The AEW Full Gear 2024 pay-per-view event was packed with unforgettable moments, but the match between Jon Moxley and Orange Cassidy stole the show for many fans. This intense encounter not only highlighted the contrasting styles of both wrestlers but also delivered a compelling story inside the ring. Jon Moxley, AEW's notorious brawler, faced off against Orange Cassidy, the unorthodox, laid-back fighter known for his surprising agility and unexpected resilience.
In this article, we’ll take a detailed, user-friendly, and plagiarism-free look at the full highlights of the Jon Moxley vs. Orange Cassidy match from AEW Full Gear 2024. From the opening bell to the dramatic final moments, we’ll break down every key point of this action-packed contest.
Setting the Stage: AEW Full Gear 2024
AEW Full Gear is one of the biggest events of the wrestling calendar, and each year it brings together some of the most thrilling matchups in the world of professional wrestling. The 2024 edition was no different, with fans eagerly anticipating the showdown between two distinct wrestling personas: the violent and chaotic Jon Moxley versus the cool and composed Orange Cassidy.
While Moxley has made a name for himself with his hardcore approach and violent tendencies, Cassidy is known for his relaxed style and comedic character. This clash of personalities set the stage for an unforgettable battle.
Jon Moxley: The Master of Chaos
Jon Moxley is no stranger to violence in the wrestling ring. Known for his unpredictability and willingness to use any tool at his disposal, Moxley thrives in no-holds-barred environments. His brutal style, marked by intense brawls and submission holds, has made him one of AEW's most feared competitors. Moxley’s unyielding approach to competition is the perfect contrast to Cassidy’s more lighthearted and technical style.
Orange Cassidy: The King of Cool
Orange Cassidy, on the other hand, is a master at defying expectations. Often seen with his hands in his pockets and a laid-back demeanor, Cassidy’s wrestling is surprisingly effective. His casual, almost disinterested attitude is what makes him a fan favorite, yet under that cool exterior, Cassidy possesses the skills to outwrestle nearly anyone. His matches often involve humor, but Cassidy’s ability to switch gears and turn on his athleticism has earned him respect as a formidable competitor.
The Build-Up to the Match
Before their match at Full Gear 2024, Moxley and Cassidy had engaged in a rivalry that contrasted their different approaches to wrestling. Moxley’s brutal attacks and mind games clashed with Cassidy’s more nonchalant demeanor. While Moxley was focused on dominating Cassidy with physical violence, Cassidy took a more methodical approach, proving that his skills in the ring were as dangerous as Moxley’s aggression.
This rivalry set the stage for a match that would challenge both competitors’ limits, with fans eagerly awaiting to see how Cassidy’s unorthodox style would fare against Moxley’s intensity.
The Match Begins: Clash of Styles
The opening bell signaled the beginning of what would be a brutal contest. Moxley immediately rushed toward Cassidy with a determined look, aiming to overwhelm him with his intense energy. Cassidy, however, nonchalantly avoided Moxley’s initial strikes, hands tucked casually in his pockets. The crowd loved Cassidy’s calmness, but it was clear Moxley had no intention of letting him relax.
As Moxley attempted to grab Cassidy, Orange surprised everyone by ducking out of Moxley’s grasp, rolling him into a pin attempt that nearly caught Moxley off guard. This move demonstrated Cassidy’s surprising agility and hinted at the unpredictability of the match. While Moxley might have expected to intimidate Cassidy, it was clear that Cassidy was not just some joke to be played with.
Moxley Takes Control: A Hardcore Assault
As the match progressed, Moxley’s hardcore instincts began to take over. After a few exchanges of strikes and counters, Moxley threw Cassidy into the steel barricades at ringside, sending a clear message that this would not be a typical wrestling match. He followed up with a brutal chair shot to Cassidy’s back, leaving the crowd gasping. Moxley’s aggressive, no-holds-barred approach was in full swing, but Cassidy refused to stay down.
Cassidy, despite the pain, was quick to rally. He avoided Moxley’s next big move by slipping behind him and landing a spinning kick to the chest. This brief moment of offense showed Cassidy’s ability to stay composed even under extreme pressure. However, Moxley quickly regained control by choking Cassidy with the ropes, further escalating the intensity of the match.
High Spots and Surprising Counterattacks
The match hit its peak as both wrestlers started pulling off impressive high spots. One of the most jaw-dropping moments came when Moxley set up a barbed wire bat, intending to use it as a weapon. However, Cassidy managed to counter Moxley’s swing by dodging and performing a sudden hurricanrana that sent Moxley crashing to the mat.
With the crowd on their feet, Cassidy followed up with his signature move, the Orange Punch, which sent Moxley reeling. Cassidy then attempted his Beach Break finisher, but Moxley countered, lifting Cassidy high into the air and dropping him onto a pile of steel chairs. The brutal spot left both men battered and breathless, yet Cassidy kicked out of the pinfall attempt, much to the surprise of everyone in the arena.
The Final Stretch: A Battle of Willpower
As the match approached its conclusion, both competitors were visibly exhausted. Moxley, ever the master of endurance, tried to lock Cassidy in his infamous Bulldog Choke submission hold. The hold was nearly enough to finish Cassidy off, but in true Cassidy fashion, he fought back with desperation, using his legs to break free and deliver a series of rapid-fire strikes to Moxley’s head.
But Moxley wasn’t finished. He lifted Cassidy up once more, preparing to hit the Death Rider, a move he had used to put away countless opponents. However, Cassidy managed to catch Moxley with an Orange Punch out of nowhere, stunning him momentarily. Cassidy went for the pin, but Moxley kicked out just in time, keeping the match alive.
The Endgame: Moxley Prevails
In the final moments, it was Moxley’s sheer determination and brutal experience that ultimately won the day. Moxley hit Cassidy with one final Death Rider, this time onto a pile of broken tables, leaving Cassidy unable to kick out. The referee counted to three, signaling the end of the match.
Jon Moxley stood victorious, but the audience recognized the effort Cassidy had put forth. Though Moxley had won, Cassidy had proven that he was more than just a comedic figure—he was a legitimate threat in AEW.
Post-Match: What’s Next for Both Men?
The aftermath of the match left fans wondering what was next for both Moxley and Cassidy. For Moxley, the win reinforced his position as one of AEW’s top stars. His dominance in hardcore and extreme matches has solidified his legacy as one of the most dangerous wrestlers in AEW. However, Cassidy’s performance wasn’t lost on the audience. His ability to withstand Moxley’s brutal attacks and deliver his own shocking offense showed that Cassidy was no longer just a joke; he was a serious competitor.
This match might have ended the rivalry between the two, but it certainly left the door open for future encounters. Cassidy had earned Moxley’s respect, and AEW fans are excited to see where both competitors go from here.
Key Takeaways:
- Contrasting Styles: Jon Moxley’s hardcore aggression clashed with Orange Cassidy’s unorthodox, laid-back approach, creating a dynamic, unpredictable match.
- Moxley’s Brutality: Moxley’s ability to use weapons and brutalize his opponents was on full display, cementing his status as one of AEW’s most dangerous men.
- Cassidy’s Resilience: Despite Moxley’s overwhelming offense, Cassidy demonstrated resilience, technical skill, and heart that made him a crowd favorite.
- Unforgettable Moments: From the unexpected Orange Punch to the intense table spots, the match delivered several highlights that will be remembered for years to come.
The AEW Full Gear 2024 event delivered on every front, but the match between Jon Moxley and Orange Cassidy was undoubtedly one of the most talked-about and thrilling bouts of the evening. As two of AEW's top stars clashed in a match filled with raw emotion, unpredictable twists, and incredible athleticism, fans were treated to a contest that blurred the lines between humor and brutality. Jon Moxley, known for his violent, no-holds-barred style, and Orange Cassidy, with his laid-back yet unexpectedly dangerous approach, provided an unforgettable spectacle that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.
In this extended article, we’ll dive deeper into the nuances of this incredible match, exploring the psychology, storytelling, and hidden details that made it stand out in AEW Full Gear 2024’s stacked card.
The Building Tension Before the Match
Leading up to Full Gear 2024, the feud between Moxley and Cassidy was one of the most unique in AEW. While Moxley’s reputation for violence and chaos had been built over years of brutal matches, Cassidy had steadily risen as a fan favorite due to his entertaining character and surprisingly effective wrestling technique. His slow-paced, almost apathetic persona, where he would keep his hands in his pockets during matches, made him a comedic figure at first—but Cassidy had proven time and time again that beneath his "cool guy" demeanor lay a dangerous competitor.
The tension between these two was heightened by Moxley’s relentless attacks on Cassidy in the weeks leading up to Full Gear. Moxley aimed to break Cassidy down, while Cassidy, ever the underdog, refused to give in to Moxley’s attempts to rattle him. The feud was not just physical but psychological, with Cassidy’s unflinching calmness testing Moxley’s volatile temper and impatience. This gave the match a compelling narrative that went beyond just physical moves—it became a clash of ideologies: chaos versus coolness, brute force versus calculated finesse.
The Early Moments: Setting the Tone
As the match began, it was clear this would not be a typical contest. Moxley’s aggressive tactics were apparent from the very start as he charged at Cassidy, looking to dominate with his usual violent strikes. However, Cassidy, ever the antihero, was not immediately drawn into Moxley’s game. His hands remained in his pockets as he avoided Moxley’s strikes with remarkable precision, showing that Cassidy’s nonchalant attitude masked an impeccable sense of timing and skill.
The early moments were a chess match of sorts. Moxley would try to overpower Cassidy, but Cassidy, using his agility, would avoid the attacks and counter with quick strikes and escape tactics. This gave the crowd something to rally behind. Fans were cheering for Cassidy as he showcased his uncanny ability to slip out of Moxley’s grasp and land a few well-timed strikes, a clear indication that his "cool guy" persona wasn’t just a gimmick.
Moxley’s Hardcore Strategy: Shifting the Momentum
However, Moxley’s ability to adapt quickly was on full display as he switched to a more hardcore style. Realizing that Cassidy wasn’t going to be easily intimidated, Moxley decided to ramp up the physicality of the match by bringing weapons into play. From the very first chair shot to Cassidy’s back, Moxley made it clear that he was willing to take this match to dangerous, extreme lengths. He wasn’t just going to win—he was going to break Cassidy, both physically and mentally.
In a particularly memorable moment, Moxley swung a steel chair at Cassidy, but Cassidy dodged and countered with a lightning-fast superkick that sent Moxley tumbling. Cassidy’s ability to avoid the brutal offense and deliver his own surprising attacks became a hallmark of the match. It wasn’t just Cassidy’s evasiveness that stood out—it was his ability to fight back when it seemed like the odds were stacked against him.
Orange Cassidy’s Unexpected Toughness
Despite Moxley’s brutality, Cassidy proved that his seemingly nonchalant attitude didn’t mean he was a pushover. In fact, Cassidy’s ability to absorb punishment and continue fighting made him a fan favorite. His resilience was showcased when Moxley attempted to hit him with the barbed wire bat, but Cassidy, in a split-second moment, executed a quick roll-up pin attempt that nearly got the three-count. The crowd erupted as they realized just how much Cassidy was willing to endure and how quickly he could flip the script on his opponent.
Even more so, Cassidy showed growth in this match. He wasn’t just the guy who played it cool anymore. He took charge, showing off his physicality with impressive athletic maneuvers, like a flawless tornado DDT and a hurricanrana from the top rope that stunned Moxley. These moments underscored Cassidy’s wrestling abilities that often went unnoticed in his earlier matches. His performance at Full Gear made it clear that Cassidy was evolving as a competitor, one who could stand toe-to-toe with someone as experienced and brutal as Jon Moxley.
The Role of the Audience: Enhancing the Drama
The crowd’s involvement in this match cannot be understated. From the early stages, it was evident that the fans were heavily invested in both competitors. Moxley, with his established hardcore persona, was met with mixed reactions—some cheering for his brutal style, others booing his violence. But Cassidy, with his underdog story and cool demeanor, garnered a massive fanbase that spurred him on throughout the match. Every time Cassidy countered Moxley’s brutal attacks with something unexpected, the audience’s energy surged, adding an extra layer of drama to the match.
The chants of "Cassidy" became deafening as he powered through Moxley’s offense, showing that the fans believed in him. This crowd engagement added to the emotion of the match and created a back-and-forth dynamic that kept viewers hooked. Whether it was Moxley’s taunting of Cassidy or Cassidy’s surprising resilience, the emotional rollercoaster played out perfectly in front of the live audience.
The Climax: Moxley’s Victory, Cassidy’s Respect
As the match neared its conclusion, the wear and tear on both competitors were evident. Moxley had attempted several finishers, including his signature Death Rider, but Cassidy continued to fight back, each time surprising Moxley with his resilience. Cassidy was determined to show that he wasn’t just another opponent to be thrown around—he was a fighter, and he wasn’t going down without a fight.
In the final moments, Moxley hit a devastating Death Rider on Cassidy through a table, and the impact left Cassidy unable to continue. Moxley went for the cover, and the referee counted to three, giving Moxley the win. While Moxley had the victory, there was a sense of mutual respect between both competitors. Cassidy had proven his toughness, while Moxley had shown why he was the dangerous and dominant force in AEW.
Aftermath: What’s Next for Moxley and Cassidy?
After the match, AEW fans were left buzzing about what would come next for both men. Moxley’s victory further cemented his place as one of AEW’s top stars, particularly in hardcore matches. But Cassidy’s stock rose dramatically following this match. He proved that he was not only a fan favorite but a legitimate competitor capable of going toe-to-toe with the best in AEW.
For Moxley, this victory means that his reign of dominance continues, but it’s clear that the challenge of facing opponents like Cassidy has become more complex. For Cassidy, this match was a breakthrough moment. Although he didn’t win, his performance against Moxley has solidified him as someone fans can expect to see in high-profile matches in the future.
Final Thoughts: A Match for the Ages
Jon Moxley vs. Orange Cassidy at AEW Full Gear 2024 will go down as one of the most entertaining and intense matches in AEW’s recent history. From the psychological battle to the hard-hitting physicality, this match had everything that makes AEW unique—compelling storytelling, breathtaking spots, and athletes pushing their limits. Though Moxley came out on top, it was Cassidy’s heart and growth as a performer that shone through. AEW fans can only look forward to seeing how these two competitors continue to evolve within the promotion.
Conclusion: A Match to Remember
Jon Moxley vs. Orange Cassidy at AEW Full Gear 2024 was a perfect blend of contrasting wrestling styles, intense drama, and unforgettable moments. While Moxley emerged victorious, Cassidy’s performance showcased his undeniable skill and toughness. This match was a reminder of why AEW is such a thrilling promotion: the matches are unpredictable, the stakes are high, and the talent is second to none. Fans can only wonder what the future holds for both these incredible competitors after such an intense battle.
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