The AEW Continental Classic was a hit with fans thanks to its fun, unpredictable nature, according to Claudio Castagnoli.
The Swiss wrestler was one of 12 men in the round-robin tournament that saw Eddie Kingston defeat Jon Moxley in the finals at Worlds End 2023.
On a recent edition of the “Mike Hoke Show” podcast, Castagnoli was asked what made the Continental Classic a hit with fans. He said,
“I think it was very successful because it was fun. It was something different, and something you can see nowhere else, and I think the fans were looking forward to it every week.
“I think it helped AEW grow and get very focused. This is what it’s about, and this is the prize at the end of the tournament. I think from a fan perspective and from a company perspective, I think it was very successful, and I hope it’s going to happen again next year so I can win the damn thing.”
Castagnoli was part of the Blue League but only managed a fourth-place finish, gaining seven points, and would lose his match to Eddie Kingston.
The AEW Continental Classic: A Fun and Unpredictable Tournament
The AEW Continental Classic, a round-robin tournament held in Worlds End 2023, was a resounding success among fans, thanks to its fun and unpredictable nature. Claudio Castagnoli, a Swiss wrestler and one of the participants in the tournament, recently shared his thoughts on why the event resonated so well with the audience.
In a recent interview on the “Mike Hoke Show” podcast, Castagnoli was asked about the factors that contributed to the Continental Classic’s popularity. He emphasized that the tournament’s success stemmed from its unique and entertaining nature, offering something that couldn’t be seen anywhere else.
“I think it was very successful because it was fun. It was something different, and something you can see nowhere else, and I think the fans were looking forward to it every week,” Castagnoli stated.
He also highlighted how the Continental Classic helped AEW as a company to grow and become more focused. The tournament provided a clear objective and a coveted prize at the end, which added to the excitement for both fans and wrestlers.
“I think it helped AEW grow and get very focused. This is what it’s about, and this is the prize at the end of the tournament. I think from a fan perspective and from a company perspective, I think it was very successful,” Castagnoli explained.
As for his personal experience in the tournament, Castagnoli competed in the Blue League but finished in fourth place with seven points. In a match against Eddie Kingston, who eventually emerged as the winner of the Continental Classic, Castagnoli fell short.
Despite not achieving victory in this year’s tournament, Castagnoli expressed his hope for the Continental Classic to return next year so that he could have another chance to claim the title for himself.
“I hope it’s going to happen again next year so I can win the damn thing,” Castagnoli said with determination.
The AEW Continental Classic showcased the talent and athleticism of twelve exceptional wrestlers, captivating fans with its thrilling matches and unexpected outcomes. The tournament’s success can be attributed to its unique format, which provided a refreshing change of pace for wrestling enthusiasts.
With Claudio Castagnoli’s endorsement and the positive reception from fans, it is evident that the AEW Continental Classic has become a staple event in the wrestling calendar. As anticipation builds for next year’s edition, fans can look forward to more exhilarating moments and unforgettable matches in this one-of-a-kind tournament.