Cody is still the TNT Champion after defeating Jake Hager during night one of AEW's Fyter Fest - although it was far from a decisive victory.
Big Hurt came out strong, using his power and technique to keep Rhodes grounded with several submission attempts. Cody proved to be just as technically sound, though, and countered into a few holds of his own. After things broke down into more of a slufest, both Arn Anderson and Hager's wife got involved and this allowed The Inner Circle member to lock on his triangle choke. Cody managed to roll through, however, and pinned his opponent's shoulders to the ground for the 3-count.
Hager thought Cody had tapped out, and when he realized he'd actually been pinned he punched the referee out of frustration.
This was a terrific match (even if it was a little too short), and the slightly controversial finish does leave room for the feud to continue, but Hager has now challenged for both the AEW and TNT Championships and come up short - not exactly the best way to push someone you're supposed to be promoting as a near-unstoppable monster!
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