2 Ups & 5 Downs From AEW Dark (Jan 14)
Shawn Spears cops an eyeful of Billy's Gunn on this dud episode of Dark.
That the cover image for this week's AEW Dark review is a gif of Shawn Spears staring at Billy Gunn's whapper tells you all you need to know about the show. Sure, it was a fun spot, but one fun spot should never be the most newsworthy thing to emerge from a wrestling show.
Last night's card promised Austin and Billy Gun vs. Spears and Peter Avalon, a continuation of Shanna's feud with Nyla Rose as they met one-on-one, Darby Allin warming up for PAC in a bout with Brandon Cutler, plus AEW's Tribute to Legends of Memphis Wrestling, with the Rock 'N' Roll Express, Lawlers, Gilberts, and many, many more all represented. Not exactly the most stacked lineup, but one that suggested a better show than what was served.
Overanalysing Dark is pointless because it is becoming increasingly obvious that this is a filmed house show, despite being presented as a vital platform for midcard talents when launched. Much of it isn't to be taken seriously, particularly on episodes with no marquee matches (a la Kenny Omega vs. Joey Janela) and no Undesirable to Undeniable feature, but that doesn't mean it shouldn't be criticised. AEW is putting these shows out on their YouTube channel, after all.
Let's break it down...