Hey wrestling fans! Remember the buzz around All In? It was a massive independent wrestling pay-per-view, a real game-changer that proved the independent scene could hang with the big boys. But one question always pops up: how long was the All In pay-per-view?
It’s a valid question. When you’re settling in for a night of wrestling, knowing the approximate runtime helps you plan your snacks, bathroom breaks, and overall viewing experience. Plus, understanding the event’s duration gives you a sense of just how much action was packed into that single night.
In this article, we’ll break down the runtime of the original All In event, explore the factors that influenced its length, and compare it to other major wrestling shows. Let’s get started!
The All in Event: A Historical Context
Before we get to the specifics of the All In runtime, let’s refresh our memories about the event itself. All In took place on September 1, 2018, at the Sears Centre Arena (now known as the NOW Arena) in Hoffman Estates, Illinois. It was organized and promoted by Cody Rhodes and The Young Bucks, with the aim of creating a large-scale independent wrestling event.
This wasn’t just another wrestling show; it was a statement. It was a bold attempt to prove that independent wrestling could draw a massive crowd and generate significant revenue without the backing of a major wrestling promotion like WWE or Impact Wrestling. The event was a huge success, selling out the arena and generating significant buzz in the wrestling world.
The card featured a mix of established independent wrestling stars, popular wrestlers from Ring of Honor (ROH), and even some familiar faces from WWE. The main event saw Cody Rhodes take on the ROH World Champion, Jay Lethal, which was a significant match. Other notable matches included The Young Bucks vs. The Briscoes for the ROH World Tag Team Championship, and a six-man tag team match featuring Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks against Rey Mysterio, Bandido, and Rey Fenix.
The success of All In was pivotal. It demonstrated that there was a massive audience for high-quality wrestling outside of the established promotions. This event paved the way for the creation of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), a new wrestling promotion that has become a major player in the industry.
Key Matches and Their Impact
Let’s take a closer look at some of the key matches and their impact on the overall show:
- Cody Rhodes vs. Jay Lethal (ROH World Championship): This main event was a significant draw and a focal point of the event’s promotion. The match’s length and quality were crucial to the show’s overall success.
- The Young Bucks vs. The Briscoes (ROH World Tag Team Championship): This match was a must-see for fans of tag team wrestling. It was expected to be a high-energy, action-packed encounter.
- Kenny Omega, The Young Bucks vs. Rey Mysterio, Bandido, Rey Fenix: This six-man tag team match was a dream match for many fans, featuring high-flying action and incredible athleticism.
Each of these matches, along with the other matches on the card, contributed to the overall runtime of the pay-per-view. The length of each match, the number of matches, and any pre-show or post-show segments all added to the total viewing time. (See Also: How Is Wrestling Staged )
Determining the All in Pay-Per-View Runtime
So, how long was the All In pay-per-view? The total runtime of the All In event, including the pre-show, was approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. This is a significant amount of time, indicating a packed card with plenty of wrestling action.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
- Pre-Show: The pre-show, which featured a few matches and commentary, was approximately 30 minutes long.
- Main Card: The main card, which included the majority of the matches, lasted around 4 hours.
It’s worth noting that the actual match times varied. Some matches were shorter, while others went longer, depending on the story being told and the performers involved. The show’s flow was carefully managed to ensure a good balance between action and pacing.
Factors Affecting the Runtime
Several factors influenced the overall runtime of the All In pay-per-view:
- Number of Matches: A larger number of matches naturally results in a longer show. All In featured a substantial card, with several key matches that contributed to the overall viewing time.
- Match Lengths: The length of individual matches varied. Some were shorter, high-impact affairs, while others were longer, more strategic contests. The length of each match directly impacts the overall duration.
- Pre-Show and Post-Show Segments: Pre-shows often include matches, interviews, and commentary, adding to the overall runtime. Post-show segments, such as recaps or announcements, can also extend the viewing time.
- Commercial Breaks (If Applicable): While pay-per-views are typically broadcast without commercial breaks, any potential disruptions or delays can affect the overall duration.
Understanding these factors helps explain why the All In pay-per-view ran for a considerable amount of time. It was a comprehensive event designed to deliver maximum value to the audience.
Comparing All in to Other Wrestling Events
To put the All In runtime into perspective, let’s compare it to other major wrestling events:
Wwe Pay-Per-Views
WWE pay-per-views, especially the “Big Four” (Royal Rumble, WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Survivor Series), often run for a similar length or even longer. This is due to the larger number of matches, elaborate entrances, and extended pre-show and post-show segments. Many WWE events now stretch to 3.5 to 4 hours for the main card alone.
Aew Pay-Per-Views
Given that AEW was directly inspired by All In, it’s no surprise that their pay-per-views also tend to run for a similar duration. They typically feature a comprehensive card with several matches, leading to an overall runtime similar to or slightly longer than All In. AEW’s flagship pay-per-views, like Double or Nothing and All Out, frequently run around 4 hours or more. (See Also: Is Carmella Coming Back To Wrestling )
Roh Events
Ring of Honor events, while not always as long as WWE or AEW, still offer a significant amount of wrestling action. The runtime can vary depending on the card and the number of matches, but generally, ROH events are shorter than the major pay-per-views.
Here’s a table comparing the approximate runtimes of different wrestling events:
| Event | Approximate Runtime (Including Pre-Show) |
|---|---|
| All In | 4 hours 30 minutes |
| WWE Pay-Per-Views (e.g., WrestleMania) | 3.5 – 5 hours |
| AEW Pay-Per-Views (e.g., All Out) | 3.5 – 4.5 hours |
| ROH Events | 2.5 – 3.5 hours |
As you can see, All In’s runtime was in line with other major wrestling pay-per-views, offering a substantial amount of wrestling content for the audience.
The Impact of All In’s Length on the Viewing Experience
The length of a wrestling pay-per-view significantly impacts the viewing experience. A longer show allows for more matches and storytelling, providing a more comprehensive experience for the fans. However, it also requires more commitment from the viewers.
Here’s how the length of All In influenced the viewing experience:
- More Matches, More Action: The extended runtime allowed for a packed card with a variety of matches, catering to different wrestling preferences. Fans got to see a wider range of talent and wrestling styles.
- Storytelling Opportunities: A longer show provides more time for storytelling. This allowed for the development of feuds, character arcs, and exciting match build-ups.
- Commitment Required: A longer show requires a greater time commitment from the viewer. This means setting aside a significant block of time to watch the event.
- Pacing and Fatigue: Maintaining a good pace throughout the show is crucial. A well-paced event keeps the audience engaged, while a poorly paced one can lead to fatigue.
The organizers of All In did a good job of pacing the show and keeping the audience engaged throughout the entire runtime. The combination of high-quality matches, compelling storylines, and a well-managed flow made the All In pay-per-view a memorable experience.
The Legacy of All in and Its Duration
The All In pay-per-view was more than just a wrestling show; it was a cultural event. It demonstrated that independent wrestling could thrive on a large scale. The success of All In created a ripple effect throughout the wrestling industry, influencing the creation of AEW and inspiring other independent promotions to aim higher.
The duration of the event was a testament to its ambition and scope. It was a comprehensive offering designed to provide maximum value to the audience. The length, while demanding, allowed for a packed card with numerous exciting matches and memorable moments. (See Also: Are Wrestling Briefs Like Speedos )
The All In pay-per-view’s success and its runtime serve as a reminder of the power of independent wrestling and the passion of the wrestling community. It proved that fans were hungry for high-quality wrestling outside of the established promotions, and that they were willing to invest their time and money in such events.
The Lasting Influence
All In’s lasting influence on the wrestling industry is undeniable. Here’s a summary of its key impacts:
- AEW’s Formation: The event directly led to the formation of AEW, a major wrestling promotion that has challenged WWE’s dominance.
- Independent Wrestling’s Rise: All In proved that independent wrestling could draw large crowds and generate significant revenue. This inspired other independent promotions to aim for greater success.
- Increased Fan Engagement: The success of All In demonstrated the high level of fan engagement and enthusiasm for wrestling outside of the traditional channels.
- Changed the Landscape: All In has fundamentally changed the landscape of professional wrestling, creating new opportunities for wrestlers and fans alike.
All In was a landmark event that changed the wrestling world forever. Its length was an integral part of its success, allowing for a comprehensive and memorable experience for everyone involved.
Looking Ahead
The wrestling world continues to evolve, with new promotions, wrestlers, and storylines emerging constantly. The legacy of All In will continue to inspire and influence the future of professional wrestling. Future events will build on the foundation laid by All In, striving to deliver high-quality wrestling experiences that captivate audiences worldwide.
Final Verdict
So, there you have it! The All In pay-per-view, including the pre-show, clocked in at approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. This substantial runtime allowed for a packed card filled with exciting matches and memorable moments, solidifying its place in wrestling history.
The success of All In and its duration highlight the growing demand for high-quality wrestling outside of the established promotions. It was a monumental event that changed the wrestling landscape, paving the way for AEW and inspiring countless other independent wrestling promotions.
Knowing the length of the show helps you understand the commitment required to watch the event. It gives you an idea of the depth and breadth of the wrestling action that was packed into that single night. The success of All In is a testament to the passion of the wrestling community and its enduring love for the sport.
