AEW is gearing up for a thrilling start to the new year with an exciting Triple Threat match to decide who gets the first spot in next week’s Casino Gauntlet. This match is crucial because, unlike similar contests, starting first in the Casino Gauntlet gives you a unique advantage—you can win anytime by pinning or submitting whoever begins with you.
On January 1, during AEW’s Fight For The Fallen/Mother of All Simulcasts Dynamite, Swerve Strickland, Jay White, and Roderick Strong faced off for this prime spot. Things seemed to be going in Strickland’s favor. But then, chaos erupted.
RICOCHET, WHY?!
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) January 2, 2025
Watch #AEWDynamite LIVE on @TBSNetwork & @StreamOnMax@SwerveConfident | @KingRicochet pic.twitter.com/nf43HuQ8QM
Out of nowhere, Ricochet, whom Strickland had taunted just days earlier at Worlds End, jumped from the crowd. Armed with a large golden pair of scissors, he attacked Strickland, stabbing him in the head. The shocking moment had everyone’s eyes glued to the ring, giving Jay White the perfect opportunity to strike. White quickly slipped back inside, nailed Roderick Strong with his Bladerunner finisher, and secured the victory. This gives White a huge edge heading into the Casino Gauntlet on January 8.
Meanwhile, Ricochet wasn’t done making a statement. After his brutal attack on Strickland, he hurled him back into the ring and sent Strickland’s manager and friend, Prince Nana, crashing into the ring steps. Then, setting Strickland up in a chair, Ricochet delivered his Spirit Gun elbow to cap off the assault. Before he could inflict further damage, the Undisputed Kingdom rushed out to chase him away. It was a much-needed reminder to fans that Strong and Adam Cole are the good guys in this story.
Ricochet left the scene, laughing maniacally, clearly pleased with the chaos he’d created. But it’s clear this feud is far from over. Strickland and Ricochet are on a collision course, and it’s anyone’s guess how the Hurt Syndicate, a group that’s had its own issues with both men, will factor into this heated rivalry.
All eyes are now on Cincinnati next week, where the Casino Gauntlet will kick off. One thing’s for sure—AEW is delivering high-stakes drama to start the year with a bang.
