Bandido left Paris with the ROH World Championship still in his possession after defeating Kofi at AEW Dynamite: Grand Slam France on October 6. However, an argument between Swerve Strickland and Adam Page at ringside added a chaotic twist to the closing moments.

Kofi earned his opportunity after beating ROH Men’s Pure Champion Lee Moriarty in a non-title match. The New Level member then set his sights on Bandido and the promotion’s top prize.

The contest began on a light-hearted note, with both wrestlers sharing a hug and showing off some dance moves before getting down to business. Kofi attempted a monkey flip, but Bandido landed on his feet. The challenger followed with a dropkick that sent the champion outside, where he continued his attack with another dropkick and a dive through the ropes.

Bandido fought his way back into the match once they returned to the ring, delivering a vertical suplex. Kofi responded with a Boom Drop, but his attempt to follow up with his finishing kick missed the mark.

The champion connected with a thrust kick and a diving tornillo for a near fall. Kofi answered with a springboard kick of his own, coming close to taking the title.

The challenger kept the pressure on by catching Bandido during a dive from the top rope and sending him into the turnbuckle with an SOS. A crossbody to Bandido’s back brought another two-count, but the champion stayed in the fight. A Blockbuster then left Kofi making his way towards the bottom rope.

Attention soon shifted to ringside, where Swerve Strickland and Adam Page became involved in a heated argument. The confrontation distracted the referee and the competitors, creating an opening for Bandido.

The champion seized his chance, hitting Kofi with the 21-Plex and securing the pinfall to retain the ROH World Championship.

Should Kofi receive another title opportunity after the ringside distraction? Let us know in the comments.