11 Ups & 4 Downs From AEW Dynamite (Jan 1)

1. Space These Moments Out

Thematically, there was enough to differentiate the bulk of last night's matches, though the argument that AEW needs road agents gains strength with every passing with of endless cutters, Destroyers, Superkicks, dives, and apron bumps.

Such moves and bumps were all over the show once more. Each can provide a great spot and pop when used sparingly, but they lose impact when you see them so many times. Here, it was borderline overkill, and while AEW's increased in-ring freedom helps elevate the bulk of their bouts, that such things have become normalised suggests they need to dial things down a little.

If AEW don't need road agents, they definitely need some kind of director to ensure that the big moments aren't spanned and are saved for the right places. Dustin Rhodes vs. Sammy Guevara didn't require an apron Destroyer, for example. It got a great reaction, sure, but such moments contribute to the overkill - and the result is moves like The Young Bucks' spectacular tandem dives failing to register with over-stimulated viewers.

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Channel Manager
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.