At the MLW Battle Riot VII, Mistico gave up the MLW World Middleweight Championship, unveiling his plans to ascend to the heavyweight division and aiming to snatch the MLW World Heavyweight Championship.
For 401 days, Mistico held the title, successfully defending it eight times. He was originally slated to spar against Templario for the title defense, however, an injury made him retreat.
In another highlight of the event, Shoko Nakajima overpowered Delmi Exo to lay hands on the MLW Women’s World Featherweight Title at MLW Battle Riot VII. Nakajima triumphed with a DDT and a lethal top-rope senton. This is Nakajima’s first time holding the MLW Women’s Featherweight Championship and she continues to compete in TJPW.
During the MLW Battle Riot VII, an intriguing tease was featured, dropping hints about a new entrant. The clip showcased symbolic visuals including a bullet, beer, and a tape recorder with the cryptic message ‘They’re Coming’ and the digits 626. Two men standing back-to-back brought the teaser to an end, sparking rumors about a possible tag team debut or return.
MLW Battle Riot VII proved to be a rollercoaster of surprises as 40 competitors engaged in the battle for the MLW World Heavyweight Title.
Raj Dhesi, previously Jinder Mahal in WWE, joined as the first surprise entrant. Chris Adonis, formerly Chris Masters from WWE, added to the surprise list while independent star Titus Alexander appeared unexpectedly. The final shock was the entry of wrestling legend Rob Van Dam.
In an astonishing turn of events, Matt Riddle emerged as the winner of MLW Battle Riot VII, retaining his MLW World Heavyweight Title. He outlasted everyone entering the match at #25. The climactic moment witnessed Riddle pushing Rob Van Dam off the top rope while he attempted a Five-Star Frog Splash, confirming his victory.