AEW Squash Match: What You Need To Know

Hey wrestling fans! Ever wondered about those super quick, seemingly one-sided matches you sometimes see on AEW? These are called squash matches, and they serve a specific purpose in the grand scheme of professional wrestling. Let's dive deep into what they are, why AEW uses them, some famous examples, and the pros and cons of including them in a wrestling program.

What is a Squash Match?

So, what exactly is a squash match? In simple terms, it's a match where one wrestler, usually a well-established or rising star, defeats their opponent very quickly and decisively. We're talking minutes, sometimes even seconds! The goal isn't to create a competitive back-and-forth contest, but rather to showcase the dominance and skill of the winning wrestler. The opponent, often a lesser-known or local talent, is there to make the winner look good.

The history of squash matches goes way back. They were a staple in the territories era of professional wrestling, serving as a way to introduce new talent, build up established stars, and give the crowd a quick thrill. Think of it as a highlight reel in real-time. It's a chance to see a wrestler's signature moves, their intensity, and their overall presence without dragging things out with a lengthy match. These matches are all about impact and creating a memorable moment, even if it's a short one.

Consider Goldberg's early WCW run as a prime example. Many of his matches were dominant squashes, quickly dispatching opponents with his Jackhammer and Spear. This built him into an unstoppable force, creating a huge buzz around his character and propelling him to the main event scene. The brevity and decisiveness of these matches were key to his initial appeal. They left fans wanting more and cemented his image as an absolute powerhouse. Squash matches are a tool to rapidly build momentum and establish credibility in a business where perception is everything.

Why AEW Uses Squash Matches

AEW, like many wrestling promotions, uses squash matches for several strategic reasons. First and foremost, it's a fantastic way to introduce new talent to the audience. Imagine a fresh face arrives in AEW. Instead of throwing them into a complex storyline right away, a squash match allows them to showcase their abilities and personality without the pressure of a competitive bout. It's a low-stakes environment where they can shine and make a strong first impression. This helps the audience connect with the new wrestler and get excited about their future in the company. It is all about creating that initial spark.

Secondly, squash matches are used to build up established stars. Even top-tier wrestlers need to maintain their momentum and credibility. A decisive win over a lesser-known opponent reinforces their dominance and reminds the audience why they're a force to be reckoned with. It's a quick and effective way to keep them looking strong and relevant. Furthermore, these matches can be used to highlight new moves or strategies, adding layers to a wrestler’s persona. Are they more brutal? Faster? More technical? Squash matches can demonstrate this quickly.

And finally, squash matches can advance storylines. Let's say a wrestler is embroiled in a heated feud. A squash match victory can be used to send a message to their rival, demonstrating their ruthlessness and determination. It adds fuel to the fire and intensifies the conflict. Or maybe a wrestler is on a losing streak and needs a confidence boost. A squash match can be the perfect way to get them back on track and reignite their competitive spirit. It provides a narrative beat and a chance for a wrestler to regain momentum before bigger challenges. This is especially useful in a long-term storytelling environment like AEW.

Examples of Memorable AEW Squash Matches

AEW has had its fair share of memorable squash matches. One example is when Wardlow was being built as a dominant force. His squash matches against local competitors showcased his power and athleticism, solidifying his image as a future main event player. These matches were often short, brutal, and designed to leave a lasting impression. His path of destruction left no doubt about his capabilities, and was exciting to watch. It set the stage for his eventual split from MJF and his rise as a singles star.

Another great example can be found in Jade Cargill's undefeated streak. Many of her early matches were dominant squashes, highlighting her strength and charisma. While some criticized the lack of competition, these matches were instrumental in establishing her as a dominant champion. The sheer spectacle of her victories made her a must-see attraction, adding to the allure of her TBS Championship reign. It was a classic example of using squash matches to create a seemingly unbeatable aura around a wrestler.

Consider also the various tag-team squash matches featuring teams like FTR or the Young Bucks against relatively unknown opponents. These matches showcased the tag team's teamwork and signature moves, while also giving the audience a glimpse of potential future stars. These encounters provide the veterans a chance to shine, while the up-and-comers get to showcase something, even in defeat. This offers valuable experience and exposure, which can lead to bigger opportunities down the road.

The Pros and Cons of Squash Matches

Like any tool in professional wrestling, squash matches have their pros and cons. On the positive side, they are an effective way to build up talent, advance storylines, and provide a quick jolt of excitement to a show. They can also be used to introduce new wrestlers to the audience and give them a chance to showcase their abilities. A well-executed squash match can create a memorable moment and leave a lasting impression on the viewers.

However, there are also potential downsides. Overusing squash matches can make the product feel predictable and undermine the credibility of the wrestlers on the losing end. If every match is a squash, it can diminish the sense of competition and make the overall product less engaging. It's crucial to strike a balance between squash matches and competitive bouts to keep the audience invested.

Also, some fans find squash matches boring or uninteresting, especially if they are too frequent or involve wrestlers they don't care about. It's essential to use squash matches strategically and ensure they serve a purpose within the larger narrative. Too many squashes can lead to audience fatigue and a perception that certain wrestlers are not being given a fair chance. The key is to sprinkle them in judiciously, ensuring they enhance rather than detract from the overall product.

In conclusion, while the AEW squash match is brief and seemingly one-sided, it plays a vital role in wrestling. It's a tool to build stars, advance storylines, and inject excitement into the program. When used effectively, squash matches can be a valuable asset to any wrestling promotion. It's all about finding the right balance and ensuring they serve a purpose within the larger context of the show.