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Cody Rhodes became the first-ever AEW TNT Champion tonight at All Elite Wrestling Double Or Nothing in Jacksonville, FL.
Rhodes defeated Lance Archer in the finals of the tournament, and was presented the new title by Mike Tyson.
The reception of the title wasn’t positive, with many fans wondering why it wasn’t as appealing as other championships in the company.
During the broadcast it was revealed that the title is not finished, and will still receive gold plating.
According to Fightful Select, All Elite Wrestling had legitimate issues getting the title properly plated due to the limitations caused by the ongoing pandemic.
Many business in the United States that specialize in plating are reportedly unable to fulfil requests.
.@MikeTyson has arrived and is ready to present the #TNTChampionship to either @CodyRhodes or @LanceHoyt.
Who takes the win?Order Double or Nothing NOW on all major cable & satellite providers / @BRLive / @FITETV (Intl Fans Only) #AEWDoN pic.twitter.com/QQG0OvoCEb
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) May 24, 2020
Ron Edwardson of RED Leather produced the belt, and made a comment on Facebook indicating the upgraded version of the title will bit “more flashy”.
The V2 will be a bit more flashy and with a relief piece. That’s about all I’ve got – stay tuned.
He also spoke on the challenges getting belts plated.
Platers are only working skeleton crews and only on emergency equipment. So the V2 will have nickel and gold plating added as well as another surprise.
Edwardson was also commissioned to produce the AEW Tag Team Championship titles.
The side plates on the belt are an ode to the original home of Turner Broadcasting, known as “Tara On Techwood”.
During a post-event media scrum, Cody revealed the final version of the belt may be ready as early as this Wednesday on AEW Dynamite.