At ‘All In’ Rhodes & Aldis Could Succeed Where Lawler & Von Erich Failed 30 Years Ago…

It would be refreshing if Aldis vs. Rhodes, particularly if both titles hang in the balance, offered a clear win. Should the companies opt to unify the straps, even temporarily, either man would make an outstanding representative, guaranteed to defend  around the world, exposing new audiences to both.

Then, when the time comes — perhaps at one of Rhodes’ upcoming Japanese commitments or high-profile ROH events — the companies could return to individual paths. Both promotions and stars would part better than before.

At a glance, NWA certainly seems to benefit most greatly from the union. Even without the ROH title on the line, the next several months of Corgan’s alleged 20-year NWA rejuvenation plan are well-laid, with potentially the hottest indie talent in the world challenging its champion.

Likewise, as champ, Aldis has achieved star status arguably surpassing even his Impact best. NWA, however, lacks home-based contenders. Rather than facing localized competition, names which will do little to elevate him or his title, joining ROH contention beside talent like Rhodes does tremendous good for his reputation, brand and championship.

Done properly, though, this match could be the turning point for everyone involved — ROH included. Impact has benefited greatly from recent joint promotion with Lucha Underground, particularly as numerous established stars recently bailed for NXT or WWE proper. Partnering with NWA could be a similar answer for ROH.

Also experiencing mass exsanguination of names to WWE, Aldis is a decidedly qualified contender currently under NWA contract. The partnership not only  offers an established addition to the ROH roster but new opportunities for its televised product. Rhodes, of course, stands to claim the NWA title his father “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes legendarily held thrice.

Regardless of long-term outcome, the real winners, though, are fans. For an event by all accounts not scheduled to broadcast or be recorded, All In offers an extremely rare chance to watch two premiere independent athletes in inter-promotional action.

Add the possible title unification stipulation, with both ROH and NWA alluding to the prospect, and  anticipation for the Sept. 1 bout soars. Fans are decidedly All In for Aldis vs. Rhodes in what should prove to be, undoubtedly, a Super Clash.

Pollo Del Mar hosts Arm Drag Takedown with Pollo Del Mar, a pro wrestling podcast. The most recent episode features an exclusive interview with ‘80s NWA icon “Baby Doll” Nickla Roberts, sharing memories of managing legends like Ric Flair, Dusty Rhodes and Tully Blanchard. Listen: https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/pollodelmar/episodes/2018-04-18T16_50_17-07_00

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