Claudio Castagnoli earned Josh Barnett's respect at AEW WrestleDream.
At the Zero Hour ahead of AEW WrestleDream, Claudio Castagnoli clashed with former UFC Heavyweight Champion Josh Barnett. The bout marked Barnett's AEW debut.
Jon Moxley accompanied Castagnoli to the ring. In doing so, he returned to AEW for the first time since AEW Dynamite: Grand Slam, where he seemingly suffered an injury during his match against Rey Fenix. Moxley joined the commentary team for the bout.
The match proved to be a physical contest that showcased grappling and catch wrestling. Barnett showcased his submission-based offense and his strength with some impressive throws. Castagnoli nailed Barnett, a student of Antonio Inoki, with some nasty uppercuts. In the end, Castagnoli hit Barnett with the Neutralizer. He went for an Octopus Hold and pinned Barnett for the win.
Barnett then grabbed a microphone and told Castagnoli that everything he heard about him was true, but people didn't realize how great Claudio was. He then said Antonio Inoki would approve of Castagnoli, and he would vouch for that. Barnett told Castagnoli that they weren't finished, and they would get more time in the time some day. Castagnoli fired back by saying he'd face him again anytime.
"I promise you, Inoki would approve of you, and I will vouch for it" - Josh Barnett to Claudio pic.twitter.com/iniHbH6NBp
— Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful.com (@SeanRossSapp) October 1, 2023
Fightful Select reported more information about Jon Moxley's injury.
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