Wrestle Review: AEW Revolution

Perfect and Pure Storytelling

I wonder if Kenny would be this confused if it was Kota Ibushi by his side

AEW World Tag Team Championships: Adam Page and Kenny Omega (c) vs. The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson)

The hybrid abilities of Kenny Omega, surprising dexterity of Adam Page and high flying fury of the Young Bucks could have created a serviceable contest in its own right. However, add in the under layer of a slow-cooked storytelling classic and the fans were treated to AEW's greatest masterpiece. Luckily and smartly this was the third contest of the night, just barely draining the viewers with its display.

At the heart of this contest was Adam Page's emotionally volatile insecurities and Kenny Omega's torn loyalties to a teammate who was once the impetus for the Elite's previous civil war in New Japan Pro Wrestling. Smartly leaning into the history of the competitors, particularly the Bucks ability to do anything and everything against their friends to win the gold, the tag team bout started with an unusual softness before escalating in violence.

What has been a staple of beauty in AEW so far, has been the company's ability to organically adjust its narratives to the demand of the fan base. So while Omega and Page were once again forced to rebuild their chemistry and teased dissension, the relatable love for the vulnerable Page pushed The Young Bucks to play heels going forward. It's a genius decision that paid off with the Bucks destroying Page on the entrance ramp and giving no leeway to Omega, despite his courtesy to them.

A banger of a match, that never paused for a beat but remained emotionally invested in the friendship of the four men. That Page teased turning on Omega after he easily forgave the Bucks at the end was clever, especially to once again throttle the divided lines at which he is playing. Eventually, Omega's going to have to choose a side and the unfolding narrative thereon will be better for it. For now, though, a relentless bout of epic proportions is enough to get the heart pumping.

Result: With a stirring comeback, Adam Page saves Kenny Omega to knock both Young Bucks with the buckshot lariat to win and retain the AEW World Tag Team Championships!

Rating:

A Dave Meltzer classic if there ever was one.