[2019-11-09-AEW-Full Gear] Chris Jericho vs Cody

[paul sosnowski]

Chris Jericho defends the AEW World Title.   Talk about it here

[Ricky Jackson]

This was a great, old school story-driven match and I loved it. This one had all kinds of twists and turns, blood, great heat and a really well done finish considering the stip and the history between Cody and MJF. I'm a little torn on going all the way with the turn last night, but the crowd's reaction was great, topped off by MJF being pelted with trash like a good heel should be. This pretty much sets up the ideal scenario for Cody going forward I mentioned a few days ago, have him work blood feuds and have a groundswell of support, and some creative booking, eventually allow him to challenge for the title again. Jericho also keeps his great douchebag old man run going, barely escaping time and again, and when he is finally defeated for the title it will be a big moment. Cody's had a great year, everything has really come together for him. Great stuff

****1/4 

[Boss Rock]

I didn't think this was great, but I applaud Cody's ability to make matches feel important. The guy literally has the crowd in the palm of his hand. This was a rather minimalist approach (like most Cody matches) focused on Jericho wearing down Cody's midsection while the latter would make the occasional fiery comeback. While Cody's cut seemed unintentional, I think the blood helped make the match feel more important even if Jericho didn't necessarily target it. I think they went longer than they needed to but I applaud both guys' approach and knowing this couldn't be the typical AEW spotfest. 

Oh, and the post-match was terrific. ***3/4

[Microstatistics]

The opening jockeying for position and babyface shine sections were solid, and Cody's missed dive onto the ramp was nasty and effectively altered the complexion of the match, setting up two injury points that were persisted with right to the end. I saw some criticism of Jericho's lack of mobility, but he delivered a really great old-school heel performance: All his cut-offs attacking the ribs were chef's kiss-worthy and his control segments were impeccably paced. Cody was the super-over, fired-up babyface. The quality of action dipped noticeably during Cody's elongated comeback, making this a borderline MOTYC, but they managed to sustain the drama that peaked at the finish.