In a thrilling turn of events at Arena Mexico, CMLL star Atlantis Jr. captured the ROH World TV Championship by defeating Kyle Fletcher during the Viernes Espectacular show on June 28. This victory marks Atlantis Jr.’s ascension to the pinnacle of ROH’s TV division, showcasing his prowess in the ring and solidifying CMLL’s impact on the global wrestling stage ahead of the AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door event.
Fletcher, making his debut in CMLL, faced a formidable challenge in Atlantis Jr., the World Historic Light Heavyweight Champion. Despite a valiant effort, Fletcher succumbed to Atlantis Jr.’s top-rope Canadian Destroyer followed by consecutive frog splashes, sealing the victory and the championship for the Mexican sensation.
AEW enthusiasts may recall Atlantis Jr.’s debut on “AEW Dynamite” earlier this year, where he faced off against Chris Jericho in a memorable encounter, albeit falling short. His transition to ROH and subsequent championship win underscores his versatility and rising star status within the wrestling community.
Kyle Fletcher, who held the ROH World TV Championship since Final Battle 2023, earned the title in a competitive six-man Survival of the Fittest match following Samoa Joe’s vacancy. During his 196-day reign, Fletcher defended the title exclusively on ROH programming, securing victories against esteemed opponents like Dalton Castle and Christopher Daniels. His recent title defense against Lee Johnson in a gripping two-out-of-three falls match highlighted his resilience and championship caliber.
As AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door approaches, CMLL’s presence alongside STARDOM and NJPW continues to enhance the global appeal of wrestling. While Atlantis Jr. is not slated to compete on the current card, fellow CMLL representatives Hechicero and Stephanie Vaquer are set to headline marquee matches. Vaquer, the CMLL Women’s Champion, will defend her NJPW Openweight title in a highly anticipated Title vs. Title clash against TBS Champion Mercedes Mone. Meanwhile, Hechicero will face former AEW World Champion MJF in a showdown that promises to electrify Long Island, New York, MJF’s hometown.
Atlantis Jr.’s victory and the ongoing collaborations between AEW, NJPW, and CMLL exemplify the dynamic evolution of wrestling alliances, fostering compelling matchups and global talent exchanges that captivate audiences worldwide. As the wrestling landscape continues to evolve, Atlantis Jr.’s championship win serves as a testament to CMLL’s enduring legacy and the exciting prospects ahead in the Forbidden Door era. This triumph not only showcases Atlantis Jr.’s skill and determination but also underscores the significance of cross-promotional partnerships in creating diverse and engaging wrestling content.
The collaboration between AEW, NJPW, and CMLL opens doors to new possibilities for wrestlers and fans alike, bridging different wrestling cultures and styles on a global scale. Atlantis Jr.’s championship win highlights the impact of these alliances, offering fans memorable moments and showcasing the depth of talent from various promotions. It also reinforces the importance of international collaboration in elevating the sport and expanding its reach to a broader audience.
In the Forbidden Door era, alliances like these not only enhance the competitive landscape but also enrich storytelling and create opportunities for wrestlers to showcase their abilities on a global stage. Atlantis Jr.’s victory symbolizes the mutual respect and shared ambition among promotions, paving the way for future collaborations that promise to shape the future of professional wrestling. As fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead, Atlantis Jr.’s championship win stands as a pivotal moment in the ongoing evolution of wrestling alliances and the exciting trajectory of the sport.