At AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door, Adam Page successfully defended his World Championship against MJF, overcoming numerous attempts by his challenger to win through illicit means. The bout took place under a critical stipulation: if Page lost via disqualification or countout, he would lose the title, which added tension to their intense confrontation.
Throughout the match, both competitors introduced tables and chairs, escalating the brutality without crossing the disqualification line. Page executed his signature Deadeye move on MJF through a table, but MJF retaliated fiercely, using a Tombstone Piledriver onto the same table in response.
MJF’s Strategy Focused on Forcing a Disqualification or Countout
Attempting to capitalize on the match’s stipulation, MJF aimed to keep Page outside the ring to win by countout, frequently taunting Bryan Danielson in the audience to provoke interference that would disqualify Page. Despite these tactics, Page remained vigilant, refusing to succumb to MJF’s provocations.
The challenger’s aggressive behavior extended to the crowd, where he engaged fans directly. After MJF suffered a brutal cut, the audience responded with chants of “You Deserve It,” highlighting the emotional atmosphere surrounding the contest.
Final Moments Marked by Near-Fall Confusion and Page’s Resilience
In the closing phase, the wrestlers traded elbow shots and executed several rapid pin attempts, leaving the referee exhausted. After a seemingly decisive three-count, it was revealed that Page’s foot was on the bottom rope, invalidating the pinfall. The referee’s prior incapacitation complicated the call, but MJF’s efforts at cheating ultimately failed.
Page countered MJF’s dirty tactics by striking him with MJF’s unsigned contract and following up with a Deadeye and his finishing move, the Buckshot Lariat, to secure the victory and retain the championship.
AEW Championship Defense Underlines Page’s Tenacity Amid Hostility
Adam Page’s ability to retain his title despite the precarious disqualification clause and MJF’s relentless efforts illustrates his resilience and composure under pressure. This victory preserves Page’s status as the reigning World Champion and sets the stage for future challenges, while MJF’s underhanded maneuvers signal ongoing rivalry tension within AEW’s competitive landscape.
