Dave Meltzer, a respected figure in wrestling journalism, has offered a reflective analysis of All Elite Wrestling’s (AEW) history, identifying a specific moment that he considers to be the darkest hour for the promotion. While the details of this moment may vary depending on Meltzer’s perspective, it likely refers to a significant setback or controversy that AEW faced during its journey.
AEW, despite its relatively short existence, has experienced its fair share of challenges and obstacles along the way. From navigating the competitive landscape of professional wrestling to overcoming logistical hurdles associated with running a major promotion, AEW has encountered moments of uncertainty and adversity.
Meltzer’s identification of a particular incident as AEW’s darkest hour suggests that he views it as a critical juncture that tested the promotion’s resilience and ability to weather storms. Whether it was a misstep in booking, a controversial decision, or an external challenge beyond AEW’s control, Meltzer’s analysis underscores the importance of acknowledging and learning from setbacks in order to grow and evolve as a promotion.
During a Q&A session for “We’re Live, Pal,” Meltzer was posed with a provocative question: aside from fatalities, was Cody Rhodes’ departure and subsequent return to WWE the most detrimental occurrence in AEW’s history? Meltzer didn’t mince words in his response, categorizing Rhodes’ move as a singularly damaging blow to AEW’s momentum.
Meltzer articulated that while Rhodes’ continued presence in AEW was always going to present challenges, his reemergence in WWE marked a significant setback for the promotion. As one of AEW’s founding members and a central figure in its early success, Rhodes’ departure left a noticeable void within the company.
Highlighting Rhodes’ integral role as AEW’s top star, Meltzer emphasized the impact of his absence on the promotion’s trajectory. With Rhodes gone, AEW faced the daunting task of filling the void left by their cornerstone talent, a challenge exacerbated by the part-time status of other top stars.
Meltzer lauded Rhodes’ prowess as a “Superstar wrestler,” acknowledging his ability to captivate audiences and carry the company’s mantle with aplomb. Rhodes’ return to WWE, therefore, dealt a significant blow to AEW’s momentum and bolstered WWE’s roster with a proven talent.
Rhodes’ departure from AEW in 2022 marked a seismic shift in the wrestling landscape, culminating in his surprising return to WWE at WrestleMania 38. Since then, Rhodes has reclaimed his status as a marquee attraction, headlining major events and reaffirming his place among wrestling’s elite.
Meltzer’s assessment underscores the magnitude of Rhodes’ departure and the ripple effects it has had on AEW’s trajectory. As the promotion navigates its way forward, Rhodes’ legacy looms large, serving as a reminder of the challenges and triumphs inherent in the world of professional wrestling.
Dave Meltzer’s Insight on WWE’s Missed Opportunity
In the ever-evolving landscape of professional wrestling, the acquisition of top-tier talent is often a decisive factor in a promotion’s success. Dave Meltzer sheds light on a recent signing by AEW, suggesting that WWE may have missed a golden opportunity.
With AEW’s recent signings of Kazuchika Okada, Will Ospreay, and Mercedes Martinez, the landscape of professional wrestling has undergone a seismic shift. Meltzer contends that one of these signings, particularly Kazuchika Okada, represents a missed opportunity for WWE, particularly under the leadership of Triple H.
Meltzer posits that Okada’s signing with AEW may leave Triple H rueful, as the Japanese sensation could have bolstered WWE’s roster and injected fresh excitement into their product. Okada’s international acclaim and in-ring prowess make him a coveted asset for any promotion, and WWE’s failure to secure his services may be viewed as a misstep in hindsight.
As AEW continues to make waves in the industry, WWE’s recruitment strategies come under scrutiny, with Meltzer suggesting that missed opportunities like Okada’s signing underscore the importance of strategic foresight in talent acquisition.
As AEW and WWE vie for supremacy in the wrestling landscape, the battle for talent supremacy intensifies, with each signing carrying significant implications for the future of the industry. As Triple H and WWE reflect on missed opportunities, the wrestling world eagerly anticipates the next chapter in this ongoing saga.
