In the aftermath of AEW’s latest high-stakes Blood & Guts match, The Young Bucks have addressed the controversy and shared their perspectives on the chaotic bout. The match, held on AEW Dynamite in Nashville, saw the brother duo—Matt and Nick Jackson—alongside Kazuchika Okada, Jack Perry, and Adam Page, face off against Swerve Strickland, Mark Briscoe, Darby Allin, Max Caster, and Anthony Bowens. The brutal encounter inside the double cage ended with a dramatic and controversial moment that has sparked considerable debate.
The Controversy: Chair Shot to the Head
One of the most talked-about moments from the match was Mark Briscoe’s steel chair shot to Jack Perry’s head while Perry was handcuffed to the cage. The chair shot drew sharp criticism from Corey Graves, WWE commentator and former wrestler, who voiced concerns on Twitter/X about the safety of such maneuvers, especially given their rarity in today’s wrestling landscape. Graves, who has been vocal about the dangers of concussions, eventually deleted the tweet but not before it stirred significant conversation.
Sports Illustrated’s Justin Barrasso reported that multiple sources within AEW confirmed that the chair used in the match was gimmicked, designed to reduce the risk of injury. In response to the backlash and concerns for Perry’s well-being, Nick Jackson of The Young Bucks made a brief statement: “All I know is Jack is fine, and that’s all that matters. We know the risk we’re taking in the ring and it wouldn’t have happened if he wasn’t prepared for it.”
The Young Bucks’ comments reflect a broader acceptance of the inherent risks in professional wrestling, underscoring their commitment to pushing the envelope while maintaining a focus on safety.
Match Reflections: Praise and Personal Highlights
Beyond the controversy, the Blood & Guts match was a showcase of the intense and often violent artistry that AEW is known for. Matt Jackson took the opportunity to highlight the standout performances from the bout. “Multi-man gimmick matches with many moving parts and several complex stories to tell have always been our calling card,” he stated. “And we obviously had a huge team of talented people on the other side in there with us.”
Jackson praised his opponents and teammates alike, noting that several individuals shone during the match. “Tons of people stood out. I thought Bowens had a great night and showed just how hungry and tough he is. Jack Perry showed never-say-die attitude and perseverance. We obviously showed the naysayers again that we can still hoop and move around with the best of them.”
He also expressed a certain satisfaction in the creative and painful elements of their performances. “Coming up with new ways to violently inflict pain on someone has become a great joy of ours,” Jackson admitted, referencing the elaborate and often dangerous spots that have become a hallmark of their style.
The Future: AEW Tag Team Title Match on the Horizon
Looking ahead, The Young Bucks are set for a significant showdown with The Acclaimed. Max Caster and Anthony Bowens earned a title match against The Young Bucks after a non-title victory. Although AEW has yet to confirm the date, speculation suggests that the match could take place at AEW’s upcoming All In event on August 25th at Wembley Stadium, where the promotion is expected to draw one of its largest crowds of the year.
As the wrestling world awaits further developments, the Blood & Guts match remains a hot topic, reflecting both the risks and rewards of pushing boundaries in professional wrestling. The Young Bucks’ reflections and the ongoing discourse around safety and spectacle continue to shape the narrative of AEW’s dynamic and evolving landscape.
