7 Ups & 3 Downs From AEW Rampage: New Year's Smash (Dec 30)
3. Hell Of A Promo Pep Talk
Nobody really looks at Darby Allin as some verbal master. He's more of a quiet, brooding type (like Sting in the 90s) who does his talking during matches. So, it was a nice little treat to see Darbs get some motormouth time on Rampage during a backstage pre-tape.
Allin pushed the Stinger and questioned whether or not he believes his protege can beat Samoa Joe for the TNT Title. Cue Sting turning back the clock. Cue Sting firing up Darby. Cue Sting playing the best "wrestling dad" you may ever see.
The legend cut a rousing speech about never doubting Allin but also never wanting to remove that chip from his shoulder, because that's fuel. This succeeded in making the coming match with Joe feel big time, and it's the most intriguing this Sting/Darby combo has been for a while.
AEW must keep exploring this dynamic.