The first episode of The Challenge All Stars 5 is officially here, and it brought all the drama, rivalries, and intense competition we expected. Rather than just summarizing what happened, let’s break down the 15 biggest takeaways from the season opener.
15. Opening Thoughts
This episode set the stage for what looks to be a thrilling season. Instead of diving straight into eliminations, we got a solid introduction to the cast and rival pairings. While the $300K prize pool seems a bit low for two winners to split, hints suggest that money could be stolen along the way. The format is still unfolding, but so far, the dynamics are already intense.
14. Adam & Steve: A Rivalry Worth Watching
TJ introduced Steve & Adam’s rivalry as Steve stealing Adam’s Star in All Stars 4, but the backstory runs deeper. Adam’s confessional comments about Steve were brutal, making it seem like Adam owes Steve an apology. Despite their history, this duo is a powerhouse—Adam’s cardio is insane, and Steve has proven his competitiveness. Their daily challenge win solidified them as contenders.
13. Jonna & Beth: A Nightmare Pairing
Jonna’s frustration at being paired with Beth is understandable. Their rivalry stems from Beth nearly ruining Jonna’s marriage, but beyond the personal drama, Beth is simply not a good competitor. She’s a social pariah and has never been a strong physical player. Jonna might be able to forgive, but winning with Beth? That’s another story.
12. Ashley & Dario: Exes Reunited
Ashley & Dario’s relationship fizzled out years ago, but the attraction is still there. Dario’s comment about the cast looking like a retirement home was a bold one—could this foreshadow an OG putting him in his place? As a team, they have potential; neither is a dominant threat, but they’re solid enough to avoid early elimination.
11. Nicole & Melissa: Chemistry & Chaos
Nicole Zanatta’s voice alone is divisive, but her reputation for infidelity might be even worse. Her history of cheating suggests trouble for her off-screen relationship, especially given Melissa’s undeniable appeal. This duo doesn’t feel like true rivals, but the tension is bound to bring entertainment.
10. Corey & Big T: Do They Belong?
Corey and Big T are talented, but they don’t quite fit the “All Stars” theme. Unlike the other OGs, they lack deep Challenge history. That said, they’re a capable pair who could sneak into the Final if they play their cards right.
9. Turbo & Nany: Time Bomb Duo
Turbo is both a physical beast and a walking disaster. His inability to take accountability and his aggressive personality make him a major wildcard. Nany, meanwhile, opened the season talking about winning for her future with Kaycee—who she has since broken up with. It’s not looking great for this pair.
8. Ashley & Aneesa: A Mismatched Duo
Ashley and Aneesa don’t have a long-standing feud, but their styles clash. Ashley’s aggressive, risk-taking gameplay is the opposite of Aneesa’s safer, more predictable strategy. History shows that Aneesa struggles in Finals, while Ashley has won before. Expect tension here.
7. Shane & Da’Vonne: A Volatile Pairing
These two had an ugly falling out during Final Reckoning, so seeing them back together is a surprise. Shane is a strategic mastermind, while Da’Vonne is a decent competitor with questionable endurance. If they can work together, they could be dangerous. If not? Expect fireworks.
6. Fessy & Amber: The Team to Beat?
Fessy and Amber’s pairing is intriguing. Fessy is the better overall player, but Amber has a Champion title and incredible endurance. If Fessy can guide them to the Final, Amber’s running ability could secure them the win. However, will the OGs target them before they get the chance?
5. Katie & Veronica: A Long-Overdue Pairing
Katie & Veronica were primed for Rivals 1 years ago, but we’re finally seeing them team up. While they’re legendary names, their competitive fire isn’t what it used to be. They might slide through the game simply because others see them as non-threats.
4. Devin & Leroy: Built for Success
As one of only two male-male teams, Devin & Leroy have an advantage. Devin’s puzzle skills complement Leroy’s physicality, making them early favorites. Given how the season seems structured, it feels like this season was made for them to win.
3. Sylvia & KellyAnne: The Ultimate Female Rivalry
Sylvia joining just three months after giving birth is insane. She looks great but might struggle with endurance. Her feud with KellyAnne is one of the best in recent memory, so this team will be fun to watch—if they don’t implode first.
2. Frank & Sam: A Brutal Test
Frank wants to prove he’s changed, but partnering him with Sam is a test of patience. He verbally tore her apart over a decade ago, and while he’s trying to be better, his frustration is already evident. If they want to survive, Frank needs to find a middle ground between ruthless competitor and supportive teammate.
1. Daily Challenge & Stars: Setting the Stage
The first daily challenge showed an imbalance—both male-male teams dominated. Adam & Steve and Devin & Leroy are clear threats, while Dario & Ashley K proved they can compete. Turbo & Nany finished in the middle, but Turbo’s volatile nature could put a target on them. With six of ten men already having Stars, the strategy for how Stars will be used remains a mystery.
Final Thoughts
The premiere of The Challenge All Stars 5 delivered in terms of drama, rivalry, and competition. The format is still unfolding, and the alliances and power struggles are already forming. If this episode is any indication, we’re in for a wild ride!
