AEW COLLISION REVIEW 8/17/24 ARLINGTON RESIDENCY

Just like that… Six weeks of nationally televised wrestling in the great state of Texas has come to a close. The closing night of this residency felt surreal. The audience in attendance knew that this was their last night to enjoy AEW for a while, so they made sure to be as supportive and appreciative as possible. The atmosphere was absolutely electric! From the very first dark match of the night until the last match, it was truly a special night! 

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They seemed to give us a parting gift in a lot of ways. We had an appearance from Mercedes Mone’ and Kamille. We got Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D in a match with Harley Cameron and it was an amazing match!

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We also got the TNT Champion, Jack Perry in action. He also showed off a new version of the TNT Championship Belt. They gave us a star that they introduced to us in Hologram. I’m so excited for him, and look forward to seeing what a star he becomes outside of this residency. We got FTR vs The Acclaimed, which I would have said could have made a great All In Match with all the work they did with each other during the residency. However, not mad at what we are getting! We also got a surprise taping of Rampage. No spoilers, but do yourselves a favor and watch Rampage! 

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My favorite part of last night, and the entire residency, was seeing the local independent talent being featured. The men and women who are on the grind week in and week out to get to that next level gained some incredible opportunities, and made the most of them. Whether we saw the return of Fuego Del Sol. Or, whether we saw Londyn Dior in a ring with Mariah May, Danny Orion in the ring with Jack Perry or multiple talents breaking up the FTR/Acclaimed fight, just seeing it brought pure joy to my heart..These kinds of things tend to get lost in the shuffle. But, AEW afforded so many up and comers a platform to be seen. In that sense, this was worth the price of admission. 

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I’m actually sad to see it go. There was a real sense of community among the people in attendance every week. AEW was ours, if only for the weekend. It was as if you were going to a friend’s place to hang out. Bonds were made, because we became familiar with one another. There was a chant made once the television time ended. The crowd in unison all chanted “Please come back”. We know that they are coming back next July. We’ll be waiting, and that night will absolutely be a movie worthy event. But, find a way to bring what you brought us these past six weeks. 

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In the history of AEW, this will be a period that will ultimately prove itself to be one of the most important periods.  I’m truly honored and humbled that I was able to cover it. Thank you to All Elite Wrestling and BCP+ for this incredible opportunity! It shall be one that I will appreciate and cherish. I’m indebted to you all. Thank you!