The Triple Threader - Sep. 25, 2023
Welcome to the Triple Threader, covering the three stories from the world of professional wrestling.
“Without struggle, there is no progress.” - Eddie Kingston (Courtesy: AEW)
The titles ARe A-Changing
It was a truly wild AEW Grand Slam week. The event kicked off with Dynamite, where NJPW Strong Openweight Champion Eddie Kingston finally defeated Claudio Castagnoli to win the Ring of Honor World Title, the first of four championship changes. On the same show, Rey Fenix put out Jon Moxley to become the new International Champion. This past Friday on Rampage saw Hangman Adam Page and the Young Bucks take away the ROH Six-Man Tag Team crowns from the Mogul Embassy, and on Saturday’s Collision, Christian Cage won his first belt in 11 years, becoming the new TNT Champion.
Solo Sikoa and Jimmy Uso attacking John Cena. (Courtesy: WWE)
Bloodline Beatdown
SmackDown was set to be a big night for John Cena, as he was bound to team up with AJ Styles to take on Jimmy Uso and Solo Sikoa at WWE Fastlane. The contract was ready to be signed when the Phenomenal One was viciously assaulted by Jimmy and Solo, leaving the 16-time World Champ to suffer a brutal mugging at hands of said duo.
Dolph Ziggler as he entered the ring. (Courtesy: WWE)
Dark Side of the Dub
2-time World Champion Dolph Ziggler was one of several wrestlers released by WWE, following their merger with UFC to form TKO Group Holdings. Formerly of the Spirit Squad in the early 2000s, His career accolades include 2 United States titles, a Money in the Bank win, one NXT crown, and six Intercontinental Championships. Other notable names also released include Mustafa Ali, Dana Brooke, Top Dolla of Hit Row and Matt Riddle.