4 Ups & 5 Downs From AEW Dark (July 7)

2. Shawn Dean vs. Michael Nakazawa

Michael Nakazawa absolutely sucks
AEW

If you like Michael Nakazawa's stupid, repetitive comedy bit then you may have enjoyed his victory over Shawn Dean, though this entry's tone should tell you which side of the fence this columnist sits on.

This was horrendous. Nakazawa did the same sh*t he always does, oiling his way out of Dean's grasp, pulling out a second tube when the first got dumped, then removing his underwear and shoving it in his opponent's face. The finish saw Kenny Omega's best mate torment Dean with his rancid pants twice before pinning him, with the announcers implying that Shawn had passed out from the stench.

Afterwards, Nakazawa threw his kecks at Alex Jebailey of CEO, calling back to one of AEW's all-time worst matches.

This guff would be fine if Nakazawa's bit was funny after the first time you see it. Yes, comedy is subjective, but screw it. This was rotten.

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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.