Grading the 9/4/18 Episode of 205 Live

On this week's episode of 205 Live, the likes of TJP, Gran Metalik, Tony Nese, Noam Dar, & Cruiserweight Champion Cedric Alexander were in action. The Cedric Alexander vs Drew Gulak rivalry was continued and the buildup for Cedric Alexander vs Buddy Murphy at the WWE Super Show-Down began.

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Tony Nese vs Gran Metalik

Gran Metalik and Tony Nese had an excellent match on 205 Live

Result: Gran Metalik defeated Tony Nese via pinfall with a rope-walking elbow drop.

Grade: A

Analysis: This was arguably the best match to kickoff 205 Live since Kalisto vs Lince Dorado in February and the gauntlet match in April. These 2 superstars arguably both have a similar style as both superstars incorporate high flying and power moves into their offense. A few botches from Gran Metalik stop this match from getting an A+.

However, Gran Metalik did not let these botches stop him from continuing to compete at a fast-paced level. This was an excellent back in forth matchup that had me at the edge of my seat. I was positive that Tony Nese would get the victory when he hit the 450 Splash and I was just as positive that Gran Metalik would gain the victory with the Metalik Driver.

While it would have been nice to see Tony Nese get a rare singles victory, it is nice to see Gran Metalik get a few wins, especially since he has recently been depicted as the weak link of the Lucha Houseparty. We will see if Gran Metalik will have similar success against Buddy Murphy next week.

Noam Dar vs Brian Kelly

Noam Dar easily defeated local competitor Brian Kelly.

Result: Noam Dar defeats Brian Kelly via pinfall with the NovaRolla while Lio Rush watched on from commentary.

Grade: B-

Analysis: While this match was a pretty basic match, it is nice that 205 Live is continuing to showcase Noam Dar. This means that Noam Dar is likely going to be pushed soon which is great considering how horribly he was booked last year.

It is also nice that WWE is starting a rivalry between Noam Dar & Lio Rush as both superstars may be a victory away from becoming #1 Contender for the Cruiserweight Title. A feud between these 2 superstars is questionable because both superstars could use a victory but I have no doubt that both Lio Rush & Noam Dar will benefit from this rivalry.

Cedric Alexander vs TJP

TJP nearly made the Cruiserweight Champion tap out.

Result: Cedric Alexander called out Drew Gulak but was interrupted by TJP. Drake Maverick then made an impromptu main event between Cedric Alexander and TJP. Cedric Alexander defeated TJP via pinfall with a variation of the Lumbar Check. Drew Gulak then attacked Cedric Alexander with some assistance from Jack Gallagher.

Grade: B+

Analysis: It was pretty obvious that Drew Gulak wouldn't come out when Cedric Alexander called him out. It was surprising that TJP got an opportunity to main event 205 Live given the fact that he has recently lost several matches.

However, he made the most of his opportunity. TJP might give Drew Gulak a run for his money as 205 Live's submission specialist. He locked in several submissions throughout this matchup. He also innovatively countered the Lumbar Check into a double wristlock. When the Fil-Am Flash locked in the kneebar and I was convinced that the Cruiserweight Champion would tap out before he reached the bottom rope.

Hopefully, TJP will be able to maintain the momentum he gained during this matchup. This matchup also put over the Lumbar Check as a finisher that Cedric Alexander can hit from anywhere. Drew Gulak's attack after the match was obvious but it really put over how dangerous the trio of Drew Gulak, Jack Gallagher, and the Brian Kendrick (who was absent from 205 Live for some reason) is to Cedric Alexander's championship reign.