ROH Final Battle saw several surprising returns including an AEW star’s much loved persona.
During the show at the iconic Hammerstein Ballroom in New York, QT Marshall faced Jay Lethal in a match that featured a tonne of surprises including an nWo style entrance, a WWE Hall of Famer and the return of the beloved character.
Marshall entered the historic venue for his match with a nWo influenced entrance theme complete with Macho Madness attire. However, the Macho Man Randy Savage tributes didn’t stop there as Lethal repirsed his Black Machismo gimmick much to the adulation of the crowd.
Accompanied by Karen Jarret dressed a Sensational Sherri, Lethal donned the colourful outfit for the first in a long time. Once the match got under way it was full of Mach Man inspired antics and also saw Jeff Jarrett make a surprise appearance to plant Aaron Solo with a guitar shot to the head.
Black Machismo RETURNS!
Watch #ROHFinalBattle on #HonorClub at https://t.co/8dcdtxqvDf@TheLethalJay | @QTMarshallpic.twitter.com/OIonhpy8NV
— ROH – Ring of Honor Wrestling (@ringofhonor) December 21, 2024
Lethal debuted The Black Machismo gimmick debuted in 2007 in TNA. The character was inspired after Lethal showcased an uncanny Randy Savage impression in backstage segments, which caught the attention of management, including TNA booker and producer Kevin Nash. Lethal’s portrayal of Savage included mimicking his mannerisms, voice, and iconic catchphrases.
Lethal has occasionally revived the Black Machismo character for special events, such as AEW’s All In event in 2018, where he came out dressed as Savage and performed as Black Machismo.
What Other AEW Stars Made Surprise Appearances At ROH Final Battle?
Several title matches took place at Ring of Honor’s Final Battle. One of the highlights was Lee Moriarty’s open challenge for the ROH Pure Championship. To everyone’s surprise, the challenge was accepted by ROH legend and former champion Nigel McGuinness.
Fans were astonished to see the ex-Pure Champion, who held the title for an impressive 350 days, make his entrance to confront Moriarty. Despite McGuinness’s valiant efforts, he couldn’t reclaim his former title, as Moriarty secured victory through submission. This loss marked the end of McGuinness’ unbeaten streak at the iconic Hammerstein venue.
McGuinness wasn’t the only star to make a return at ROH Final Battle. In the opening bout between Atlantis Jr. and Mansoor, a masked figure appeared from under the ring to deliver a surprise dick punch.