Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive deep into AEW Forbidden Door and break down those star ratings. We will analyze each match, highlighting the standout moments and evaluating the overall performance. Star ratings are subjective, of course, but they offer a fun way to reflect on the quality of a wrestling show. So, let’s get started and see how the matches stacked up!

What are Star Ratings?

Before we jump into the AEW Forbidden Door event, let's quickly define what we mean by "star ratings." This system, popularized by wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, assigns a rating from zero to five (and sometimes beyond!) stars to a wrestling match based on its overall quality. Factors include in-ring work, storytelling, crowd engagement, and the general excitement generated by the contest. While subjective, these ratings provide a common language for fans to discuss and evaluate wrestling matches.

• Zero Stars: Generally considered a terrible match with little to no redeeming qualities.
• One Star: A very poor match with significant flaws.
• Two Stars: A below-average match with some positive aspects but many issues.
• Three Stars: An average or decent match, watchable but not particularly memorable.
• Four Stars: A very good match with strong performances and compelling action.
• Five Stars: An outstanding, exceptional match considered among the best.
• Beyond Five Stars: Reserved for matches that transcend typical wrestling standards and are considered all-time classics.

Star ratings are not the be-all and end-all, but they are a fun way to quantify and compare wrestling matches. Remember, your own enjoyment is what matters most!

AEW Forbidden Door 2024: Match Analysis and Star Ratings

Now, let's get to the heart of the matter. We're going to break down each match from AEW Forbidden Door 2024, offering a brief recap and assigning a star rating based on the overall quality of the contest. Keep in mind that these ratings are subjective, and your own opinion may differ. It's all part of the fun of wrestling!

Zero Hour Pre-Show Matches

1. Mogul Embassy (Brian Cage, Bishop Kaun & Toa Liona) vs. CHAOS (Tomohiro Ishii, Rocky Romero & Yoh)

• Recap: A solid opener for the pre-show, featuring hard-hitting action from both sides. The Mogul Embassy showcased their power, while CHAOS brought their signature intensity. The match had a good pace and got the crowd warmed up.
• Star Rating: 3 Stars

2. United Empire (Jeff Cobb, Kyle Fletcher & TJP) vs. TMDK (Zack Sabre Jr., Shane Haste & Mikey Nicholls)

• Recap: A technically sound match with plenty of intricate wrestling. Zack Sabre Jr. and the TMDK team brought their unique style, while the United Empire demonstrated their cohesiveness. A good showcase of international talent.
• Star Rating: 3.25 Stars

Main Card Matches

1. MJF vs. Hiroshi Tanahashi for the AEW World Championship

Recap: This match was a clash of styles and personalities. MJF, known for his cunning and in-ring antics, faced off against the legendary Hiroshi Tanahashi. The match told a great story of the grizzled veteran trying to overcome the young, arrogant champion. MJF's character work was top-notch, and Tanahashi showed he still has plenty left in the tank. The ending was well-executed, with MJF finding a way to retain his title through underhanded tactics. This bout was an amazing opener that set the tone for the rest of the show, mixing technical wrestling with the storytelling that makes pro wrestling so compelling. It's not just about the moves; it's about the narrative, and MJF and Tanahashi delivered that in spades, giving the fans something to remember. The psychology involved was fascinating, with MJF playing the heel perfectly and Tanahashi the resilient face. The match wasn't just a physical contest; it was a battle of wits and wills. It will be great to see these two in a rematch. *Star Rating:*4 Stars

2. Bryan Danielson vs. Kazuchika Okada

Recap: Guys, this was the dream match everyone was waiting for, and it delivered in spades! Bryan Danielson and Kazuchika Okada put on an absolute clinic, showcasing their incredible technical skills and athleticism. The match was filled with near falls, submission attempts, and breathtaking sequences. The crowd was on their feet from start to finish, and the intensity never let up. This match had everything you could want from a wrestling contest: drama, excitement, and amazing wrestling. The match had a palpable sense of importance, with both wrestlers giving it their all. Danielson's technical prowess was on full display as he tried to ground Okada, while Okada's Rainmaker lariat was as devastating as ever. The transitions were seamless, and the storytelling was superb. Every move had a purpose, and the wrestlers built to a crescendo that had fans on the edge of their seats. This match will be talked about for years to come. The storytelling was top-notch, and the execution was flawless. For those who missed it, make sure to watch it. It was not just a wrestling match; it was an artistic display of athleticism and storytelling. This is the kind of match that makes you proud to be a wrestling fan. It was a reminder of why we love this sport. Overall, a modern classic that deserves all the praise it gets. *Star Rating:**5 Stars

3. Orange Cassidy, Katsuyori Shibata, & ? vs. House of Black (Malakai Black, Brody King, & Buddy Matthews) for the AEW World Trios Championship

Recap: This match was an absolute rollercoaster of action! The House of Black brought their dark and menacing presence, while Orange Cassidy and his partners provided a spirited challenge. The surprise partner added an element of intrigue, and the match itself was a chaotic and exciting affair. The House of Black's dominance was on full display, but Cassidy's team showed resilience and determination. It was a fast-paced, hard-hitting encounter that kept the crowd engaged. The match was a showcase of contrasting styles, with the House of Black's aggressive offense clashing with Cassidy's unorthodox approach. The chemistry between the teams was evident, and the action flowed seamlessly. There were plenty of memorable spots and near falls, adding to the excitement. The storytelling was effective, with the House of Black playing the role of dominant villains and Cassidy's team fighting from underneath. This match was a great example of how to blend different styles and personalities into a cohesive and entertaining package. The pacing was excellent, and the crowd was invested from start to finish. The surprise partner was a great addition, and the match benefited from the added intrigue. Ultimately, this match was a resounding success, delivering excitement and drama in equal measure. *Star Rating:*4.25 Stars

4. Toni Storm vs. Willow Nightingale for the AEW Women's World Championship

Recap: In this compelling match, Toni Storm defended her title against the determined Willow Nightingale. The bout showcased Storm's technical prowess and heelish tactics against Nightingale's strength and fighting spirit. The contrast in styles made for an engaging contest. Storm controlled much of the match, using her experience to her advantage, but Nightingale's resilience kept her in the game. The near falls created genuine tension, and the crowd was invested in Nightingale's quest to overcome Storm. The match told a story of Storm's calculated strategy versus Nightingale's raw determination, and the ending was impactful. The match highlighted the growth and development of both competitors, and it added another chapter to the ongoing story of the AEW Women's World Championship. It's a match that will be remembered for its drama and intensity. *Star Rating:*3.75 Stars

5. Blackpool Combat Club (Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli, & Wheeler Yuta) vs. El Desperado, Shota Umino, & ?

Recap: This match was a brutal and intense brawl from start to finish. The Blackpool Combat Club lived up to their reputation as hard-hitting fighters, while their opponents brought the fight to them. The action spilled outside the ring, and the match was filled with weapons and violence. The surprise partner added an element of intrigue, and the match was a chaotic and exciting affair. The Blackpool Combat Club's dominance was on full display, but their opponents showed resilience and determination. It was a fast-paced, hard-hitting encounter that kept the crowd engaged. The match had a raw and visceral feel, and the violence was palpable. The wrestlers pushed each other to their limits, and the intensity never let up. This was a match that will be remembered for its brutality and physicality. *Star Rating:*4 Stars

Final Thoughts

AEW Forbidden Door 2024 was another fantastic event filled with incredible matches and unforgettable moments. From the high-flying action to the intense storytelling, there was something for every wrestling fan to enjoy. The star ratings provide a useful framework for evaluating the matches, but ultimately, your own enjoyment is what matters most. What were your favorite matches from the show? Do you agree with these ratings? Let us know in the comments below! And as always, thanks for reading!