Live from the Smoothie King Center | New Orleans, LA | 17,800
SEGMENT ONE
Hung high and dry, where no one can see
If there’s no one to blame, blame it on me
Storm in the sky, fire in the street
If there’s nothin’ but pain, put it on me
The screen flickers to life as the sound of a guitar softly strumming fills the air, gradually building in intensity. As the haunting melody of “Put It On Me” by Matt Maeson begins, a montage of electrifying clips unfolds before the audience.
We witness clips of the dynamic duo of AJ Styles and Bryan Danielson, once united in friendship. Clips roll of pivotal moments from their tumultuous history – the betrayal, the heartache, the brewing animosity. We see the defining moment at Genesis, frozen in time, as Danielson’s knee crashes into Styles’ skull, shattering the bonds of trust and brotherhood.
You are the cold inescapable proof
You’re the evil, the way and the life and the truth
You’re revival beginning, and you’re genocide
And I watch and wonder
As the music crescendos, matching the rising tension of the footage, we see flashes from the saga between Benny Mouse, Sami Zayn, Splinter, The Harlem Turtles, and Menotaur. We see the highlights of the feud, from Menotaur’s return, to the spear through the glass, and Splinter’s reveal with Molly Mouse, John Brown, and Saguna.
Hung high and dry, where no one can see
If there’s no one to blame, blame it on me
Storm in the sky, fire in the trees
If there’s no one to blame, put it on me
The screen erupts with images of Miss Athena Star and Living Dead Girl. We see flashes from Living Dead Girl’s shocking return two weeks ago, and from the mind games played last week.
And I know that you’ll never feel like I do
And I’d break into pieces right in front of you
And I’d burn down the city and string up the noose
And you watch
As the music crescendos, we see flashes from all three of the pivotal feuds leading up to the biggest episode of Dynamite to date. Tonight, at Dragon’s Fury, the culimination of wrestling’s most epic rivalries – The American Dragon stands ready to unleash his fury upon the man who was once his closest confidant. Sami Zayn and Benny Mouse look to finally put down Splinter through the help of their hired gun in Menotaur, and Living Dead Girl and Athena Star prepare to wage the war nearly 20 years in the making.
Hung high and dry, where no one can see
If there’s no one to blame, blame it on me
Storm in the sky, fire in the trees
If there’s nothin’ but pain, put it on me.
And as the opening vignette comes to a close, the stage is set for explosive confrontations that will shake the very foundations of AEW!
The camera peeks through the partially open door, offering a clandestine view into the office of BWM Inc. Chairman Benny Mouse. Inside, Benny is seated behind his desk, his expression a mixture of determination and frustration. Sami Zayn, the loyal Director of Operations, stands opposite him, his brow furrowed in concern.
Benny Mouse: (with a forced smile) Don’t worry, I’m having a “good day” today.
Sami Zayn: (skeptically) Are you sure about that, Benny? We thought you were having a good day last Monday, and we saw how that turned out.
Benny Mouse: (defensive) I can’t be blamed for my confusion about Project Extermination! This is the third time Mickey’s pulled off such a storyline in MMouse Enterprises. I do admit I shouldn’t have bitten the turtle, though. That was my mistake.
Sami Zayn: We have to be careful, Benny. We can’t afford any more missteps. Splinter cannot be allowed to continue causing trouble.
Benny nods in agreement, appearing more put together than we’ve seen him in quite some time. His trademarked sinister persona on full display.
Benny Mouse: We need to put Splinter down tonight, once and for all. He can’t be allowed to build an army and control the narrative.
Sami agrees, while expressing his concerns.
Sami Zayn: We’re in serious hot water, Benny. An investigation from the Board of Directors would be catastrophic. We can’t let Splinter’s influence grow unchecked.
Benny Mouse: We need more bodies.
Sami Zayn: I have an idea, but I’m going to need your blessings…
Benny gets up from his chair and walks around to Sami, who is still seated. He places his hand on Sami’s shoulder.
Benny Mouse: Sami, you’re the only person in the world who truly cares about me. Whatever you need, you have my support.
Just then, Sami notices the camera, and his expression hardens. He swiftly moves to slam the door, cutting off the view as the scene concludes.
At ringside, the pyro explodes and Arn Anderson and Kevin Kelly welcome us to the biggest episode of Dynamite in the show’s history as they run down tonight’s PPV-worthy card. Anderson says tonight has the potential to change AEW forever, and the aptly named “Dragon’s Fury” wonderfully describes the intensity of the feuds on display this evening.
Match #1 | AEW Television Championship
The American Nightmare Cody Rhodes (c) (2-0) vs. Yokozuna (1-0)
As the introductions are made, Arn Anderson and Kevin Kelly discuss how this match came to be, with Yokozuna winning the right to challenge three weeks ago in the battle royal to crown the number contender.
Arn Anderson: Yokozuna, fresh off his impressive win in the battle royal, is determined to claim his first singles championship against the Television Champion, Cody Rhodes.
Kevin Kelly: Absolutely, Arn. But let’s not forget, Yokozuna and the Bloodline have been embroiled in a heated rivalry with Hulk Hogan & Friends. Tonight, Yokozuna aims to put that behind him and focus solely on capturing championship gold.
As the bell sounds, Cody cautiously calls for a tie up, looking for a test of strength, although he’s keenly aware of Yokozuna’s immense power. Yokozuna, on the other hand, exudes confidence as he towers over Rhodes, ready to assert his dominance.
Yokozuna takes control from the outset, using his brute strength to overpower Rhodes. He unleashes a barrage of strikes and power moves, keeping Rhodes on the defensive. The crowd watches in awe as Yokozuna showcases his incredible agility despite his massive frame.
Arn Anderson: We’ve said it before, but Yokozuna is at his best physically. Yes, he’s a big man, but he’s shockingly agile.
Yokozuna pushes Cody into the corner, and tosses him to the center of the ring with a hip press. Cody crashes to the mat in the center of the ring and Yokozuna follows up with a forearm smash. He scoops Cody back up, tosses him into the air, and catches him with an impressive Samoan Drop.
Kevin Kelly: Yokozuna is relentless, Kevin. He’s absolutely manhandling Cody Rhodes in there in a way that I’m not sure we’ve ever seen.
Arn Anderson: Rhodes needs to find a way to turn the tide if he wants to hold onto his championship.
Despite Rhodes’s valiant efforts to mount a comeback, Yokozuna continues to dominate the match. With each thunderous blow, the momentum swings further in Yokozuna’s favor. He drags Cody to the corner and ascends the rope, calling for the Bonsai Drop!
As Yokozuna reaches the second rope, his attention is diverted to the stage, where a man comes through the curtain donning a red and yellow chicken suit!
Arn Anderson: Wait a minute, what’s going on here?
The chicken twirls to reveal its back, in which the costume is spray painted with the words, “The official mascot of the Bloodline.” The crowd erupts into laughter and disbelief as the figure removes the oversized chicken head, revealing none other than Hulk Hogan himself, grinning from ear to ear! Yokozuna is furious as Hogan taunts him from the stage.
Kevin Kelly: What in the world is happening right now?
With a mischievous glint in his eye, Hogan struts down the ramp, flapping his arms like wings and clucking loudly. Yokozuna is off the ropes at this point, and goes to step through the second rope to the apron, looking to charge at Hogan. Before Yokozuna can get out of the ring, however, he’s met with a stiff kick to the head as Cody flies off the ropes, delivering the Disaster Kick!
Arn Anderson: Disaster Kick by Cody Rhodes!
Despite the impact, Yokozuna doesn’t fall. He wobbles, as a group of officials try to get Hogan to leave the ringside area. Eventually, the referees manage to coax Hogan to the back, but not before he delivers one final “cluck” to the cheering crowd. As he disappears backstage, Cody follows up with a second Disaster Kick, yet Yokozuna still refuses to fall!
Kevin Kelly: Yokozuna is too big to put down!
Arn Anderson: He may still be up, Kevin, but the lights are on and no one’s home! I think his body is just acting off of instinct!
The crowd erupts as Rhodes follows up with his devastating finisher, the Cross Rhodes. The impact of the Cross Rhodes finally puts Yokozuna down to the mat as Cody covers!
Kevin Kelly: This could be it!
The referee counts the pinfall as the crowd counts along: One! Two! Three! The bell rings, signaling the end of the match. Rhodes retains his Television Championship amidst a chorus of cheers from the capacity crowd in New Orleans!
Arn Anderson: Cody Rhodes pulls off the upset! What a match, Kevin!
Kevin Kelly: Indeed, Arn. Despite Yokozuna’s dominance, Rhodes found a way to capitalize on the distraction and secure the victory! Cody gets the win, and Hogan gets the assist!
Winner: Cody Rhodes (3-0)
Match Time: 11:02
As Cody Rhodes celebrates in the center of the ring, with the crowd singing along to “Kingdom,” the camera pans up as we see three men watching from the rafters high above the ring! The camera zooms in slowly, revealing Darby Allin and the Brothers of Destruction! Darby looks unimpressed as the enigmatic figure glares towards the Television Champion!
SEGMENT TWO
Yokozuna steps through the curtain, his shoulders slumped with disappointment after his loss. Before he can fully process the defeat, he’s met by the imposing figure of Roman Reigns, the leader of the Bloodline. Reigns’ expression is stern, his eyes reflecting a mixture of frustration and determination.
Roman Reigns: We need to talk.
Yokozuna shifts uncomfortably under Reigns’ intense gaze, bracing himself for what he knows will be a difficult conversation.
Yokozuna: Roman, I’m sorry about what just happened. I had that match won, but Hulk Hogan…
Reigns interrupts him, fed up with the excuses.
Roman Reigns: This isn’t just about tonight, Yoko. This is about the bigger picture. Three losses in a row, all due Hulk Hogan and his geriatric friends. It’s clear that something needs to change if the Bloodline is ever going to reach its true potential.
Yokozuna’s heart sinks at Reigns’ words, the weight of his disappointment heavy upon him. He had hoped to make his leader proud, but instead, he finds himself facing the harsh reality of their recent shortcomings.
Yokozuna: I understand, Roman. I’ll do whatever it takes to make things right.
Roman Reigns: Good. But for now, I think I need to seek counsel from a wise man. Someone who can help us navigate these troubled waters…
With that, Reigns strides off, leaving Yokozuna to dwell on the gravity of their situation. As he watches his leader depart, Yokozuna can’t shake the feeling of disappointment lingering in the air. But he knows that if anyone can lead the Bloodline back to glory, it’s Roman Reigns.
In his locker room, we can hear the sound of weights clanging and the rhythmic thud of footsteps echo through the corridor. AJ Styles, the AEW World Heavyweight Champion, is in the zone, pushing himself to the limit as he prepares for his monumental title defense against Bryan Danielson.
As Styles focuses on his workout regimen, he’s suddenly interrupted by the arrival of Hangman Adam Page and Kenny Omega, two of AEW’s biggest stars and longtime friends of both Styles and Danielson. The tension in the air is palpable as Styles looks up, his brow furrowing in curiosity.
AJ Styles: Hey guys, what brings you two around?
Hangman Adam Page: Hey, AJ. We just wanted to check in on you before your match tonight.
Kenny Omega: Yeah, we know things have been tense between you and Danielson lately. We wanted to make sure you’re mentally prepared for what’s coming.
Styles nods, his expression serious as he acknowledges the gravity of the situation.
AJ Styles: I appreciate it, guys. It’s been a rollercoaster with Bryan, that’s for sure.
Hangman Adam Page: We know it’s no secret to you that Danielson’s a good friend of ours, but we needed you to know how disappointed we are with his recent actions. Going after you like this, it’s not the Bryan we used to know.
Kenny Omega: We understand his desire to be champion, but the way he’s gone about it… It’s just not right.
Styles listens intently to his friends’ words, a sense of gratitude washing over him.
AJ Styles: Thanks, guys. It means a lot to have your support tonight. I’ll do everything in my power to come out on top.
Hangman Adam Page: That’s what we like to hear, AJ. We’re rooting for you out there. Now go show Bryan why you’re the champ!
With a nod of determination, Styles returns to his workout, fueled by the encouragement of his friends. As he continues to prepare for the battle ahead, he knows that with Hangman Adam Page and Kenny Omega in his corner, he’s more than ready to face whatever challenges come his way.
Match #2 | Grudge Match
Miss Athena Star (4-0) vs. Living Dead Girl
As the introductions are made, the crowd is on their feet, eagerly anticipating this battle that’s nearly 20 years in the making. Arn Anderson and Kevin Kelly discuss their history, dating back to the UWF when Living Dead Girl was teased as the first formidable foe for the then up and coming Miss Athena Star.
Arn Anderson: Folks, we’re witnessing history in the making tonight! Two of the greatest women to ever step foot in the ring are about to go head-to-head for the first time ever!
Kevin Kelly: That’s right, Arn. Miss Athena Star and Living Dead Girl have been on a collision course for nearly 20 years, and tonight, we finally get to witness the showdown of a lifetime!
As the bell rings, both women waste no time in unleashing their full arsenal of moves. Miss Athena Star impresses the crowd with her lightning-fast agility, executing flawless handspring elbows and breathtaking aerial maneuvers. Living Dead Girl, on the other hand, showcases her raw power, delivering spine-crushing chokeslams and imposing power maneuvers that leave the audience in awe.
Kevin Kelly: A contrast of styles here tonight; the high-flying, risk-taking Athena Star, and the monstrous powerhouse Living Dead Girl!
Arn Anderson: That’s right, Kev. These two are giving us everything they’ve got, pulling off all the stops here tonight!
The match rages on for nearly 20 minutes, with both women refusing to back down. They trade blows back and forth, each refusing to give an inch. The crowd erupts as Miss Athena Star hits her signature 4:20 Splash, only for Living Dead Girl to kick out at the last possible moment!
Kevin Kelly: What’s it going to take for Athena Star to put down Living Dead Girl?
Arn Anderson: How do you kill the undead, Kevin?
Living Dead girl takes control, delivering a devastating tombstone piledriver!
Kevin Kelly: That’s the same move that put Athena Star through a table two weeks ago!
Living Dead Girl, with an homage to her trainer Kane, covers Athena following the tombstone. The referee’s hand slaps the mat… one… two… thre–!
Arn Anderson: Good god, Athena just kicked out!
Kevin Kelly: I can’t believe what we’re seeing here tonight, this one has absolutely been worth the wait!
In the closing moments of the match, the tension reaches a fever pitch as Living Dead Girl produces a table from under the ring! The referee threatens her with a disqualification, but backs down quickly when Living Dead Girl delivers a spine-chilling glare in the ref’s direction. The crowd audibly gasps as Living Dead Girl produces a canister of lighter fluid, dousing the table in a considerable amount. She lights the table on fire, creating a menacing inferno on the outside of the ring!
With a determined glint in her eye, Living Dead Girl grabs Miss Athena Star and hoists her onto her shoulders as she climbs to the top rope, looking to put an end to the match once and for all.
Arn Anderson: Oh my God, Kevin! Living Dead Girl has lit a table on fire! You can feel the heat of those flames all throughout New Orleans!
Kevin Kelly: This is madness! She’s going to murder her!
All of the air is sucked out of the arena, as the capacity crowd holds their breathe, a silence washing over everything. Without a second doubt, Living Dead Girl hoists Athena Star up and delivers a Plummet to Hell, sending both women crashing through the table in a spectacular explosion of flames!!!
Arn Anderson: That’s it, they’re dead!
Kevin Kelly: I’ve never seen anything like this! This is absolute chaos, and neither woman is moving!
The crowd erupts into a “Holy Shit!” chant as the flames continue around both woman, medical personnel rushing to put them out with fire extinguishers. As the arena falls silent in stunned disbelief, Knockouts Official Kenzie has no choice but to declare this match a No Contest, as neither woman has moved!
Arn Anderson: The world will never forget what we’ve just witnessed!
Kevin Kelly: I’d say this isn’t the ending we wanted, but Arn, how do you say you’re disappointed in something like that?? We may have very well just witnessed Athena Star’s retirement tour end early. She might not make it through 2024, and for that matter, the same could be said about Living Dead Girl!
As both women are aided by doctors and trainers, we see a replay of what just happened before we’re forced to cut to commercial break.
Winner: No Contest
Match Time: 22:36
SEGMENT THREE
Backstage, Logan Paul stands tall, exuding confidence as he’s joined by AEW’s new correspondent, the legendary Taz. Taz wastes no time diving into the interview, eager to hear Paul’s thoughts following his impressive victory over the AEW World Heavyweight Champion AJ Styles the previous week.
Taz: Logan, last week you shocked the world by defeating AJ Styles in your debut match here in AEW. What’s going through your mind after such a monumental victory?
Paul grins smugly, his ego inflated by his recent triumph.
Logan Paul: Taz, let’s be real here. Last week, I did what no one else has been able to do in over three years. I pinned AJ Styles right in the middle of that ring, making me the first man to defeat the World Champion in his debut match. It’s a testament to my talent and skill, and it’s only the beginning.
Taz nods in agreement, acknowledging Paul’s impressive accomplishment.
Taz: There’s no arguing about that. But I’m wondering, where do you go from here? How do you plan to capitalize on this momentum?
Paul’s expression turns serious as he reveals his next target.
Logan Paul: As I said when I sat down two weeks ago with Chris Hyatte, I want to go after Ricky Starks and his Internet Championship. In fact, I’m going to call him out next week and show him exactly why I’m the future of this company!
Before Paul can continue, he’s suddenly interrupted by the arrival of MJF, the cocky and conniving heel of AEW. MJF approaches Paul with a smug grin.
MJF: I suppose we’re even now that I sent that heartwarming Make-A-Wish video to Kenny Mouse, right?
Paul’s demeanor softens slightly as he addresses MJF, extending an olive branch.
Logan Paul: It’s Lenny… but, look man. All I ever wanted was for us to be friends. We may not see eye to eye on everything, but I think we have more in common than you realize. The way I see it, you’re about the only person in this business who comes even close to being my equal.
MJF’s expression is unreadable as Paul continues.
Logan Paul: I believe in you, MJF. I think you have what it takes to become the World Champion at New Horizons on Easter Sunday in front of your hometown crowd. And I want to be here to support you every step of the way. But I need to know that I can I count on you for the same.
MJF hesitates for a moment before tentatively accepting Paul’s handshake, signaling the beginning of an unlikely partnership.
MJF: I’m willing to see where this goes.
As the two men shake hands, a new alliance is formed, setting the stage for a potentially game-changing partnership in AEW!
Backstage, amidst laughter and camaraderie, Matt Riddle, Kevin Nash, Scott Hall, and Randy Savage assist Hulk Hogan as he emerges from the chicken costume he wore earlier to sabotage Yokozuna’s championship opportunity. The atmosphere is light-hearted as the men joke about their recent antics and the chaos they’ve caused for the Bloodline.
Matt Riddle: Bro, that was some next-level chicken suit action out there! The Bloodline didn’t know what hit ’em!
Scott Hall: Hey yo, we’re just getting started, chico! The Bloodline’s gonna regret ever crossing paths with us.
Randy Savage: Ooh yeah, dig it! We’re gonna keep coming at ’em like a freight train, brother!
Hogan chuckles as he listens to his comrades, a mischievous glint in his eye.
Hulk Hogan: You boys are right on the money, brothers. And I’m so glad we’re all getting along so well. I guess we just needed a common enemy to get over the tension.
Kevin Nash: I know I’ve apologized before, but I really am sorry about all that, Hulk. I know we don’t always see eye to eye, but I appreciate you, man.
The two hug, as Hogan remembers he has news to share with the group.
Hulk Hogan: I know we all heard Roman talkin’ smack earlier about finding a “wise man’s counsel.” I figured we probably needed to do the same.
The camera pans to reveal a familiar face from years past, standing about waist level with the rest of the group. The crowd pops as the camera pans down slowly, revealing a smirking Midget Hogan!
Midget Hogan: That’s right, brothers! I’m your Wise Man! And you’ve gotta ask yourselves, what’s the Bloodline gonna do, when Midget Mania runs wild!
The group erupts into laughter, as Midget Hogan pulls out a joint and passes it around. Scott Hall politely declines, but to everyone’s surprise, Kevin Nash, known for his stern demeanor, accepts and takes a drag!
Kevin Nash: What the hell, it’s a party, right?
Hogan beams with pride as the group bonds over their shared antics.
Hulk Hogan: This, right here, is the birth of wrestling’s most dominant faction, brother! And I’ve got just the name for us!
Midget Hogan hands Hulk his bag, and Hogan reaches inside. He pulls out matching t-shirts and distributes them to his comrades. As they don the shirts, the group’s name is revealed in bold lettering: High Minded.
Matt Riddle: High Minded! I love it!
Hulk Hogan: Together, we’re gonna take AEW to new heights and blaze a trail of glory!
With their newfound unity and sense of purpose, the members of High Minded stand united as the scene fades.
Match #3 | Falls Count Anywhere
Master Splinter (0-0) vs. Menotaur (0-0)
As “Voices” by Disturbed hits for Splinter’s introduction, our cameras offer us a unique view. The camera zooms up the ramp and through the curtain, and down the hall backstage as we see Splinter walking from his locker room towards the ring.
The announcers recap the ongoing saga between Splinter and Menotaur, which began at the end of January as Splinter promised to reveal the dirt on Benny Mouse. Since then, things have only escalated, with Menotaur putting Splinter through the glass window just two weeks ago.
Kevin Kelly: It looks as if Splinter’s wounds have healed from that assault, his head is no longer bandaged up and he’s no longer limping. But you have to wonder if he’s at 100 percent here tonight.
The camera follows the legendary Master Splinter as he strides purposefully down the dimly lit hallway backstage at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. Splinter exudes an aura of calm confidence as he prepares to make his entrance for the Falls Count Anywhere match. Just before Splinter reaches the gorilla position, he’s blindsided by Menotaur! With a guttural roar, Menotaur charges forward, unleashing a devastating spear that sends Splinter crashing to the ground in a heap of pain.
Arn Anderson: Wait a minute, Menotaur isn’t waiting until they get to the ring to start this match!
AEW official Pete happens to be close by, and he rushes over. He signals for the bell to sound, the match kicking off right there in the backstage area! With no time to waste, Splinter and Menotaur engage in a brutal brawl, trading blows and grappling fiercely as they make their way through the labyrinthine corridors of the arena.
Kevin Kelly: We are witnessing another war here tonight, these two men have a storied rivalry and it’s safe to say they absolutely loathe one another!
As they continue their relentless assault, the two competitors leave a trail of destruction in their wake. From locker rooms to concession stands, no area is off-limits as they unleash their fury upon each other, the intensity of their battle escalating with each passing moment.
The two men continue to battle from one area to the next, both of them lacerated by this point. They reach the parking garage, surrounded by concrete walls and looming shadows.
Arn Anderson: Through blood, sweat, and tears, these two men have displayed an incredible will to emerge victorious here tonight, but unfortunately, only one man is walking out of here the winner!
With a primal roar, Splinter attempts to execute his signature finisher, the Spinal Cord Spiral, but before he can complete the maneuver, two shadowy figures emerge from the darkness, launching a surprise attack.
Kevin Kelly: What the hell? Who are those guys?
The camera pans to reveal Farooq and Bradshaw, the fearsome duo known as the Acolytes, standing alongside Menotaur with malicious intent written across their faces!
Arn Anderson: My God, that’s the Acolytes!
Kevin Kelly: Is this what Sami Zayn meant earlier tonight when he said he had a plan to get rid of Splinter once and for all?
With Menotaur’s guidance, the Acolytes seize Splinter and hoist him high above the ground, their strength overpowering even the legendary performer.
In a horrifying moment, the Acolytes hurl Splinter from the elevated platform, sending him hurtling through the air before crashing into a dumpster 20 feet below with a sickening thud.
The crowd gasps in shock and horror as the camera captures the aftermath of the devastating fall, Splinter lying bloodied and motionless amidst a pile of debris.
Pete’s face is filled with visible fear as Menotaur climbs down and covers Splinter. The Acolytes yell for Pete to do his job, as he counts the pinfall with a sense of dread weighing heavy upon him.
Kevin Kelly: Not like this, Arn! This isn’t how it was supposed to end!
Arn Anderson: This is a travesty, Kevin! Master Splinter deserved better than this!
Kevin Kelly: Benny Mouse and Sami Zayn just got what they wanted – Splinter is absolutely done for!
As Menotaur’s hand is raised in victory he stands with the Acolytes. The camera fades to black, leaving a lingering sense of unease and disbelief in its wake.
Winner: Menotaur (1-0)
Match Time: 22:35
SEGMENT FOUR
Match #4 | AEW World Heavyweight Championship
The Phenomenal AJ Styles (3-1) vs. The American Dragon Bryan Danielson (4-0)
Back at ringside, the introductions are made for our main event as Arn Anderson and Kevin Kelly discuss the chaos we’ve seen thus far tonight, from the opening moments of the show to what we just witnessed, with Menotaur perhaps ending the career of Splinter thanks to the help of the Acolytes.
Arn Anderson: And the night is not over yet! We’ve got our highly anticipated World Heavyweight Championship encounter, set to begin momentarily!
Danielson is out first to boos, as AJ Styles is out next to a hero’s welcome from the capacity crowd in New Orleans. Anderson and Kelly note that Styles has been looking for revenge since Danielson turned his back on him at Genesis, stunning the world with the running knee that nearly took the champ’s head off.
As the match is underway, the two men tie up. Anderson notes that we’re witnessing two of the best wrestlers in the business at their bests, fighting for the most coveted prize in sports entertainment. They jockey for position, each man temporarily gaining the upper hand with wrist locks controlling the positioning.
Kevin Kelly: For 462 days, AJ Styles has been on the run of his career as World Heavyweight Champion, and he holds one pinfall victory over Danielson, dating back to the sixth episode of Dynamite in the triple threat match with Danielson, Styles, and Kurt Angle.
Arn Anderson: This entire night has been built around Danielson, and the fact that the Dragon was awakened at Genesis. He’s tired of being the second string to Styles, and feels he deserves to be champion.
They transition seamlessly from the tie ups to a series of chain wrestling exchanges, both men showcasing their technical prowess and agility. Styles is able to gain control with a headlock takedown, ground Danielson an applying pressure to wear him down.
Kevin Kelly: It’s smart of AJ Styles to dictate the pace of this encounter. He doesn’t want to leave Danielson room to breathe, as Danielson is one of the most efficient technicians in the sport.
Danielson manages to escape the headlock and counters with a headscissors, forcing Styles to break the hold. They engage in a series of shoulder tackle exchanges, each trying to knock the other off their feet, but neither gaining a clear advantage. Styles again gains momentum with a lightning-fast dropkick, sending Danielson reeling to the mat.
However, the battle seesaws back and forth, with Danielson fighting back. He targets Styles’ arm with various submission holds, including an armbar and a crossface, trying to weaken him for his “Yes!” Lock finisher.
Arn Anderson: You don’t want Danielson on that mat, that’s where he is most comfortable.
Styles fights back with a flurry of strikes and high-flying maneuvers, including a phenomenal forearm and a springboard 450 splash, but Danielson kicks out at two!
Danielson retaliates with stiff kicks and strikes, targeting Styles’ head and chest, wearing him down with a relentless assault. The announcers recall what that Danielson did the same thing to Rey Fenix a few weeks ago, and Anderson says when he talked to Danielson earlier tonight backstage, Danielson said he would “kick Styles’ fucking head in” and we’re seeing just that!
Styles counters Bryan’s offense with submission attempts of his own, including the Calf Crusher. He attempts the Styles Clash, but Danielson manages to escape each time.
Both men exchange roll-up attempts, each trying to catch the other off guard for a quick pinfall victory. Finally, after a back-and-forth battle, Danielson manages to lock in the Yes Lock, applying pressure to Styles’ neck and shoulders.
Kevin Kelly: Is the champion going to tap?
Arn Anderson: No way, Kevin. AJ Styles is not going to give up, regardless of how much pain he’s in.
Finally, Styles manages to get to the ropes, and senior official Michael McMahon demands he break the hold or risk disqualification.
Suddenly, there’s a commotion at ringside, as from either side of the ring emerges Wardlow and Scott Steiner, the henchmen of MJF! Styles, ever the ring general, immediately notices their presence. After taking Danielson down with a pele, he turns his attention to MJF’s bodyguards.
Kevin Kelly: Dammit, what are these guys doing out here?
Arn Anderson: You have to believe that MJF ordered these two out here, but why? Why not just wait and see how things play out, he’s the next in line for the title shot regardless of who wins!
AJ Styles launches himself over the top rope, taking both men down with a cross body! Anderson says Styles has just leveled the playing field once more. As Styles gets back into the ring, free of the distraction, Danielson charges after him with the Busaiku Knee! The force of which knocks Styles out cold!
Danielson covers AJ Styles in the center of the ring, as the crowd gasps as McMahon’s hand hits the mat for the third and final time!
Arn Anderson: I can’t believe what I’m seeing! The American Dragon has just won the All Elite Wrestling World Heavyweight Championship!
Winner and NEW AEW World Heavyweight Champion: The American Dragon Bryan Danielson
Match Time: 29:48
As Danielson celebrates, the crowd audibly boos the shocking events that just transpired. As AJ Styles finally starts to come to, MJF is atop the stage, laughing at the turn of events he has helped set into motion!
World Of Wrestling: Murrey Universe 