Rassle Inn #48

So what's going on with the Young Bucks?

Four years ago, I was on their side.  In fact, I even bought their merch at Hot Topic.  And y'know, a lot of people were on their side.  Fans (and journalists, if they're not ashamed to admit it) were excited about the prospect of a new major wrestling promotion.  Finally, Vinnie Mac was going to have direct competition.  But that was four years ago.  So many things can - and did - happen in four years.  It could be said that the Bucks gradually dropped all gimmicks in that span of time, riding a wave of grim reality that reached a crescendo on last night's Dynamite.

In what can only be described as a turgid interview segment, Matt and Nick Jackson essentially played themselves.  All bets are off, as Matt delivered a wordy, yet ultimately ineffectual promo that made reference to certain "cancerous" individuals in the wrestling business.  I guess I can't call it ineffectual.  He came across as a douchebag, which was the whole point of the scene.  The problem is that it's becoming clear to both doomsters and apologists alike that as much as AEW's roster would love to get credit from the Academy for theatrical performances, the dude wasn't acting.  It appears that the Young Bucks are douchebags.

"Do you know them personally, Dom?"  No, and I'm sure that they are great tippers.  But here's what I do know...they are responsible, in part, for driving out the biggest star in the history of their little company.  They may not be quite as responsible as Jack Perry or Tony Khan, but something tells me that they approve of AEW'S overall trajectory.  If by some chance they aren't douchebags, they're stupid.  I fear they may be both.  I'm still not 100% clear on the kayfabe reason for singling out Darby Allin and Sting.  Boredom maybe?  What could have been a marquee money match will probably just be another Young Bucks match.

Look, I've been guilty of defending them.  I have a high threshold for their "style" of wrestling, and in seasons past, one could argue that their most serious offenses were merely ridiculous high spots.  That was before they held sway as executive vice presidents.  Now, if they go down superkicking, they're taking an entire promotion with them.  But hey, look at all the stars they have made.  Like Private Party.  And...those other guys.