Goin Over the Action: AEW Grand Slam 9/25/24
AEW returned to Arthur Ashe Stadium in Queens, New York, for its fourth consecutive Grand Slam, just a stone’s throw from Citi Field. The event delivered on its promise of high-stakes action, kicking off with an unforgettable encounter between AEW World Champion Bryan Danielson and legendary commentator Nigel McGuinness.
Bryan Danielson vs. Nigel McGuinness (Non-Title Match)
The night began with Nigel McGuinness already standing in the ring, eagerly awaiting the arrival of his long-time rival, Bryan Danielson. The anticipation grew as McGuinness demanded referee Paul Turner start the ten-count, insisting that Danielson’s absence should result in a forfeit victory for him.
As Turner began the count, the familiar notes of “The Final Countdown” echoed throughout the stadium, sending the fans into a frenzy. Danielson, making his way to the ring, was visibly affected by his recent neck surgery, a point that AEW’s commentary team didn’t shy away from, questioning his physical condition leading into this battle.
What followed was a classic back-and-forth, with both veterans trading blows in a match that lasted nearly 19 minutes. In the end, Danielson secured the victory by locking in a modified version of his LeBell Lock. McGuinness, in a surprising display of sportsmanship, tapped out after thanking Danielson for the match—a moment noted and appreciated by the commentary team.
Hook vs. Roderick Strong (FTW Championship Match)
The next contest saw Roderick Strong, accompanied by Matt Taven and Mike Bennett, challenge the two-time FTW Champion, Hook. The nine-minute bout was packed with action as Strong delivered a devastating boot to Hook’s head, which many in the stadium believed would seal the victory. However, Hook had other plans, kicking out at the last second.
Strong attempted his signature End of Heartache, but Hook countered with his lethal Redrum submission, forcing Strong to tap out and securing the win.
Post-match, in a surprising gesture of mutual respect, Strong and Hook shook hands and embraced in the ring. Hook was then joined by his father, Tazz, the original creator of the FTW Championship in 1998, along with Tony Schiavone. In a poignant moment, it was announced that September 25, 2024, would mark the official retirement of the FTW Championship, making this match its final defense. Hook expressed gratitude to everyone who had ever competed for the belt, cementing the FTW title’s legacy.
The Young Bucks vs. Will Ospreay & Kyle Fletcher (AEW Tag Team Championship Match)
In what some fans labeled a “stat-padding” match, The Young Bucks defended their AEW Tag Team Titles against the formidable duo of Will Ospreay and Kyle Fletcher. Despite the impressive talent of Ospreay and Fletcher, there was a feeling in the crowd that the Bucks were destined to retain, with many criticizing the current state of AEW’s tag division.
The match lasted just under 20 minutes, with high-flying offense and slick teamwork on display. Ultimately, the Bucks retained their titles after delivering an EVP Trigger, further solidifying their dominance over the tag team scene.
Mariah May vs. Yuka Sakazaki (AEW Women’s Championship Match)
The AEW Women’s Champion, Mariah May, defended her title against Yuka Sakazaki in a match that, while fast-paced, never quite felt competitive. The bout lasted approximately six minutes, with May securing the win via pinfall.
Sakazaki, though talented, didn’t pose a serious threat to May’s reign. As AEW continues to build its women’s division, speculation has already begun that Mina Shirakawa may be the next in line for a title shot, as challengers to May’s dominance remain scarce.
Darby Allin vs. Jon Moxley
The night culminated in a brutal showdown between Darby Allin and Jon Moxley, with the winner earning a championship opportunity at AEW’s upcoming WrestleDream event.
The match was a violent affair, with Allin bleeding early after a devastating crash and later foaming at the mouth from a suffocating rear-naked choke applied by Moxley. The action was chaotic, with outside interference from Claudio Castagnoli, Pac, and Marina Shafir adding to the mayhem.
In the end, Shafir’s interference proved decisive as she distracted the referee, allowing Moxley to hit his Super Death Rider, securing the hard-fought victory and stealing the championship opportunity from Allin.
AEW Grand Slam 2024 delivered a mix of drama, high-octane matches, and historic moments, ensuring that Arthur Ashe Stadium remains a pivotal venue in AEW’s continued growth. Fans left the arena already speculating what the future holds for the company’s champions and who will rise to challenge them next.
