The fifth-anniversary celebrations of AEW Dynamite commenced with an electrifying match between Will Ospreay and Ricochet, competing for the AEW International Championship. However, fans hoping for a clear-cut resolution were left wanting.
Throughout the evenly poised match, both wrestlers held the advantage periodically. The match came to an unexpected conclusion when their shoulders touched the mat simultaneously. Consequently, Referee Bryce Remsburg deemed the match a tie.
“The referee just counted BOTH RICOCHET'S AND WILL OSPREAY'S SHOULDERS DOWN for the three count to end their International Championship match,” tweeted WrestleTalk. “The match is ruled a draw – but Tony Khan decides IT WILL CONTINUE.”
As can be expected, this decision didn’t sit well with the crowd present, let alone Ospreay and Ricochet who requested for the match to recommence.
Soon after, it was communicated that their request had been accepted and they would get another chance.
“And we're back! Watch #AEWDynamite's 5th Anniversary LIVE on TBS!” tweeted All Elite Wrestling.
However, the renewed contest was disrupted once more by Konosuke Takeshita, who ambushed both wrestlers, leading to the match being deemed a no-contest once again.
“KONOSUKE TAKESHITA LAYS OUT RICOCHET AND OSPREAY AND IS CALLING HIS SHOT FOR THE INTERNATIONAL TITLE!!!!!!” tweeted @KXNGAO.
There was rapid speculation among commentators over whether Takeshita was acting out of personal resentment, or whether he was following orders from Don Callis, who had left the arena earlier that evening accompanied by Kyle Fletcher.
The handling of this situation by AEW is eagerly anticipated. Could we see a triple threat match at AEW WrestleDream? Will Takeshita be the next contender for a title shot after Ricochet’s near-miss? Please share your views in the comments below!