Hikaru Shida to Defend AEW Title Against Rebel on Dynamite
A big match has been announced for AEW Dynamite this week. Reigning champion Hikaru Shida is set to go one-on-one with Rebel (not Reba). The match is the latest step in the long-running feud between Dr Britt Baker and the AEW champion.
The feud dates back to when Baker suffered a broken nose at the hands of the Japanese champion in 2020. Since then, Baker has clawed her way up the rankings, developing a strong heel character in the process. The title match between Hikaru Shida and Rebel is not really one that is going to have fans chomping at the bit to see, but the expectation of what will flare up either during or after will certainly set the tone ahead of Shida’s Double or Nothing clash with the good doctor.
Hikaru Shida is the longest-reigning champion in AEW and has held the belt for 359 days. The stage is set for Dr Britt Baker to win the crown at Double or Nothing. Expect to see a beatdown on Dynamite to help further establish Baker’s heel persona. There is also every chance that this match will result in a stipulation being set for the Double of Nothing clash.
Many fans would argue Rebel has earned a match against the champ. If not just for putting up with everything she does from the good doctor. While she has been used sparingly in the ring in AEW, Rebel has a wrestling pedigree and could pose an interesting challenge for the current champ.
Even if the result is already evident, it should be a good match. This has been a well-played feud and surely won’t be the last time this group face off.
