As we approach the midway point of 2024, the landscape of professional wrestling has seen significant shifts and standout performances from both WWE and AEW. With each promotion carving its path in the industry, here’s a look at who’s rising to the occasion and who’s facing challenges.
Winner: Jon Moxley
Jon Moxley continues to shine brightly in AEW, solidifying his status as a cornerstone of the company. His standout performances at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom and AEW Revolution alongside Claudio Castagnoli (formerly Cesaro) have garnered praise. Moxley’s historic victory over Tetsuya Naito at NJPW Windy City Riot, becoming the first wrestler to hold world titles in WWE, AEW, and New Japan, cements his legacy as a cross-promotional force. His presence in Forbidden Door events exemplifies his pivotal role in reshaping wrestling collaborations.
Loser: Chris Jericho
While Chris Jericho remains a legend in wrestling, his recent stint in AEW has been tumultuous. Despite capturing the FTW title at Dynasty, Jericho’s new heel persona has not resonated well with audiences, as evidenced by the negative reactions during his matches. The “Learning Tree” segments have also received criticism, marking a challenging phase in Jericho’s storied career with AEW.
Winner: Swerve Strickland
Swerve Strickland’s ascent in AEW reached new heights as he captured the distinction of being the first Black AEW World Champion at Dynasty. His dynamic performances on Collision and Dynamite, particularly in feuds like with Christian Cage, have solidified his place as a top-tier talent. Beyond the ring, Strickland’s ventures into podcasting, rapping, acting, and documentary projects underscore his multifaceted appeal and growing influence.
Loser: Shinsuke Nakamura
In WWE, Shinsuke Nakamura’s momentum has faltered despite a promising start with a compelling antagonist role on Raw last year. Following his feud with Seth Rollins, Nakamura has experienced a series of losses and a notable absence during WrestleMania season. His win-loss record in 2024 reflects a challenging period, underscoring the missed opportunities for the King of Strong Style to capitalize on his earlier momentum.
Winner: Cody Rhodes
In a testament to his grit and determination, Ikram Aliskerov has stepped into the spotlight, taking the place of the sidelined Khamzat Chimaev. Expressing his readiness to MMA Junkie, Aliskerov declared, “This is what we do. We’re fighters. This is our sport. This is our life.” His philosophy of preparedness for any challenge resonates profoundly as he prepares to square off against former champion Robert Whittaker, embodying the essence of elite competition.
Aliskerov’s willingness to step up and seize the opportunity underscores the resilience and commitment required in professional mixed martial arts. His statement reflects the mindset of a true competitor, embracing the demands and uncertainties of the sport with unwavering dedication.
Facing a formidable opponent like Whittaker is a significant test for Aliskerov, highlighting his readiness to confront top-tier competition on short notice. His willingness to embrace the challenge demonstrates his confidence and belief in his abilities to compete at the highest level of the sport.
As Aliskerov gears up for this pivotal bout, fans and pundits alike anticipate an exciting clash that showcases his skills and determination. His journey exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and adaptability that defines elite athletes in the world of MMA, where seizing opportunities and overcoming challenges are integral to success.
Ultimately, Aliskerov’s commitment to stepping into the spotlight underscores the unpredictable nature of professional fighting and the resilience needed to thrive in a competitive arena where readiness and determination are paramount.