The Undercard:
Impact Wrestling started off with an excellent bout that saw Bobby Roode defeat AJ Styles. It seems like this match was really good from the very beginning and had James Storm at commentary, since all three men are battling for a championship match. When you book a triple threat match, you need to have all angles covered. We know Roode and Storm dislike each other, but this was a great chance for Styles to interact with both men. The match was great from the get go, with Styles working out Roode with kicks and high octane offense. Roode was able to gain the momentum with some excellent clotheslines that took off Styles' head. Back and forth, both men exchange blows until Storm distracts Roode. Styles takes over, but then he gets distracted by Storm, and Roode is able to knock him off the ropes. Roode ends up pinning Styles. Grade: B+
ODB defeated Tara and Jesse . I can honestly say that I do not like this whatsoever. ODB is the type of character that thrives on getting over others. With her size and personality, she should be used in a different capacity. What is the point of having her beat both of them, now asking for Eric Young to help her? Didn't she already win without his help? Is there a payoff that I am not seeing? Grade: D
Magnus, Daniels, and Kazarian defeated Chavo, Hernandez, and Samoa Joe. I enjoyed the action in this match and thought it was very logical, especially with the PPV in a few days. The heels needed to go over to create a sense of urgency and drama for the faces. I was thoroughly impressed with the work that Chavo and Kazarian did together, with a headscissors and multiple athletic moves to quicken the pace. I have been interested in seeing what Joe will be booked as, but I thought Magnus benefitted so much from picking up the victory. His look is good, but he lacks a certain personality. What is his demeanor? Nobody really cares too much about him, and his talent in being wasted because he has a lack of charisma. Maybe fighting Joe will help him in the long run. Grade: C+
