AJ Styles vs Michael Shane vs Kazarian (Ultimate X match - 07/28)

 

The Ultimate X has been a winner gimmick thus far. This is probably the best one thus far to. Terrific match. Kazarian & Shane are a tag team of sorts, dressed with the same bright color that I'd call Constructicon Green. So early 90's, so good. So the dynamic is simple at first, one tries to keep AJ on the ground while the other goes for the belt. Then of course AJ has to fight both at the same time, until finally the bodies are split becuase of both selling and the fact that at one point, obvioulsy, the two heels fuck up and get at each other. Then selling and big spots prevails so it make sense no-one would simply jump to make a save. The dynamics are so much varied and interesting than in a stupid ladder match that had been bastardized into a stunt show over the years. And there is a share of unbelievable spots here, but they make sense in the context of the match. And they are sold. All three guys really shine here, although AJ is, yes, phenomenal working the ropes (he and Kazarian do a Style Clash from up here that looks insane, well done guys). The ending has an interesting twist too, as both heels grab the belt and fall down at the same time, so they end up… co-champs ! Hey, it might be stupid, but then again, it can also work like a reversed Freebird gimmick, plus the execution was so good and it's a new idea that goes well with the result of the match, so why not try it ? Excellent, maybe great match, and without a doubt a TNA MOTYC for 2004.

Awesome match. I loved Shane/Kazarian, great team and gear, and their work with Styles may have been their best. The Styles Clash off the cables is one of my all time favorite Ultimate X spots.