AEW Dynamite #019 (3.18.24)

Live from the FedEx Forum | Memphis, TN | Crowd Size: 19,000

SEGMENT ONE

Outside of the FedEx Forum in Memphis, fans are lined up along the entrance ramp to the arena, hoping to catch a glimpse of their favorite superstars. Suddenly, a sleek car pulls up and out steps Rowdy Ronda Rousey, her presence commanding attention even amidst the chaos. Rousey adjusts her gear and enters the building. We get a long shot of her walking into the foyer of the arena, her focus unwavering ahead of tonight’s main event matchup against Chyna.

Rousey’s path intersects with the Knockouts Champion, Sasha Banks, who approaches her with a smirk.

Sasha Banks: Well, well, well. Rowdy Ronda Rousey, fashionably late as always. I was beginning to think you smartened up and decided to stay home.

Rousey’s glare meets Sasha’s.

Ronda Rousey: Save it, Sasha. I’m here for one thing only – to take down your help and anyone else standing in my way of what’s rightfully mine.

Rousey gestures towards the Knockouts Championship. Sasha chuckles, a hint of malice in her tone.

Sasha Banks: Oh, I know, Ronda. But let’s not forget the stakes tonight. When Chyna beats you, you can kiss your dreams of challenging for my title goodbye. Forever.

Rousey’s jaw tenses, her posture stiffening.

Ronda Rousey: I don’t plan on losing, Sasha. And when I win, I’ll be coming for that title of yours.

Before Sasha can respond, Bianca Belair enters the frame, exuding an aura of confidence.

Bianca Belair: Hold up, ladies. Did you hear the news?

Sasha and Ronda turn their attention to Belair, intrigued. Bianca grins, relishing the moment.

Bianca Belair: AEW Director of Operations Sami Zayn just dropped a bombshell. If Rousey wins tonight, she’ll face Banks for the championship at New Horizons. But, if Chyna wins, the EST will challenge for the belt at the PPV! Regardless, just know, the EST is waiting in line for her title shot.

With tensions simmering and ambitions laid bare, the three formidable women share a charged moment before heading their separate ways, each focused on the battles that lie ahead.


In the hallways backstage, the members of High Minded – Hulk Hogan, Matt Riddle, Kevin Nash, Scott Hall, and Randy Savage – are in a state of frantic searching. They weave through the maze of corridors, calling out for their missing manager, Midget Hogan.

Hulk Hogan: Where the heck is Midget? He said he’d be here by now!

Kevin Nash’s brow furrows with concern as he scans the area.

Kevin Nash: This ain’t good, brother. The stuff we’ve been pullin’ against the Bloodline, it might’ve put Midget in some real danger.

Matt Riddle scratches his head, still grappling with the concept of Hulk Hogan and Midget Hogan being separate individuals.

Matt Riddle: Yo, wait, so like, Hulk Hogan and Midget Hogan aren’t the same person?

Hulk sighs, exasperated, while Scott Hall’s sharp eyes catch something on the floor. He bends down and picks up a piece of paper, his expression darkening as he reads it.

Scott Hall: Guys, check this out.

The other members of High Minded gather around as Scott shows them the ransom note. The camera zooms in on the ominous message, penned by none other than the Bloodline’s new manager, Paul Heyman.

The note reads:

To High Minded,

If you ever want to see your beloved Midget Hogan again, you’ll accept our challenge. War Games at New Horizons, or Midget Hogan stays with us.

Signed, Paul Heyman”

The group’s collective fear is palpable as they exchange worried glances, realizing the seriousness of the situation.

With uncertainty looming over them, High Minded grapple with the weight of the ultimatum, knowing that their next move could determine the fate of their friend and manager.


Match #1 | AEW Television Championship
The American Nightmare Cody Rhodes (C) vs. Kevin Owens

As Cody Rhodes makes his grand entrance, Kevin Kelly and Arn Anderson officially welcome us to Dynamite. They say things are already off to a chaotic start, discussing what we’ve seen backstage already between Ronda Rousey, Sasha Banks, and Bianca Belair, as well as the Bloodline’s apparent kidnapping of Midget Hogan. Across the ring from Cody Rhodes is his imposing challenger, Kevin Owens, who is back in action for the first time after failing to win the AEW World Heavyweight Championship in the main event of Genesis.

The bell sounds and the match kicks off with a flurry of action, as Cody and Owens trade blows, each refusing to give an inch. Owens showcases his raw power, while Cody relies on his agility and technical prowess to keep the challenger at bay.

Kevin Kelly: Owens with a massive clothesline! He’s looking to end this early and claim that title!

Arn Anderson: Kevin Owens is looking to turn his career trajectory around. I can tell you from experience how mentally draining it is to go from headlining a huge show to jerking the curtain on TV. A win tonight could give Owens the momentum he’s been looking for since his feud in PWI with Duxen!

As the match progresses, the momentum swings back and forth, with near falls keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. Owens unleashes his trademark cannonball in the corner, but Cody narrowly escapes. Just when it seems Owens is about to secure the victory and the championship, the arena plunges into darkness.

Kevin Kelly: What’s happening? Did the power go out?

Arn Anderson: I’ve got bad feeling about this, Kevin!

As the lights flicker back on, the Brothers of Destruction, Kane and The Undertaker, stand menacingly at ringside, their presence sending shockwaves through the crowd. Owens eyes them warily, sensing trouble.

Kevin Kelly: It’s the Brothers of Destruction! What are they doing here?

Arn Anderson: I don’t like the looks of this, Kevin. They’ve got no business interfering in this match.

With chaos descending upon the ring, Owens tries to stay focused, but the distraction proves costly. As he prepares to deliver the finishing blow to Cody, the Brothers of Destruction storm the ring, assaulting Owens with brutal efficiency.

Kevin Kelly: This is despicable! The Brothers of Destruction are decimating Kevin Owens!

Arn Anderson: Why are they attacking Owens? And why are they helping Cody Rhodes?

The referee calls for the bell, awarding the match to Owens via disqualification. As chaos reigns in the ring, Cody Rhodes watches in confusion, unable to comprehend why the Brothers of Destruction intervened on his behalf.

Kevin Kelly: Cody looks baffled by this turn of events. What could this possibly mean?

The camera pans up to again reveal Darby Allin watching from the rafters.

Arn Anderson: I don’t have the answers, Kevin, but one thing’s for sure – Darby Allin is watching from the rafters, and you’ve got to wonder why he’s orchestrated this hit?

Winner by DQ: Kevin Owens
Match Time: 12:07

SEGMENT TWO

The scene opens in a dimly lit room, with Benny Mouse hunched over a laptop, his expression wrought with fear and uncertainty. Standing guard behind him is Menotaur, his large form casting shadows against the walls. Benny nervously adjusts his glasses as he initiates a video call with AEW Director of Operations Sami Zayn.

Benny Mouse: Sami, thank goodness you picked up. I don’t know how much time I have left before Armageddon finds me.

Sami’s face appears on Benny’s laptop screen, his expression a mix of concern and determination.

Sami Zayn: I don’t like not knowing where you are, Benny. It’s dangerous.

Benny’s face flashes a mix of anger and confusion. His voice trembles as he speaks, his fear palpable.

Benny Mouse: Armageddon’s after me, Sami. I don’t know what I did to make him turn against me, but I can’t risk finding out. I’ve been in hiding, trying to stay off his radar.

Sami leans in closer to the screen, his eyes probing.

Sami Zayn: How are you holding up, Benny? You seem… unsettled.

Benny sighs heavily, his shoulders slumping.

Benny Mouse: I’m not gonna lie, Sami. I’m not having a great day. I’ve been feeling confused a lot lately, and I don’t know who I can trust anymore.

Sami Zayn: We’ll figure this out together, Benny. But we need to act fast before the Board of Directors finalizes their investigation.

Benny’s gaze darts around the room nervously before he speaks, his voice barely above a whisper.

Benny Mouse: I… I might have an idea to protect us. But if we go down this road, it’ll be the worst thing I’ve ever done. And believe me, that’s saying a lot.

Sami’s brow furrows with concern, but he nods resolutely.

Sami Zayn: Write down your idea, Benny. We’ll discuss it in person as soon as possible. Stay safe until then.


The Authors of Pain stand stoically backstage, their formidable presence commanding attention as they discuss strategy for their upcoming match. Suddenly, they’re interrupted by the unexpected arrival of the Harlem Turtles, Stevie R and Booker D. The Turtles approach with urgency, their expressions grave.

Stevie R: AOP, we need to talk. There’s a lot riding on your match tonight with the Acolytes.

Booker D: Yeah, it’s not just about winning the match. It’s about avenging Master Splinter.

The Authors of Pain exchange a knowing glance, understanding the weight of the situation.

Rezar: We know, turtles. And we’ll do everything in our power to take down the hired guns of Benny Mouse and Sami Zayn.

Akam: Consider it done. We won’t let you down. I hope Megan is watching this wherever she is, because we’re going to find her and bring her back into the fold.

Before any further words can be exchanged, the tense atmosphere is shattered by the sudden arrival of a dozen security guards, their presence imposing as they surround the Turtles.

Security Guard: Sorry, but we’ve been ordered by Sami Zayn to remove the Turtles from the arena. It’s time for you to leave.

Stevie R and Booker D initially try to resist, stating they need to be here to protect AOP. The Authors of Pain say that it’s okay, they’ve got this.

Akam: Focus on getting out safely. We’ll take care of the rest.

With a nod of assurance, the Harlem Turtles reluctantly comply with the security guards’ orders, their departure leaving a sense of unease in their wake. But as the Authors of Pain prepare to face their adversaries alone, their determination burns brighter than ever, ready to fulfill their promise and emerge victorious.


Match #2 | Tag Team Exhibition
The Authors of Pain vs. The Acolytes

The tension in the arena is palpable as the Authors of Pain and the Acolytes stand poised in the ring, ready to unleash chaos upon each other. The crowd roars in anticipation as the referee signals for the bell to start the match. However, just as the bell is about to ring, Kevin Kelly receives a note on commentary, his eyes widening in surprise.

Kevin Kelly: Ladies and gentlemen, I’ve just received word from AEW Director of Operations Sami Zayn – this match has been declared a No Holds Barred match!

The audience erupts into cheers as the realization sinks in that there are no rules to constrain the brutality about to unfold. With a thunderous roar, the Authors of Pain and the Acolytes charge at each other, igniting a wild brawl that spills out of the ring and into the ringside area.

Arn Anderson: This is chaos, Kevin! With no holds barred, anything goes!

Kevin Kelly: That’s right, Arn! It’s an all-out war between these two teams!

The brawl intensifies as chairs, tables, and other weapons come into play, the sound of impact echoing throughout the arena. Bodies crash against barricades, steel steps, and announce tables as the combatants unleash their pent-up aggression.

Arn Anderson: This is pure brutality, Kevin! Neither team is holding anything back!

Despite the relentless onslaught, neither team gains a clear advantage as the battle rages on. But as the chaos reaches its peak, the Acolytes seize an opportunity and retrieve steel chairs from under the ring, brandishing them menacingly.

Kevin Kelly: Look out! The Acolytes have steel chairs in hand!

With a viciousness, the Acolytes unleash a devastating conchairto, simultaneously smashing the steel chairs into the heads of the Authors of Pain, much to the shock and horror of the live audience.

Arn Anderson: Oh my God! The conchairto connects! The Authors of Pain are down and out!

The crowd erupts into stunned silence as the Acolytes stand tall over their fallen opponents, their victory in the No Holds Barred match cemented with a brutal display of dominance. The referee calls for the bell, officially declaring the match over as the Acolytes bask in their moment of triumph.

Winners via referee stoppage: The Acolytes
Match Time: 14:11

SEGMENT THREE

Backstage, Kenny Omega and Hangman Adam Page discuss their aspirations of capturing the tag team championship. Their conversation is abruptly interrupted by the arrival of The Elite – The Miz and John Morrison – their presence oozing with confidence and arrogance.

Miz: Check it out, John. It’s Omega and Page, he wannabe contenders for the tag team titles.

John Morrison: Yeah, you two may think you have what it takes to be champions, but you’re not even in the same league as The Elite.

Kenny Omega smirks, unfazed by The Elite’s taunts.

Kenny Omega: Oh, is that so? Last I checked, you two only recently reunited as a tag team. Are you sure you can coexist like you once did?

The Miz bristles at the implication, his confidence unwavering.

Miz: Hangman, Kenny, let’s set the record straight. The Elite were the best tag team champions in the history of PWI, and mark my words, we’ll be just as great as AEW Tag Team Champions.

With the tension thickening in the air, The Elite issue a challenge that hangs like a gauntlet in the air.

The Miz: So here’s the deal. Next week, in the ring, we settle this once and for all. The winners will be crowned the number one contenders for the tag team titles.

Hangman and Omega share a brief glance, a silent agreement passing between them before Hangman steps forward, accepting the challenge.

Hangman Adam Page: You’re on, Miz. We’ll see you in the ring next week.

As the scene ends, the intensity between the two teams reaches a boiling point, setting the stage for a showdown that promises to be nothing short of epic.


Backstage, AEW Director of Operations is standing by with the Acolytes. He’s got a hand on both of their shoulders as he congratulates them.

Sami Zayn: You two did a phenomenal job tonight. Beating the AOP was a crucial step in evening the score, and I couldn’t be prouder.

The Acolytes nod in agreement, their expressions grim with determination.

Farooq: Thanks, Sami. We’re just happy to help take down our enemies and get what’s rightfully ours.

Bradshaw: But let’s not forget the deal we made. We want our shot at the tag team titles.

Sami’s smile widens as he reassures them.

Sami Zayn: Of course, gentlemen. That shot is coming, I promise you. Once we’ve dealt with the Harlem Turtles, AOP, and that pesky Splinter once and for all, the tag team titles will be within your grasp.

Before their conversation can continue, the atmosphere is shattered by the sudden appearance of Armageddon. The towering figure looms over them, his presence ominous and foreboding. Sami lets out a terrified shriek as Armageddon barrels towards them.

Armageddon launches a vicious assault on the Acolytes, catching them off guard. The Acolytes fight back valiantly, but they’re quickly overwhelmed by Armageddon’s ferocity.

In a desperate bid to escape, Sami Zayn darts away from the chaos, making a break for the exit. He rushes out of the building and dives into a waiting limousine, the engine roaring to life as it speeds away into the night, leaving behind a scene of chaos and confusion.


Match # 3 | Exhibition Match
Absolute Ricky Starks vs. Eddie Guerreo

As the introductions are made, Arn Anderson and Kevin Kelly discuss what we’ve seen the past few weeks between Ricky Starks and Logan Paul, as the two have been at each other’s throats ahead of their Internet Championship match at New Horizons. As Guerrero makes his way to the ring, both announcers are impressed by the shape he’s gotten himself into, as he appears to be more fit and flexible than we’ve ever seen him.

The match kicks off with a flurry of action, as Starks and Guerrero trade lightning-fast strikes and high-flying maneuvers, each determined to gain the upper hand. The crowd erupts in applause as the momentum shifts back and forth, with neither competitor willing to back down.

Kevin Kelly: What a display of athleticism from both Starks and Guerrero! This match could go either way!

Arn Anderson: Absolutely, Kevin. These two are leaving it all in the ring tonight.

As the match reaches its climax, Starks ascends to the top rope, his eyes locked on Guerrero with unwavering focus. With a burst of energy, he leaps off the turnbuckle, executing a flawless Spanish Fly that sends Guerrero crashing to the canvas to the roar of the crowd.

Kevin Kelly: Oh my goodness! What a Spanish Fly by Ricky Starks! He could have it here!

Arn Anderson: Starks is firing on all cylinders tonight, Kevin. But let’s not count Guerrero out just yet.

Starks wastes no time capitalizing on his momentum, quickly hoisting Guerrero to his feet and delivering his devastating finisher, the Roshambo, with pinpoint precision. The impact reverberates throughout the arena as Starks goes for the cover, the referee counting the pinfall.

Kevin Kelly: Roshambo! Starks with the cover!

Arn Anderson: One, two, three! It’s over! What a victory for Ricky Starks!

The crowd erupts into thunderous applause as Starks celebrates his hard-fought victory, his hand raised in triumph. Guerrero slowly rises to his feet, offering a respectful nod to Starks before exiting the ring.

Winner: Absolute Ricky Starks
Match Time: 10:09

SEGMENT FOUR

Backstage, the tension hangs heavy in the air as Kevin Nash and Hulk Hogan discuss the dire situation regarding the apparent kidnapping of their manager, Midget Hogan, orchestrated by the Bloodline. Nash wears a furrowed brow, his expression reflecting his uncertainty, while Hogan’s determination burns bright, his eyes ablaze with resolve.

Hulk Hogan: Nash, we gotta face the facts, brother. Midget’s been taken by the Bloodline, and they’re using him as leverage to get us into that War Games match.

Kevin Nash: I don’t know, Hulk. Going up against the Bloodline in War Games? That’s a death wish, brother.

Hogan’s jaw tightens, his frustration simmering beneath the surface.

Hulk Hogan: I get it, Nash. But this ain’t about us, it’s about Midget Hogan. We gotta do whatever it takes to get him back, consequences be damned.

Nash shifts uncomfortably, his doubt evident in his furrowed brow.

Kevin Nash: I don’t know if we can handle the Bloodline, Hulk. They’re a force to be reckoned with.

Hogan’s gaze hardens, his voice tinged with a steely resolve.

Hulk Hogan: Listen to me, Nash. You’re Kevin Nash, the man who never turns down a fight. And me? I’m the one always looking for the easy payday. But this time, it’s different. We can’t sit back and let them walk all over us. We gotta stand up and fight!

Nash sighs heavily, his resolve wavering under Hogan’s unwavering conviction.

Kevin Nash: Dammit, Hulk. You’re right. I may be hesitant, but I’m not blind to the truth. I’m a former World and Immunity Champion, one of the best big men to ever step foot in this business. If anyone can take on the Bloodline, it’s us.

Hogan nods in agreement, a sense of unity washing over them as they come to a mutual decision.

Hulk Hogan: That’s the spirit, brother. We’re in this together. For Midget Hogan, and for our honor. Let’s do this. (looking into the camera, addressing the Bloodline) Challenge accepted!

With their resolve solidified, Hogan and Nash share a firm handshake, ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead in their quest to rescue Midget Hogan and take on the formidable Bloodline.


The ring is set for a tense sitdown interview between AEW correspondent Taz and the AEW World Heavyweight Champion Bryan Danielson, as well as his challenger in two weeks at New Horizons, MJF. The anticipation in the arena is palpable as the two rivals prepare to exchange verbal jabs.

Taz: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guests at this time, the AEW World Heavyweight Champion, Bryan Danielson, and his challenger, MJF.

The crowd erupts into a mixture of cheers and boos as Danielson and MJF make their way to the ring, their eyes locked in a battle of wills.

Taz: Gentlemen, thank you for joining me. Let’s get right to it. MJF, you’ve been vocal about your intentions to become the next AEW World Heavyweight Champion at New Horizons. Care to share your thoughts on the upcoming match?

MJF smirks confidently, his arrogance evident in every word he speaks.

MJF: Taz, my dear friend, at New Horizons, in front of my home crowd, I will be crowned the AEW World Heavyweight Champion in the biggest coronation the wrestling world has ever seen. To borrow a line from another great Jew, that’s not a prediction, it’s a spoiler.

Danielson’s expression remains stoic as he listens to MJF’s boasts, a simmering intensity burning in his eyes.

Bryan Danielson: You see, Taz, that’s my problem with MJF here. He thinks he’s entitled to everything, that he deserves to be handed success on a silver platter. But the truth is, he’s never earned anything in this business. He’s rested on his charisma and the fact that he’s been branded the next “IT” guy in the industry.

The tension between the two rivals mounts as Danielson continues to speak, his voice dripping with disdain.

Bryan Danielson: MJF, let me ask you something. What happened to the last “IT” guy, AJ Styles? He came and went, just like you will. And as for me, no one thought I would become the second-ever AEW World Champion. But here I am, holding this title that makes me the best wrestler in the world.

MJF’s smirk falters slightly, replaced by a scowl as Danielson’s words hit their mark.

MJF: AEW should be ashamed to have a boring goat like you representing the company as the champion, Bryan. But don’t worry, because I’m going to change that at New Horizons.

The tension between the two rivals reaches its breaking point as they get in each other’s faces, their animosity boiling over. Before the situation can escalate further, the ring is suddenly swarmed by MJF’s hired guards, Big Poppa Pump Scott Steiner and Wardlow.

Taz: Whoa, whoa, whoa! Hold on, guys, let’s calm down here!

But it’s too late. MJF takes advantage of the distraction, launching a vicious beatdown on the champion, Bryan Danielson. As Danielson lies battered and bruised in the ring, MJF stands tall, holding up the AEW World Heavyweight Championship with a sinister grin, his eyes gleaming with anticipation of his impending coronation at New Horizons.


Match #4 | If Rousey wins, she’s number one contender. If Chyna wins, Rousey can never challenge for the Knockouts Championship as long as Sasha is champion
Rowdy Ronda Rousey vs Chyna

The arena pulses with anticipation as the main event of the evening looms large, the stakes higher than ever before. Kevin Kelly and Arn Anderson stand at ringside, their voices echoing throughout the arena as they remind the audience of what’s on the line.

Kevin Kelly: Ladies and gentlemen, the moment we’ve all been waiting for is finally here. In tonight’s main event, Rowdy Ronda Rousey takes on Chyna, with the Knockouts Championship implications hanging in the balance.

Arn Anderson: That’s right, Kevin. If Rousey wins, she earns her long-awaited rematch for the title she never actually lost. But if she loses, she can never challenge for the belt again as long as Sasha Banks holds the championship.

The tension in the air is palpable as Ronda Rousey and Chyna stand face-to-face in the center of the ring, their eyes locked in a fierce stare-down. The crowd roars in anticipation, eager to witness the clash between these two dominant forces.

Kevin Kelly: Here we go, folks. The Baddest Woman on the Planet versus the Ninth Wonder of the World. This is going to be one for the history books!

As the bell rings, Rousey and Chyna waste no time, immediately engaging in a brutal brawl that spans the entire ring. Blow after blow is exchanged, with both women refusing to give an inch. The intensity of the match builds with each passing moment, the crowd on the edge of their seats.

Arn Anderson: These two are leaving it all in the ring, Kevin. This is a fight to the finish!

After what feels like an eternity of relentless back-and-forth action, both Rousey and Chyna are battered and bloodied, their determination unwavering. Just as it seems Rousey is gaining the upper hand and closing in on victory, the arena erupts as Sasha Banks emerges from the backstage area, her eyes locked on the action in the ring.

Kevin Kelly: Wait a minute, what’s Sasha Banks doing out here?

Arn Anderson: This could change everything, Kevin. Sasha could be looking to tip the scales in Chyna’s favor!

As Sasha attempts to interfere, Ronda Rousey catches sight of her and manages to thwart her efforts. However, the distraction is enough for Chyna to seize the opportunity and deliver her devastating finishing move, the Pedigree, to Rousey.

Kevin Kelly: Oh no! Chyna hits the Pedigree! This could be it!

The referee counts the pinfall, and the arena falls into stunned silence as the realization sets in. Chyna emerges victorious, her hand raised in triumph as the crowd processes the shocking turn of events.

Arn Anderson: Unbelievable! Chyna has defeated Ronda Rousey!

As Chyna celebrates her hard-fought victory, Ronda Rousey lies battered and defeated in the center of the ring, her dreams of reclaiming the Knockouts Championship shattered. Meanwhile, Sasha Banks watches from ringside, a satisfied smirk playing on her lips as she revels in the chaos she has caused.

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