AEW Dynamite: Booms and duds for Feb. 19, 2020, including Cody vs. Wardlow

Boom: when a cage is just a cage

What a main event, huh? Wardlow acquitted himself well considering his first match was the main event of a high profile feud; did you know it was the first-ever cage match in company history?!

Aiding this match is the unique look of a cage for those of us who are used to the WWE cage. This cage was taller and a little wider (leaving space between the ring and cage), creating a different viewing experience.

Best yet, the cage didn’t come into play too much. Sure, Cody and Wardlow both had their bodies thrown into the cage. Sure, “The Enforcer” Arn Anderson slammed the cage door in MJF’s face (and everyone popped for that). Sure, the cage caused Cody to don the proverbial “crimson mask.” However, the cage didn’t become the focal point of the match as we so often see in WWE.

Instead, the wrestling became the focal point. Wardlow used his size and strength to oppose Cody’s nimbleness and technique. Cody hit Wardlow with everything before even thinking about scaling the cage. “Holy moonsault!” is all I could think when he leaped off the top.

Better yet, the moonsault ended the match! A personal “dud” for me would be the excessive number of near-falls on maneuvers that should end matches, like a Canadian Destroyer or Avalanche Poisonrana. I expected Wardlow to kick out, and when he didn’t I was shocked yet pleased. This is just a small thing I know I have to get over as this is wrestling in 2020.

All in all, this was a great show 10 days out from Revolution. What did you think of the show, and what do you think of this new format? Be sure to leave us comments and let us know.

See you next week!