Category: NXT

  • Adam Cole Currently Wrestling With An Injury

    Adam Cole Currently Wrestling With An Injury

    Despite recently wrestling in two main event matches against high-caliber opponents, it turns out that NXT Champion Adam Cole is competing while injured.

    According to PWInsider, Cole has been dealing with a fractured wrist. He recently wrestled against SmackDown’s Daniel Bryan last week on SmackDown. Cole also competed this Monday on RAW against former-Universal Champion Seth Rollins.

    Cole was reportedly injured in September and had subsequently missed several NXT Live Events because of it. WWE revealed that Cole had a right arm fracture during an NXT storyline with Matt Riddle. He was featured in their NXT Injury Report, which is usually used for storyline purposes. It turns out, however, that he has unfortunately been suffering from a legitimate injury.

    Survivor Series

    WWE’s November pay-per-view, Survivor Series, will see NXT compete against Superstars from RAW and SmackDown. This is the first time that the black-and-gold brand has been involved with the event.

    Although he has competed against top talent, Cole has yet to be scheduled for a match at Survivor Series. It is not known at the time of writing whether he will be taking any time away from the ring in order to allow the fracture to heal.

    His Undisputed Era stablemates, Bobby Fish and Kyle O’Reilly, are scheduled to compete in a Triple Threat Tag Team match. They face off against fellow tag team champions, RAW’s Viking Raiders and SmackDown’s The Revival.

  • Rhea Ripley Talks What Got Her Hooked On Wrestling

    Rhea Ripley Talks What Got Her Hooked On Wrestling

    Rhea Ripley will captain a team at Takeover: War Games in Chicago this month. The 23-year-old appeared on Lillian Garcia’s podcast recently and talked about how she got into wrestling, training at the PC, and more.

    Ripley mentioned it was some family friends she used to go to concerts with who got her into wrestling.

    “Same family friends that were in the mosh pit with me actually, they watched wrestling before me because it was very hard to watch wrestling in Australia,” Ripley said.

    “I was doing sports so I didn’t really have time to watch wrestling but they introduced it to me by actually showing me a video of Triple H and Ric Flair and Triple H shoved the screwdriver in Ric Flair’s head and he’s like bleeding everywhere and I’m like ‘this is so cool,’” Ripley said. “It got me so amped and hyped.”

    She would then say she knew at around 10 years old that she wanted to be a wrestler. There were plenty of people around here who didn’t feel she could do it, however, but she only took that as motivation.

    “Everyone was like ‘oh you like wrestling, it’s silly, it’s fake, you can’t do that’ and I’m like ‘watch me,’” Ripley continued. “Even family members, they were like ‘why would you want to do that? That’s silly you will never make it to WWE’ and I’m like ‘where am I now?’ Please tell me I can’t do something.”

    Ripley also talks about how the Performance Center has improved her confidence and more. The full interview can be viewed in the player below:

  • NXT Injury Report For This Week

    NXT Injury Report For This Week

    Every week since debuting on the USA Network, NXT has released an in-storyline injury update. 2 wrestlers are listed on the report this week. Dakota Kai and Kyle O’Reilly both sustained injuries, though neither is considered serious.

    Dakota Kai took green mist to the face from Asuka this week on NXT. She is reported to have been dealing with vision problems after the show and had to have her eyes flushed out. More serious for Kai, however, is that her knee was hyperextended in the match and she is now listed as “questionable” for next week.

    Kyle O’Reilly is listed in the report as having suffered a bruised eye. His injury is not considered serious, however, and it does not appear he will miss any time.

    The full episode of WWE Now can be viewed in the player below:

    NXT Injury Report Update

    2 wrestlers were listed as injured last week. Johnny Gargano is still not cleared to compete but Cameron Grimes, who was listed as day to day last week, did compete this week against Tyler Bate.

  • Finn Balor Claims Nobody Watched NXT After He Joined WWE’s Main Roster

    Finn Balor Claims Nobody Watched NXT After He Joined WWE’s Main Roster

    Finn Balor recently returned to WWE’s black-and-gold brand NXT. In an interview with TV Insider, Balor reflected on his return to the show. He claimed that he’s not just a part of NXT, he is NXT, stressing that nobody watched the show after he left for WWE’s main roster.

    “I’m not part of this brand. I am the brand,” Finn said. “When Finn’s gone, nobody is watching. When Finn’s there, everybody is watching. We talk about Johnny Gargano, the heart of NXT. He is this NXT darling. He was champion for 57 days. Finn Balor was champion for 292 days, so if the heart of NXT was a 57-day champ, there are some big issues.”

    He explained how the shackles have been on him for too long, and he was forced into a little box on the main roster. Now, however, he is free.

    “The shackles are completely off,” he said. “I’m going to go back to what I like to do, which is just being myself and going out there no holds barred and have a little fun.”

    Balor remained coy when asked if the WWE Universe will ever see The Demon again. He teased that fans were about to see a whole new side of him, adding that it’s going to be a wild ride.

  • WWE NXT Results & Live Coverage (10/30)

    WWE NXT Results & Live Coverage (10/30)

    The October 30th, 2019 edition of WWE NXT aired on the USA Network from Full Sail University in Winter Park, FL.

    – This week’s broadcast opens up with a live musical performance by band called Poppy, and a video package looking at last week’s episode and Finn Balor’s actions at the end of the show. Io Sharai comes out to the ring first tonight, and her entrance music is also performed by Poppy.

    Io Sharai vs. Candice Lerae: The bell sounds and they got at it with lots of action in the opening moments. They fight out to ringside and Shirai and LeRae both hit suicide dives back and forth. Back in the ring, Shirai controls the pace now as fans duel chants. Shirai keeps control with a series of kicks. Candice finally starts fighting back and rolls up Shirai for a two count. Candice continues the offense and hits an enziguri. Candice appears to be bleeding from her nose. Shirai blocks a suplex and they scramble on the apron. Candice blocks a German suplex attempt, then she elbows Shirai into the ring. They fight up to the top turnbuckle and Shirai shoves Candice down to the ringside floor. Back in the ring, Shirai looks for an armbar but can’t get it. Shirai brings a steel chair in the ring, but the ref takes it, and they argue now. This leads to Candice rolling up Shirai from behind for a two count. Candice slams Shirai and Shirai lands on the chair. Candice looks for a moonsault, but Shirai rolls out of the way and Candice lands on the chir by himself. This leads to Shirai getting the three count on Candice.

    Winner: Io Shirai

    – After the match, Shirai beats down Candice until Rhea Ripley runs in for the save. Ripley chases out Shirai, and Shirai retreats up the ramp.

    – Mauro Ranallo, Nigel McGuinness and Beth Phoenix are shown at the announce table discussing tonight’s show. They hype up The Undisputed Era vs. Matt Riddle & Keith Lee in a non-Title match as tonight’s main event.

    – Mauro sends us to a video package looking at Finn Balor’s heel turn last week, and reactions to it.

    – Back from the commercial break, we see a video package looking at Damian Priest defeating Pete Dunne two weeks ago. They have a rematch booked for next Wednesday.

    – Finn Balor comes out to the ring to a mixed reaction from the crowd. Balor steps in the ring and gets on the mic. Balor says it’s funny how things change. He mentions taking a loss to “The Fiend” Bray Wyatt recently. Balor talks about his jump to NXT, and he says he became the hottest hing in the business. Balor says there are too many fans in the NXT locker room though, and they should be sitting in the crowd instead of being in the ring. Balor says he doesn’t watch this business, the business watches him. Balor brings up Johnny Gargano, and congratulates him on getting out of the hospital after last week’s attack. Balor says he might send Gargano back, and force him to change his nickname to “Johnny Watches Wrestling.” Balor drops the mic and heads to the back.

    – We go to a video package looking at the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions and their time in NXT.

    Bronson Reed vs. Shane Thorne: The opening bell sounds and Thorne starts off strong with a big dropkick. Thorne follows up with some strikes and a cannonball splash in the corner. Reed fights back and hits a cannonball splash of his own on Thorne. They trade chops in the middle of the ring as this one turns into an all out brawl. Reed gains momentum after a clothesline, and follows up with a German suplex on Thorne. Reed goes up top, but Thorne runs up and nails him with an enziguri. Thorne looks for a Frankensteiner, but Reed blocks it and dumps Thorne down to the mat. Reed follows up with a big splash off the top for the three count.

    Winner: Bronson Reed

    – Tegan Nox and Dakota Kai are backstage for an interview with Cathy Kelley. They talk about being nervous for tonight’s Tag Title shot, but say they’ll bring the fight to the Kabuki Warriors. Nox says there’s no better way to win the Tag Titles than with her best friend.

    – They roll a video package looking at Mia Yim in NXT.

    The Kabuki Warriors (c) vs. Tegan Nox & Dakota Kai: The WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships are on the line in this one. The fans chant “welcome back” at Kairi and Asuka. Asuka and Nox start off, and Asuka controls the opening moments of this one. Sane tags in and lays into Nox with a series of strikes. Nox finally fights back, and they trade big strikes in the middle of the ring. Nox dropkicks Kairi and then gives Asuka one too. The fight spills out to ringside, where the Kabuki Warriors get the upper hand. Back in the ring, with some help from Nox, Kai starts mounting a comeback. Kai gets in lots of offense on Asuka, until Asuka manages to dump Kai out to ringside. Back in the ring, Asuka connects with several kicks and then applies a leg lock. Kairi tags in and hits a knee strike for a two count. Asuka and Sane continue to trade tags to keep control of the match. Nox finally gets the hot tag, and Asuka tags in at the same time. Nox unloads with offense and hits a chokeslam on Asuka. Nox runs corner to corner with shots on both Kairi and Asuka. Nox hits a flying crossbody off the top on Asuka for a two count. Nox misses a kick and Asuka applies a knee bar. No reverses it into an armbar on Asuka, but Kairi breaks it up. Kai runs in and takes out Kairi. Asuka hits a German suplex on Nox, but then Nox comes back and boots Asuka in the face. Kai appears to be selling a knee injury now. Kai gets the tg and hits a running big boot on Asuka. Kairi causes a distraction, allowing Asuka to spit the green mist in Kai’s face. Kairi tags in and drops Kai, and Asuka runs over and knocks Nox off the apron. Kairi goes up top and hits the flying elbow drop for the three count.

    Winners & still Champions: The Kabuki Warriors

    – After the match, Marina Shafir, Jessamyn Duke, and Shayna Baszler come out. The Kabuki Warriors head to the back, as the MMA Horsewomen get in the ring. Shafir, Duke and Baszler start beating down Kai and Nox. Rhea Ripley comes out and interrupts, but then Io Sharai comes out of nowhere and blindsides Ripley. Sharai and Ripley brawl all over ringside now. Bianca Belair and Candice LeRae also run out to the brawl. When the dust settles, it’s down to Ripley and Baszler in the ring, and they start throwing strikes. Security and others run down to break it up. NXT GM William Regal appears with a mic an says the only solution for a conflict with this many people, is WarGames. Regal announces the first ever women’s WarGames match, as the brawling continues in the ring. The two sides are separated and we go to commercial.

    – Back from the break, we see a replay of the women’s WarGames match being set up by William Regal.

    Tyler Bate vs. Cameron Grimes: The opening bell sounds and they lock up. The opening moments of this one are pretty evenly matched back and forth. Bate fires up with a couple of dropkicks that send Grimes out to ringside. Bate looks for a dive, but Grimes blocks him and takes him down to the mat. Grimes hits a Carolina Reaper on Bate for a two count. Bate fires back with European uppercuts and a dropkick. Bate hits a standing shooting star press for a two count. Bate takes Grimes back down with a hurricanrana for another two. Bate looks for the Tyler Driver, but Grimes blocks it. They trade strikes now, then Grimes hits a running cross body for a two count. Bate fires back with a lariat for a two count of his own. Grimes escapes another Tyler Driver attempt, then they fight on the apron. Grimes elbows Bate in the face, then Bate clotheslines Grimes to the floor. Bate hits a big suicide dive, then taks Grimes back in he ring. Killian Dain appears at ringside and distracts Bate. This leads to Grimes hitting the double stomp for the three count.

    Winner: Cameron Grimes

    – After the match, Dain hits the ring and beats down Bate. He takes Bate out to ringside and beats him down on the floor. Cain hits a cannongball splash on Bate up against the ring steps. Dain yells at Bate that he has unfinished busness with his friend.

    – The Undisputed Era is shown backstage warming up.

    – We see a video package looking at Angel Garza in NXT.

    – Cathy Kelley is backstage, and she informs us that Rhea Ripley and Shayna Baszler will be the team captains for the women’s WarGames match. She says they’ll have more updates soon.

    The Undisputed Era vs. Matt Riddle & Keith Lee: Kyle O’Reilly and Bobby Fish are representing the Era in this one. The opening bell sounds and O’Reilly and Fish take out Riddle first, then they go after Lee. Lee manages to fight off both Era members, then he levels Fish with a big shot in the middle of the ring. Lee continues to avoid the double team, and he knocks O’Reilly out to the ringside floor. Fish rolls outside to regroup. Riddle gets back up and drops O’Reilly at ringside, then he sends Fish back in the ring. On Fish’s way back in the ring, he runs into a big shoulder tackle from Lee. Riddle tags in and continues the offense on Fish. O’Reilly comes over, but Lee and Riddle tee off on him. Riddle hits a jackhammer on Fish as we go to commercial.

    Back from the break, Riddle is controlling the pace against Fish. Fish finally fights back, and O’Reilly gets the tag. Fish and O’Reilly trade frequent tags now to keep Riddle grounded. Riddle finally comes back with a sleeper on Fish, but Fish fights him off and drops him. O’Reilly looks for a big boot on Riddle, but Riddle ducks, and O’Reilly accidentally hits Fish. Riddle fights off O’Reilly and then he looks to tag in Lee, but Fish runs around and pulls Lee off the apron before he can tag. This leads to O’Reilly going back to work on Riddle now.

    Riddle finally fights back again with kicks and knee strikes, but then O’Reilly shuts him down again with a brainbuster. O’Reilly looks for a submission on Riddle, as Fish hits Lee on the apron again. Fish tags in, but Riddle fights off the double team, and Lee gets the hot tag. Lee cleans house and launches both Era members through the air. Lee misses a moonsault from the top, and the Era starts fighting back now. Lee lifts up O’Reilly dead weight and powerbombs him. Riddle and Fish tag in at the same time and Riddle starts cleaning house with strikes. Riddle hits a suplex on Fish, and then gives one to O’Reilly. Riddle continues the offense, and hits a big German suplex on Fish. Roderick Strong and Adam Cole run down to ringside and hop up on the apron now, but Riddle knocks them both off. Riddle hits a twisting moonsault on the Era members at ringside. Back in the ring, Fish at Riddle go at it and Riddle hits the Ripcord knee. Lee then hits a big Pounce on Cole at ringside, sending Cole crashing into Strong on the floor. Meanwhile in the ring, Fish and O’Reilly hit the Total Elimination on Riddle for the three count.

    Winners: The Undisputed Era

    – After the match, The Undisputed Era stands tall and holds all their Title belts in the air. They beat down Lee and Riddle until Tommaso Ciampa comes out and interrupts. Ciampa runs down and starts nailing people with his crutch. Ciampa starts dropping all of the Era members now, and then Riddle and Lee get up and join in. Riddle hits hte Final Flash on O’Reilly, then Lee launches O’Reilly out of the ring and onto the other Era members at ringside. Ciampa looks at Cole’s NXT Title belt and says “Daddy’s going to war.” Cole grabs his Title belt and the Era heads up the ramp, as Ciampa, Lee and Riddle stare them down from the ring.

  • Jordan Myles Releases T-Shirt With Proceeds Going To Charity

    Jordan Myles Releases T-Shirt With Proceeds Going To Charity

    Jordan Myles (formerly known as ACH) is selling a new t-shirt on Pro Wrestling Tees. He has also announced that proceeds from the sale of the shirt will be donated to the ADAA (Anxiety and Depression Association of America) Foundation.

    Myles posted the following to Twitter to announce the news:

    https://twitter.com/GoGoMyles/status/1189546771837603840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1189546771837603840&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ewrestlingnews.com%2Fnews%2Fjordan-myles-selling-new-shirt-on-pro-wrestling-tees-proceeds-go-to-anxiety-and-depression-charity

    Anxiety and Depression Association of America Mission Statement

    “ADAA’s mission focuses on improving quality of life for those with anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and co-occurring disorders through education, practice, and research.”

    “ADAA helps people find treatment, resources, and support. ADAA strives to improve patient care by promoting implementation of evidence-based treatments and best practices across disciplines through continuing education and trainings and accelerating dissemination of research into practice.”

    More information on ADAA’s work can be found here.

    Jordan Myles Statement On Instagram

    Myles released the following statement yesterday on Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4M0wPeJxlh/?utm_source=ig_embed

    Both Booker T and Titus O’Neil commented on the situation recently as well.

    “I AM 100% in agreement that the shirt is very Distasteful,” Tweeted O’Neil. “That being said, bringing others into this to vent your frustrations or Issues THAT HAVE NOTHING to do with @WWE or the shirt is also very Distasteful. If it’s #ForTheCulture Don’t attack those in it!!”

    Booker posted the following video to his official YouTube channel:

    https://twitter.com/GoGoMyles/status/1189547680197988353
    https://twitter.com/GoGoMyles/status/1189563853350285314
  • Jordan Myles Issues Statement Regarding Recent Comments

    Jordan Myles Issues Statement Regarding Recent Comments

    Jordan Myles has issued a statement on Instagram in regard to the recent controversy he’s been involved with. In the statement, Myles expresses that he has been lied to, used, and mistreated by people he considered associates.

    Myles’ full statement can be viewed in the Instagram post below:

    “My tweets yesterday were completely disrespectful and were unprofessional,” Myles begins his statement. “I have offend a ton of people and used anger to fuel me.”

    Myles would continue to say in his statement, however, that he is angry with how he has been treated and that anger has been building in him.

    “With that being said.. I’d like to take this time to state an apologize for not giving a shit about what others think of me. The anger I have inside of me has been built up for years now. Call me what you want, but you’ll never EVER be able to call me fake I’ve been lied too, used, and often mistreated by others who I viewed as associates. I’ve tipped toe around, kept quiet, even took some Ls when necessary.”

    Myles would continue to talk about how being presented with the t-shirt design brought up past emotions for him dating back to his time in other wrestling promotions.

    “Emotionally charged up due to the shirt which triggered past emotions. I’m never going to be sorry for being me nor will I take back my words.”

    “For 4 years .. I gave my all to a promotion only to find out that you could only reach so high just as long as you didn’t surpass certain ‘people’”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4M0wPeJxlh/
  • Jordan Myles: “WWE Doesn’t Care About Black People” (Video)

    Jordan Myles: “WWE Doesn’t Care About Black People” (Video)

    NXT Superstar Jodan Myles has released a brief video statement claiming, “WWE doesn’t care about black people.”

    The video appears to be a response to WWE’s reaction to the controversy surrounding Myles’ racially-insensitive t-shirt design.

    WWE’s Defense

    Over the weekend, WWE sent a statement to various media outlets claiming that Jordan Myles approved the t-shirt design in question. The company wrote, “As always, we work collaboratively with all of our performers to develop logos and merchandise designs and get their input and approval before proceeding. This was the same process with Albert, and we responded swiftly once he later requested that the logo/t-shirt be redesigned. No t-shirts were sold.”

    Jordan Myles Not Buying It

    Myles has not taken kindly to WWE’s position. Based on the video below and his subsequent tweets, it’s clear Myles believes that WWE’s attitude towards African Americans runs much deeper than the t-shirt design in question.

    https://twitter.com/GoGoMyles/status/1188830667238457345
    https://twitter.com/GoGoMyles/status/1188831013184720896

    Myles has also been conversing with fans on Twitter about the situation. In response to someone who pointed out that WWE claims he approved the t-shirt design, Myles says he was uncomfortable with it his “hands were tied” since Triple H liked it.

    https://twitter.com/GoGoMyles/status/1188829526727577605

    He provided this “receipt” showing that Triple H was directly involved in the t-shirt’s design and requested that the Jordan Myles logo be more “teethy.”

    https://twitter.com/GoGoMyles/status/1188830062570823680

    We’ll keep you updated on this developing story.

    https://twitter.com/GoGoMyles/status/1188393687983759360
  • WWE Releases Statement Over Jordan Myles T-Shirt Controversy

    WWE Releases Statement Over Jordan Myles T-Shirt Controversy

    WWE has released an official statement regarding their controversial t-shirt for NXT Superstar Jordan Myles (formerly known as ACH). The promotion claims that Myles was well-aware of the shirt as Myles “approved this t-shirt for sale.”

    WWE added they work collaboratively with their Superstars and ensure to get “input and approval” before proceeding with any merchandise.

    The full statement reads:

    “Albert Hardie Jr. (aka Jordan Myles) approved this t-shirt for sale. As always, we work collaboratively with all of our performers to develop logos and merchandise designs and get their input and approval before proceeding. This was the same process with Albert, and we responded swiftly once he later requested that the logo/t-shirt be redesigned. No t-shirts were sold.”

    #ForTheCulture

    Myles took to his Twitter account over the weekend to bring attention to the racially-insensitive design. He accompanied his tweet with a caption reading:

    “I will keep posting this till my voice is heard. I’m not sorry for anything I say or do. Representation is important. If this is @VinceMcMahon & @TripleH “vision” of me then this is a slap in the face to EVERY African American performer, fan, and supporter.”

    https://twitter.com/GoGoMyles/status/1188393687983759360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1188393687983759360&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fs46315.p1736.sites.pressdns.com%2Fjordan-myles-calls-out-wwe-over-controversial-t-shirt-design%2F

    He then urged fans to protest the design and WWE’s mentality by turning their profile pictures black and white and using the hashtag “#ForTheCulture.”

    https://twitter.com/GoGoMyles/status/1188515132839727105

    The Superstar recently won the NXT Breakout Tournament earlier this year. He defeated Cameron Grimes in the finals, earning himself an NXT Championship match. Myles would subsequently lose in that matchup against current NXT Champion Adam Cole.

  • Finn Balor Comments On The O.C, Attack On Gargano, & WWE’s “Main Roster”

    Finn Balor Comments On The O.C, Attack On Gargano, & WWE’s “Main Roster”

    Finn Balor’s heel turn and attack on Johnny Gargano Wednesday night on NXT continues to be one of the hotter topics in wrestling today. Balor was confronted at an airport recently by reporters for TMZ wanting answers on why he attacked Gargano. Balor was flying in for his appearance on WWE Backstage Friday night.

    “A long time coming,” Balor said regarding his attack on Gargano.

    “Time to shake the trees and see what falls out,” he responded when asked why he did it. “Am I a bad guy? Or do I just do bad things sometimes? I don’t know, you tell me. Lines are blurred in this day in age, we don’t know what’s going on.”

    Balor was then asked if he feels he’ll end up on the main roster again someday.

    “What do you mean ‘main roster’?” Balor asked. “Wherever I am is the main roster, brother.”

    Balor was also asked if he might team up with his former stablemates in the O.C but neglected to give a firm answer.

    “What, Orange County?” Balor responded. “Everybody wants to do something, everybody wants to do something with Finn.”

    The full conversation with Balor can be viewed in the player below:

  • Jordan Myles Calls Out WWE Over Controversial T-Shirt Design

    Jordan Myles Calls Out WWE Over Controversial T-Shirt Design

    Jordan Myles (previously known as ACH) has called out Triple H and Vince McMahon over the controversial design of his merchandise.

    Myles tagged both Triple H and Vince McMahon in the below Tweet critical of the design of his merchandise:

    https://twitter.com/GoGoMyles/status/1188393687983759360

    The design of the Jordan Myles t-shirt is drawing comparisons to a similarly controversial Gucci sweater. The company’s wool balaclava jumper was black in color and had a neck that could be pulled up over the person’s face which featured an image of red lips. Gucci discontinued the sweater after it was criticized for resembling blackface.

    https://twitter.com/089968Raph/status/1188435515969822721

    MVP Offers To Help

    MVP asked Myles to call him in response to the thread.

    Jordan Myles in NXT

    Jordan Myles won the NXT breakout tournament earlier this summer. The finals of the tournament were held before Takeover: Toronto II in August. Myles defeated Cameron Grimes in the finals. He would then lose an NXT Championship match to Adam Cole on a future episode of NXT.

    Myles has been wrestling on the NXT live event schedule as of late and has been teaming with Kushida and Keith Lee on recent cards.

  • NXT To Hold All-Women Event In December

    NXT To Hold All-Women Event In December

    While a second WWE Evolution PPV is not currently in the works, NXT evidently has plans to throw an all-female event in December. NXT held a house show in Jacksonville, Florida last night and NXT Women’s Champion Shayna Baszler announced the news. Baszler also informed the live audience that her championship will be defended on the show.

    The all-women NXT event is scheduled for December 5th in Jacksonville. There is currently no word regarding if the special will air on the Network.

    https://twitter.com/orinanne/status/1187891572190470144

    As for who Baszler will defend her title against, there are a few possibilities. Rhea Ripley defeated Bianca Belair In the opener of NXT on USA this week. Other contenders in the division, Io Shirai and Candice LeRae, also got involved in the match. Shirai and LaRae will meet in singles action next week.

    The next contender for Shayna Baszler’s NXT women’s championship will then likely come down to Rhea Ripley and the winner of Io Shirai vs Candice LeRae on next week’s show.

    The WWE women’s tag team championships are also playing a role on NXT these days and could potentially be defended on the December 5th all-female show as well. Next week on NXT, Tegan Nox and Dakota Kai will challenge Asuka and Kairi Sane for the championships. Nox and Kai earned the right to challenge the Kabuki Warriors by defeating Jessamyn Duke and Marina Shafir last week.

  • Finn Balor On Heel Turn: “The Prince Is Back”

    Finn Balor On Heel Turn: “The Prince Is Back”

    Finn Balor shocked the world on Wednesday night when he attacked Johnny Gargano following NXT on USA this week. Balor closed the show standing tall over Gargano and 2 days later appeared on WWE Backstage last night with Renee Young and Booker T.

    “Felt good making a return, felt good. It felt better kicking Johnny Gargano in the head,” Balor said. “It felt good standing back up, seeing him on the ground, seeing the people speechless, that felt good.”

    “I feel like maybe I haven’t been true to myself for a long time,” he continued.

    Renee Young then mentioned that several wrestlers from a “particular club” have been talking about Balor’s actions from Wednesday. She asked Balor if he’s had a chance to speak with any of his former stablemates.

    “I’ve spoken to a lot of people. Seems like I’m a popular guy this week,” Balor responded.

    “This is the real Finn Balor. You’re a big fan of my work from before WWE, right?” Balor then asked Booker. “Let’s just say the Prince is back.”

    The full interview with Finn Balor, Booker T, and Renee Young can be seen in the player below:

  • Update On NXT Moving Out Of Full Sail

    Update On NXT Moving Out Of Full Sail

    WWE is considering moving NXT’s weekly television show out of Full Sail Live, the host venue from Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida. The campus location is a cost-effective venue for NXT but the small crowd size has some feeling as though taking the brand on the road might be a good idea.

    According to a report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, WWE is considering bringing NXT on the road Wednesday nights from time-to-time but keeping Full Sail as their main venue.

    “There is talk going around that they will continue to use Full Sail, just not every week, with the idea of doing some shows live at Full Sail and some in arenas outside Florida,” wrote Dave Meltzer. Bringing NXT on the road would not begin until 2020, however.

    “They’ve been talking to arenas for television starting in January,” Meltzer continued.

    NXT at Full Sail University

    In September, WWE and Full Sail announced they had extended the partnership together.

    “WWE (NYSE: WWE) and Full Sail University have expanded their partnership as NXT will now emanate weekly from Full Sail Live and air on Wednesday nights live on USA Network at 8/7c starting September 18,” a press release reads. 

    “With the latest announcement of NXT emanating from Full Sail Live each week and airing on the USA Network, we look forward to the expanded learning opportunities this will provide to our students,” said Full Sail University President, Garry Jones.

  • NXT Injury Report

    NXT Injury Report

    Following a notable episode of NXT this week, WWE published an episode of “WWE Now” with injury updates on several wrestlers from the brand. NXT has been releasing these storyline injury reports since debuting on the USA Network.

    According to this week’s report, Johnny Gargano was transported out of Full Sail following this week’s NXT and taken to a “local medical facility” for further testing. He underwent a CT scan to rule out head trauma or spinal injuries as a result of Finn Balor’s attack. He’s currently not medically cleared to compete.

    Cameron Grimes is listed as day-to-day coming out of his loss to Matt Riddle this week. Grimes is said to have suffered a left hip-pointer in the match. NXT officials are confident Grimes will be ready to compete come next Wednesday, however. He’s been scheduled to face Tyler Bate on the show.

    The full episode of WWE Now can be viewed in the player below:

    NXT Next Week

    The following matches are scheduled for NXT next week:

    • Candice LeRae vs Io Shirai
    • Tyler Bate vs Cameron Grimes
    • WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships
      The Kabuki Warriors (c) vs Dakota Kai & Tegan Nox

    Dakota Kai and Tegan Nox earned their title shot against the Kabuki Warriors by defeating Jessamyn Duke and Marina Shafir this week.

  • WWE NXT Results & Live Coverage (10/23)

    WWE NXT Results & Live Coverage (10/23)

    The October 23rd, 2019 edition of WWE NXT on the USA Network took place at Full Sail University in Winter Park, FL.

    – This week’s broadcast opens up with a video package looking at what happened on last week’s show. Mauro Ranallo welcomes us to the arena, and we go to the ring

    Bianca Belair vs. Rhea Ripley: They lock up off the opening bell and test their strength in the opening moments. They trade takedowns, and then fight into the corner. Rhea goes up top, but Bianca throws her down to the mat, then stomps on her. Rhea starts fighting back, and they charge towards each other and collide in the middle of the ring. Rhea connects with a big boot to the face now. They fight briefly spills out to ringside, and Io Sharai runs out and hits a cheap shot on Rhea. Candice Larae runs out for the save and she takes out Sharai. Back in the ring Rhea hits the Rip Tide for the three count.

    Winner: Rhea Ripley

    – We go to the announce table, where Mauro promotes tonight’s main event for the NXT North American Title.

    – Pete Dunne and Tyler Bate are interviewed on their way into the building. Dunne says he’s got revenge for Damien Priest, and he’s not concerned about Killian Dain.

    – Back from the break, we see a video looking at Tommaso Ciampa’s return.

    – Tyler Bate is shown sitting at ringside in the crowd.

    Matt Riddle vs. Cameron Grimes: Grimes looks for his running stop off the opening bell, but Riddle dodges it. Riddle looks for the Final Flash, but Grimes avoids that one. They start trading shots now, and Riddle gets the upper hand. Riddle connects with kicks, and hits an Exploder for a two count. Riddle continues the offense with more strikes. Grimes tries to mount an offense, and they trade kicks now. Riddle hits the Bro 2 Sleep, but can’t get the three count. Grimes fights back and then climbs to the top rope, but Riddle cuts him off and superplexes him for a two count. Riddle hits the Floating Bro for another two count. After a series of counters and roll-up attempts, Riddle fires up with a flurry of moves on Grimes for the three count.

    Winner: Matt Riddle

    – After the match, Riddle wants a fist bump, but Grimes declines and Riddle leaves Grimes gets into it with Tyler Bate at ringside now, and Bate drops Grimes with a punch to the face.

    – We see a replay of The Forgotten Sons beating Breezango a couple weeks back.

    – Dominik Dijakovic is shown backstage warming up for his match tonight. In an interview, he talks about his return from injury and it’s time for him to fulfill his destiny.

    – Mauro shows us a video of NXT GM William Regal announcing that Asuka and Kairi Sane will be defending their WWE Tag Titles next week against the winners of tonight’s women’s tag team match.

    Breezango & Isaiah “Swerve” Scott vs. The Forgotten Sons: After a little confusion over who is going to start in this match, Swerve and Ryker start going at it. Fandango tags in next and Ryker overpowers him. Cutler tags in to continue the offense. Fandango fights back and sends both Forgotten Sons outside to regroup. Ryker tags back in and works over Breeze in the corner now. Blake and Ryker trade tags now to double team Breeze. Ryker misses a shot and hits the ring post, then Breeze dumps Cutler out to the floor. Blake runs in and stops Breeze from tagging out. Breeze finally breaks free and Fandango gets the hot tag. Fandango unloads with strikes on Blake now. Cutler tags himself in and starts working over Fandango, until Scott tags in and he hits a big cross body on Cutler. Cutler and Scott brawl in the ring now, but things quickly spill out to ringside and the Forgotten Sons triple-team Scott off the turnbuckle. Back in the ring, Breeze breaks up the pin. Scott starts fighting off all three Forgotten Sons, then he goes up to the top rope, but Ryker cuts him off. Scott knocks Ryker down to the apron and stomps him, then he springboards off Ryker to hit Cutler and Blake on the ringside floor. Back in the ring, Breezango hits double superkicks on Ryker. Fandango and Ryker go at it now, then Scott and Cutler tag in. Breeze runs in to prevent the double team, and the aprons clear as this one starts to fall apart. When the dust settles, it’s down to Scott and Blake, and Scott connects with a big kick to the head for the three count.

    Winners: Breezngo & Isaiah Scott

    – We see The Undisputed Era backstage, and then a pre-taped promo from Roderick Strong. Strong says he knows Regal is trying to screw him over, but he’s at his best when the lights are on, and tonight he will show why he’s Undisputed.

    – Cruiserweight Champion Lio Rush comes out, and it looks like he’ll be joining the commentary team.

    – We see a pre-taped segment with Killian Dain somewhere standing next to a fire. Dain is wrapping tape around his fingers. He says last week Pete Dunne tried to break his fingers, and now he’s going to break Dunne.

    Angel Garza vs. Jack Gallagher: Gallagher tries to shake Garza’s hand, but Garza isn’t interested. They lock up and trade takedowns and arm holds in the opening moments. Gallagher pulls off Garza’s pants, and he’s still wearing his trunks underneath. Garza fires back with a dropkick, then hits a suplex and a big boot for a two count. Jack starts fighting back and hits a suplex of his own. They trade submission attempts on the mat, until Garza launches Gallagher out to the ringside floor. Back in the ring, Jack fires back with a headbutt. Garza fires back with a slam from the corner, then he hits a springboard moonsault for the three count.

    Winner: Angel Garza

    – Garza and Rush have a stare down from the ring to the announce table after the match.

    Tegan Nox and Dakota Kai vs. Marina Shafir and Jessamyn Duke: This one is a #1 contenders match for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles. Duke starts off strong with a big kick on Kai for a two count. More strikes in the corner from Duke, then Shafir tags in. Duke and Shafir trade frequent tags now to continue the offense on Kai. Kai finally fights back, dropping Duke on the apron, and then hitting a big boot on Shafir. Nox gets the hot tag and unloads with offense on both opponents. Kai connects with a bicycle kick on Shaif, then Nox hits the Shiniest Wizard on Duke. Nox covers for the three count.

    Winners: Dakota Kai & Tegan Nox

    – After the match, WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Asuk and Kairi Sane appear on the big screen and taunt the new #1 contenders. They laugh and say Nox and Kai don’t have a chance.

    – Keith Lee is shown backstage warming up for his match. They show a pre-taped promo of Lee talking about his opportunity tonight, and says he’ll do anything it takes to win.

    Keith Lee vs. Dominik Dijakovic vs. Roderick Strong (c): This one is a triple threat match for the NXT North American title. Strong rolls out to ringside right off the opening bell. Lee and Dijakovic follow, and they surround the Champion. Strong starts brawling with them, and the fight spills back into the ring. Lee starts taking control of this one, working Dijakovic and knocking Strong out to ringside. Strong recovers and dumps Lee out to ringside. Strong takes Dijakovic to the top rope and hits a superplex for a two count. Strong controls the pace for the next several moments, and he keeps preventing Lee from getting back in the ring. Dijakovic starts fighting back against Strong now, and he superkicks Lee on his way back in the ring. Dijakovic picks up Lee and slams him on top of Strong for a two count. Dijakovic misses a shot in the corner and Lee catches him, but then Strong runs and hits a dropkick, knocking both Lee and Dijakovic out to ringside. Strong and Dijakovic start fighting on the top turnbuckle now, then Lee runs in and powerbombs Dijakovic while Dijakovic superplexes Strong off the top. All three men slowly fight back to their feet, and Strong starts getting the upper hand. Strong hits an Olympic Slam on Lee for a two count. The fight spills out to ringside, and Lee hits a pounce on Strong. Lee and Dijakovic have a stare down on the floor, then they get back in the ring and start trading stiff strikes. Dijakovic hits a chokebomb from the top for a two count. They fight out to ringside again, and this time Lee hits a suicide dive. Lee brings it back in the ring and hits a sit-down powerbomb off the top. Before Lee can pin, Strong runs in and boots Lee in the face, then immediately rolls up Lee for the three count.

    Winner & still North American Champion: Roderick Strong

    – After the match, the rest of the Undisputed Era members come out to the ring to celebrate. They start beating down Lee, then Tommaso Ciampa comes out to interrupt, and so does Johnny Gargano. The fans chant “DIY” as Ciampa and Gargano come face to face in the ring. Ciampa and Gargano stand directly across from the Undisputed Era, and then Finn Balor comes out too. Balor steps in the ring, but then Balor nails Gargano with a kick to the head out of nowhere. The Undisputed Era jumps Ciampa and beats him down now. Gargano rolls out to ringside, and Balor follows. Balor dropkicks Gargano into the fan barricade, and the barricade breaks apart and knocks over some planted fans sitting behind it. Balor then brings Gargano over to the ramp, and hits a big DDT on the ramp. The Era stands tall in the ring while Balor stands on the ramp looking down at Gargano, and NXT goes off the air.

  • The Street Profits Share An Emotional Goodbye To NXT (Video)

    The Street Profits Share An Emotional Goodbye To NXT (Video)

    Former NXT Tag Team Champions The Street Profits have said farewell to the black-and-gold brand. The team, comprised of Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford, shared an emotional goodbye to NXT during a show in Vancouver.

    WWE NXT’s Twitter account uploaded a video capturing Dawkins’ message to the fans, accompanied by the caption:

    “The #StreetProfits’ @AngeloDawkins had an emotional goodbye to the #NXTUniverse in #NXTVancouver with @MontezFordWWE by his side. #WeAreNXT”

    In the video, Ford reminded his tag team partner of his seven-year journey to the main roster. The crowd then start a “You deserve it” chant causing Dawkins to break into tears.

    “I ain’t really good at goodbyes either,” Dawkins confessed. “But…as we all know saying from the bottom of our hearts: everybody in here is NXT!

    The team were recently drafted to Monday Night RAW after weeks of cameo appearances and backstage segments.

    The decision to feature them was apparently the idea of RAW Executive Director, Paul Heyman. He is reportedly a fan of The Street Profits work and sees mainstream potential in them for the main roster.

    During last week’s episode of RAW, the Street Profits were beaten down by The O.C. in a backstage segment, suggesting a big feud for them out the gate.

  • NXT Star Removed From WWE Roster

    NXT Star Removed From WWE Roster

    NXT Star Kacy Catanzaro’s profile has been removed from the roster page on WWE.com, suggesting that the female star is no longer with the company.

    There were some reports about Catanzaro suffering a back injury in September last year and it was said that the NXT star was looking to leave the company due to it, though she was still under contract at the time.

    Her boyfriend Ricochet had also commented on the matter shortly after the news came in saying that she was not injured and there is nothing wrong with her.

    Kacy Catanzaro took part in a WWE tryout back in January 2017 and in August, WWE announced that they have signed the female star to a development contract.

    She reported to the performance center in January 2018 and made her in-ring debut for the promotion during an NXT live event on April 19, in Sanford, Florida.

    Kacy then took part in the second Mae Young Classic tournament where she defeated Reina Gonzalez in the first round of the competition but lost to Rhea Ripley in the second round.

    While her removal from the WWE website suggests that the wrestling star is no longer with the company, so far there has been no official confirmation of the same. We will keep you posted on any further updates on the situation.

  • Velveteen Dream Dealing With Back Injury

    Velveteen Dream Dealing With Back Injury

    This week’s episode of NXT on USA Network has set up a new angle for Roderick Strong’s North American Championship. He was originally slated to defend against Velveteen Dream on next week’s episode of the black-and-gold brand. Instead, Dream has been pulled from the matchup after falling victim to a backstage assault at the hands of the Undisputed Era. 

    According to Dave Meltzer via the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the reason behind this decision is due to a back injury that Dream has been dealing with. He noted that Dream has been suffering from this injury for some time. It has since gotten severe enough that a decision had to be made to give him time to heal. 

    During this week’s episode of NXT, Dominik Dijakovic and Kieth Lee faced each other in a tie-breaker matchup. NXT General Manager William Regal added further stakes to their clash by announcing the winner would become the new number one contender for Roderick Strong’s North American Championship. Strong would eventually run out and cause a disqualification. Regal then informed him he would now be forced to defend his championship against both men in a Triple Threat match. This match takes place next week on NXT.

  • Viewership For AEW Dynamite & NXT TV (10/16)

    Viewership For AEW Dynamite & NXT TV (10/16)

    Viewership data has been released for the October 16th editions of AEW Dynamite on TNT and NXT on the USA Network.

    Week 3 of the Wednesday Night War is in the books and AEW was victorious once again in total viewers and the coveted Adults 18-49 demographic. Here is the breakdown of the live and same-night DVR viewership, courtesy of Showbuzz Daily:

    Dynamite

    AEW Dynamite on TNT averaged 1,014,00 viewers, down from last week’s 1,140,000 viewers (a total of the TNT and TruTV Simulcast).

    Dynamite did a 0.44 in the 18-49 demo, also down but close to last week’s 0.46. It ranked 5th on cable for the night.

    The show featured Chris Jericho defending the AEW World Championship against Darby Allin in the main event, Riho defending the AEW Women’s Championship, 2 AEW World Tag Team Champion Tournament first round matches and the hot Kenny Omega & Hangman Page vs. Jon Moxley & PAC tag match.

    NXT

    NXT on USA Network had 712,000 viewers, down from 790,000 last week.

    The show did a 0.20 in the 18-49 demo, down from 0.22 last week. It ranked 30th on cable for the night.

    NXT featured Pete Dunne vs. Damien Priest, Tommaso Ciampa’s in-ring return, the Keith Lee vs. Dominik Dijakovic rubber match and more.

  • Finn Balor Provides In-Ring Update, Sends Message To NXT Roster

    Finn Balor Provides In-Ring Update, Sends Message To NXT Roster

    The October 16 edition of NXT saw Finn Balor making a huge announcement regarding his in-ring status. He announced that the will be making his return to NXT after three years.

    Balor was last seen in the ring at SummerSlam where he was defeated by The Fiend on the PPV event.

    After his loss, Balor was not seen on WWE programming for a long time until the October 2 episode of NXT where he made his return to television much to fans’ surprise.

    Finn came out after Adam Cole had successfully defended his NXT Championship against Matt Riddle in the opening match of the night. He stared down Cole and exchanged words off-mic.

    Meanwhile, on the October 16 episode, a vignette featuring the former Universal Champion aired on the show where Finn Balor talked about his past and the upcoming future. He also sent a message to the entire NXT roster warning them about his return.

    “When your life comes to a crossroads, the only way to find a path to take is to revisit the ones you’ve walked before. How did you get here? Did your footsteps leave the world in a better place? Or did your missteps leave the world covered in darkness, egos, mistakes, errors? Re-trace your steps to find your heart. I have. Next week, my future will be my past.”

    WWE had officially moved Finn Balor from the SmackDown roster to NXT. The popular superstar returned to his former brand last week and faced off with Adam Cole.

    “In 2019, (Balor) returned to WWE NXT on the first-ever two-hour live episode on USA,” Balor’s bio now reads on WWE.com.

    It would be interesting to see who Balor would get involved in after his return to NXT. Adam Cole is the NXT Champion and judging by Balor’s last appearance on the show, he could be going straight for the title.

  • WWE NXT Results & Live Coverage (10/16)

    WWE NXT Results & Live Coverage (10/16)

    The October 16th, 2019 edition of WWE NXT on the USA Network took place at Full Sail University in Winter Park, FL.

    – Mauro Ranallo welcomes us to the show, and then Tommaso Ciampa comes out to the kick off the show. His singles match against Angel Garza is up first.

    Tommaso Ciampa vs. Angel Garza: Garza dumps Ciampa outside early on, then follows him outside. Ciampa takes control of the match at ringside, and slams Garza into the ring steps. Back in the ring, Ciampa follows up with a right hand to the face. Ciampa looks for the Fairytale Ending, but Garza escapes and drops Ciampa in the corner. Garza hits some kicks now and knocks Ciampa out to ringside again. Garza follows up with a suicide dive on Ciampa on the floor. Back in the ring, Garza hits the missile dropkick. Garza rips off his tear-away pants now and throws them at Ciampa. Ciampa throws them back at him, and stomps a mud hole in Garza in the corner now. Ciampa hits a running kick to the face of Garza, then dumps him outside. Ciampa picks up Garza’s Mexican flag, and he starts stomping on it in the corner. Garza gets on the apron, and Ciampa gives him a DDT through the ropes. Ciampa pins for the three count.

    Winner: Tommaso Ciampa

    – After the match, The Undisputed Era comes out and surrounds the ring. They give Mauro a USB drive at the announce table and tell him to look. Mauro says he’ll give that to the production truck.

    – Still to come: A message from Finn Balor.

    – Keith Lee is shown backstage listening to headphones in his locker room.

    – Back from the break, Mauro says they’re going to play the video from the Undisputed Era. They show a video of The Era members standing around The Velveteen Dream, who is laying unconscious. Strong yells at Dream, and they leave him laying. They say this is a warning to everyone who doesn’t take the Era seriously.

    Oney Lorcan & Danny Burch vs. Imperium: Aichner & Barthel are representing Imperium in this one. Wolfe is at ringside in their corner. Aichner and Burch start this one off locking up in the middle of the ring. Aichner throws Burch down, then Burch comes back with a running shoulder tackle. Lorcan tags in for the double team. Burch tags back in, but Aichner is able to fight them both off, then he tags in Barthel. Barthel hits a boot to the face, but then he misses a shot from the middle rope and Burch headbutts him. Burch hits a missile dropkick from the middle rope. Aichner tags himself in now and they double team Burch. Burch fights back and Oney gets the hot tag. Lorcan dumps both Imperium members out to ringside and hits a dive on them. Back in the ring, Burch tags in for the double team. They beat down Aichner and then hit a double powerbomb on him for a two count. Oney tags back in for another double team, but Barthel breaks it up. Aichner and Lorcan trade chops in the middle of the ring now. Aichner sends Lorcan into his own partner on the apron, then Barthel comes in for the double team on Lordan. Barthel hits a dive on Burch at ringside, then Aichner hits a springboard moonsault on Lorcan in the ring for a two count. Lordan starts fighting back now, but Imperium double teams him again and he’s down. They hit a version of the Doomsday Device with a flying European uppercut off the top, for the win.

    Winners: Imperium

    – Mauro sends us to a video package looking at Johnny Gargano and his past with Ciampa.

    – We see a clip of an interview with Johnny Gargano earlier today saying he’s not sure how he feels about Ciampa being back. He says he won’t know how he feels until he sees Ciampa face to face.

    – Dominik Dijakovic is shown backstage warming up.

    Io Sharai vs. Kayden Carter: Sharai and Carter trade holds and takedowns pretty evenly in the opening moments. Carter fires up with a dropkick that knocks Sharai out to ringside. Carter follows her out to ringside, but Sharai drops her on the apron. Back in the ring, Sharai hits a springboard missile dropkick for a two count. Carter comes back with a headscissor takedown and then a kick to the face for a two count. Sharai fires back with a German suplex. Sharai goes up top and hits a moonsault for the three count.

    Winner: Io Sharai

    – Sharai gets on the mic after the match. She seems to be calling out Shayna Baszler, but she gets interrupted by Rhea Ripley. Rhea gets in the ring and takes the mic. She says she’s going to put Bianca Belair in her place, but she has no problem shutting up Io too.

    – We see footage from last week of Killian Dain invading the show last week.

    – We see Boa warming up backstage and he talks trash in his native language.

    – William Regal is ringside for an interview. He says Dream won’t be medically cleared to compete next week due to the brutal beating from the Undisputed Era. He says Roderick Strong will still have to defend his North American Championship though, and he will do that against the winner of Keith Lee vs. Dominik Dijakovic.

    Dominik Dijakovic vs. Keith Lee: The winner of this one gets a shot at the North American Title. The opening bell sounds and the two men collide in the middle of the ring with a shoulder tackle, and neither man goes down. They collide in the ring several more times, and Dominik is first to drop down to a knee. Lee starts working over his arm now. Dominik starts fighting back with strikes now, and he levels Lee with a short arm clothesline for a two count. Dominik continues the strikes, and Lee starts coming back with some of his own. Dominik misses a kick, and Lee backs him into the corner with a series of punches. Lee hits a running splash in the corner, and then he slams Dominik down on the mat. Lee hits a running forearm shot, and then a running shoulder tackle for a two count. Dominik comes back with a Choke-bomb for a two count. Lee comes back with a double slap to the chest, which leads to a sit-out powerbomb. Dominik rolls out to ringside. Back in the ring, Dominik fights back with elbow shows. They trade strikes, then Dominik drops Lee with a boot to the face for a two count. Lee hits a stalling vertical suplex, then starts climbing the turnbuckle. Dominik runs up from behind, and he picks Lee off of the turnbuckle in the electric chair position. Lee turns this into a reverse hurricanrana for a two count. Dominik takes Lee up to the top turnbuckle now and he looks for a Frankensteiner, but Lee stops it. Roderick Strong runs in the ring now and nails Lee with the North American Title belt, then he drops Dominik.

    Winner: No contest

    – William Regal gets on the mic and tells Strong he’s not as clever as he thinks. Regal books Strong in a triple threat match against both Lee and Dominik next week, with his North American Championship on the line.

    – We see Pete Dunne backstage warming up.

    – Back from the break, we see The Undisputed Era backstage complaining to William Regal about his decision. Regal walks past them without talking to them.

    Matt Riddle vs. Bronson Reed: Riddle and Reed trade lots of strikes in the opening moments of this one. Reed misses on a German suplex attempt, and Riddle fires back with a flurry of kicks. Riddle hits an exploder suplex and a kick to the face for a two count. Riddle looks for a senton bomb, but Reed blocks with his knees, then hits a senton bomb of his own. Riddle comes back with the Bro To Sleep, then hits a powerbomb on Reed. Riddle follows up with a knee to the face for a two count. Reed fights back now and looks for a suplex, but Riddle reverses it into a sleeper hold on Reed. Reed throws Riddle down, then Reed misses a shot in the corner. This leads to Riddle hitting his version of the tombstone piledriver for the three count.

    Winner: Matt Riddle

    – Riddle and Reed fist bump after the match.

    – Still to come: Tegan Nox returns to action from the injured list.

    Taynara vs. Tegan Nox: Tegan starts off with a roll-up attempt on Taynara, then a series of arm drags and takedowns. Nox hits a single leg dropkick for a two count. Taynara fights back with a big boot, and Nox falls out to ringside. Back in the ring, Taynara continues the offense and starts working over Tegan’s shoulder. Taynara hits a running knee strike in the corner for a one count. They butt heds in the middle of the ring, then Tegan fires up with a series of strikes and a chokeslam. Nox hits a running elbow strike in the corner, and then a running senton bomb in the corner. Nox goes up top and hits a flying cross body on Taynara. Nox hits the Shining Wizard for the three count.

    Winner: Tegan Nox

    – After the match, Tegan Nox is ringside for an interview, but Shayna Baszler and the MMA horsewomen interrupt. Shayna tells Tegan that she doesn’t deserve to have a shot against her yet, and she needs to earn her show.

    – We see a video package from Finn Balor talking about coming to a crossroads in his career, and making some mistakes. Finn says he retraced his steps and found his heart, and next week his future will be his past.

    Boa vs. Killian Dain: Boa starts off with a kick right off the opening bell, and then connects with a flurry of strikes on Dain. Boa backs up for another running kick on Dain, and Dain rolls out to ringside. Boa follows him outside and charges, but Dain cuts him off with a running cross body. Back in the ring, Dain hits some elbow drops on Boa, then he takes him into the corner. Dain puts the boots to Boa until the ref calls for the break. Dain continues the offense and drops Boa with a lariat. Dain hits a fireman’s carry slam and then a senton splash. Dain goes to the middle turnbuckle and hits several Vader Bombs on Boa. Dain applies a half-nelson Camel Clutch for the win.

    Winner: Killian Dain

    – Mauro sends us to a video package looking at Lio Rush, and his recent NXT Cruiserweight Title victory.

    – Pete Dunne comes out for his match, but he gets into it with Killian Dain on the ramp when they walk past each other. Dunne grabs Dain’s fingers and pulls them, then referees separate them.

    – Rhea Ripley and Bianca Belair are booked in a singles match next week.

    Pete Dunne vs. Damien Priest: They lock up off the opening bell and start trading holds now. Priest hits a leaping back elbow strike. Dunne fires back with some kicks, but Priest drops him again with a shot to the face. They run the ropes and Dunne connects with a clothesline, and then he starts working over Priest’s arm. The fight spills out to ringside where Dunne continues working over Priest’s arm. They go up on the apron, and Priest fights back with a big boot now. Back in the ring, Priest drops Dunne with a right hand to the face. They fight up the turnbuckle, and Dunne superplexes Preist down to the mat. Priest and Dunne trade strikes now. Priest misses a shot in the corner, and Dunne hits a series of strikes, and then an enziguri. Dunne hits a missile dropkick off the middle rope. Dunne then hits a German suplex, and he stomps on the fingers of Priest. Dunne kicks Priest in the head, and Priest rolls outside to regroup. Dunne goes to the middle rope and hits a moonsault on Priest on the floor. Back in the ring, they fight on the turnbuckle again, which leads to Dunne hitting a sit out powerbomb for a two count. Dunne grabs Priest by the hands and starts stomping on him now, and Priest fights back with some up-kicks. Dunne fires back with an arm bar, and then a triangle, but Priest gets out. Priest hits an enziguri then he slams Dunne shoulder-first into the ring post. Priest follows up with the crucifix powerbomb for a two count. Dunne rolls out to ringside, and Priest leaps off the ropes with a swanton bomn on Dunne at ringside. Back in the ring, Priest goes for a German suplex, but Dunn lands on the feet and kicks Priest in the back of the head. They fight on the turnbuckle again, and Priest hits a cyclone kick. Priest follows up with a Frankensteiner, then he hits the chokeslam for a two count. Priest and Dunne trade strikes back and forth in the middle of the ring now. Priest looks for The Reckoning, but Dunne escapes. They continues to trade kicks now. Priest misses a shot and Dunne elbows him in the face. Dunne goes up top for a moonsault, but Priest gets his knees up to block it. Priest picks up Dunne, but Dunne grabs his hands and twists his fingers to get free. Priest hits what looks like a low blow on Dunne, but the ref didn’t see it. Priest then hits the Reckoning for the three count.

    Winner: Damien Priest

    – NXT goes off the air with Priest celebrating on the stage and Dunne recovering in the ring.

  • NXT Japan Rumored, WWE’s Talks To Purchase Pro Wrestling NOAH

    NXT Japan Rumored, WWE’s Talks To Purchase Pro Wrestling NOAH

    NXT Founder and Senior Producer Triple H has used the term “Global Localization” to describe the expansion of WWE’s NXT brands into several countries. One country long discussed as a potential future host of an NXT brand is Japan.

    According to a report from Wrestling Observer Radio, WWE attempted to purchase Pro Wrestling NOAH recently and use it as the foundation for a Japanese-based NXT territory.

    “They are definitely working on it,” Dave Meltzer said recently in regards to WWE looking to build an NXT Japan. “They’ve talked to a number of companies in Japan. They’ve attempted to buy some companies in Japan. I don’t know of any deals that have gone through. The ones I’ve heard about didn’t go through.”

    NXT Japan

    Meltzer continued, “They wanted to buy [Pro Wrestling] NOAH, it didn’t go through. There’s talk about different people being hired as Japanese trainers, big names. I don’t want to say until I get the names confirmed but there are definitely two names that are very big that have gone around as far as them hiring. Yeah, they want to do NXT Japan, absolutely. They’ve been making moves in that direction.”

    There were also reports earlier this summer that WWE was looking at creating an “NXT Canada” possibly using Santino Marrella’s school and promotion in Mississauga, ON, as its base.

    A big announcement regarding Japanese wrestling is expected on Friday.

  • Ricochet Shares The Scariest Moment Of His WWE Career, Who He’d Like To Feud With

    Ricochet Shares The Scariest Moment Of His WWE Career, Who He’d Like To Feud With

    WWE Superstar Ricochet recently divulged the scariest moment of his WWE career to date during an interview with Digital Spy. When asked, Ricochet shared that the double moonsault he performed off the cage during NXT: TakeOver WarGames last year is what sticks in his mind.

    “At that time I hadn’t done the double moonsault since about 2013, so it had been a while. I was like, ‘Man, can I even still do this?’ And it was so high. But when I got up there, I didn’t even think about it. I just kind of went and did it and you can’t practice it.”

    His athleticism has captured the imaginations of fans worldwide. His ability to fly, however, doesn’t come from a gymnastics background. Ricochet explained that his move set actually evolved through “trial and error.”

    His method of learning what would eventually become his in-ring style was perfected through this mindset. He admitted that “As a kid, there were a lot of shenanigans like jumping off something, or jumping out of something.”

    Championship Aspirations

    When asked over his current championship aspirations, the former WWE United States Champion confessed he’d like to reclaim that title. He also has an eye on the Intercontinental Championship.

    “I really enjoyed my United States Championship run. I feel like there’s still something there I could do with AJ [Styles]. I would also love to share the ring with Shinsuke [Nakamura] again, especially now he has the Intercontinental Championship, which has always been one of my favorite belts.”

    Despite championship ambitions, there are still a few Superstars that Ricochet would love to feud with if given a chance. He believes that, if given an appropriate amount of time, he and Cesaro would be “gold” in the ring. He also named Rey Mysterio as an opponent he’d love to wrestle, stating that “there’s something there between us and we could really do some good together.”

  • Mike Kanellis Has Harsh Words For Lio Rush, Rush Responds

    Mike Kanellis Has Harsh Words For Lio Rush, Rush Responds

    Lio Rush is the new NXT Cruiserweight Champion. He recently defeated Drew Gulak to claim the title as his own on an episode of NXT. Rush would take to Twitter to commemorate his victory, writing:

    “I’m the greatest Cruiserweight in the world right now and that’s an amazing feeling. Pound for pound. #ThatsFacts @wwenxt @usa_network @WWE @WWEPC”

    Not everyone was happy with Rush’s sentiment, however.

    WWE Superstar Mike Kanellis responded by telling Rush to “chill out,” explaining that there was an entire roster of worthy Cruiserweights who were grinding and working as Rush was “sitting at home for bad behavior.”

    In a now deleted tweet, Kanellis wrote:

    “You won 2 matches. Chill out. There’s an entire roster of Cruiserweights that we’re grinding and working their ass off for our Brand, while you were sitting at home for bad behavior. Let’s not act like you weren’t gift wrapped the cruiserweight championship.”

    Rush responded with the following:

    https://twitter.com/itsLioRush/status/1183868183956066305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1183868183956066305&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Foembedly.com%2Fembed.php%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Ftwitter.com%252FitsLioRush%252Fstatus%252F1183868183956066305%253Fref_src%253Dtwsrc%25255Etfw%25257Ctwcamp%25255Etweetembed%25257Ctwterm%25255E1183868183956066305%2526ref_url%253Dhttps%25253A%25252F%25252Fwww.mandatory.com%25252Fwrestlezone%25252Fnews%25252F1144314-lio-rush-to-mike-kanellis-i-get-your-anger-but-win-a-match-first

    Kanellis recently shared that he had formally requested his release from WWE. He released a statement on Monday explaining the reasoning behind his decision.

    Back in January both he and his wife, Maria, had reportedly asked for their releases from the company. They would then sign new deals in June that ensured they would be a part of the WWE roster for another five years. At the time of writing, there is no further information as to WWE’s response to Kanellis’ request.