PWI Weekly for August 19, 2024
PWI Weekly for August 19, 2024
Dom & Liv, Tom & Matthew, Rhodes & Von Erich, And More
We at PWI are in the thick of our work on the “PWI 500” issue. So, hopefully, you’ll forgive us for the short intro here. If it’s one thing we are reminded of every year when working on this enormous list, it is that it takes a team effort to do it.
With that in mind, this edition of the PWI Weekly is all about duos, trios, and other teams who have been on our minds lately.
COUPLE OF THE WEEK
They’re either sickeningly in love or just plain sickening. Right now, it’s hard to tell the difference. Either way, Dominik Mysterio and Liv Morgan are WWE’s hottest new couple. Whether on social media or in arenas nationwide, the duo is causing a stir with their over-the-top antics. Unfortunately for Dom and Liv, they’ve also made enemies in Damian Priest and Rhea Ripley, and will now have to face the wrath of the “Terror Twins” at Bash in Berlin.
Maybe get those PDAs in now, Judgment Day members … because you might not be able to soon.
A QUICK WORD ABOUT …
If we ask you to think of TNA commentary teams, chances are good that the first duo you’ll think of is Mike Tenay and Don West. For a generation of fans, Tenay and West provided the soundtrack to some of the promotion’s most memorable moments. While the TNA announce team has gone through several changes over the years, the current pairing of Tom Hannifan and Matthew Rehwoldt might be the best the company has heard since the days of Tenay and West.
Hannifan and Rehwoldt bring a natural rapport and a genuine affection for TNA to their job. The duo comes across as being well-prepared. And they always sound enthusiastic about the action they’re calling. While it’s hard to imagine anyone will ever replace Mike Tenay and Don West in the hearts of TNA fans, Hannifan and Rehwoldt are creating their own legacy—and doing a fine job of it.
SPOTLIGHT ON …
The tragic family history of the Von Erichs has been written about, documented, and dramatized plenty. Understandably so. Similarly, the public is well aware of the challenges that Dustin Rhodes has faced in his life. Given their respective familial histories, how inspiring was it to witness Rhodes team with Ross & Marshall Von Erich to win the Ring of Honor World six-man championship at the most recent AEW: Battle Of The Belts?
Former MLW World tag champs Ross and Marshall (the sons of Kevin Von Erich) are adding an exciting new chapter to their storied family’s wrestling history book. And Dustin Rhodes’ tenure in AEW is proof positive that it is never too late to overcome one’s own personal demons. Kudos to these three individuals, who continue to help keep the legendary Rhodes and Von Erich names at the forefront of the business. Wrestling is better for it.
FROM THE VAULT
This 2021 photo from the official World Wonder Ring Stardom archives captures a special period in the promotion’s history. Donna Del Mondo was in full swing, with the group’s two key members giving hell to Tam Nakano and her Cosmic Angels allies. Syuri and Giulia, specifically, were on a tear as Alto Livello KABALIWAN (ALK). The duo’s memorable reign as Goddesses of Stardom tag team champions put them firmly in the #5 spot on that year’s “Tag Team 50” ranking.