15 Match Star Ratings For AEW All Out 2022
12. Zero Hour: Eddie Kingston Vs. Tomohiro Ishii
This is more f*cking like it.
A guaranteed great match, this was a guaranteed great match. They subverted the collar-and-elbow tie-up in such a cool, characterful way. It was almost timid, like their hearts weren't in it. They weren't there to determine the better wrestler; they were there to determine who could best withstand the fight.
They articulated this via chop battle, using their marvellous faces to convey the agony and defiance alike. The rhythm was intoxicating and commanded a standing ovation. At first, they took it in turns, allowing a pause. Then Ishii started to respond immediately. Then Kingston revved his up to generate more power. Ishii still returned immediately to establish that he wouldn't even absorb the hardest shot. Kingston looked despondent, but would not bend. Still Ishii cracked him right back, denying the spirit now. He was relentless, indefatigable - until with an almighty roar, Kingston chopped him off his feet. They told a tremendous story with literally one move: the spirit is always stronger than the body.
After an awesome series of bombs, Ishii simply stopped selling. His spirit was burning. The finish was outstanding; after a signature incredible no-sell spot - Ishii absorbed the Uriken and replied with an immediate headbutt - Kingston paid tribute to Genichiro Tenryu by pinning Ishii with the Northen Lights bomb.
The series is tied 1-1, and since Eddie didn't win with his own finish - it was bantered off, in fact - there's scope for a rubber match now.
Star Rating: ★★★★¼