The D'Amore Drop: Experiencing WWE the day after the Montreal Screwjob

The Montreal Screwjob happened on a Sunday. My WWE tryout was scheduled for Monday. You can imagine how that unfolded.

When Samoa Joe captured the AEW World Heavyweight Championship at Full Gear on Saturday, it was one of those moments that initially leaves you stunned because it was so unexpected, and then you realize it fits perfectly. This victory marked the most shocking AEW world title moment since Jon Moxley's surprise win over CM Punk in 2022, even though that outcome had some foreshadowing on TV.

Joe defeating Hangman Adam Page left fans in awe, but his imposing presence and credibility in the ring immediately signaled: THIS is the new AEW World Champion. There is no period of adjustment with Joeno need for the audience to get used to him as champion. Simply placing the belt in his hands feels correct. No pyrotechnics, no locker-room celebration, just a bloodied but victorious Joe holding the title feels authentic.

AEW successfully presented Joe as a formidable force: the kind of competitor who will challenge you relentlessly in the ring. Outside the ring, he is friendly and approachable, yet nobody would want to cross him. Fans respond to authenticity, and Joe embodies it completely. Wrestling audiences follow characters that are true to themselves, and Joes ascent as AEW Champion will be met with that acceptance.

Joes rise is well-earned, following years of consistent, believable, and genuine performances in AEW. WWE missed an opportunity by not granting him a legitimate world title run despite his time in NXT. A babyface chasing a heel champion is generally easier to book, but now multiple wrestlers are chasing Joe, including Hangman Page, Swerve Strickland, and potentially MJF, with whom Joe has real history. Darby Allin is another wildcard for a possible long-term program.

Reflecting on history, I once convinced Joe to join TNA by revealing WWE's interest was purely defensive to prevent TNA from signing him. Years later, both Joe and CM Punk, two wrestlers TNA built its future around, are among the top world champions in wrestling today.

AEWs new developments are promising: Toni Storm and Mina Shirakawa are anchoring the women's tag division, Ricochet shows potential for 2026, and Kyle ORiley and Mark Briscoe are building momentum. Mercedes Mon has proven her professionalism in high-profile matches, further elevating AEWs credibility.

Meanwhile, WWEs Survivor Series has evolved over decades. The first Survivor Series took place on Thanksgiving, Nov. 26, 1987, predating both SummerSlam and the Royal Rumble. It originated as Vince McMahons counter to Jim Crockett Promotions Starrcade. Over time, the event incorporated different formats, including WarGames, which Dusty Rhodes created. The event continues to evolve with talent and audience expectations.

For many fans, Survivor Series recalls the infamous Montreal Screwjob in 1997, where Bret Hart was controversially stripped of the WWF title. Decades later, opinions remain divided, and the story continues to fascinate fans of all ages.

Personally, I experienced a WWE tryout the day after the Montreal Screwjob, arranged by Bret Hart and his trainer, Leo Burke. The atmosphere backstage was tense, and my tryout was largely ignored due to the events of the night before. It was a stark introduction to the politics and unpredictability of the wrestling world.

Other notable historical points include the debut of the Elimination Chamber at Survivor Series in 2002, attempts at Tuesday pay-per-views in the early 2000s, and the ongoing evolution of WWEs storylines, including John Cenas upcoming Intercontinental Title rematch with Dominik Mysterio.

The D'Amore Drop is a weekly column on Uncrowned by Scott DAmore, Canadian wrestling promoter, executive producer, trainer, and former wrestler. DAmore currently owns Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling and is recognized for his long tenure with TNA/IMPACT Wrestling as head of creative.

Commentary: Samoa Joe’s AEW Championship Victory and Wrestling’s Evolution

Samoa Joe's surprise win at AEW Full Gear was a moment that caught many off guard, but in hindsight, it felt inevitable. His victory over Hangman Adam Page for the AEW World Heavyweight Championship resonated with fans not just because of its shock value, but because of Joe's undeniable presence and credibility. AEW presented him not as an underdog, but as a champion who has always been deserving of the title. His post-match demeanor—bloodied but calm, without the theatrics of pyrotechnics or over-the-top celebrations—emphasized the authenticity of the moment.

Joe’s victory marks a significant turning point for AEW. Unlike other title reigns that require a period of fan acclimatization, Joe’s reign doesn’t need that. His no-nonsense persona and genuine aura have already made him a believable champion. Wrestling fans value authenticity, and Joe has always been someone who remains true to himself, both in and outside the ring. AEW’s treatment of Joe is a reminder that sometimes, the best champions are the ones who don’t need the bells and whistles—they let their work in the ring speak for them.

For years, Joe was overlooked by WWE in terms of a world title run, despite his success in NXT. Now, in AEW, the stage is set for new challengers, and the roster is filled with potential candidates eager to take on Joe. Wrestlers like Hangman Page, Swerve Strickland, and even MJF, with whom Joe shares a significant history, are primed to make their mark in this new chapter of AEW’s title picture. Joe’s reign is not just a title win; it's an era-defining moment that feels right for AEW’s future.

In the broader context of the wrestling landscape, AEW’s rise mirrors a long history of change and innovation. Just as WWE’s Survivor Series has evolved over decades, AEW continues to carve out its place in the modern wrestling world. With new developments in the women’s division, rising stars like Ricochet, and seasoned veterans like Kyle O’Riley building momentum, AEW is positioning itself as a company with a diverse and strong roster. Meanwhile, WWE continues to adapt, with upcoming events like John Cena’s rematch against Dominik Mysterio pushing forward the ongoing evolution of its storylines.

As the wrestling world evolves, both AEW and WWE are reflecting the changing tastes and expectations of fans. From historical moments like the Montreal Screwjob to modern-day victories, the industry continues to surprise, entertain, and adapt.

Sources:

• D'Amore Drop: What it's like to walk into WWE the day after the Montreal Screwjob