AEW Forbidden Door: Star Ratings & Analysis
Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive deep into the AEW Forbidden Door pay-per-view and break down the star ratings for each match. This event was a monumental clash between All Elite Wrestling and New Japan Pro-Wrestling, delivering some unforgettable moments and top-tier wrestling action. I will provide my analysis and thoughts on the matches that captivated audiences worldwide. So, grab your snacks, settle in, and let's explore the exciting world of AEW Forbidden Door!
What are Star Ratings?
Before we jump into the matches, let's quickly explain what star ratings are all about. In professional wrestling, star ratings are a subjective way to evaluate the quality of a match. They are typically given by wrestling critics and journalists, with Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter being the most well-known. The scale usually ranges from zero to five stars, with the possibility of going even higher for exceptional matches. These ratings consider various factors, including the in-ring action, storytelling, crowd reaction, and overall impact of the match. While star ratings are subjective, they provide a useful benchmark for discussing and comparing different wrestling matches. Some fans take them as gospel, while others see them as just one person's opinion, but they undoubtedly drive conversation and debate within the wrestling community. Remember, at the end of the day, enjoying a match is what truly matters, regardless of what any critic says!
Analysis of Each Match
The Buy-In Pre-Show Matches
Before the main card, AEW Forbidden Door featured a pre-show called "The Buy-In," which showcased some exciting matches to warm up the crowd. While these matches didn't get the same attention as the main card, they were still entertaining and worth watching. The goal of the pre-show is to get the crowd hyped and give some exposure to rising stars who may not yet be in the main storylines. This gives wrestlers a chance to show off their skills and potentially catch the eyes of fans who are new to either AEW or NJPW. Usually, the pre-show matches focus more on fast-paced action and exciting spots to get everyone energized for the main show. The Buy-In matches often feature tag team or multi-person matches to showcase a variety of talent and styles.
Main Card Matches
Now, let's get to the heart of the event: the main card matches. These are the matches that everyone was waiting for, featuring the biggest stars from AEW and NJPW. I'll break down each match, give it a star rating, and share my thoughts on what made it stand out.
[Match 1] (Example: Chris Jericho, Sammy Guevara, and Minoru Suzuki vs. Eddie Kingston, Wheeler Yuta, and Shota Umino)
This match was a chaotic and thrilling opener that set the tone for the rest of the show. The clash of styles between the AEW and NJPW wrestlers was evident, with plenty of hard-hitting action and high-flying maneuvers. The crowd was hot for this one, and the energy was palpable. Jericho and Kingston had some intense exchanges, and the younger talents like Yuta and Umino got a chance to shine. Overall, a solid start to Forbidden Door.
Star Rating: ★★★½
[Match 2] (Example: Winner Takes All Three-Way for the ROH World Championship and the New Japan Strong Openweight Championship: Claudio Castagnoli (c) vs. Hiroshi Tanahashi (c) vs. Jon Moxley)
This three-way dance was an absolute barnburner! The ROH World Championship and New Japan Strong Openweight Championship were on the line, and all three men gave it their all. Castagnoli's strength, Tanahashi's resilience, and Moxley's intensity created a compelling dynamic. There were near falls aplenty, and the crowd was on the edge of their seats. A must-see match from Forbidden Door.
Star Rating: ★★★★¼
[Match 3] (Example: IWGP United States Heavyweight Championship Match: Kenny Omega (c) vs. Will Ospreay)
This was arguably the show's Match of the Night. Kenny Omega and Will Ospreay put on a wrestling clinic, showcasing their incredible athleticism and storytelling ability. The match was filled with innovative offense, dramatic moments, and callbacks to their previous encounters. The crowd was electric, and the atmosphere was incredible. A true show-stealer.
Star Rating: ★★★★★
[Match 4] (Example: IWGP World Heavyweight Championship Match: SANADA (c) vs. "Jungle Boy" Jack Perry)
This match had a lot of hype behind it, with SANADA defending his IWGP World Heavyweight Championship against Jack Perry. While it wasn't a bad match, it didn't quite live up to the expectations set by some of the other bouts on the card. Both men worked hard, but the chemistry wasn't quite there. Still, it was a decent showing for both wrestlers.
Star Rating: ★★★
[Match 5] (Example: Blackpool Combat Club, The Elite, and Homicide vs. FTR, Tomohiro Ishii, and Rocky Romero)
This 10-man tag team match was a wild and chaotic affair. With so many talented wrestlers involved, there was never a dull moment. The action was fast-paced and unpredictable, with plenty of high spots and crowd-pleasing moments. It was a fun way to showcase the depth of both AEW and NJPW's rosters.
Star Rating: ★★★★
[Match 6] (Example: AEW Women's World Championship Match: Toni Storm (c) vs. Willow Nightingale)
Toni Storm and Willow Nightingale delivered a solid AEW Women's World Championship match. Both women showed great determination and skill, with a good mix of technical wrestling and power moves. The crowd was behind both competitors, and the match told a compelling story. A strong showing for the AEW women's division.
Star Rating: ★★★½
[Match 7] (Example: MJF (c) vs. Hiroshi Tanahashi for the AEW World Championship)
The main event saw MJF defending his AEW World Championship against the legendary Hiroshi Tanahashi. This match was built around MJF's heel antics and Tanahashi's never-say-die attitude. While it wasn't a five-star classic, it was a compelling main event that kept the crowd invested. MJF's victory cemented his reign as champion, but Tanahashi proved that he can still go with the best in the world.
Star Rating: ★★★★
Final Thoughts
Overall, AEW Forbidden Door was a successful event that delivered plenty of excitement and memorable moments. The clash of styles between AEW and NJPW made for some unique and thrilling matches. While not every match was a home run, the high points of the show more than made up for any shortcomings. It's a testament to the talent and dedication of the wrestlers involved, as well as the vision of AEW and NJPW for putting on such a grand event. I am sure this event has opened the doors for many more collaborations. Until then, keep enjoying the wrestling world!
