10 Ups & 1 Down From Impact Wrestling Slammiversary XVI

5. X Division Shines In All-Action Opener

There wasn't anything new or original about the way Slammiversary XVI opened. Impact stuck to their playbook, and did as they've done a thousand times before by gathering four of the X Division's most talented wrestlers in the ring at the same time, giving them 12 minutes of bell time, and telling them to go nuts.

And go nuts they did.

Johnny Impact vs. Taiji Ishimori vs. Fenix vs. Petey Williams was exactly what it needed to be. Fast, fluid, and crammed with high spots, it worked Toronto into a frenzy. Flying 'ranas, topes, Moonsaults to the outside, springboard cutters: this bout had the lot. It was one of the best popcorn matches you'll see from an American promotion all year, and an absolute must-watch from anyone who likes their wrestling high-octane.

Johnny took the victory in this classic X Division scramble, but it was Fenix who shone brightest. The former AAA man is as slick as they come. Everything he does looks effortless, and it's great to see a major American promotion give him this spotlight, even if he's playing a supplemental role.

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Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.