7 Ups & 4 Downs From AEW Revolution 2021

5. Inner Circle Sent Home To Think Again

Young Bucks
AEW

The Young Bucks started angrily against MJF and Chris Jericho.

Desperate for revenge after Papa Buck's bloodying, they wasted no time with lockups and tests of strength, instead leaping straight into the fight. This only worked in their favour for a minute or so. MJF and Jericho got gritty and grindy, turning the tide to wear the Jacksons down around ringside, with the match kicking off like an all-out brawl. When the Bucks did lean on their superior athleticism, it was to craft openings to hurt Jericho and MJF. The leaps and dive had purpose.

Hurt by some occasionally stodgy pacing in the second act, the match came alive through a serious of big, dramatic nearfalls towards the end. Matt kicking out of MJF's Heatseeker was the biggest of these. The Salt of the Earth then let a massive glob of drool hang from his mouth as the Bucks took him to a Superkick party, before finally, the Meltzer Driver finished Jericho.

Perhaps this went on for a nearfall or two too long, but this worked as a clash of styles between frustration heels and slighted babyface, with a strong good vs. evil dynamic portrayed throughout.

Advertisement
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.