It's been another wild week in the world of professional wrestling, and Wrestling Inc. is here to break down the biggest winners and losers. From the main event of WWE Saturday Night to the AEW World Championship and Tom Brady's unexpected involvement, it's been a rollercoaster. Let's dive into the analysis and commentary.
Winners:
Kevin Knight
Kevin Knight is a rising star in AEW, and his recent booking is a testament to that. Despite some initial criticism for getting a world title shot as a midcard champ, Knight's star continues to rise. His heel turn at AEW Double or Nothing and subsequent association with the Don Callis Family have been praised. Now, he's set to challenge Kenny Omega for the AEW World Championship at Redemption, a massive opportunity. Knight's pursuit of the world title hasn't come at the expense of the TNT Championship, as he recently broke the record for most defenses. This booking is a strategic move, showcasing Knight's potential and setting him up for future success.
Lyra Valkyria
Lyra Valkyria's performance in Madison Square Garden was a standout moment. Her match with Bayley was gritty and intense, showcasing her technical prowess and unique style. Valkyria's ability to stand out in the women's division is impressive, especially with her British wrestling roots and a touch of stiffness. Her win over Bayley sets her up for a promising future, and WWE's booking strategy seems to be paying off. Valkyria's rise could be a significant win for the company, and her match quality will keep fans tuned in.
Chad Gable
Chad Gable's momentum is undeniable. Despite losing his mask to Ludwig Kaiser, Gable's recent victories and title pursuits have been impressive. His win over Rusev and Ethan Page in a gauntlet match on Raw has earned him a shot at the Intercontinental Championship at SummerSlam. Gable's adaptability and hard work have earned him a spot in the main event, and his hometown of Minneapolis will be a significant factor. Gable's singles title win would be a massive achievement, and his status as a babyface adds to his appeal. His separation from Alpha Academy is a strategic move, allowing him to focus on his own path.
Losers:
Shota Umino
Shota Umino's G1 Climax tournament exit was a setback. After a promising start, Umino's concussion-like symptoms forced him to withdraw from the tournament. This injury is a significant blow, especially after his recent title win and the tournament's importance. Umino's potential as the next Hiroshi Tanahashi was a topic of discussion, but this injury sets him back. He'll have to wait for another year to compete in the G1, and the injury's timing is unfortunate. Umino's future in NJPW remains uncertain, but his recovery and return to the ring will be crucial.
Tom Brady
Tom Brady's involvement in the wrestling world has been a curious affair. His feud with Logan Paul, a YouTuber, feels beneath his former NFL greatness. Brady's post-retirement endeavors have been varied, but his personality has always been overshadowed by his on-field achievements. The feud with Paul, who lacks a strong personality, is a mismatch. Brady's attention-seeking behavior and clout-chasing are disheartening, especially for a former sports icon. This feud may be a step down for Brady, and it's a missed opportunity for him to leverage his legacy.
GUNTHER
GUNTHER's plans for SummerSlam have been a rollercoaster. Initially expected to retire Brock Lesnar or challenge for a top championship, his match against Nick Aldis at SummerSlam fell short. Aldis' interference and subsequent match against CM Punk and Cody Rhodes left GUNTHER in a less-than-ideal position. His record against Rhodes is now embarrassing, and his plans for the event have changed significantly. GUNTHER's character and creative decisions are the focus, and his SummerSlam match may not live up to expectations. The 'Career Killer' may need to reassess his strategy and find new ways to showcase his talent.
