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

Ups...

4. Shawn Spears vs. Brian Pillman Jr.

Shawn Spears Brian Pillman Jr
AEW

Shawn Spears finally upgraded his opponents as he faced the returning Brian Pillman Jr. this week, though he was still able to put the special guest away in just over five minutes. An effective way to use Pillman nonetheless, as AEW wouldn't want to make a freelancer look too strong against a guy they're trying to build back up though 'Flyin' Brian' still got some shine, clearly relishing the opportunity.

The match followed a familiar layout. Pillman Jr. gave Spears more than he was expecting early on, leading to the obligatory frustration and Tully Blanchard pep talk. 'The Chairman' got nasty thereafter, becoming more unruly as he beat Pillman down, particularly as he stomped the up-and-comer's head into the ramp, before fending off a quickfire comeback and scoring the C4 for the win.

Pillman ate the steel-loaded black glove after the bell, too, keeping that gimmick ticking along. This was a decent bit of business and it must have been nice for Pillman to wrestle in a promotion that doesn't have ties to convicted sex offender Chasyn Rance.

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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.