**CONTAINS SPOILERS**
Tonight’s episode of AEW DYNAMITE was broadcast live from the SaskTel Centre in Saskatoon, SK! Excalibur, Tony Schiavone, and “The Human Suplex Machine” Taz were the broadcast team for tonight’s event.
Kicking off the show, we had a thrilling match between Chris Jericho and Komander (with Alex Abrahantes). Jericho faced a tough opponent in Komander, who showcased impressive skills throughout the match. However, Jericho’s experience and ring awareness allowed him to counter Komander’s high-flying moves and ultimately secure the victory with the Lion Tamer submission hold. It was a strong start for Jericho, showing that he’s ready for new challenges.
After the match, Don Callis made his way to the ring with a microphone. Callis praised Jericho’s performance and reminded him of their shared history, including their time together in a faction led by their mentor, the late Bad News Allen. Callis played clips from their past, highlighting the bond they once had. He then appealed to Jericho’s emotions, suggesting that Bad News would want them to reunite and join the Don Callis Family. Jericho seemed conflicted, indicating that he needed time to consider his options.
In another backstage segment, “Jungle Boy” Jack Perry was attacked by FTW Champ HOOK while hiding in his SUV. HOOK’s assault left Perry running for safety, setting up a potential future confrontation between the two.
Renee Paquette interviewed Don Callis backstage, where he expressed his confidence in the Blackpool Combat Club’s chances at Blood & Guts. Callis also took a jab at Kenny Omega, calling him a coward.
The Blind Eliminator Tag Team Tournament continued with a semi-final match between AEW International Champion Orange Cassidy & Darby Allin and the Jericho Appreciation Society’s Daniel Garcia & Sammy Guevara. The match showcased the contrasting styles of the teams, with Cassidy and Allin’s unorthodox approach clashing against Garcia and Guevara’s technical prowess. In the end, a distraction from Swerve Strickland and interference from Prince Nana led to Garcia and Guevara securing the victory. The Mogul Embassy’s involvement added an unexpected twist to the match, leaving fans curious about their intentions.
Renee Paquette then interviewed Adam Cole backstage, who was approached by Roderick Strong. Strong questioned Cole’s growing affinity for MJF but was interrupted by a text from MJF, stating that he was ill and unable to compete. This set up a change in the planned match for the tournament semi-finals.
In the second semi-final match, AEW World Champion MJF teamed up with Adam Cole against Big Bill & “The Machine” Brian Cage (with Prince Nana). MJF’s miraculous recovery from his earlier match allowed him to compete, showcasing his resilience. Despite Big Bill’s impressive strength, MJF and Cole’s teamwork proved to be too much for their opponents. MJF and Cole’s chemistry as a team continued to impress, and they looked forward to challenging for the AEW World Tag Team Championships if they win the tournament.
A backstage segment between Chris Jericho and Jake Hager revealed tension between the two. Hager expressed concern about Jericho’s potential alliance with Don Callis, emphasizing their history and the sacrifices he made for Jericho. Hager’s emotional plea highlighted the personal stakes involved in Jericho’s decision.
The Owen Hart Foundation Women’s Tournament continued with a semi-final match between The Outcasts’ Ruby Soho (with Saraya and AEW Women’s World Champion Toni Storm) and Skye Blue. The match was intense, with both competitors displaying their resilience and determination. In the end, Ruby Soho’s experience and ring awareness allowed her to secure the victory and advance to the finals. The Outcasts’ presence at ringside added an extra layer of intrigue to the match.
The world premiere of “Rap