Introduction: Breaking Down AEW Dynamite
Another action-packed episode of AEW Dynamite unfolded on December 4, 2024. Wrestling fans witnessed electrifying matches, puzzling segments, and storytelling highs and lows. This week’s show was a mixed bag, offering both standout performances and frustrating moments. Let’s dive deep into the top three highlights and missteps that made headlines.
The Good, The Bad, and The Confusing of AEW Dynamite
Loved: Jay White Outlasts PAC in a Show-Stealer
The bout between Jay White and PAC was nothing short of a wrestling masterclass. This clash brought together White’s tactical savvy and PAC’s sheer technical dominance.
Why This Match Worked
- Mesmerizing Chemistry: The contrast in styles between White’s opportunistic approach and PAC’s precision struck a perfect balance.
- Gripping Storytelling: PAC dominated for most of the match, creating a David-and-Goliath narrative as White scraped his way to victory.
- Flawless Execution: Every move felt purposeful, culminating in a Blade Runner finish that emphasized White’s resilience.
While Wheeler Yuta’s interference was unnecessary, it didn’t diminish the quality of this main-event-caliber encounter.
Hated: AEW Women’s Division Hits a New Low
AEW’s women’s division continued to struggle, with little to no development for the roster’s talent. The evening’s only women’s match—Penelope Ford vs. Anna Jay—felt like an afterthought.
Key Issues With the Women’s Booking
- Underdeveloped Feuds: Ending a long-standing rivalry on a routine Dynamite episode lacked impact.
- Predictable Outcomes: Jay’s challenge to Mercedes Mone feels like filler, with no credible stakes or buildup.
- Poor Segments: Clunky promos and a lack of screen time highlight deeper issues with AEW’s investment in women’s wrestling.
We’re left hoping for a spark that will revive the division’s relevance in future episodes.
Loved: Adam Cole vs. Kyle O’Reilly Looms Large
The two-winner twist in this week’s battle royal was a creative way to elevate stakes. Adam Cole and Kyle O’Reilly, former allies, are now on a collision course for a shot at MJF’s Dynamite Diamond Ring.
Setting the Stage for Drama
- Long-term Storytelling: O’Reilly’s simmering frustrations with Cole’s ambitions make this a deeply personal feud.
- MJF’s Spectator Role: Pre-taped promos added an extra layer of intrigue, teasing Cole’s desperation to reclaim glory.
- Unpredictable Outcome: With O’Reilly as a wild card, the match promises to keep viewers on edge.
This storyline is a powder keg waiting to explode.
Hated: HOOK’s Character Falters
HOOK, typically a fan favorite, stumbled this week with a clunky promo and disjointed storytelling. His feud with Nick Wayne is losing steam, and this segment did little to help.
What Went Wrong?
- Weak Mic Skills: HOOK’s charisma lies in his mystery, not in awkwardly delivered promos.
- Misaligned Focus: Christian Cage overshadowed the segment, diluting HOOK’s spotlight.
- Missed Opportunities: HOOK vs. Nick Wayne could have been a showcase for AEW’s rising stars, but it felt like filler.
AEW must recalibrate HOOK’s trajectory to maintain his “bad boy” aura.
Loved: Claudio Castagnoli and Brody King Deliver a Classic
In the Continental Classic main event, Claudio Castagnoli and Brody King gave fans an old-school wrestling spectacle.
Why This Match Stood Out
- Pure Wrestling Excellence: With minimal interference, the bout relied on psychology and technical brilliance.
- High Stakes: Both wrestlers pushed their limits, vying for Gold League supremacy.
- Simple Yet Impactful: The match’s grounded approach was a refreshing change from AEW’s high-flying norms.
This was professional wrestling at its finest, leaving fans wanting more.
Hated: The Deathriders’ War Falls Flat
Jon Moxley’s faction, the Deathriders, promised chaos but delivered lukewarm results. Their supposed “war” on AEW felt more like empty posturing.
Shortcomings of the Deathriders Angle
- Lack of Consequences: Despite threats of upheaval, AEW programming remains largely unaffected.
- Underwhelming Matches: Matches involving Deathriders lack the intensity needed to justify the storyline’s premise.
- Missed Payoffs: Fans expected high-stakes drama but got routine wrestling instead.
AEW needs to reinvigorate this angle to keep fans invested.
Wrapping Up AEW Dynamite December 4, 2024
This week’s AEW Dynamite was a rollercoaster of hits and misses. While Jay White vs. PAC and the Continental Classic main event delivered high-quality action, lackluster women’s segments and mismanaged feuds dragged the show down. AEW has the talent and potential to elevate its storytelling, but it needs more consistent execution.
FAQs About AEW Dynamite December 4, 2024
1. Who were the standout performers of the night?
Jay White, PAC, Claudio Castagnoli, and Brody King stole the show with their stellar matches.
2. Why is AEW’s women’s division criticized?
The women’s division lacks cohesive storytelling, meaningful feuds, and adequate screen time, undermining its potential.
3. What’s next for Adam Cole and Kyle O’Reilly?
They will face off next week for a shot at MJF’s Dynamite Diamond Ring, a match loaded with personal stakes.
4. How can AEW improve the Deathriders storyline?
AEW should raise the stakes with higher-impact matches, shocking twists, and a clearer narrative direction.
5. Was HOOK’s segment a complete failure?
While not a total failure, HOOK’s promo and segment felt misaligned with his character, needing significant adjustments.