AEW’s ‘Winter Is Coming’ episode delivered yet another action-packed Wednesday night as stars collided and storylines progressed at the College Park Center in Arlington, TX. Excalibur, Tony Schiavone, and Taz provided the commentary, setting the tone for an evening where the quest for answers and championship pursuits intertwined.
Samoa Joe kicked off the show with determination. Addressing his promise to MJF, he accused Hangman Adam Page of attacking MJF, hinting at a beer bottle clue with a “certain cowboy’s” scent. Page’s retort was blunt, denying any interest in MJF’s fate. But as their tension escalated, Roderick Strong interjected, suggesting MJF’s own devilish hand in recent attacks.
Despite the verbal exchange, physical action wasn’t far behind, as Roderick Strong found himself the target of Page’s frustration. A clash of quick wit and heavy strikes followed, with Page eventually standing tall, executing the Dead Eye on Strong for the win.
In Continental Classic league action, Blue and Gold group standings evolved with high-stakes matches. Andrade El Idolo secured a significant victory over Brody King, exhibiting a punishing hammerlock DDT to solidify his rise in the Blue League.
Meanwhile, backstage, AEW entrenched in legacy as wrestling royalty, Kevin Von Erich and his sons Ross and Marshall, stood with Renee Paquette discussing AEW’s appeal. Their conversation took an unexpected turn as Orange Cassidy, accompanied by Danhausen and Trent, proposed a multi-man match on Rampage, which the Von Erichs eagerly accepted.
The night brought more than just competitive matches. The Golden Jets, Kenny Omega, and Chris Jericho had strong words for AEW World Tag Team Champions, Ricky Starks and Big Bill, setting up a confrontation for the titles at Worlds End. The verbal jabs flew back and forth, with personal digs and challenges, ending with the Golden Jets laying down the gauntlet for a showdown.
In women’s action, Ruby Soho faced Riho with Timeless Toni Storm at commentary. The match was a display of agility and heart, culminating with Riho’s running knee strike securing her a victory over Soho.
The Gold League continued to sizzle as Rush employed a sleeper to conquer Jay Lethal, avenging his previous week’s submission loss. Jay White also showcased his strength with a decisive Blade Runner, claiming victory over Mark Briscoe.
The main event featured Jon Moxley versus Swerve Strickland in a high-stakes Gold League Match. The bout saw a fierce display of prowess and determination, with Moxley ultimately seizing the win through clever leveraging – a literal grasp for those extra points – propelling him to the top of the Gold League standings.
Post-match, the drama escalated as masked assailants brutally attacked Hangman Adam Page outside the arena, concluding the night with a chilling display of violence at the hands of the mysterious Devil’s group.
As the road to AEW Worlds End shapes, fans are left to ponder the wrenching questions and escalating feuds. Stay tuned to AEW DYNAMITE live on TBS next Wednesday and catch the fallout on AEW RAMPAGE on TNT, setting the stage for a tumultuous end of year in All Elite Wrestling.