ROH is making a return to the iconic Hammerstein Ballroom this Friday for Final Battle 2024, marking the company’s final pay-per-view of the year. The Hammerstein has been a historic venue for Ring of Honor, hosting numerous unforgettable events, including past editions of Final Battle.
Speaking on Busted Open Radio, ROH World Champion Chris Jericho shared his thoughts on the event and the possibility of tapping into ROH’s rich history. However, Jericho made it clear that he’s more focused on the future than dwelling on nostalgia.
“I’m not a nostalgia guy,” Jericho said. “Maybe you might want to bring in some guys that used to work there, but a lot of those guys are still in the business. Maybe Bryan Danielson or somebody like that. Whoever is out there that would stop by.”
Instead of focusing on the past, Jericho emphasized the importance of what ROH is building now. “To me, it’s more about what we’re doing now with Ring of Honor. There is a lot going on that is in the works with television and that sort of thing. We’re trying to put as much focus on the Ring of Honor brand as we can.”
Jericho, who won the ROH World Title on the October 23rd episode of AEW Dynamite in a ladder war against Mark Briscoe, sees his role as helping elevate the brand across AEW’s platforms.
“As Ring of Honor Champion, I’ve been on Ring of Honor three weeks, it’s the most press and the most focus the Ring of Honor brand has had on Dynamite in months, if not years, probably since the last time I was Ring of Honor Champion,” he explained. “Tony has a plan for what he wants to do with it and I’m happy to be involved.”
Jericho expressed pride in promoting Final Battle on Dynamite, highlighting how it helps bring attention to the ROH brand while balancing his roles across AEW’s shows. “That’s kind of my role in the company, doing whatever it is Tony wants me to do, to the best of my abilities, and having a great time doing it.”
As ROH gears up for a monumental night at the Hammerstein, fans are left wondering what the future holds for the brand and its champion.
What do you think about ROH’s return to Hammerstein and Chris Jericho’s role in the brand’s evolution? Share your thoughts in the comments below!