5 Ups & 5 Downs From AEW Dark (Dec 1)

3. Gracia & Bates Fail To Connect

Leva Bates Alex Gracia
AEW

Alex Gracia looked impressive in her recent dark match with Ivelisse, though she and Leva Bates struggled to click last night, delivering a cumbersome midcard bout characterised by rough, forced transitions.

Lowlighted by a Bates spear that barely connected and a slow-motion finishing counter sequence, this didn't hit the mark. It's a solid victory for Leva, true enough, but the quality of work wasn't there.

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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.