This was a stacked event that delivered high-stakes drama, international flair, and some serious in-ring fireworks.
🔥 MLW Blood & Thunder 2025 – Full Review
📍 Location: St. Petersburg, Florida
📺 Streamed on: MLW’s YouTube channel
🎙️ Commentary Team: Christian Cole, Joe Dombrowski, Saint Laurent
🏆 MLW World Heavyweight Championship
Matt Riddle (c) vs. Donovan Dijak
This was the long-awaited rematch after CONTRA Unit disrupted their first bout. As it would seem, they disrupted this one as well when Mads Krule Krugger was spotted standing over Riddle’s lifeless body. Dijak was having none of this and it turned into a fight that spanned the rest of the show in the back. It culminates with Dijak throwing Krugger off the rooftop and Kruger disappearing.
🏅 2025 Opera Cup Opening Round Matches
Mistico vs. Ikuro Kwon
Mistico, the 2024 winner, was out for revenge against Kwon, who had stolen his mask and disrespected his legacy. This was a fiery lucha-style bout with high emotion and crisp execution. Mistico overcame Kwon’s mind games and advanced. This was for real one of the matches of the night for me. Mistico is the heads on favorite here and this is obviously his crowd. Kwon didn’t let the lights blind him and put in some phenomenal work tonight.
Satoshi Kojima vs. Bobby Fish
A clash of veterans and styles. Kojima’s power met Fish’s technical precision. The pacing was deliberate, but the strikes were stiff and the psychology tight. Kojima picked up the win, proving he’s still elite. Kojima being a friend of the show and page, I’m obviously thrilled he picked up the win here. Glad to see him showered in bread as well. These supporters really pay attention to details.
Bishop Dyer vs. Anthony Greene
Dyer, one-half of the World Tag Champs, looked to establish singles dominance. Greene brought agility and unpredictability. This was a sleeper hit — Greene’s antics kept the crowd engaged, but Dyer’s brute force won out.
💥 Featured Matches
Shotzi vs. Ava Everett
A showcase of charisma and chaos. Shotzi’s wild energy clashed with Everett’s cunning. This was more storyline-driven, with Everett trying to escape Shotzi’s relentless offense. Shotzi got the win, but Everett’s antics hinted at future drama.
Paul London vs. Neon – 10-Minute Lightning Match
A sprint with no filler. London’s veteran savvy met Neon’s flash. The match was fast, fun, and ended with Neon sneaking a win in the final seconds — a great way to spotlight rising talent. Glad to see London continue to look crisp and clean in the ring.
Scramble-6 Match
Mads Krule Krugger vs. Matthew Justice vs. CW Anderson vs. Okumura vs. Mr. Thomas vs. Ariel Dominguez
This was pure chaos. Bodies flying, alliances shifting, and no shortage of wild spots. Justice and Krugger stood out, but Dominguez stole the win with a surprise roll-up. A crowd-pleaser with replay value.
🎭 Backstage Drama & Storyline Progression
- Salina de la Renta & Cesar Duran: A tense segment involving family secrets and a mysterious pregnancy added soap opera flair.
- Mr. Thomas & Alex Kane: Teased tension ahead of their Opera Cup clash, but emphasized loyalty — for now.
⭐ Final Thoughts
Blood & Thunder 2025 was a strong outing for MLW, blending international talent, tournament prestige, and compelling storytelling. The Opera Cup continues to elevate the brand, and the World Title scene feels genuinely competitive. Production was slick, pacing was tight, and the roster depth is impressive.
You can watch the full event on MLW’s YouTube channel.
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