As we saw WWE New Year’s Resolutions tackle some elements that we hope to see improved in 2021 by the superstars and management, it’s only logical to shift the focus to All Elite Wrestling brand. Usually, there may be an inclination to make light of some aspects, but this year, my ideas cater towards more serious changes that I’m hoping AEW will look into rectifying in 2021.
So, without delaying further, here are my proposed New Year resolutions which I hope Tony Khan and his team will contemplate this year.
Heeding Jim Ross’ Words
Contrary to the popular belief, one doesn’t have to be a doer to criticize. One doesn’t have to be a wrestler to point out its shortcomings. Just as you don’t have to be a professional chef to criticize an overcooked steak served in a restaurant, do you?
Jim Ross doesn’t hold a record of ten world championships, but he has been around the wrestling industry for ages. I may not agree with all his opinions, but I do believe that some of his insights are being overlooked and not fully implemented due to criticisms conflicting with individual perspectives.
I am in total agreement with Jim Ross on the issues regarding frequent superkick parties and spots with everyone standing around awaiting a catch. These are no longer enjoyable, they’ve lost the shock factor. I’ve seen the ‘suicide dive’ more times in one night than I need to remember.
AEW has been more committed to work-rate-based wrestling style compared to WWE, but storytelling should be prioritized over maneuver setups and no-selling choreographs. In my view, Cody Rhodes strikes the best balance, where his matches are not just a stunt sequence but act as a story. Going forward, I’d like to see instances where moves are justified by the storyline and not just because “it will be cool.”
Avoid Instant Main Event Promotions
AEW has, rather frequently, been thrusting new inductees instantly into top spots resulting in them fighting for the world title, but once they lose, the management seems lost about where to position them.
The prime example would be Brian Cage. After securing a title shot immediately being enlisted, which he lost to Jon Moxley, his presence has been uninspiring and lacking any substantial storyline, leaving him to revolve around FTW Championship without any worthy feud to carry on.
For its future additions, I’d like AEW to avoid rushing them straight into main events, but rather start them off in a notable feud before gradually building them up to world championship contenders in a span of several months.
Leave WCW in the Past
As much as Cody Rhodes has a sentimental connection with WCW due to his father’s history with the company, AEW needs to distinguish itself to not be seen as merely a relaunch of WCW.
WWE owns the majority of WCW. So the leftover crumbs should not be what AEW should feast on as it could potentially undermine its independence and uniqueness.
Also, there seems to be an over-reliance on a gambling motif in event naming and it’s now becoming redundant. Let’s mix things up.
Trim Down on AEW Dark / Sort Out AEW Elevation
I have mentioned this in previous posts but AEW Dark being 2.5 hours long with matches that are obvious outcomes, needs to change.
AEW Elevation should be the show for upcoming talent to prove their mettle, where victors can be unpredictable. While AEW Dark should focus on leftover matches they didn’t have room for on Dynamite.
Look into Penta El Cero’s catchphrase
The overuse of Penta’s catchphrase “cero miedo” has become repetitive. Time to freshen things up a bit with some new material?
Continued Talent Signing
With a lot of young talent on its roster still honing their craft, it doesn’t harm AEW to have a reservoir of talent.
One group which needs more seasoned performers signing urgently is the women’s division. This is to avoid over-reliance on individuals who are still learning the ropes.
Stop Hinging on Pure Match Interest for Feuds
AEW and WWE are both guilty of the crime of not building up a story or feud for a match and only focusing on the “fans want to see the match” aspect.
I want to say that it’s fine for a one-off match, but for an elongated one, a narrative or feud is a must. The journey towards the match should be just as entertaining as the match itself.
So these are my suggested resolutions. I am eager to know what thoughts you may have in mind, especially on individuals who didn’t pitch in my list. Do you have resolutions for yourself this year? Please share your thoughts in the comments section!