The WWE Royal Rumble is an iconic event in wrestling history, inspiring various adaptations over the years. While attempts like WCW’s War World 3 and NJPW’s Rambo aim to capture its essence, few manage to do so.
Since its inception, AEW has introduced its own innovative twist on the Battle Royale format. At their inaugural pay-per-view, Double or Nothing 2019, they launched the 21-man Casino Battle Royale, where participants entered the ring in timed groups of five, mimicking the suits of a deck of cards. Although the setup felt a bit chaotic initially, it has progressed significantly over time.
In April 2024, AEW introduced the Casino Gauntlet match on Dynamite. This format is characterized by quick-paced, dynamic action, continuous surprises, and interconnected storytelling, aligning closely with the best aspects of the Royal Rumble. Ending through pinfall or submission without eliminations, the match captures the Royal Rumble spirit and arguably offers even more unpredictability.
While the Royal Rumble benefits from its rich 38-year history, the Casino Gauntlet is still evolving. As it grows, it may develop its own clichés and patterns. With nine Gauntlet matches already held, the results have been varied, but AEW has the advantage of learning from the Rumble’s past to avoid stagnation.
1) Addressing Size and Timing
The Casino Gauntlet inherently avoids the bloat associated with the Royal Rumble, which typically features 30 participants. The number of entrants in the Gauntlet can vary, with a maximum of 18 in previous events. However, the absence of eliminations raises questions about how many competitors can be included effectively.
Comparing the All In Casino Gauntlets from London (2024) and Texas (2025), the former was more captivating despite being shorter, indicating that pacing is crucial. AEW must maintain an intense, fast pace, as excessive time can lead to a loss of momentum and excitement.
2) Maintain Innovation and Avoid Filler
The structured nature of the Royal Rumble requires WWE to incorporate slower moments, which can detract from the overall excitement. In contrast, AEW’s Casino Gauntlet thrives on continuous action and anticipation, with no moments wasted. Fans expect high-paced fighting and immediate confrontation.
As AEW pushes boundaries, it’s vital to keep fans engaged with creative elements, minimizing reliance on predictable spots. This can be achieved by changing up the number of participants, varying in-ring styles, or introducing brawling outside the ring to enhance the match’s dynamism.
3) Diverse Move Sets and Avoiding Repetition
Unique moments can become overused and lose their impact over time. AEW shouldn’t repeat booking patterns in the Casino Gauntlet; instead, it should encourage innovation among its wrestlers to keep the mini-matches fresh and engaging.
Avoiding repetition will ensure that fans remain captivated, steering clear of clichés that could diminish the Gauntlet’s appeal. This creativity will enhance the overall experience of the event.
4) Prevent Predictability
Familiarity can lead to boredom, especially in a match format meant to surprise. It’s essential for AEW to maintain a sense of unpredictability in the outcomes of Casino Gauntlet matches, preventing fans from being able to foresee results easily.
Innovative finishes and unexpected outcomes can keep viewers guessing, enhancing the entertainment value. Subverting expectations, such as ending a match before all competitors enter the ring, can add excitement and intrigue.
5) Limit Frequency
Unlike the Royal Rumble, which arouses excitement for WrestleMania season, AEW should treat the Casino Gauntlet as a unique match rather than an annual staple. By keeping it as a surprise element in shows, its unpredictability and thrill can be retained.
AEW’s roster provides ample opportunities for storytelling, so utilizing the Casino Gauntlet wisely across various shows will enhance its significance without feeling repetitive, thereby bolstering its legacy.
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