The January 25 episode of AEW Dynamite ended with one of the most emotional matches in recent memory.
In the main event, Mark Briscoe faced Jay Lethal almost a week to the day after his brother, Jay Briscoe (Jamin Pugh) lost his life in a car accident. On what would have been Jay’s birthday, Mark made his AEW debut in a singles match against former ROH World Champion Jay Lethal.
Here’s how the match broke down, courtesy of our play-by-play coverage:
Ian Riccaboni and Caprice Coleman are on commentary, and Bobby Cruise is the special ring announcer for the tribute match. Jay Lethal comes to the ring wearing Jay Briscoe’s memorial t-shirt. Mark makes his entrance, and he has both ROH World Tag Team Championship belts with him.
Mark Briscoe @SussexCoChicken, tag team partner and brother of the late, great #jayBriscoe, is HERE at #AEWDynamite and we are LIVE on TBS pic.twitter.com/XCzzga8jka
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) January 26, 2023
Jay has tears in his eyes as the bell rings. Mark and Lethal take the fight to each other. They trade counters, as they know each other very well. They battle on the apron, and Lethal gains the upper hand. Mark rallies and hits a diving chop. He pumps up the crowd. Mark nails Lethal with an uppercut and slams him for a two count. Lethal takes control and hits the Lethal Injection, but Mark rolls out of the ring. Mark hits a dropkick through the ropes and floors Lethal with a blockbuster on the outside. Mark hits the Froggy Bow through a table. Back in the ring, Mark levels Lethal with a lariat and hits the Jay Driller for the win.
Winner: Mark Briscoe
Mark looks at the camera and tells Jay he loves him. He hugs Lethal as the AEW roster is on the stage clapping. The video screen has the same setup as the Jay Briscoe memorial show. Mark hugs various members of the roster and raises the title.
We love you, #JayBriscoe ❤️#AEWDynamite pic.twitter.com/2ARzAOd74C
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) January 26, 2023
AEW has released a Jay Briscoe memorial shirt, and all proceeds will benefit the Pugh family. More information is available here.
A donation page for the Pugh family can be found here.
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