Live from the James Brown Arena | Augusta, GA | Crowd Size: 9,200
SEGMENT ONE
As Dynamite comes on the air for it’s 20th installment, Arn Anderson and Kevin Kelly welcome us to a sold out James Brown Arena, live from Augusta, GA. Kelly says tonight is our last stop before AEW’s second PPV, New Horizons, live from the Nassau Coliseum this Sunday.
Before the announcers can continue, they’re interrupted by the familiar sounds of AJ Styles’ theme, as the arena erupts into a frenzy for the former All Elite Wrestling World Heavyweight Champion! Anderson says we’ve not seen Styles on TV since he lost the championship at Dragon’s Fury. Styles grabs a microphone as he enters the ring, a determined look on his face.
AJ Styles: You know, the past few weeks have been tough for me. I’ve been sitting at home, two hours from here, and I’ve been thinking… Losing the AEW World Heavyweight Championship was a bitter pill to swallow, especially after everything I’ve been through on my way to the reign.
The crowd cheers in support of AJ as he continues.
AJ Styles: It took me almost 15 years to get to the top of this industry. I can count the number of times on both hands that I’ve grabbed a microphone and addressed a live crowd. I’ve let my work do most of my talking. This year has been especially tough. First, I had to deal with betrayal from someone I considered a close friend. Then, MJF got involved and cost me my championship. Now, Bryan Danielson is walking around with my belt, thinking he’s got one over on me. But you know what? I refuse to let one loss define me. I’ve been watching from home as the main event scene moves on without me, and I can’t stand idly by any longer!
Before AJ can continue, the arena lights dim and a new theme fills the airwaves. The thumping beats of “Big Pressure” radiates throughout the arena, and the crowd erupts as Swerve Strickland appears at the top of the stage, confidently striding to the ring.
Arn Anderson: We knew he was planning to be here tonight, but I’m not sure I expected this!
Kevin Kelly: If you don’t know who this man is, you’re not doing your homework. Swerve Strickland has made incredible waves on the independent circuit, and he’s one of the most anticipated arrivals to All Elite Wrestling of all time!
Arn Anderson: And it looks like Swerve is here to make a statement tonight!
Swerve enters the ring, locking eyes with AJ Styles as the crowd’s excitement reaches a fever pitch.
Swerve Strickland: AJ Styles, allow me to start by saying your reign as the AEW World Heavyweight Champion was nothing short of legendary. 462 days at the top of the mountain is an incredible achievement in this industry.
The crowd cheers in agreement as Swerve continues. AJ’s expression is unchanged as his eyes remain locked on Strickland’s.
Swerve Strickland: I had hoped to challenge you for that title, but circumstances have obviously changed. However, that doesn’t mean I don’t want to step into this ring with you… I still want to prove myself against one of the best wrestlers in the world!
Swerve takes a beat, sizing AJ Styles up and down, from head to toe.
Swerve Strickland: I know better than most people how it feels to have to pick myself up, dust myself off, and to keep moving on to bigger and better things. Look at my career thus far if you don’t believe me. It’s been all starts and stops, but that’s changed. So, AJ, how about it? You, me. One-on-one this Sunday at New Horizons? No championships on the line, just two competitors giving it their all?
The crowd erupts in anticipation as AJ Styles stares down Swerve Strickland, contemplating the challenge.
AJ Styles: You’re on, Swerve. Consider it official.
The crowd roars in approval as AJ and Swerve share a tense stare-down, setting the stage for an epic showdown at New Horizons.
Arn Anderson: Folks, mark your calendars! This Sunday, at New Horizons, we’ll witness what promises to be an unforgettable encounter!
Kevin Kelly: You won’t want to miss it, folks! Stay tuned as Dynamite rolls on!
The camera cuts to the Bloodline’s locker room, where The Usos, Yokozuna, and Umaga stand like silent sentinels, surrounding Midget Hogan who is tied securely to a chair. Paul Heyman, the mastermind behind the Bloodline’s operations, engages in conversation with Roman Reigns, the imposing leader of the faction.
Paul Heyman: Roman, my tribal chief, a deal is a deal. High Minded accepted our challenge for War Games at New Horizons. We need to honor our end of the bargain and release Midget Hogan.
Roman listens to Paul Heyman’s plea, his expression unreadable.
Roman Reigns: Plans change, Paul. Midget Hogan is more valuable to us now than ever before.
Heyman nods, understanding the gravity of the situation, but also wary of the potential consequences.
Paul Heyman: I can see why you’d think that, Roman. But we’re dealing with unpredictable stoners in the form of High Minded. They won’t take this lightly.
Roman’s gaze hardens, his frustration evident.
Roman Reigns: High Minded has been a thorn in the Bloodline’s side for far too long. I’m tired of playing their games. If they want their manager back, they can come and get him at New Horizons.
Paul Heyman: As you wish, Roman. We’ll make sure they regret crossing the Bloodline.
Match #1 | #1 Contenders Match for the AEW Tag Team Championship
‘The Elite’ Miz & Morrison vs. ‘Hangman’ Adam Page & Kenny Omega
Arn Anderson: Last week on Dynamite, The Elite issued a challenge to Hangman Adam Page and Kenny Omega, and tonight we’re seeing that challenge come to fruition.
Kevin Kelly: That’s right, Arn. This match came about after The Elite’s resurgence as a tag team, with Miz and Morrison looking to prove themselves against one of the most dominant teams in AEW.
Arn Anderson: Absolutely. And let’s not forget, this will be The Elite’s first outing as a tag team since reuniting during the TV Title Shot Battle Royal about a month ago.
The camera pans to the ring where The Elite’s entrance music hits, and Miz and Morrison make their way down the ramp, oozing confidence. The crowd’s reaction is mixed as they take in the sight of the former two-time PWI Tag Champions.
The bell sounds and the match kicks off with Page and Morrison trading holds and counters, each trying to gain the upper hand. Morrison wows the audience with a series of acrobatic maneuvers, but Page responds with power moves, keeping the momentum in his team’s favor.
As the match progresses, Miz and Omega are tagged in. Miz tries to wrestle a technical match with Omega, but Omega out-counters him and releases his patented hard-hitting style and high-flying offense.
The action intensifies as the match reaches its climax. Miz and Morrison attempt to isolate Page, but Omega breaks free and mounts a comeback, taking down both members of The Elite with lightning-fast strikes.
Arn Anderson: Omega is on fire, Kevin! He’s taking it to Miz and Morrison with everything he’s got!
In a pivotal moment, Miz and Morrison attempt to execute a double-team maneuver, but a miscommunication leads to Morrison accidentally striking Miz. Sensing an opportunity, Omega capitalizes, hitting the One Winged Angel on Morrison for the pinfall victory!
Arn Anderson: Not the reunification that the Elite had hoped for!
Kevin Kelly: Hangman Adam Page and Kenny Omega are officially the number one contenders for the Usos’ tag team titles!
The crowd erupts in cheers as Hangman Page and Kenny Omega celebrate their victory in the ring, while The Elite regroups on the outside, nursing their wounds and contemplating their next move.
Winners: ‘Hangman’ Adam Page & Kenny Omega
Match Time: 12:05
SEGMENT TWO
As the excitement inside the James Brown Arena reaches a fever pitch, a tense standoff unfolds outside as Armageddon, the imposing figure synonymous with chaos and destruction, approaches the venue. However, his path is blocked by a formidable blockade of more than three dozen security guards, each standing firm with strict orders from BWM Inc. Chairman Benny Mouse and AEW Director of Operations to prevent Armageddon from entering the arena.
Armageddon, undeterred by the imposing obstacle before him, attempts to push through the blockade with sheer force, but the guards hold their ground, forming an impenetrable barrier that proves too formidable even for the mighty Armageddon.
Frustration boils within Armageddon as he realizes that brute force alone will not grant him access to his intended target. With each failed attempt to breach the blockade, his determination only grows stronger, but the sheer number of guards proves insurmountable.
After several intense minutes of confrontation, Armageddon reluctantly retreats. As he disappears into the distance, a vow hangs in the air, a promise that this confrontation is far from over.
Meanwhile, the security guards remain steadfast in their duty, ensuring that the James Brown Arena remains secure from any potential threat. The tension lingers, a reminder of the ever-present danger that lurks just beyond the venue’s walls.
In MJF’s locker room, MJF stands at the center, with Wardlow and Scott Steiner huddled around him.
MJF: Gentlemen, tonight’s match carries immense significance. The stakes couldn’t be higher. If we want to secure victory at New Horizons, we need to make a statement tonight.
His hired guns nod in agreement, their faces reflecting determination.
MJF: Bryan Danielson is no pushover. He’s a formidable opponent, and it’d be a mistake to take him lightly. But, he’s also standing in the way of what’s rightfully mine – the AEW World Championship. If we want to ensure my victory at New Horizons, we need to eliminate any obstacles in our path.
MJF pauses, locking eyes with Wardlow, who stands ready for whatever challenge lies ahead.
MJF: Wardlow, I appreciate your loyalty and dedication. You’ve been by my side since the beginning of AEW, and that means a lot to me. But tonight, I need to make a strategic decision.
Wardlow’s brow furrows, a mixture of confusion and concern crossing his features.
Wardlow: Boss, I’m ready to take on Danielson. I won’t let you down.
MJF holds up a hand, cutting off Wardlow’s protest.
MJF: Wardlow, listen to me. I believe in your abilities, but this isn’t about loyalty. It’s about winning. And right now, Scott has the experience and the skillset we need to get the job done.
Steiner steps forward, a confident smirk spanning his face.
Scott Steiner: That’s right, kid. I’ve been in this business a long time, and I know how to get results. Trust me, I won’t disappoint.
Wardlow’s jaw clenches, but he ultimately nods in reluctant agreement, recognizing MJF’s decision.
Wardlow: Wardlow: Fine. But just know, I’m ready and willing to do whatever it takes to help you become champion.
MJF: I know you are, Wardlow. And your time will come. But for now, let’s focus on the task at hand. Scott, you have my full confidence. Bring home the victory tonight, and at New Horizons, I’ll be the one standing tall with the AEW World Championship around my waist.
Match #2 | Exhibition Match
‘Absolute’ Ricky Starks vs. Sammy Guevara
Absolute Ricky Starks, the reigning Internet Champion, makes his way to the ring, exuding confidence and swagger. His opponent for tonight’s matchup, Sammy Guevara, returns to AEW for the first time in six weeks, determined to make a statement after his defeat in the Crimson Car Match at Genesis.
efore the match can commence, a surprising addition joins Arn Anderson and Kevin Kelly on the broadcast desk – none other than Logan Paul, Starks’ challenger at New Horizons.
Arn Anderson: Well, this is unexpected! Logan Paul, welcome to AEW Dynamite! What brings you out here tonight?
Kevin Kelly: That’s right, Arn! Logan Paul is set to face Ricky Starks for the Internet Championship at New Horizons, but it seems he has something to say before tonight’s match.
Logan Paul takes a seat at the commentary desk, flashing a cocky grin as he adjusts his microphone.
Logan Paul: Thanks, guys. Look, let’s cut to the chase. Ricky Starks, you may be the Internet Champion for now, but let’s be real – you’re just a stepping stone for me. After I beat you at New Horizons, I’ll be moving on to bigger and better things. This little side quest with your belt is cute, but I’m here to be the top guy in AEW, not to play around with unknowns like you.
Arn Anderson: Strong words from Logan Paul there, Kevin. But let’s not forget, Ricky Starks still has to focus on tonight’s match against Sammy Guevara.
Kevin Kelly: That’s right, Arn. And it looks like we’re about to get underway!
The match begins with both Starks and Guevara showcasing their athleticism. The action is fast-paced and hard-hitting, with neither competitor willing to give an inch. Anderson notes that this is what AEW is all about, the stars of today and tomorrow giving it their all, to earn their spot on the programming. Kelly says that when a promotion doesn’t have 90 titles and 60 shows, each member of the roster has to work harder to earn their spots.
As the match progresses, both Starks and Guevara pull out all the stops, unleashing a barrage of strikes, suplexes, and aerial maneuvers in their quest for victory. The momentum swings back and forth, with near falls keeping the crowd on the edge of their seats.
As the intensity reaches its peak, Starks ascends to the top rope, looking to put an exclamation point on the match. With the precision of a master, he executes a jaw-dropping Spanish Fly, sending Guevara crashing to the canvas. Starks wastes no time, following up with his devastating finishing move, Roshambo, for the pinfall victory.
Arn Anderson: What a win for Ricky Starks! He continues to prove why he’s the Internet Champion!
Kevin Kelly: But wait! Starks is heading over to the commentary desk, and he doesn’t look happy!
Starks confronts Logan Paul at the commentary desk, his frustration boiling over as he gets in Paul’s face. Before he can say a word, however, Paul grabs a nearby bottle of Prime and hurls it into Starks’ face, momentarily blinding him. Seizing the opportunity, Paul unleashes a brutal assault on Starks, culminating in a devastating powerbomb through the broadcast table.
Arn Anderson: My god! Logan Paul has completely snapped!
Kevin Kelly: This is despicable, Arn! Ricky Starks didn’t stand a chance!
As Starks lies motionless amidst the wreckage of the broadcast table, Paul stands tall, a sinister smirk on his face. The segment ends with Anderson and Kelly hyping up the impending showdown between Ricky Starks and Logan Paul at New Horizons.
Winner: ‘Absolute’ Ricky Starks
Match Time: 9:12
SEGMENT THREE
A fire alarm blares loudly as wee see the Bloodline members along with their Wise Man Paul Heyman swiftly exit their locker room. Their expressions are a mix of confusion and concern. Roman leads the charged, followed by Yokozuna, the Usos, Umaga, and Paul Heyman, all moving with purposeful urgency. However, Roman’s confusion is evident as he scans the corridor, detecting no signs of smoke or flames.
Roman Reigns: What’s going on? There’s no fire!
As Roman leads the Bloodline deeper down the hallway and away from their locker room, the camera pans to the high ceilings above, where High Minded’s Matt Riddle and Randy Savage, descend from the ceiling on ropes, their movements reminiscent of a dramatic action movie scene. Clad in black, they aim to sneak into the Bloodline’s locker room and retrieve their manager, Midget Hogan.
However, High Minded’s stealthy approach is foiled when Matt Riddle accidentally stubs his toe, letting out a loud yell and alerting the Bloodline to their presence.
Matt Riddle: Ahh, my toe!
Realizing their cover is blown, Savage directs them to retreat.
Randy Savage: Retreat! Retreat!
They attempt to ascend back up the ropes. But their escape plan hits a snag when the rope gets caught, leaving them suspended helplessly in mid-air, exposed and vulnerable. With the High Minded members dangling helplessly, the Bloodline wastes no time in launching a brutal assault. Roman Reigns leads the charge, delivering powerful blows alongside Yokozuna, the Usos, Umaga, and Paul Heyman, as they unleash their fury on their hapless adversaries.
Roman Reigns: This is our house!
With each member of the Bloodline delivering punishing strikes, Riddle and Savage are left defenseless, unable to mount any semblance of resistance. The corridor echoes with the sounds of the beatdown, a clear message of dominance from the Bloodline.
As the chaos subsides and the High Minded members hang limply from the ropes, the Bloodline stands tall, victorious in their defense of their territory. With a satisfied nod from Roman Reigns, they retreat back into their locker room, leaving Riddle and Savage to ponder their failed intrusion.
Backstage in the bustling corridors of the James Brown Arena, AEW correspondent Renee Young stands alongside Bianca Belair, the determined number one contender for Sasha Banks’ Knockouts Championship at New Horizons.
Renee Young: Bianca, in just six days, you’ll have the opportunity of a lifetime when you challenge Sasha Banks for the Knockouts Championship at New Horizons. How are you feeling heading into such a high-stakes match?
Bianca Belair: Renee, this is the moment I’ve been waiting for since the day I stepped foot in AEW. The chance to compete for the Knockouts Championship, to prove that I am the best in this division – it’s what I’ve been working towards my entire career.
Renee Young: Absolutely, Bianca. And the circumstances that led to this match – Chyna’s victory over Ronda Rousey – have certainly added an interesting dynamic. How do you plan to deal with both Sasha in the ring and Chyna’s presence outside of it?
Bianca’s expression turns determined as she responds, her confidence shining through.
Bianca Belair: Renee, I’ve faced challenges my whole life. Whether it’s overcoming adversity or standing up to formidable opponents, I’ve always found a way to prevail. Sasha and Chyna may present formidable obstacles, but I’ve never been one to back down from a challenge.
Bianca Belair: As for Chyna, she’s an obstacle. No doubt. But when it comes down to it, it’s just me and Sasha in that ring. And when the bell rings, I’ll be ready to give it everything I’ve got.
Renee Young: What can fans expect to see from you at New Horizons?
Bianca Belair: You can expect nothing less than greatness, Renee. I am the EST of AEW, and come New Horizons, I’ll prove why I will be the greatEST Knockouts Champion of all time.
Our cameras take us to the sight of an eerie graveyard, where Darby Allin moves methodically with purpose, the moon casting ominous silhouettes on the rows of tombstones behind him. Lingering in the background are the imposing figures of the Brothers of Destruction, Kane and The Undertaker, their presence adding to the eerie atmosphere.
Darby Allin: For weeks now, I’ve watched from the shadows as Cody Rhodes has paraded around with that AEW Television Championship. But as far as I’m concerned, that belt represents everything I’ve fought for, everything I’ve sacrificed.
His voice is low, filled with a quiet intensity as he continues to pace.
Darby Allin: I’ve stared down the Beast, Brock Lesnar, and emerged victorious. Now, it’s time for Cody to face his reckoning. At New Horizons, Rhodes will experience an “American Nightmare” like never before.
Darby’s words hang heavy in the air, a chilling promise of the darkness to come.
Darby Allin: Cody may have given himself the moniker of American Nightmare, but his nightmares have only just begun. I am the embodiment of chaos, of darkness. And at New Horizons, I will show him what true fear looks like.
As Darby’s menacing gaze pierces through the darkness, the scene fades to black, leaving an unsettling feeling lingering in the air.
Match # 3 | Knockouts Exhibition
Tay Conti vs. Nia Jax
As the introductions are made, Kelly and Anderson discuss the wild night of action we’ve seen thus far. Anderson says this match is part of Sami Zayn’s recent promise to provide more opportunities to members of the roster, noting this is Conti’s first match in AEW. Kelly says Nia Jax is looking to build some of the momentum she’s lost the past year or so.
As the bell sounds, Jax takes control immediately, her size and strength proving advantageous against the much smaller Tay Conti. She presses the offense, cornering Conti and unleashing a barrage of powerful strikes and crushing blows. Conti fights back valiantly, using her speed and agility to evade Jax’s attacks and land quick strikes of her own. However, Jax’s dominance proves too much to handle, as she delivers a devastating clothesline that sends Conti crashing to the mat.
Arn Anderson: Things are not off to the start that Conti had hoped for.
As the match continues, Jax continues to assert her dominance over Conti. She methodically wears down Conti, targeting her opponent’s limbs with calculated precision. Conti refuses to back down, mounting a spirited comeback and landing a series of impressive kicks and strikes. However, Jax’s sheer power proves too much to overcome, as she counters Conti’s offense with a ring-shaking spinebuster that leaves Conti reeling in pain. Nia Jax senses victory within her grasp. She presses the advantage, unleashing a relentless assault on Conti, who struggles to mount a defense against the relentless powerhouse. Conti summons every ounce of strength and determination within her, fighting back with everything she has left. However, Jax’s dominance proves insurmountable, as she delivers the crushing blow that seals the deal – a devastating leg drop that echoes throughout the arena, leaving Conti motionless on the mat.
With the match all but decided, Nia Jax goes in for the final blow. She hoists Conti up onto her shoulders, preparing to deliver her signature finishing move, the devastating Samoan Driver. The crowd watches in anticipation as Jax executes the maneuver flawlessly, driving Conti into the canvas with a sickening thud. The referee counts the pinfall, and the bell rings, signaling the end of the match.
As Jax celebrates her victory, Anderson and Kelly warn that the rest of the Knockouts Division should be on notice, because Nia Jax is back with a vengeance!
Winner: Nia Jax
Match Time: 10:39
SEGMENT FOUR
In Benny Mouse’s office, the atmosphere is tense as AEW Director of Operations Sami Zayn and Benny Mouse engage in a secretive conversation. The camera discreetly captures their hushed tones, revealing a palpable sense of apprehension.
Sami Zayn: Benny, do you remember the plan we discussed last week?
Benny Mouse: Of course I do, Sami. I may be sick, but I’m not stupid.
Sami Zayn: How’d your doctors appointment go on Friday?
Benny Mouse: It went well. They’ve started me on a new experimental medication that’s showing some promising results in clinical trials.
Benny Mouse’s voice is tinged with a hint of frustration as he speaks, his gaze fixed intently on Sami Zayn.
Sami Zayn: I just want to make sure you fully understand. Because if we go through with this, there’s going to be backlash from the entire industry.
Benny Mouse nods grimly, acknowledging the gravity of their situation.
Benny Mouse: I know, Sami. Trust me, I’ve thought long and hard about this. It may be the worst thing I’ve ever suggested, but it’s also the only option we have if the Board of Directors decides to turn against us at the conclusion of their investigation.
Sami nods in agreement, still showing some reservations about carrying on with Benny’s sinister plan.
Sami Zayn: Fine, Benny. Just give me the address. I’ll find her and take care of it.
Benny begins to provide Sami with the information he seeks, but their conversation is abruptly interrupted as they notice the presence of the cameras.
Sami Zayn: What the hell? Get those cameras out of here! How many times do I have to say it??
In a fit of rage, Sami lashes out at the cameraman, delivering a swift punch that sends the equipment clattering to the ground. His fury unabated, he turns his attention to the crew, his voice dripping with venom.
Sami Zayn: You’re all fired! Get out of here!
As the camera topples to the floor, it captures a disjointed image of the office door slamming shut, cutting off any further glimpse into the clandestine dealings of Benny Mouse and Sami Zayn.
Match #4 | If Steiner wins, the match at New Horizons is no DQ; if Danielson wins, MJF’s bodyguards are barred from ringside at the PPV
The American Dragon Bryan Danielson vs. Big Poppa Pump Scott Steiner
The crowd pops as he AEW World Heavyweight Champion, Bryan Danielson, makes his way to the ring, his championship glinting under the bright lights. Across from him stands Scott Steiner, accompanied by his boss, MJF, and the imposing Wardlow. The tension is palpable as the match is set to begin.
Arn Anderson: As MJF noted earlier tonight, the stakes are high for this one!
Kevin Kelly: If Danielson can fend off Steiner, MJF’s bodyguards are barred from ringside at New Horizons! If not, the title match will be No Holds Barred, and who knows what’s in store for Danielson if that’s allowed to happen!
The bell rings, signaling the start of the match, and both competitors lock eyes, ready to do battle. Danielson and Steiner circle each other cautiously, each sizing up their opponent and looking for an opening.
Arn Anderson: This is Scott Steiner’s chance to prove his worth to MJF.
As the match gets underway, it quickly becomes apparent that neither competitor is holding back. Danielson utilizes his technical prowess, unleashing a barrage of strikes and submission holds on Steiner. However, Steiner proves to be a formidable opponent, matching Danielson move for move with his brute strength and power.
Kevin Kelly: Pound for pound, Scott Steiner is one of the toughest SOBs in all of wrestling.
The match sees both competitors trading momentum back and forth, each refusing to give an inch. The crowd is on the edge of their seats as the intensity reaches its peak.
Danielson catches Steiner with the Busaiku Knee, knocking the imposing figure out cold as MJF and Wardlow panic on the outside. Before Danielson can even attempt to cover, however, MJF slides in the ring. He viciously stomps on the chest of Steiner, forcing Senior Official Michael McMahon to call for the bell!
The crowd erupts in boos as MJF’s interference costs Danielson the victory. With the match over, MJF smirks triumphantly as he and Wardlow retreat from the ring, leaving a frustrated Danielson seething in the center of the ring.
Arn Anderson: MJF just got his own guy disqualified! He’s got the outcome he wanted on a damn technicality!
Kevin Kelly: I’ll never understand what Lenny Mouse sees in this guy. He’s a weasel!
Arn Anderson: That may well be true, but he’s a smart one at that! He’s found a way to stack the odds in his favor.
Kevin Kelly: As if they weren’t already stacked in his favor! He’s challenging for the title in six days in front of his hometown crowd!
With the disqualification victory, Steiner has unwittingly earned Danielson’s ire, setting the stage for a volatile No Holds Barred match between Danielson and MJF at New Horizons.
The show ends with Danielson unleashing his fury on Steiner.
Winner by DQ: Scott Steiner
Match Time: 14:58