ROH Final Battle 2024: Jericho Retains, Athena Triumphs in Epic Showdown!
The Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City erupted with electrifying energy on December 20, 2024, as Ring of Honor’s Final Battle delivered a night of unforgettable wrestling action. Fans witnessed two championship matches that will be etched in professional wrestling history, with veterans Chris Jericho and Athena proving why they remain at the top of their respective divisions.
In the ROH World Championship main event, Chris Jericho demonstrated why he’s still one of the most cunning performers in professional wrestling. His match against Matt Cardona was a masterclass of storytelling and ring psychology, ultimately ending with Jericho securing a controversial victory that left fans both stunned and impressed.
The match was far from a straightforward contest. Big Bill and Bryan Keith’s interference played a crucial role in Jericho’s triumph. At a pivotal moment, their distraction allowed Jericho to hit his signature Code Breaker, pinning Cardona and retaining his championship in dramatic fashion.
“Age is just a number, and I’m still the best in the world,” Jericho proclaimed after his victory, taunting the crowd and his defeated opponent.
The women’s championship bout was equally compelling, with Athena defending her ROH Women’s World Championship against the rising star Billie Starkz. The match was a brutal display of athleticism and determination, featuring several jaw-dropping moments that had the crowd on the edge of their seats.
Starkz showcased her incredible potential, executing a Swanton Bomb to the outside and delivering a devastating piledriver that nearly ended Athena’s championship reign. However, the veteran champion had other plans. In a pivotal moment, Athena sent Starkz into an exposed turnbuckle before finishing her with the O-Face, securing her victory.
Other notable matches of the evening included:
- Lee Moriarty retaining the ROH Pure Championship against Nigel McGuinness in a technical wrestling masterpiece
- Dustin Rhodes & Sammy Guevara successfully defending their Tag Team Championship in a wild Texas Bull Rope match
- Kommander emerging as the new ROH World Television Champion in a chaotic elimination match
The event’s Zero Hour pre-show also delivered exciting matches, with the Grizzled Young Veterans defeating Dark Order and Hanako defeating Harley Cameron, setting the tone for the main card.
A surprising moment came after the main event when Bandido made a dramatic return, saving Matt Cardona from a post-match attack by Jericho and his allies. This unexpected intervention hints at potential future storylines and rivalries that could unfold in the coming months.
Fans and wrestling critics alike praised the event for its high-energy matches and compelling storytelling. The ROH Final Battle 2024 proved that the promotion continues to be a premier destination for world-class professional wrestling.
Athena’s continued dominance in the women’s division and Jericho’s masterful championship retention underscored the event’s significance. As the wrestling world looks forward to 2025, the ripple effects of this memorable night will undoubtedly be felt throughout the industry.
Final Thoughts: ROH Final Battle 2024 was more than just a wrestling event—it was a testament to the artistry, passion, and unpredictability that make professional wrestling a truly unique form of entertainment.
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