The Wrestling Week That Was: Triumphs, Setbacks, and Surprises
Another week in the world of professional wrestling has come and gone, leaving behind a trail of triumphs, setbacks, and moments that make you scratch your head. Personally, I think what makes this sport so captivating is its ability to blend raw athleticism with soap opera-level drama. This week was no exception, and I’m here to break down the biggest winners and losers, adding my own commentary along the way.
Chad Gable: The Babyface on the Rise
One thing that immediately stands out is Chad Gable’s resurgence. After losing the El Grande Americano mask to Ludwig Kaiser, many thought Gable’s momentum would stall. But here’s the thing: sometimes, losing can be a turning point. Gable’s victory in the seven-man gauntlet match on Raw wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. What many people don’t realize is that Gable’s journey as a babyface has been meticulously crafted. His hometown match against Penta for the Intercontinental Championship at SummerSlam feels like a storybook moment.
From my perspective, Gable’s success is a testament to his adaptability. He’s not just a wrestler; he’s a storyteller. And while Alpha Academy’s recent segments have been cringe-worthy (let’s be honest, Otis and Akira Tozawa’s slow-paced antics were hard to watch), Gable’s solo run feels like a breath of fresh air. If he wins the title in Minneapolis, it won’t just be a personal victory—it’ll be a win for every underdog in the wrestling world.
Shota Umino: The Heartbreak Kid
Now, let’s talk about Shota Umino. This one hurts, and I mean that sincerely. Umino’s injury at the G1 Climax tournament is a stark reminder of how cruel this sport can be. The G1 is no joke—it’s a grueling test of endurance, and injuries are almost inevitable. But for Umino, who was once seen as the next Hiroshi Tanahashi, this feels like another setback in a career that’s been full of them.
What this really suggests is that NJPW missed an opportunity to build Umino into a top star during the post-pandemic era. Instead, he’s been stuck in a cycle of one step forward, two steps back. While pulling him from the tournament was the right call (head injuries are no joke), it’s hard not to feel for the guy. He’ll be back, sure, but the question is: will he ever reach the heights he once seemed destined for?
Kevin Knight: The Jet Taking Flight
Kevin Knight’s rise in AEW has been nothing short of meteoric. His heel turn at Double or Nothing was polarizing, but personally, I think it was a masterstroke. Now, he’s challenging Kenny Omega for the AEW World Championship in a PPV main event. That’s a big deal. What makes this particularly fascinating is the debate around his booking. Some fans are upset that a midcard champ is getting a world title shot, but in my opinion, Knight has earned it.
What many people don’t realize is that Knight’s pursuit of the world title hasn’t come at the expense of his TNT Championship reign. He broke the record for most TNT title defenses, proving that he’s not just a one-trick pony. Whether he wins or loses against Omega, Knight’s star is on the rise. And if you take a step back and think about it, that’s what wrestling is all about—creating moments that elevate talent.
Tom Brady: The Fallen Titan
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: Tom Brady’s feud with Logan Paul. Honestly, this feels like a mismatch—not in the ring, but in terms of relevance. Brady, a legend in the NFL, is now trading barbs with a YouTuber. It’s not just sad; it’s baffling. Brady has always been more of a gridiron warrior than a personality, and this feud only highlights his awkwardness outside of football.
What this really suggests is that Brady is struggling to find his place in the post-NFL world. Logan Paul, for all his flaws, has a natural charisma that Brady lacks. Extending this feud won’t do Brady any favors. It’s a reminder that sometimes, even the greatest athletes can’t escape the void of irrelevance.
Lyra Valkyria: The Gritty Star
Lyra Valkyria’s win over Bayley at Madison Square Garden was more than just a match—it was a statement. Her technical style, combined with a grit that’s rare in WWE’s women’s division, made this bout stand out. What makes this particularly fascinating is how WWE finally booked a veteran to put over a younger talent in a way that felt meaningful.
From my perspective, Valkyria’s victory sets her up for a promising future. Her style, which feels more AEW than WWE, gives her a unique edge. And while Bayley’s potential move to AEW is intriguing, the real story here is Valkyria’s rise. She’s not just a winner this week—she’s a star in the making.
GUNTHER: The Career Killer’s Misstep
Finally, let’s talk about GUNTHER. Last year, he was the World Heavyweight Champion heading into SummerSlam. This year? He’s facing Nick Aldis, the SmackDown General Manager, in a match that feels underwhelming. Don’t get me wrong—Aldis is no slouch, but this isn’t the blockbuster matchup GUNTHER deserves.
What this really suggests is that WWE creative has dropped the ball. GUNTHER’s recent losses to Cody Rhodes have tarnished his aura of invincibility, and this SummerSlam match feels like a consolation prize. While he’s still one of the best in the business, this week, he’s a loser—not because of his in-ring ability, but because of the storytelling around him.
Final Thoughts
If you take a step back and think about it, this week was a microcosm of wrestling’s highs and lows. From Gable’s rise to Umino’s setback, from Knight’s opportunity to Brady’s misstep, it’s a reminder that this sport is as unpredictable as it is dramatic. Personally, I think that’s what makes it so compelling. Here’s to another week of twists, turns, and the occasional head-scratching moment.
