9 Match Star Ratings For AEW Double Or Nothing 2020
6. Cody Vs. Lance Archer - TNT Championship Match
A very good match one bum note shy of greatness, ultimately, from Jake Roberts' first chilling promo to Cody's tearful celebration - and some expert booking in-between - this was a superb programme with a fitting conclusion.
Lance Archer was magnificent here. He radiated a legitimatelyu dangerous energy as he rag-dolled Cody, launching him from bleacher to concrete floor. He literally beat his ass all over the place, pausing only to sh*t-talk Big Swole in a fabulous, inspired small-details spot that compensated for an audience badly needed to get the overtly theatrical finish over.
Archer looked formidable here, playing the perverse, blackly comedic role, and Cody showed the depth to his work by reeling in the histrionics and building his comebacks with a grittier psychology. A half-botched bump enhanced the drama - Archer landed right on his head following Cody's avalanche reverse suplex - and before the flailing ejections and the weird logic gap that built to them, Cody made perfect use of the seconds. In a superb spot, one that didn't require the ill-advised and expected Spinebuster, Cody avenged his wife by using the DDT right in front of Jake. In a cute meta touch, it didn't put Archer away.
What happened here is thus: AEW built a killer heel debutant, crafted an excellent storyline with sporting and blood feud elements, and used him to get one of their top babyfaces - who badly needed a big win - over. Said heel will get his heat back with one exceptional Jake Roberts promo.
A bit wonky, as Cody's big epics can be, but a total triumph regardless.
Star Rating: ★★★¾