11 Ups & 6 Downs From Impact Wrestling (Nov 24)

5. Slow And Methodical

Rich Swann vs. Ken Shamrock wasn't a bad match by any stretch of the imagination, but it was fought at such a slow pace that prevented it from being any better than it was. Still, a solid World Championship main event.

Starting off with a bit of contactless storytelling as Swann evaded the challenger, Sami Callihan's intervention at ringside early on not only got him evicted to the backstage area, but also gave 'The World's Most Dangerous Man' that chance he needed to take control. What followed was a perfectly-executed contest, if your name is Randy Orton. Shamrock's ground and pound technique was countered with Swann's agility throughout the match, which was absolutely needed in such a situation.

Some nice spots saw Shamrock reverse one of Swann's patented kicks to the skull into an ankle lock, while his attempt at a rear naked choke was then countered as Rich rolled over into a pinning predicament to retain the title. Again, there was nothing particularly wrong with this one, as it was a genuinely good match for the most part. Had it been contested at a slightly more frantic pace, then it would have earned a higher spot in the Ups.

As for the aftermath, though? It saved the episode from ending on a bit of a lull.