#2 Bryan Danielson vs Kenny Omega (AEW Dynamite Grandslam)
After an 11-year stint with WWE, Bryan Danielson made his AEW debut at All Out 2021. He joined Vince McMahon's company as an indie darling and left as one of the biggest stars in professional wrestling. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Danielson hadn't grown tired of WWE but was simply looking for a new challenge.
The American Dragon immediately went after Kenny Omega and a non-title bout between the two was booked for AEW Dynamite Grandslam at Arthur Ashe Stadium. They opened the show and took a few moments to drink in the adoration of the crowd.
Danielson showed that he was no longer the ultimate underdog that he portrayed in WWE, peppering Omega with a barrage of stiff strikes. He also demonstrated his psychology and put in an exceptional performance that elevated both stars. Even though the encounter ended in a draw, fans were left wanting more.
#1 Cody Rhodes vs Dustin Rhodes (AEW Double or Nothing 2019)
Prior to joining AEW, the last time the two Rhodes brothers had a televised singles match was at Fastlane 2015 as Goldust and Stardust. That encounter was meaningless and forgettable. However, they set things right when they received an opportunity to face each other at Double or Nothing 2019.
Unlike many modern-day bouts that devolve into spotfests, this match was an emotional struggle between two brothers who had waited for an opportunity to wrestle with each other. The older Dustin was immediately forced on to the backfoot, making him the underdog.
The audience fully bought into his quest for victory and popped each time he came close to winning. However, the former Intercontinental Champion fell short as his younger brother outlasted him in an emotional affair. After the match, Cody invited Dustin to join forces with him to face The Young Bucks in a tag team match.