It was a somber mood backstage in AEW as they too felt the effects of what happened in the industry. The news is light this week because many in AEW weren't in the mood to talk given what happened earlier in the day. I was told that things are good in AEW, but they don't wish ill will on their competitors and now have hard decisions to make with their own roster.
AEW Power Rankings - Week 27
1. Jon Moxley
Moxley knew he was in for a tough match when he signed on to face Hager. But he wanted to challenge himself against an undefeated opponent who people fear in other sports. Moxley called it "the toughest fight of his life" and said that he hopes he never has to face Hager again.
2. Lance Archer
Tossing around Marko Stunt looked visually impressive, but defeating Colt Cabana in the manner he did really impressed AEW officials. Jake Roberts has had a heavy influence on Archer and it shows in all facets. Those who knew Archer in a previous life always found him personable and approachable. That's not the case with this version of Archer, who only answers to Jake and sees everyone else as the enemy.
3. Kip Sabian
Sabian wanted a tough match up and also specifically requested to face someone younger than Dustin Rhodes to show. Sabian's logic is that if he can beat someone younger than Dustin, then an old man like Dustin won't be able to beat him. Dustin is very motivated for this match, not only because he wants to beat Sabian, but also because he really wants to face Archer. He wanted Archer in the first round, but his request was denied because officials are worried about Dustin's health if he faces Archer. Don't expect the partnership between Jimmy Havoc and Kip Sabian to last long.
4. Sammy Guevara
Guevara not only wanted to build momentum heading into his match against Darby Allin, but he also wanted to prove a point to Pineapple Pete. He thought Pete was coming for his spot in the Inner Circle. Guevara, despite his bravado, is paranoid when it comes to his spot in the Inner Circle. He knows the losing has frustrated Chris Jericho and he wants to prove that he is still a worthy asset in the ring and can be trusted to handle business in the ring. Jericho has told me that Guevara has no reason to worry because he loves everything he does outside of the ring and knows the winning will start to happen. But Guevara is uncertain, especially during these times.
5. Britt Baker
A bounce back win for Baker, who showed her toughness by competing one week after getting her nose smashed. Baker was adamant that she wanted to get back in the ring after last week's loss to Hikaru Shida. Many were afraid to face Baker after last week, knowing she would have a chip on her shoulder. They also didn't want to double her pay if she messed up their teeth.
6. Jake Hager
Hager's goal was less to win the title and more to batter Moxley as a way to soften him up for Chris Jericho. His goal was accomplished and Jericho was happy with how things proceeded. "I told him to make it last as long as possible. Wear him out. Beating him is secondary, breaking him is necessary."
7. Colt Cabana
Cabana has always been looked at as a player/coach in AEW. He was put in the TNT Title tournament as a favor and sign of good faith. AEW wants Cabana to coach up some of the younger talents moving forward. There are talks of Cabana starting a team with some names we've seen over the past few weeks such as Pineapple Pete and also talks of having Cabana coach Jurassic Express so Luchasaurus can focus more on working and less on coaching Jungle Boy and Marko Stunt.
8. Shawn Spears
A bounce back win.
9. Chuck Taylor
A disappointing loss for Taylor, who felt this was an opportunity to jump over Sabian and get himself in the TNT Title tournament. Both Taylor and Trent want to keep focusing on their tag team, but realize they are in a position right now to build up their singles resume.
10. Pineapple Pete
Pete has found his role in AEW and officials love him. A partnership with Cabana has been talked about.
11. Cassandra Golden
Expect to see her get some opportunities on AEW Dark moving forward.
12. Justin Law
The law was speared.
*These rankings are a satirical take on pro sports power rankings and treat AEW as such. Any reference to sources or reports should not be taken seriously.
