Swerve Strickland & AR Fox’s “Hell of War” Match: A Brutal Masterpiece
Before rising to prominence as “The Most Dangerous Man in AEW,” Swerve Strickland honed his skills throughout the 2010s, captivating audiences on the independent wrestling circuit. He consistently delivered standout performances at DEFY Wrestling events in his home state of Washington and tested his limits in the brutal world of Death Matches with CZW. A pivotal moment in his career came with his move to Boyle Heights, California, and his inclusion in the roster of Lucha Underground, where he became known as Killshot.
A Personal War in Lucha Underground
Killshot’s character was a military veteran haunted by the loss of comrades, carrying their dog tags as a constant reminder. This backstory became central to a deeply personal feud with Dante Fox (also known as AR Fox), sparked by a letter Killshot received from someone he believed had perished in battle. This rivalry unfolded across season three of Lucha Underground, culminating in a match described as the “Hell of War” – also known as “Three Stages of Hell.”
A Match of Three Falls
The “Hell of War” match was characterized by its extreme violence, exceeding even the standards set by both men’s previous experiences in CZW. It’s described as one of the most brutal wrestling matches ever televised. The contest was structured as a three-fall match, each stage escalating in brutality.
The first fall was a First Blood match, where Fox strategically sought a means to quickly cause bleeding, ultimately utilizing a large pane of glass. Killshot was the first to fall, losing the opening stage after going through the glass. The second fall was a No Disqualification match, allowing both competitors unrestrained freedom, resulting in Fox enduring brutal bumps on broken glass and a barbed wire board, allowing Killshot to secure the win.
The final fall, a Medical Evac match – essentially an extreme version of an Ambulance Match – reached a shocking level of intensity. The match concluded with a literal piece of Fox’s back being ripped off, highlighting the sheer brutality of the encounter. The match is considered by some to be the greatest in Lucha Underground history, leaving both competitors irrevocably changed.
Looking Ahead
The intense nature of the “Hell of War” match could have lasting implications for both Killshot and Dante Fox. This match served as a defining moment in their careers, influencing their future wrestling styles and character portrayals. Analysts expect that the physical and emotional toll of the match may have altered their trajectories within the wrestling world. A possible next step for both competitors could be a period of recovery and re-evaluation, potentially leading to new feuds or character developments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the significance of the dog tags carried by Killshot?
Killshot carried the dog tags of fallen comrades, representing his background as a military veteran and the emotional weight of loss.
What made the “Hell of War” match so brutal?
The match was described as one of the most brutal wrestling matches ever televised, featuring a First Blood match with glass, a No Disqualification match with barbed wire, and a Medical Evac match where a piece of Dante Fox’s back was ripped off.
What was the relationship between Killshot and Dante Fox before their feud?
Killshot believed Dante Fox had died in war, and the feud began when Killshot received a letter from Fox, revealing he was still alive.
Considering the extreme lengths these two competitors went to settle their score, what does this say about the power of personal narratives in professional wrestling?