AEW Squash Matches: Dominance & Storytelling

Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive into something that's a regular part of the AEW (All Elite Wrestling) experience: squash matches. These matches, often quick and decisive, serve a crucial purpose in the grand scheme of professional wrestling. They're not just about a dominant wrestler demolishing an opponent; they're a tool for storytelling, character development, and building excitement. So, grab your popcorn and let's break down everything you need to know about AEW squash matches.

The Power of a Quick Victory: What Exactly is an AEW Squash Match?

So, what exactly is an AEW squash match? Essentially, it's a wrestling match where one competitor utterly dominates their opponent, leading to a quick and convincing victory. The purpose? To showcase the strength, skill, and overall dominance of the winning wrestler. Think of it as a highlight reel of power, designed to make the victor look like a legitimate threat. These matches are usually short, often lasting only a few minutes, sometimes even less! They're designed to be a spectacle, a clear statement of a wrestler's capabilities. A perfect example of this is when a rising star takes down a jobber – someone whose primary role is to lose and make the other person look amazing. AEW squash matches can feature impressive displays of athleticism, devastating finishing moves, and a clear message: This wrestler is not to be messed with! Sometimes, a squash match can involve a heel (bad guy) brutally attacking a face (good guy), or a face triumphantly showing their superior skills. It's all about creating an impact and leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

Now, you might be thinking, "Why would anyone want to watch a match where the outcome is so obvious?" Well, that's where the art of storytelling comes in. These matches aren't just about the win; they're about the journey. They provide context and give the fans a chance to see a wrestler's specific skills, which makes the character development really shines.

Character Development and Storytelling through Squash Matches

Squash matches are incredibly useful for character development. If a wrestler consistently wins in dominant fashion, it establishes them as a force to be reckoned with. This can build anticipation for future matches against more established opponents. Think about it: If a wrestler consistently squashes their opponents, it creates a sense of invincibility. This, in turn, can make their eventual loss all the more impactful. On the other hand, if a wrestler is constantly on the receiving end of squash matches, it can establish them as an underdog or someone who needs to overcome adversity.

AEW has used squash matches to great effect to build up their top stars. For instance, a dominant champion might use squash matches to remind everyone of their strength and establish their dominance. The squash match can also be used to build a rivalry. A heel (villain) might use squash matches to humiliate their opponents, leading to a heated feud that the fans will love. It's about setting the stage for bigger and better things.

Another example is Wardlow. His meteoric rise in AEW was built on a series of squash matches. He systematically demolished his opponents, showing off his incredible power and athleticism, which ultimately built anticipation for his matches with the members of The Pinnacle and his eventual match with MJF. The squash match doesn't just display a wrestler's strengths; it shows how creative the writers are and the stories they're capable of. The use of squash matches allows AEW to carefully curate the stories and characters, making the wrestling experience so much more enjoyable.

The Psychology of the Squash: How AEW Uses It

Let's talk psychology, shall we? In the world of wrestling, it's all about manipulating the audience's emotions, and AEW knows how to do this well. A well-executed squash match can evoke a range of feelings, from excitement and awe to sympathy and anticipation. Here's how it works:

• Building a Monster Heel: Squash matches are perfect for creating a dominant heel (bad guy) character. By consistently defeating their opponents in brutal and decisive ways, the heel establishes themselves as a threat. Think of someone like Lance Archer, whose matches are often quick and devastating, establishing him as a monster heel.
• Creating a Beloved Babyface: Similarly, squash matches can be used to build a popular babyface (good guy). If a babyface overcomes a dominant opponent, or if they win a series of quick matches after a period of hardship, they can quickly gain popularity.
• Generating Anticipation: The best squash matches leave the audience wanting more. They can create a sense of excitement and anticipation for the eventual showdown between the dominant wrestler and a more equally matched opponent. This is where storytelling really shines.
• Setting the Stage for a Feud: Squash matches can also be used to sow the seeds of a future feud. If a wrestler squashes an opponent who then comes back seeking revenge, it can create a compelling story arc for the fans to follow.

AEW uses these psychological tools to keep the audience invested in the storylines. The result? Thrilling wrestling, unforgettable moments, and a dedicated fanbase that eagerly awaits the next episode of Dynamite and Collision. This is how the AEW keeps the audience in suspense, creating memorable matches and characters.

Memorable AEW Squash Matches and Their Impact

Over the years, AEW has delivered a number of memorable squash matches that have left a lasting impact on the wrestling world. It's time to highlight some of these matches and talk about the impact.

Wardlow's Domination

As previously mentioned, Wardlow's rise to prominence was fueled by a series of squash matches. His raw power and impressive strength were on full display as he demolished opponent after opponent. This streak of dominant victories eventually led to his explosive matches with MJF, solidifying him as a main event star.

Jade Cargill's Unstoppable Force

Jade Cargill's dominant run as the TBS Champion was also built on squash matches. Her undeniable charisma and impressive athleticism combined with her string of victories helped establish her as a dominant champion.

Chris Jericho's Early Dominance

Early on in AEW, Chris Jericho used squash matches to re-establish his dominance. He quickly defeated several opponents, reminding everyone of his incredible skills and experience. It demonstrated that he was a top star.

These are just a few examples. The impact of these matches goes beyond just the immediate result. They help create memorable moments, build excitement, and allow the wrestlers to develop their characters.

The Art of the Squash Match: What Makes it Work?

So, what separates a good squash match from a great one? Here are a few key elements:

• A Clear Story: A great squash match tells a story. Even though the outcome is usually predictable, the match should still have a narrative arc, whether it's about showcasing a wrestler's dominance or building up a feud. A clear story makes the match much more captivating.
• Impactful Offense: The winning wrestler needs to look strong. This means delivering believable offense and showcasing their signature moves. It's about making the audience believe in the wrestler's power and skill.
• A Vulnerable Opponent: The losing wrestler needs to play their part perfectly. They need to sell the offense, making the winning wrestler look even more dominant. The vulnerability of the opponent is essential.
• Short and Sweet: The best squash matches are quick and to the point. They don't overstay their welcome. The quicker the match, the more impactful it is.

When done correctly, a squash match can be a thrilling spectacle, leaving the audience excited and wanting more. The art of the squash match is a testament to the fact that wrestling is a combination of athleticism and storytelling.

The Future of Squash Matches in AEW

What does the future hold for squash matches in AEW? Given their effectiveness in building stars, telling stories, and creating excitement, it's safe to say that we'll be seeing a lot more of them. Expect to see these matches used to:

• Develop New Talent: As AEW continues to grow, they'll likely use squash matches to introduce and build up new stars.
• Establish Heels and Babyfaces: Squash matches will continue to be used to solidify the roles of heels and babyfaces, building rivalries.
• Create Championship Contenders: By giving a wrestler a series of dominant wins, AEW can build anticipation for a future championship match.

In conclusion, AEW squash matches are an essential part of the wrestling experience, serving multiple purposes. Whether you're a casual fan or a die-hard wrestling enthusiast, understanding the value and impact of squash matches can greatly enhance your enjoyment of AEW. So, the next time you see a quick and decisive match, remember that there's more to it than meets the eye. It's a tool for storytelling, character development, and building excitement in the world of professional wrestling. Keep watching, and you'll witness many more thrilling and memorable moments!