Ring of Honor TV: Episode 448
By Dylan Hager
What is happening, Melvins?!
This week is all about Matt Taven!
This week starts with Taven talking about his 2016 injury and his return from said injury. Taven talks about his feud with Adam Cole, his run with the "Real ROH World Title," defeating Dalton Castle at Final Battle 2018, and going a full hour with Jay Lethal at the 17th Anniversary Show. Taven talks about winning the title at Madison Square Garden, and brings up his title defense against Mark Haskins....
ROH World Title: Matt Taven (c) vs Mark Haskins
This is from last years War of the Worlds tour event in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I'm so happy this match is being featured this week. It was one of my favorite matches of 2019 in any company, but I do not think enough people watched it for it to get the respect it deserves. Haskins started the match on fire, but Taven quickly turned the match around and went to work on the shoulder of Haskins. Taven almost picked up the submission win with an armbar, but Haskins was just able to reach the ropes. Haskins struggled to put on submission holds due to his injured shoulder. Taven hit "Just the Tip" for a two count. Taven hit the frog splash, but Haskins was again out at two. Mark Haskins just would not die. Taven went for the Climax, but Haskins countered into a sharpshooter. Haskins was super deep on the sharpshooter, but Bully Ray came down and distracted Haskins. Taven hit a low blow behind the ref's back, and Taven hit Climax for the win. LOVE this match! Taven and Haskins left it all in the ring. Haskins should his fire and determination. Taven showed great desperation. Ian and Colt were perfect on the call. Just absolutely great stuff. Winner: Matt Taven
Next Taven talks about his match with Ultimo Guerrero and his time in Mexico.
Matt Taven vs Ultimo Guerrero
This match if from a TV taping in New York City from June 2018. TK O'Ryan was at ringside with Taven. Match started out very back and forth. Taven picked up momentum on the outside of the ring, but Guerrero regained control inside the ring. Guerrero hit a Gordbuster from the middle rope for two. Taven came back with "Just the Tip" for a two count.Guerrero had Taven up for a move off the top rope, but he was distracted by Vinnie and his balloons. Taven hit the Climax for the win. Solid match. Winner: Matt Taven
We go to another video of Taven talking, but it is interrupted by a Vincent video. Vincent talks about beating Taven at Final Battle as the show goes off the air. Really good episode this week. I'm enjoying these episodes featuring a specific talent, but I am ready to see ROH resume their schedule!