesitates, eyeing his opponents cautiously.
Arn Anderson: Is it a surprise to anyone that Hogan seems unsure about getting involved in the action?
The Dark Order takes advantage of the uncertainty, isolating Hogan in their corner. Nash and Hall attempt to rally, shouting encouragement to Hogan, but he remains cautious.
Suddenly, a turning point as Nash gets the hot tag. The crowd erupts as Nash clears the ring with his powerhouse moves. Hogan, however, still watches from the apron.
In the closing moments, chaos ensues. Silver, Evil Uno, and Grayson triple-team Nash, but Hogan finally gets the tag. The crowd explodes as Hogan enters the ring, but instead of launching into action, he cautiously surveys the situation.
Arn Anderson: Hogan needs to capitalize if he wants to win this thing!
Kevin Kelly: Come on Hogan, this is what all that therapy was for!
As Hogan ponders his move, Nash tags himself back in. Sensing an opening, Nash hits Silver with his signature Jackknife Powerbomb! Before Nash can go for the cover, Hogan tags himself back in, much to the surprise of Nash and the crowd.
Arn Anderson: Oh, now he wants back in? What’s he thinking?
Hogan, with a smirk, puts his hand cupped to his ear before bouncing into the ropes. He drops the big leg drop on the stunned Silver and covers! One! Two! Three!
The bell rings, and Hogan, with a calculated move, secures the win for his team. The crowd is a mix of cheers and confusion.
Kevin Kelly: After sitting out the whole match and letting Hall and Nash take on the Dark Order in essentially a two on three match, Hogan tags himself in just to steal the victory!
Arn Anderson: Well, that’s one way to do it, but I’m not sure Nash is thrilled about it.
As the bell sounds, the legendary trio try to celebrate their win, but Nash is obviously pissed off. Hall tries to calm him down, as he stands between Nash and Hogan as they raise their arms in victory. Nash is quick to exit the ring, and Hall soon follows. Hogan shrugs and tells the production truck to restart his music, and motions for the camera to come in closer on his antics as he celebrates alone in the ring. The scene fades as Anderson and Kelly note that at least Hogan’s getting some footage for his reality show after all.
Winners: Hulk Hogan, Kevin Nash, & Scott Hall
Match Time: 9:03
SEGMENT THREE
A short promo vignette set to the chorus of ‘I Like It’ by Cardi B, Bad Bunny, and J-Fowler plays. ‘Oh I need the dollars (I said I like it like that) Caching. Beat it up like pinatas (I said I like it like that!) Tell the driver ‘close the curtains’ (I said I like it like that!) Bad bitch make you nervous (I said I like it like that!) Text appears on the screen: ‘This isn’t the end. Pro-wrestling will never die…’ The text fades and dissolves, replaced by, ‘On Sunday, February 4, we’re just getting started!’ The text fades again and is replaced by a logo that says, ‘All Elite Wrestling presents: Genesis. Live on PPV!’
Backstage, Roman Reigns is standing by with the Bloodline, The Usos and Yokozuna and Umaga. The Usos, geared up for their main event match, listen intently as Reigns delivers a pep talk.
Roman Reigns: Look, boys, tonight’s the night. The tag titles need to come home to the Bloodline. Proud & Powerful might be champions now, but we’re the future, and it starts with you two. Jey, Jimmy, you’ve got the skill, the heritage, and the heart. Make the Bloodline proud.
The tension in the room becomes palpable as Reigns shifts his gaze toward Yokozuna and Umaga, his stern expression indicating a subtle dissatisfaction.
Roman Reigns: (addressing Yokozuna and Umaga) I brought you two in for a reason. The tag titles should’ve been with us already. (addressing the Usos) Tonight, there are no excuses. You’ve got a job to do.
Before the tension can escalate further, Chris Jericho enters the scene with a mischievous grin on his face.
Chris Jericho: Well, well, well, if it isn’t the mighty Bloodline. Roman, you’re talking a big game, but I’ve seen the cracks. The Bloodline’s not as invincible as you like to think.
Roman Reigns: Easy, Chris. If I were you, I’d worry about the bigger problems you’ve got with AJ Styles, Bryan Danielson, Kenny Omega, and Adam Page, instead of sticking your nose in our business where it doesn’t belong.
Chris Jericho: I can multitask, Roman. I just came to remind you that while you’re busy with your family drama, Proud & Powerful are going to do what they do best—retain their titles!
The tension between Reigns and Jericho lingers as the Usos and the rest of the Bloodline exchange glances. The stage is set for a high-stakes main event with both pride and championships on the line.
Our cameras take us backstage, where the Director of Operations Sami Zayn approaches the AEW Television Champion, MJF!
Sami Zayn: MJF, we need to talk. I understand you’re frustrated with how things have been run around here. I totally get that. But with me in charge, things are changing.
MJF, looking unimpressed, crosses his arms and listens to Zayn’s assurances.
Sami Zayn: Threatening to declare yourself for the World of Wrestling 2024 Draft was unnecessary. We can find common ground without resorting to such extremes.
MJF: (scoffs) Sami, you’re not the first guy to come in here and tell me you’re going to turn things around. I’ve heard it all before, and quite frankly, I’m sick of it. So, unless you’ve got something groundbreaking to say, I meant what I said last week.
As MJF starts to turn away, Zayn stops him with a firm hand on his shoulder.
Sami Zayn: Hold on, Max. If you hate it here so much, maybe it’s time you prove you’re as good as you say you are. You say you’re a generational talent? Maybe it’s time you prove it, and defend that Television Championship. Not Wardlow in your proxy, but YOU!
MJF raises an eyebrow, intrigued but still defiant.
Sami Zayn: That’s it… I’m making it official. At AEW Genesis on February 4th, you’ll be defending your Television Championship against the American Nightmare, Cody Rhodes!
MJF’s reaction is immediate, a mix of surprise and frustration. As he begins to protest, the scene is interrupted by the arrival of The Maveric Logan Paul!
Logan Paul: just wanted to introduce myself. I’ve been watching AEW, and when I saw the roster, I thought, “MJF is the only guy around here I’d get along with.”
MJF, as if he didn’t even hear Paul, storms off, clearly frustrated by Zayn’s announcement.
Logan Paul: (to Sami Zayn) What the hell’s his problem?
The scene fades with Paul shaking his head in confusion.
At the commentary table, Anderson and Kelly discuss what we just saw. Anderson says last week, MJF caused quite the commotion with his threat to enter himself into the draft, and now he’s facing the consequences of his actions. Kelly says Logan Paul probably invisioned that introduction going better than it did, and Anderson says perhaps it was just a timing issue because frankly, he thinks the two truly are a lot alike… they’re both insufferable.
Match # 3 | Exhibition Match
Brock Lesnar w/ Paul Heyman (0-0) vs. Orange Cassidy (0-0)
The crowd roars as Brock Lesnar’s music hits, and the Beast Incarnate makes his way to the ring with his newly appointed advocate, Paul Heyman.
Kevin Kelly: Brock Lesnar, accompanied by Paul Heyman, is an unstoppable force. Orange Cassidy has a monumental task ahead of him tonight.
Anderson says it was last July when Lesnar attacked Orange Cassidy for no apparent reason, other than his frustrations with Darby Allin. Kelly says as far as he knows, Allin and O.C. aren’t even affiliated, and that Cassidy was the unfortunate victim of Lesnar’s rage.
The arena darkens, and the laid-back, sunglasses-wearing Orange Cassidy makes his entrance, drawing cheers from the crowd. Despite his nonchalant demeanor, Cassidy knows he’s in for a challenge.
Arn Anderson: Orange Cassidy may seem relaxed, but he’s stepping into the ring with one of the most dominant forces in professional wrestling. He has to know what he’s up against tonight.
The bell rings, signaling the start of the match. Lesnar and Cassidy circle each other cautiously. Lesnar, displaying his raw strength, takes control early on, tossing Cassidy around the ring like a ragdoll. Cassidy, however, counters with his agility, managing to evade Lesnar’s initial onslaught.
Kevin Kelly: If Orange Cassidy hopes to survive, he’s going to have to use his speed to stay one step ahead of Lesnar.
Despite Cassidy’s efforts, Lesnar’s relentless offense starts taking its toll. Suplex after suplex, the ring shakes with each impactful move. Paul Heyman watches from outside, a devious grin spreading from cheek to cheek.
Arn Anderson: Orange Cassidy needs to come up with a game plan here. Lesnar is dominating!
As Lesnar sets up for the F-5, Cassidy surprises everyone by countering with a DDT, stunning Lesnar and the audience. Cassidy seizes the moment, climbing to the top rope and hitting Lesnar with a diving crossbody. The crowd roars with approval. Cassidy ascends the ropes, and attempts another crossbody. This time, Lesnar catches him with ease, hoisting him up and delivering a thunderous F-5!
Arn Anderson: That has got to be it! Lesnar’s not playing around here.
Instead of covering him, Lesnar lifts the lifeless Orange Cassidy back to his feet, hitting him with suplex after suplex, just punishing him, just as he promised earlier in the evening.
Kevin Kelly: Unfortunately for Orange Cassidy, he’s booked himself a one-way ticket straight to Suplex City!
After nine consecutive German suplexes, Lesnar again lifts Orange Cassidy onto his shoulders and delivers a second F-5. He covers O.C., as referee Pete counts the three!
The bell sounds, declaring Brock Lesnar the winner. The arena is filled with a mix of cheers and awe at the dominating performance. Anderson and Kelly discuss how Lesnar seems rejuvenated by his newfound affiliation with Heyman, and that the entire AEW locker room better be on notice.
Winner: Brock Lesnar (1-0)
Match Time: 11:00
SEGMENT FOUR
Arn Anderson and Kevin Kelly at ringside discuss the dominating performance we just witnessed from Brock Lesnar. Anderson says he’s learned that Sami Zayn has just made another match for Genesis, and that on Feb. 4, Brock Lesnar and Darby Allin will finally settle the score!
Match #4 | AEW World Tag Team Championship
Proud & Powerful (C) (Santana & Ortiz) vs. The Usos (Jimmy & Jey)
Kevin Kelly: Ladies and gentlemen, what a night of action thus far, and we’re capping things off with the tag titles on the line!
Arn Anderson: For the very first time, the AEW World Tag Team Championship will headline Dynamite. The Usos are looking to dethrone Proud & Powerful, a feat their fellow Bloodline members Yokozuna and Umaga were unable to accomplish.
Proud & Powerful, Santana and Ortiz, enter with the titles around their waists, looking confident yet aware of the challenge ahead. The Usos are out next to a big pop from the crowd. Anderson and Kelly discuss the Inner Circle, noting that they’ve seemed to make a ton of enemies on Chris Jericho’s quest to the AEW World Heavyweight Championship, reminding us of how last week Danielson, Omega, and Page helped Styles fend off his challenge.
The bell rings, and the match is underway. The Usos and Proud & Powerful engage in an intense back-and-forth, showcasing their tag team expertise.
Arn Anderson: This is tag team wrestling at its finest. Both teams are hungry, and both teams think they should be champions.
The action spills outside the ring as each team tries to gain an advantage. Back in the ring, Jimmy Uso and Santa are legal, trading blows in the center of the squared circle.
Kevin Kelly: It’s chaos in and out of the ring, but only one team can walk out with the titles!
The Usos, known for their high-flying and hard-hitting style, start gaining momentum. They isolate Santana, utilizing quick tags and double-team maneuvers.
Arn Anderson: The Usos are in control. Proud & Powerful need to turn things around if they want to keep those belts in the Inner Circle’s possession!
Just when it seems like the Usos have the upper hand, Ortiz manages to get the hot tag. The momentum shifts as Proud & Powerful start dominating the match, displaying their unique blend of power and agility.
Kevin Kelly: Proud & Powerful showing why they are the tag team champions. They’re not going down without a fight!
The match reaches its climax as chaos ensues in the ring. Superkicks, powerbombs, and aerial assaults are unleashed by both teams. The crowd is on their feet, witnessing the drama unfold. Arn Anderson says that both teams are leaving everything inside the ring.
In the closing moments, The Usos manage to hit a double superkick, flooring Ortiz. Jimmy covers Ortiz for the pin! The bell sounds as the crowd in Columbus erupts into cheers, as senior official Michael McMahon presents the Usos with the AEW World Tag Team Championships!
Kevin Kelly: We have new champs! The Usos have done it, and they’ve done it fair and square!
As the Usos continue their celebration, Anderson speculates about what this means for Proud & Powerful’s future in the Inner Circle. Kevin Kelly says the landscape in the tag division of All Elite Wrestling has just changed dramatically!
Winners and NEW AEW World Tag Team Champions: The Usos
Match Time: 21:44
The Usos music can still be heard faintly in the background, as we transition from inside the ring to Sami Zayn exiting Benny Mouse’s office. As with the previous week, the office door remains closed, and our cameras can’t catch a glimpse inside.
Suddenly, the arena lights cut off, leaving Sami Zayn in confusion. The darkness lingers for a moment, creating an eerie atmosphere. When the lights return, a figure emerges – none other than the Iconic Master Splinter!
Splinter: (calmly) Sami Zayn, I know everything. I know where Benny Mouse was when he went missing, and I know what you and Benny are hiding.
Sami Zayn’s eyes widen, the tension palpable.
Sami Zayn: (nervously) You… you know?
Master Splinter steps closer, his wise and composed demeanor creating an air of mystery.
Splinter: Megan Mouse found out, didn’t she, Sami? That’s why you and Benny abducted her. But Sami, I know the truth, and the truth will be revealed. Everyone will know!
Sami Zayn, with a resigned look, doesn’t deny the accusation, realizing that the truth is catching up with him.
Sami Zayn: You don’t understand… we… we had our reasons!
Splinter: Tell your boss that next week, live on Dynamite, I’m going to reveal to the entire world the secrets you’ve worked so hard to help Benny deflect!
Master Splinter fades into the darkness, leaving Sami Zayn overwhelmed and the audience in suspense. The screen goes black, and the shocking twist sets the stage for a dramatic turn of events in the coming weeks.