16 Ups & 4 Downs From AEW Double Or Nothing 2019

5. Jericho & Omega Go To War

Disclaimer: Kenny Omega vs. Chris Jericho II wasn't quite on the same level as the original. Wrestle Kingdom 12 was a violent delight and an instant classic, so perhaps living up to it was always going to be impossible, but Double Or Nothing's main event still kicked all kinds of *ss.

The sheer physicality of this second battle between Alpha and Omega carried it. For the most part, this was two guys with nothing but ill will trying to knock each other's lights out. This meant all kinds of concussive blows, from Kenny's V-Trigger to the back to Jericho's skull to 'The Best Bout Machine' taking a nasty neck bump on the apron. An elaborate table set-up spot was paid off when Jericho dumped his opponent over the top rope and through it from a great height. This was one of only a few plunder spots: surprising, given the previous bout, but refreshing in many ways.

If there's one major criticism to make, it's that the finish didn't feel earned. Jericho hit the Codebreaker and his new Judas Effect elbow to claim the 1-2-3 seemingly out of nowhere. The reaction was more "eh!?" than "what the hell?", though the outcome itself isn't a problem, and it does make sense to have your biggest mainstream star go over in your first big main event.

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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.