Jim Ross Previews AEW Double or Nothing: Darby Allin, International Icons, and High-Stakes Retirements
As All Elite Wrestling (AEW) prepares for its upcoming Double or Nothing event, legendary commentator Jim Ross is sharing his insights on a card that promises high-stakes drama and international prestige. Speaking on the latest episode of Grilling JR, Ross broke down the key matchups and the creative direction leading into the May 25 show at Louis Armstrong Stadium in New York.
The Rise of the Underdog: Darby Allin vs. MJF
The main event features a clash for the AEW World Championship between Darby Allin and MJF. Ross expressed strong approval of the current trajectory for Allin, noting that the company’s investment in the resilient star is yielding significant results.
“I like it. I like what AEW is doing with Darby,” Ross stated. “He provides hope in his little undersized body. He’s remarkably resourceful. He sells great.”
Ross believes that Allin’s role as the underdog is the most critical storyline currently unfolding on AEW television. He emphasized that whether Allin holds the title or not, his ability to garner support from the audience makes him a pivotal “player” in the promotion’s current landscape.
International Prestige in New York: Okada vs. Tanahashi
Beyond the main event, Ross highlighted the significant “storyline weight” of the matchup between Kazuchika Okada and Hiroshi Tanahashi. With two of Japan’s top stars facing off in New York, Ross expects a historic encounter that will resonate globally.
“I think Okada and his adversary, his fellow Japanese star, are going to put a match out there that people are not going to soon forget,” Ross noted, adding that the match is likely to cause a massive “uproar” in Japan as two homegrown favorites collide.
The Complexity of the Stadium Stampede
The return of the Stadium Stampede match brings both excitement and logistical challenges for the broadcast team. Ross compared the multi-team match to a basketball game, noting that the “moving parts” make it difficult to call effectively.
A major wildcard in this match is the return of Chris Jericho. Ross expects the veteran to take a leadership role for his team, stating, “Jericho is a veteran. He’s been around a long time. He’s just coming back. He’s going to want to make a good returning impression.”
High Stakes: FTR vs. Edge & Christian
The card also features an “I Quit” match for the AEW World Tag Team Titles, pitting FTR against Adam Copeland and Christian Cage. The stakes are exceptionally high, as retirement is on the line for Copeland and Cage if they lose.
Reflecting on his history with the duo, Ross mentioned he never doubted their chemistry when he first signed them. While he praised them for elevating the tag team division, he believes they are now in a “different chapter” of their careers, suggesting that their days as a regular tag team may be numbered.
- Event: AEW Double or Nothing
- Date: May 25
- Venue: Louis Armstrong Stadium, New York
- Main Event: Darby Allin vs. MJF (AEW World Championship)
- Featured Match: FTR vs. Edge & Christian (“I Quit” Match for Tag Titles)
With a “loaded” card and significant emotional stakes, Double or Nothing is positioned to be a defining moment for AEW’s current creative direction. For more detailed transcriptions of these insights, visit WrestlingNews.co.