In the ever-evolving world of professional wrestling, the past week has offered a myriad of storylines and developments that have left their mark. From the bright lights of WWE to the rising stars of AEW and the resurgence of NJPW, let's dive into the winners and losers that have captured our attention.
Winners
Bron Breakker (WWE)
Bron Breakker, once touted as the future of WWE, has found himself in a tag team purgatory. However, his recent feud with Oba Femi, a rising star in his own right, offers a glimmer of hope. While Breakker may not emerge victorious, this angle provides a much-needed spotlight on his talent. It's a reminder that Breakker's upside as a singles star is still very much intact, and with Femi's high profile, this feud could be a turning point in Breakker's career. Personally, I think it's a clever move by WWE to showcase their young talent and create a compelling narrative.
Swerve Strickland (AEW)
Swerve Strickland's return to AEW Dynamite has sent shockwaves through the wrestling community. After a challenging year, Strickland's comeback couldn't have been more timely. His presence has sparked speculation and excitement, with fans eagerly anticipating his potential teammates for the upcoming AEW All In event. The return of Strickland, a major figure in AEW, is a huge win for the company. It's a strategic move that will undoubtedly drive viewership and attendance. From my perspective, Strickland's return is a masterstroke, and I can't wait to see how this plays out.
New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW)
NJPW has been on a rollercoaster ride since the COVID-19 pandemic, but the G1 Climax 36 tournament has been a game-changer. The final match between Ryohei Oiwa and Yuya Uemura was a masterpiece, leaving a lasting impression on fans and critics alike. This match, and the tournament as a whole, has showcased the future of NJPW. Young stars like Callum Newman, Drilla Moloney, and Yota Tsuji have emerged as the new faces of the company. NJPW's ability to adapt and reinvent itself is a testament to its resilience. What makes this particularly fascinating is the company's ability to create stars and deliver matches that leave a lasting impact.
Losers
WWE NXT
The WWE NXT brand has been plagued by convoluted storylines and confusing stipulations. The lower card titles, in particular, have been mired in a web of complex arrangements. From the Vanity Project's Jackson Drake to the WWE Women's Speed Championship, the titles feel more like props than symbols of prestige. This lack of clarity and straightforwardness undermines the developmental nature of NXT. It's a shame because NXT has the potential to be a breeding ground for future stars, but these messy setups hinder its growth. In my opinion, WWE needs to simplify these storylines to allow NXT to thrive.
Carmelo Hayes (WWE)
Carmelo Hayes' treatment in WWE is a puzzling conundrum. Once a rising star, Hayes has been relegated to the sidelines. His lack of meaningful storylines and feuds is a disservice to his talent. Hayes, with his charisma and in-ring skills, deserves better. The question remains: what has gone wrong for Hayes? It's a mystery that WWE needs to unravel if they want to make the most of this talented performer. From my perspective, Hayes' potential is being wasted, and it's a shame to see such a promising career stagnate.
Pat McAfee
Pat McAfee, a successful sports broadcaster and former NFL kicker, has released an album titled "Diary of a Polarizing Figure." While McAfee has achieved great success, his album portrays him as a misunderstood outsider. This whiny and petulant tone is a stark contrast to his actual position of power and influence. McAfee's success story is a testament to his talent, but his album seems to downplay this reality. It's a case of a sore winner, and it's a shame to see such a talented individual portray themselves in this light. What many people don't realize is that success often comes with responsibilities and a certain level of humility.
