It looks like the January 8, 2025 edition of AEW Dynamite had some intense matches and notable story developments! Here’s a breakdown of the key highlights:
Will Ospreay vs. Buddy Matthews
- Match Summary: Ospreay and Matthews put on an exciting back-and-forth match, with Matthews showing impressive offense, including a GTS and a stomp on Ospreay. However, Ospreay eventually secured the win with a Styles Clash followed by the Hidden Blade.
- Aftermath: Ospreay gives Matthews props post-match and offers to be there for him if needed. Private Party celebrates their AEW Tag Team Championship defense, but The Hurt Syndicate (Bobby Lashley and crew) interrupts, setting up future title challenges.
Bobby Lashley vs. Mark Briscoe
- Match Summary: Lashley dominated most of the match, but Briscoe made a big comeback, using a chair to leap over the top and hit Lashley. Despite his effort, Lashley locked in the Hurt Lock for the submission win.
Casino Gauntlet Match
- Match Summary: The match was packed with exciting eliminations, starting with Jay White and Adam Page and featuring several high spots. Highlights included Ricochet’s impressive aerial offense and a powerful showing by Powerhouse Hobbs. The final entrants were Lance Archer and Kyle O’Reilly, with Hobbs securing the win after a dominating performance.
- Aftermath: After the match, MJF makes an appearance to offer advice to Jeff Jarrett, but Jarrett rejects his help, setting up a potential rivalry between the two. MJF also hints at a future AEW World Championship run.
Toni Storm vs. Willow Nightingale vs. Kris Statlander
- Match Summary: This fast-paced women’s match had a lot of back-and-forth action, with all three women showing off their power and technical skills. Statlander ultimately secured the win by hitting Saturday Night Fever on Storm, earning the #1 spot in the Women’s Casino Gauntlet Match at Maximum Carnage.
Kenny Omega Segment
- Segment Summary: Omega reflects on his year-long journey of recovery after his diverticulitis surgery and his emotional return to the ring at Wrestle Dynasty. He shares that being a wrestler is his true purpose and thanks the fans for their support.
- Aftermath: Don Callis interrupts Omega’s moment, leading to a beatdown from Lance Archer and Brian Cage. Will Ospreay rushes to Omega’s aid with a chair, creating a tense stare-down between the two.
The show wrapped up with a lot of storylines building toward the Maximum Carnage special next week, including the AEW World Championship picture and the upcoming women’s Casino Gauntlet match. There’s definitely a lot of anticipation for what’s next!