Key Highlights
- Rob Van Dam marked his return to AEW with a victory in the “High Flying 420 Elimination 4-Way” on Rampage.
- The event also celebrated personal milestones such as the pregnancy announcement of Ruby Soho and Angelo Parker.
- AEW’s special 420 episode served as the prelude to AEW Dynasty 2024.
(livesinsight.com) – On a day renowned for its cultural connection to cannabis, professional wrestling embraces the spirit with AEW’s “High Flying 420 Elimination Match.” The event, steeped in entertainment and high stakes, showcased Rob Van Dam’s triumphant return, securing a win with his iconic 5 Star Frog Splash. This match not only highlighted RVD’s enduring charisma and skill but also set the stage for upcoming AEW events, reflecting the dynamism and ongoing evolution of professional wrestling.
A Detailed Recap of the 420 High-Flying Elimination Match
The “High Flying 420 Elimination 4-Way” at AEW Rampage was not just another wrestling match; it was a spectacle of high-flying maneuvers and strategic prowess, with Rob Van Dam, the ECW legend, returning to the ring. The match opened with vibrant energy as RVD faced off against Lee Johnson, Komander, and Isiah Kassidy. Each wrestler brought their unique style to the ring, but it was Van Dam who stood out with his experience and agility.
The first elimination saw Johnson taken out by Kassidy, setting a rapid pace for the match. Komander, known for his aerial skills, then took the spotlight by overcoming interference from Marq Quen to eliminate Kassidy. The climax of the match was quintessentially RVD as he executed his famed 5 Star Frog Splash on Komander, sealing his victory. This win was not just a testament to his enduring skill but also a crowd pleaser, with RVD quipping, “RVD 4:20 says I just smoked your ass,” adding a touch of his trademark humor to the victory.
Reflections and Celebrations: Wrestlers’ and Fans’ Reactions
The impact of the 420 match extended beyond the ring. Komander, despite his loss, took to social media to express his awe and gratitude for sharing the ring with Van Dam, a wrestler he admired since childhood. This sentiment resonated with many fans who have followed RVD’s career through the years. The match was not only a competition but also a celebration of wrestling’s ability to inspire and entertain.
Fans and fellow wrestlers weren’t the only ones reacting. AEW’s digital platforms buzzed with activity, from celebratory posts to humorous backstage interviews, further enhancing the festive atmosphere of the event. The engagement on social media platforms like Twitter and X (formerly Twitter) showcased the communal aspect of wrestling, where fans and stars interact and share moments of joy and admiration.
Broader Implications for AEW’s Upcoming Events
The “High Flying 420 Elimination Match” also set the stage for AEW Dynasty 2024, serving as the go-home show. This strategic placement of high-stake matches not only builds momentum but also heightens anticipation for future events. The episode was pivotal, not just for the wrestlers but for AEW’s narrative arc, leading up to major events like AEW Dynasty, where storylines will culminate and new chapters will begin.
Moreover, the episode was marked by personal milestones such as the pregnancy announcement of Ruby Soho and Angelo Parker, adding a human element to the wrestlers’ personas and connecting with the audience on a more personal level. AEW President Tony Khan’s public congratulations highlighted the familial atmosphere within AEW, celebrating personal joys alongside professional triumphs.