9 Match Star Ratings For AEW Revolution 2021
3. Face Of The Revolution Ladder Match
Overlong and uneven, it's almost inexplicable that AEW can't really do multi-man ladder matches, given the specific complexion of its talent roster.
And that's the first criticism. Booking isn't just storytelling - it's match-making - and the field didn't really complement itself nor make for an exhilarating match. These attractions don't necessarily have to be demented stunt-shows, but this was, and it was not a great version of one. The effort has to be commended, obviously, and beyond the enervated pacing and general go-the-f*ck-home vibe this developed by the final phase, elements of the match were fantastic. Cody Rhodes is an underrated lunatic, and if you're going to do the heroic return bit, you have to eat sh*t to get written out. And that man ate sh*t with that unhinged Canadian Destroyer. But beyond his return, there wasn't anywhere near enough interesting storytelling to justify the duration and the almost methodical approach.
The debuting Ethan Page didn't make much of an impression. Scorpio Sky's big win didn't resonate with much earned heft. Lance Archer mounting a mass killing spree is always fun, but it's becoming progressively less terrifying every time he doesn't win. Penta El Zero M was the star of the match, but he didn't quite enter the sort of flawless, mind-blowing performance that made his not winning it sting.
The lack of climbing and intent to win bordered on the appalling at times, and again, that rather crucial detail doesn't much matter when the energy is so chaotic and dangerous. This was too disjointed and sluggish to excuse itself.
A very spotty spot-fest that failed to apply AEW's immense resources effectively.
Star Rating: ★★★¼