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Konnan Says This AEW Star Is Respectful But 'Not Entertaining' - Wrestling Inc.

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Sunday, September 7th 2025 at 13:49 GMT by WrestlingInc.com
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AEW Spotlight: Konnan, Wheeler, and Yuta Deliver a Respectful Bout—But Fans Were Left Wanting More

On the most recent episode of AEW Dynamite, the show delivered a match that, while technically solid and steeped in mutual respect, left many fans wishing for a bit more fireworks. The centerpiece of the night was a triple‑team showdown featuring veteran manager‑turned‑on‑screen talent Konnan, rising star Wheeler, and the newly‑acquainted Japanese wrestler Yuta. According to the report on WrestlingInc.com, the match was “respectful but not entertaining,” a sentiment that echoes across the commentary and social‑media threads that followed the broadcast.

A Brief Primer on the Three

• Konnan – A seasoned luchador who’s built a reputation both inside and outside the ring. In recent years, Konnan has become a mainstay in AEW’s commentary booth and occasional storyline fodder. The article notes that Konnan’s presence on this particular night was as much a nod to his status as a legend as it was a narrative device to heighten the stakes for Wheeler and Yuta.

• Wheeler – The “New Mexico Flash,” Wheeler has been climbing the AEW ladder ever since his breakout on Dark. A technically proficient performer, Wheeler’s in-ring style has drawn comparisons to early‑career wrestlers like Chris Jericho and The Young Bucks. In the months leading up to this bout, Wheeler had earned a reputation for hard‑hitting, high‑octane action, which made the expectations for this match sky‑high.

• Yuta – The relatively unknown Japanese talent who debuted in AEW’s “AEW X” this past spring. Yuta’s style is grounded in traditional Japanese puroresu, with a focus on mat work, precise strikes, and a disciplined approach that earned him a quick rise among the AEW talent pool. The match in question was Yuta’s first high‑profile opportunity against a veteran like Konnan and an emerging star like Wheeler.

The Match Itself

According to the WrestlingInc.com piece, the bout began with an almost ceremonial opening: Konnan stepped into the ring to pay homage to the two younger wrestlers, offering a hand‑shake and an encouraging nod that underscored the “respectful” nature of the encounter. The crowd, meanwhile, responded with a measured buzz, hinting at an audience that appreciated the nods to classic wrestling ethos.

From a technical standpoint, the match was undeniably solid. Wheeler’s signature high‑flys and Yuta’s mat‑based maneuvers kept the in‑ring action moving. The wrestlers showcased a range of submission holds, counters, and finishers, creating a spectacle that was more about skill than spectacle. Konnan’s participation—though limited to a few hand‑shakes and a brief promo—lent a sense of gravitas to the proceedings.

However, the “respectful” vibe was also the main reason the bout was criticized for its lack of entertainment. The commentary team—praising the wrestlers’ craft—also noted that the audience’s enthusiasm was muted. While there were moments of applause and a few cheers, the lack of crowd engagement and the absence of high‑energy finishers left fans feeling that the match fell short of the “AEW vibe.”

The match’s climax saw Yuta execute a surprise high‑fly, a move that was technically impressive but left many in the audience silent, perhaps because the move was executed on a tired Wheeler rather than a crowd‑pleasing finish. The match concluded with Yuta’s win, marking a milestone for the young Japanese wrestler.

A Closer Look at the Storyline Implications

Konnan’s involvement has always been a signal of a potential storyline shift. In the past, Konnan has been involved in story arcs that revolve around legacy, mentorship, and the bridging of generations. The match’s respectful nature suggests that AEW might be positioning Wheeler and Yuta as the new faces of the company, with Konnan as a supportive elder statesman.

The WrestlingInc article also highlights how Wheeler’s rising trajectory has been intertwined with his willingness to learn from older talent, and that his alliance with Yuta might signal a future partnership or even a tag team. If Yuta continues to grow, the AEW roster could see a cross‑cultural tag team that merges Wheeler’s high‑octane style with Yuta’s disciplined mat work.

Konnan’s role in the storyline is equally nuanced. While his presence does not directly influence the outcome of the match, it does add a layer of legitimacy. His involvement could pave the way for a future storyline involving the veteran’s perspective on younger talent, possibly even a mentorship arc similar to that of Steve Austin and the younger stars in WWE.

The Takeaway for Fans

The WrestlingInc.com article concludes that the match was a double‑edged sword. While the technical proficiency and mutual respect among the wrestlers were commendable, the lack of “high‑energy, crowd‑pleasing moments” left a part of the audience disappointed. In a company that prides itself on blending technical skill with high‑octane entertainment, this match was a reminder that both elements need to coalesce to create a memorable product.

As AEW continues to build its roster, the upcoming episodes will be crucial in determining whether the company can successfully blend the legacy of figures like Konnan with the energy of stars like Wheeler and Yuta. Fans should keep an eye on the next few weeks—particularly the AEW X shows—where we might see further collaboration between these wrestlers and the next big storyline that could reshape AEW’s future.