Posts Tagged ‘NXT Takeover: New Orleans’

5 Takeaways From NXT TakeOver: New Orleans

NXT TakeOver: New Orleans aired live tonight on the WWE Network from the Smoothie King Arena. Johnny Gargano battled Tommaso Ciampa to save his NXT Career. Ember Moon put the NXT Women’s Championship on the line against Shayna Baszler. 6 Superstars competed in a Ladder Match to determine the first NXT North American Champion. Undisputed Era defended their NXT Tag Team Championships against The Authors of Pain and Pete Dunne & Roderick Strong. Aleister Black challenged Andrade “Cien” Almas for the NXT Championship.

Here are 5 takeaways from NXT TakeOver: New Orleans:

Adam Cole Became The First-Ever NXT North American Champion

adam cole wins nxt takeover new orleans

The Ladder Match to crown the first-ever NXT North American Champion started off the show. EC3, Velveteen Dream, Adam Cole, Killian Dain, Lars Sullivan and Ricochet were the NXT Superstars in the match.

The crowd started chanting “this is awesome” before the match even started. EC3 immediately rolled out of the ring and then Adam Cole launched Ricochet out of the ring. Lars Sullivan and Killian Dain cleared the ring and had a stare down. EC3 started shouting at them to start fighting, Lars and Killian rolled out of the ring and started attacking everyone. Ricochet connected with an awesome springboard Shooting Star Press onto both Dain and Sullivan.

Ricochet brought a ladder into the ring but Velveteen Dream attacked him from behind. Ricochet planted him with a Hurricanrana, but Dream battled back and knocked him out of the ring. Dream climbed up the ladder but Cole got back into the ring and dragged him down. Cole stomped on Dream in the corner and then connected with an Enziguri to Dain to knock him off the ring apron. Cole started climbing up the ladder but EC3 stopped him and hit a Splash in the corner.

Lars Sullivan leveled EC3 with a Clothesline and then slammed Cole to the mat. Dain threw Lars out of the ring and connected with a massive Suicide Dive. Back in the ring, Cole and Ricochet traded shots. Dream dropped Ricochet with an uppercut as Dain beatdown Cole. Lars Sullivan launched a ladder onto everyone and then bashed Dain in the midsection with the ladder. Lars put the ladder over his head and started charging at everyone with it.

Sullivian lifted Dream up in the Gorilla Press and dropped Velveteen on a ladder in the middle of the ring. Lars started climbing the ladder towards the belt but Ricochet joined him up there. Ricochet went for a Sunset Flip Powerbomb but Lars held on. Dream, EC3 and Cole helped out Ricochet and Sullivan was Powerbombed to the canvas. Cole shouted “who do you think you are punk?!” at Dain and Killian took his head off with a Clothesline. Dain then slung Ricochet into a ladder set up in the corner. Dain made his way up the ladder but EC3 dragged him down and slammed him to the mat. Cole teamed up with EC3 and slammed the ladder into Sullivan in the corner.

EC3 and Cole set up a ladder from the ring apron to the announce table outside the ring. They threw Dain into the ladder and got back into the ring to continue their attack on Sullivan. Cole and EC3 high-fived each other and then EC3 mocked Cole’s chant and shouted “EC3 baybay!”. Cole slammed him on top of the ladder and then Superkicked everyone else in the match. Cole then shouted “Adam Cole baybay!” and the entire crowd chanted along.

Cole started climbing the ladder but Sullivan shoved it over. Dream bashed Lars with a ladder and then hopped up to top rope. Dream delivered a Purple Rainmaker Elbow to Dain and then followed it up with another one to Adam Cole. Dream climbed up to the top rope once again and and hit a Purple Rainmaker Elbow to the back of Ricochet. Velveteen struggled to set up the ladder and Sullivan shoved him to the corner with the ladder pressed up against his face. Sullivan then charged at Dream but Velveteen was ready and threw the ladder into Sullivan’s face.

Dream made his way up a bigger ladder set up in the corner as Sullivan was on the mat in the ring. Velveteen stood on top of the ladder and connected with a beautiful Purple Rainmaker Elbow to Sullivan as the crowd chanted “Velveteen!”. Dream started climbing up the ladder but EC3 snuck up from behind and Powerbombed him onto the ladder set up in the corner.

ECW hit Neckbreakers on Dain and Sullivan. EC3 made his way up the ladder but Cole brought him back down. Cole made his way up the ladder but EC3 lifted him up onto his shoulders and planted him with a TKO off the ladder. Dain got back into the ring and booted EC3 in the face.

Killian grabbed a ladder and dropped it on top of EC3. Dain then hit a Senton onto the ladder on top of EC3. Dain put the ladder back on top of EC3 and started climbing the turnbuckle. Cole joined up there but Dain fought through it and hit a Vader Bomb with Cole on his back on top of EC3 and the ladder.

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Ricochet hopped back in the ring and started kicking Dain and Sullivan. Lars grabbed him by the throat and launched him across the ring. Dain then grabbed Ricochet and launched him across the ring again and Ricochet fell out of the ring. Lars and Killian started trading massive punches in the ring. Dain connected with a boot and followed it up with a Clothesline to knock Sullivan to the mat. Dain charged at Lars but Sullivan caught him and slammed him down to the mat.

Lars started climbing the ladder but Ricochet attacked him from behind. Ricochet connected with a kick to the side of the head and made his way up the ladder. Lars grabbed the bottom of the ladder and started tipping it back. Ricochet then hit an absurd Moonsault off the ladder onto Cole and Dain on the outside of the ring as the crowd erupted into a “holy sh*t!” chant.

Back in the ring, EC3 perched Ricochet up on the top rope and hit him with a couple of chops. Ricochet booted EC3 onto a ladder and connected with another awesome Shooting Star Press onto EC3. Ricochet started climbing the ladder, but Dream dragged him back down. Dream tried to hit Ricochet with the ladder but missed. Dream set up a ladder between the turnbuckle and in between the rungs of another ladder. Dream started climbing up as Ricochet stood on the ladder set up on across the ring. Velveteen Dream then planted Ricochet with a rolling Death Valley Driver onto the ladder and then both Superstars crashed to the canvas.

Dream rolled out of the ring and Sullivan leveled him with a Clothesline. Lars placed Dream on the ladder set up between the ring and the announce table. Sullivan hopped up on the ring apron and then brought EC3 out there. Lars lifted EC3 up and planted him with a Freak Accident on top of Dream on the ladder and the ladder snapped in half as the three Superstars fell to the floor.

Dain set up another ladder between the ring and the barricade. Killian slammed Ricochet onto the ladder and then grabbed Adam Cole on the ring apron. Dain lifted Cole up and jumped onto Ricochet and once again a ladder snapped in half and the three Superstars crashed to the floor. The NXT crowd chanted “fight forever” as Sullivan was the first Superstar to make his way onto the ring apron.

Lars set up the ladder in the ring and started to climb towards the title suspended above the ring. Killian Dain climbed up the other side and the two started trading punches. EC3 got back into the ring with a ladder and struck them both with it. He then set up the ladder beside them as Cole crawled back into the ring. Cole, EC3, Dain and Sullivan were then all on the two ladders in the ring trading shots. Velveteen Dream got back into the ring and set up a third ladder in the ring.

Velveteen started climbing up the third ladder and then Ricochet joined the party and everyone was battling on the ladders. Cole climbed up behind EC3 and slammed him to the mat and they both fell out of the ring. Dream and Ricochet traded punches but Ricochet planted him with an avalanche Neckbreaker off the ladder. Dain and Sulivan then were the two Superstars left on the ladders. Sullivan planted Dain with a Freak Accident and once again Lars was the only Superstar left in the ring.

Sullivan started climbing up the ladder, but Ricochet jumped on his back and both Superstars fell to the mat as the ladder fell over. Ricochet made his way up the ladder but Adam Cole got into the ring and tipped it over and Ricochet fell out of the ring. Adam Cole then scaled the ladder and grabbed the title to become the first-ever NXT North American Champion.

Opinion: NXT TakeOver: New Orleans got off to an incredible start with this match. There is nothing to complain about here at all, the match was awesome and exceeded expectations. Ricochet made one hell of an NXT debut tonight and showed off his stunning athleticism. It is going to be difficult to top this one tonight. Cole will once again have to compete later in the NXT Tag Team Championship match because Bobby Fish is out with an injury. Give that man a raise.

Shayna Baszler Is The New NXT Women’s Champion

shayna baszler wins nxt womens championship nxt takeover new orleans

Ember Moon defended her NXT Women’s Championship tonight against Shayna Baszler. There was a live performance of Ember’s entrance music as the NXT Women’s Champion made her way down to the ring. Ronda Rousey and Jessamyn Duke were shown in the crowd cheering for Baszler and she came down to the ring.

Moon missed with a Dropkick to start off the match and Shayna leveled her with a right hand that knocked Ember out of the ring. Moon battled back and this time connected with a Dropkick that sent Baszler flying into the steel steps. Back in the ring, Moon applied a Crossface but Baszler quickly grabbed the ropes to break the hold.

Shayna brought Moon back outside the ring and slammed her face-first into the ring apron. Shayna then bashed her into the barricade and threw her into the ring. Baszler connected with a running knee and followed it up with a Gutwrench Suplex for a two count.

Ember flipped across the ring and delivered an elbow. Shayna connected with a knee to the face and then Ember went for a roll-up, but Shayna kicked out at two. Baszler then connected with a jumping knee to the face for another two count. Baszler went for the Kirifuda Clutch but Moon was able to escape. Moon planted Baszler with another Dropkick and followed it up with a Suplex.

Moon slammed Shayna face-first into the canvas for a two count. Shayna tried to stomp on Moon’s arm but Ember escaped and tripped Baszler down to the mat. Moon then trapped Shayna’s hand up her foot and stomped on Baszler’s elbow. Moon grabbed Shayna’s arm and slammed her to the mat for a two count.

Ember made her way to the top rope but Baszler bounced into the ropes and crotched Ember on the top rope. Baszler connected with a corner Dropkick and Ember got hung up in the ropes. Baszler was favoring her arm and then slammed into the ring post a couple of times to pop her shoulder back into place. Moon knocked Shayna to the floor and then leaped off the second rope and connected with an Eclipse outside the ring.

Shayna and Ember got back into the ring at the last second to beat the 10-count. Baszler immediately locked in the Kirifuda Clutch in the ring, but Moon attacked Shayna’s injured arm to break the hold. Shayna locked in a Triangle submission but Moon showed off her strength and Powerbombed Baszler for a two count.

Moon went for another Eclipse but Shayna executed an incredible counter and locked in the Kirifuda Clutch in the middle of the ring. Shayna grabbed on to her own hair for leverage because she couldn’t fully apply the hold due to her injured arm. Moon started to fade as she reached for the ropes. Shayna rolled her back into the middle of the ring while still having the Kirifuda Clutch locked in. The camera zoomed in on Ember’s face as she started to fade. Moon tried once again to break free but Shayna wouldn’t let go. Moon then passed out and Shayna Baszler won the NXT Women’s Championship. After the match, Baszler celebrated with Rousey and Duke in the front row.

Opinion: Shayna Baszler deserved to win this match. She has been great on NXT and I wouldn’t be surprised if we see Ember Moon on the main roster in the near future. Moon and Baszler had a tough task trying to follow the Ladder Match, but they wound up putting on a very good bout. I’m looking forward to seeing who can step up in the NXT women’s division to try and take the belt from Baszler.

Roderick Strong Joined Undisputed Era

Roderick Strong Joined Undisputed Era NXT Takeover New Orleans

Adam Cole was shown backstage being attended to by the medical staff. Kyle O’Reilly showed up and Cole said that he doesn’t know if he can defend the tag titles with him. Mauro Ranallo announced that NXT GM William Regal is not here tonight due to an illness, but it has been determined that Cole must compete in the tag match. Cole & O’Reilly then defended the NXT Tag Team Championships against The Authors of Pain and Roderick Struck & Pete Dunne. The match would also determine the winners of the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic tournament. Kyle O’Reilly came down to the entrance ramp as Cole limped behind with his ribs wrapped up. Dustin Rhodes and Jeff Jarrett were shown in the crowd before the match.

Akam and Rezar attacked Undisputed Era to start off the match. Cole was booted out of the ring and then O’Reilly was booted in the face. AOP launched Dunne out of the ring and then teamed up on O’Reilly to plant him with a Neckbreaker. AOP went for the cover but Cole broke it up. Cole was once again thrown out of the ring and AOP cleared off an announce table.

AOP then Powerbombed Adam Cole through the announce table. Kyle O’Reilly connected with a knee to the face off the apron and then battled Strong in the ring. Dunne locked in a Wrist Lock on O’Reilly but Kyle quickly broke free and knocked Dunne on his ass. Strong planted O’Reilly with a Backbreaker and then Dropkicked Rezar in the face that knocked him out of the ring.

Strong hit O’Reilly with another Backbreaker for a two count. O’Reilly locked in a Triangle submission on Strong and then locked in an Ankle Lock on Rezar. Akam then Powerbombed Dunne onto O’Reilly to break everything up. AOP trapped Strong in the corner and beat him down.

Rezar applied a Chin Lock to Strong in the middle of the ring. O’Reilly got back into the ring and went after Rezar. Rezar planted him with an overhead Suplex and O’Reilly tumbled out of the ring. AOP once again teamed up on Strong and beat him down for a couple of minutes. Akam tagged in and kneed Strong in the midsection. O’Reilly got back into the ring and was greeted with a boot to the face. Strong tagged in Dunne and the crowd erupted.

Pete Dunne connected with an Enziguri to Akam and then booted O’Reilly in the side of the head. Dunne connected with a DDT on Rezar for a two count. O’Reilly got back up and traded shots with Dunne. Akam decked them both with a running Clothesline. AOP connected with dueling Powerbombs on Dunne and O’Reilly.

Strong got back into the ring for a second but was quickly tossed back outside. Roderick tagged in and kneed Rezar in the face. Strong followed it up with an Olympic Slam for a two count. Dunne tagged back in as Strong slammed O’Reilly back-first on the ring apron. Dunne followed it up with a Double Stomp to O’Reilly. Strong & Dunne teamed up on Rezar and went for the cover but Akam broke it up.

Strong knocked Akam out of the ring and then threw him into the steel steps. Dunne booted O’Reilly in the head and then hit O’Reilly with a Bitter End. Dunne went for the cover but Roderick Strong betrayed his tag team partner and booted him in the head. Strong then planted Dunne with the End of Heartache and dragged O’Reilly on top of him for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Cole crawled back in the ring with a smile on his face as Strong walked over Dunne. Roderick took off an Undisputed Era arm band on Cole and put his on his arm. Strong lifted Cole and O’Reilly up and the crowd chanted “yes!”. Strong gave them the NXT Tag Team Championships and raised their hands in the ring. Undisputed Era retained their titles and won the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic tournament. Bobby Fish came out to the entrance ramp on crutches and celebrated with Strong, Cole and O’Reilly.

Opinion: The match itself was solid, but the finish was great. The entire crowd chanted “yes!” when Strong turned heel and joined Undisputed Era. Strong is a great replacement for Bobby Fish while he recovers and it just makes sense for him to be a part of Undisputed Era. NXT TakeOver: New Orleans turned out to be a great night for the Undisputed Era. As for AOP, they are a team that is absolutely ready to join the main roster and make an immediate impact.

Aleister Black Won The NXT Championship

Aleister Black NXT Champion NXT TakeOver New Orleans

Andrade “Cien” Almas defended his NXT Championship against Aleister Black tonight at NXT TakeOver: New Orleans. Black came down to the ring as the crowd sang along to his entrance music. NXT Champion Andrade “Cien” Almas came down to the ring with Zelina Vega by his side.

Black started out the match in control and connected with a flurry of strikes. Aleister booted Almas out of the ring and then connected with a Moonsault off the second rope outside the ring. Black threw Almas back into the ring as Vega shouted at him. Almas attacked Black as he got back into the ring, but Black locked him in the Octopus hold. Almas countered into a roll-up for two and then rolled out of the ring.

Aleister followed him and punched him in the face a couple of times. Black connected with a kick and threw Almas into the ring. Vega hopped up on the ring apron and connected with a Hurricanrana to Black that sent him flying into the ring steps. Almas immediately capitalized and beatdown Black before bringing him back to the ring.

Dueling “lets go Almas!” and “Aleister!” chants broke out as Andrade remained in control. Almas locked in an Arm Bar while on the ropes and broke the hold before the ref counted to five. Almas connected with a springboard Dropkick and then applied a Chin Lock. Black battled to his feet and slammed Almas into the turnbuckle to break the hold. Almas went for a Sleeper Hold but Black escaped. Almas locked in the Arm Bar once again on the ropes for a few seconds. Black connected with a knee to the face and both Superstars fell to the canvas.

Black leveled Almas with a shoulder tackle and then connected with a kick to the face. Aleister flipped onto Almas off the ropes for a two count. Black climbed up to the top rope, but Almas connected with a forearm to the face. Almas joined Black on the top rope and went for a Superplex but Black blocked it. Almas planted Black with a German Suplex and then climbed back up to the top. Almas went for a Moonsault but Black rolled out of the way. Andrade then immediately hit a standing Moonsault for a two count.

Black connected with a knee to the face, but Almas responded with an elbow to the head for a one count. Aleister connected with a massive kick to the face for a two count as Vega was freaking out by the ring apron.

Andrade and Aleister hit kicks to the face at the same time and both Superstars fell to the canvas. Almas connected with an Arm Drag that sent Black crashing to the turnbuckle. Almas then shoved Black out of the ring and followed it up with an awesome Corkscrew Splash. Almas brought Black back into the ring and attempted a cover but Black kicked out at two.

Zelina Vega ripped the title away from the timekeeper and gave it to Almas. Andrade brought it into the ring and the referee took it away. While the ref was distracted, Zega hit Black with another Hurricanrana and spiked Black’s head into the mat. Almas went for the cover but Aleister somehow kicked out at two.

Almas went for the Hammerlock DDT but Black countered into a roll-up for two. Aleister connected with Black Mass and went for the cover but Zelina Vega placed Almas’ foot on the rope to break up the pinfall attempt. Vega grabbed Black’s foot and Almas tripped up Aleister and hung him up in the ropes. Almas climbed to the top rope and hit him with a Double Stomp on the ring apron. Almas connected with the Double Knees to the face for another two count.

The crowd chanted “this is awesome!” as Almas went for the Hammerlock DDT again. Black blocked it, but Almas connected with a boot to the back of the head as Aleister was going for the Black Mass.

The action spilled to the ring apron as Almas placed Black against the ring post. Almas hit Double Knees again against the steel ring post as the referee asked if Black could continue. Black mumbled “yes” as Almas grabbed him by the hair and draped him across the top rope. Black tumbled into the ring and connected with a Back Body Drop that sent Andrade flying to the floor outside the ring.

Black flipped onto Almas and then rolled him back into the ring. Andrade grabbed Aleister while he was getting back into the ring and planted him with the Hammerlock DDT. Almas went for the cover but Black kicked out at two. Vega went for a Crossbody on Black but Aleister dodged it. Almas caught Vega and then Aleister connected with the Black Mass on Almas and he crashed to the canvas as Vega fell out of the ring. Black then pinned Almas to become the new NXT Champion.

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Opinion: What an awesome match this was. The crowd was worn out when the match started, but their energy picked up towards the end and it added to the match. The Aleister Black era in NXT has begun and I cannot wait to see what he does as NXT Champion. Black not only overcame Almas tonight, he was able to withstand the constant interference of Zelina Vega. I’ve said this a few times, but I absolutely love the pairing of Almas and Vega. They work so well together and Vega added a lot to this match.

Johnny Gargano Won His Job Back

gargano wins nxt takeover new orleans

Johnny Gargano faced his former tag partner, Tommaso Ciampa, tonight in an Unsanctioned Match inthe main event of NXT TakeOver: New Orleans. If Ciampa won the match, Gargano’s NXT career is over. If Gargano won, he would rejoin NXT’s roster.  Tommaso came down to the ring without entrance music and to a chorus of boos from the crowd. The crowd then chanted “a**hole!” before transitioning into a very loud “you suck!” chant. They then shouted “fu** you Ciampa!” as Tommaso posed on the turnbuckle. Ciampa shouted “this is my moment!” as the chants continued.

Gargano’s Rebel Heart music hit and the NXT crowd erupted. Johnny marched to the ring as Tommaso eagerly waited for him. Gargano got into the ring as the crowd chanted “Johnny Wrestling!”. The bell rang and the two Superstars had a stare down in the ring. Gargano started off the match in control and beatdown Ciampa in the corner. Johnny stomped a bunch of times as the crowd got on their feet. Gargano slung Ciampa into the turnbuckle and then Clotheslined him out of the ring. Johnny connected with a Suicide Dive outside the ring.

Ciampa battled back as the crowd booed. Johnny sent Ciampa tumbling over the barricade and into the crowd. Johnny then leaped over the barricade and knocked Tommaso to the floor. Gargano delivered a few punches to the face. Ciampa shoved Gargano into the barricade and then dropped him ribs-first across the barricade. Ciampa unloaded a series of strikes to Gargano’s back while he was on the barricade and then shoved him to the floor. Tommaso followed up the beatdown with a Backbreaker and shouted that Johnny was a piece of garbage. Tommaso ripped up the padding to expose the concrete floor beneath it.

Ciampa went for a Suplex but Gargano escaped and booted him in the face from the ring apron. Johnny launched Ciampa over the announce table and onto Mauro and Percy as the crowd comically chanted “mamma mia!”. Gargano pulled Ciampa onto the table by his beard, but Tommaso connected with a punch to the ribs. Ciampa followed it up with a crazy Suplex off the table and to the floor.

Ciampa set up the top of the announce table and dropped Gargano back-first onto it. Ciampa hopped up on the table and took a seat as the crowd chanted “fu** you Ciampa!” once again. Tommaso brought Johnny back into the ring and elbowed him in the chest before raking at Gargano’s face. Tommaso stomped on Johnny’s hand as the crowd chanted “a**hole”.

Tommaso threw Gargano into the turnbuckle and Johnny crumbled to the floor. Gargano battled back with a couple of punches, but Ciampa planted him with a Suplex for a one count. Ciampa then locked in the Cloverleaf submission in the middle of the ring. Gargano reached the ropes but the referee couldn’t break the hold due to it being an Unsanctioned Match. Ciampa broke the hold and started stomping on the back of Gargano’s head. Ciampa then applauded himself and patted himself on the back.

Tommaso connected with a running knee to the face. Ciampa then shoved a fan that was on crutches and grabbed the crutches from him. Tommaso waved bye-bye to Gargano and brought the crutches into the ring. Ciampa missed with the crutch a few times and Gargano battled back for a moment. Johnny connected with a boot that sent Ciampa to the ring apron.

Gargano connected with a couple jabs to the face, but Tommaso tripped him up and Johnny fell to the canvas. Gargano then Powerbombed Ciampa onto the concrete floor outside the ring and the thud echoed throughout the arena. The crowd chanted “you deserve it!” as Ciampa rolled around in pain. The action returned to the ring as Gargano and Ciampa went for the crutch. Johnny won the battle for the crutch and started unloading on Ciampa with it.

Gargano missed with a swing and Ciampa sent him flying out of the ring. Johnny then hit Ciampa in the face with the crutch and followed it up with a slingshot DDT for a two count. Johnny exposed the metal ring under the middle turnbuckle and lifted Tommaso onto his shoulders. Ciampa escaped and dropped Gargano to the ring apron. Ciampa followed it up with a massive elbow to the face. Ciampa blasted Gargano with a knee to the face and followed it up with a Blue Thunder Bomb for a two count.

Ciampa geared up in the corner as Gargano slowly made his way to his feet. Tommaso did a DIY taunt and then connected with a knee to the back of the head for a two count. Ciampa clubbed Gargano in the back a couple of times, but Gargano battled back with a few Clotheslines but Ciampa didn’t go down. Ciampa decked Gargano with a Clothesline, but Johnny battled back and locked in the Gargano Escape.

Johnny maintained the hold in the middle the ring as the crowd chanted for Ciampa to tap out. Tommaso raked Gargano’s eyes to break up the hold as the crowd once again chanted “fu** you Ciampa!”. Ciampa took off the tape from his wrist and started choking Gargano with it. Johnny and Tommaso traded punches in the the middle of the ring as both were holding onto the tape. Johnny got the advantage and connected with a flurry of punches as the crowd chanted “yes!”. Ciampa then delivered a low-blow to Gargano and followed it up by hitting him with the crutch. Tommaso connected with a Powerbomb into a Double Knees for a two count.

Ciampa shouted that this was his moment and Gargano slapped him in the face. Ciampa hit a slap of his own but then turned around into a Superkick from Gargano. Johnny lifted Ciampa up onto his shoulders and threw him like a dart face-first into the exposed turnbuckle. Gargano hit a Superkick, did a DIY pose and delivered another Superkick to the face for another two count. Gargano and Ciampa battled on the turnbuckle. Tommaso connected with a headbutt and then Powerbombed Gargano onto his knees again off the second rope for another two count.

Ciampa took off his knee brace to expose his knee and got back to his feet. Tommaso charged at Gargano but Johnny grabbed the brace and struck Ciampa on his exposed knee. Gargano snapped a crutch in half and went to bash Ciampa in the head but stopped before hitting him. Both Superstars looked at each other and then Gargano dropped the crutch. Johnny sat next to Ciampa and Tommaso grabbed the brace and swung for his head. Gargano then locked in the Gargano Escape, transitioned into an STF and used the knee brace on Ciampa’s face for the submission victory. After the match, Candice LeRae ran down to the ring and celebrated with Johnny in the ring. With the victory, Johnny Gargano is once again back on the NXT roster.

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Opinion: NXT TakeOver: New Orleans was an awesome event tonight. The emotion involved in the match between Gargano and Ciampa was on another level. I don’t know how anyone that is a wrestling fan could not find that match captivating. The use of the knee brace of this match and the story told was also very well done. The show went off the air with a fitting image, it was Gargano holding up the broken crutch and the knee brace. Ciampa is legitimately hated by the crowd and the reaction he got tonight was amazing. Gargano has a connection with the NXT crowd that only few Superstars will ever attain. WrestleMania 34 has a tough act to follow tomorrow night.

Posted April 7th, 2018 in NXT, News. Tagged: .

NXT Takeover New Orleans Results & Live Discussion (4/7)

WWE’s NXT Takeover New Orleans took place on Saturday, April 7th, 2018 at the Smoothie King Arena in New Orleans, Louisiana.

– We get a live performance from the band doing the event’s theme song to kick things off, and then Mauro Ranallo welcomes us to the Smoothie King Arena for NXT Takeover New Orleans.

– Ethan Carter III vs. Adam Cole vs. Ricochet vs. Lars Sullivan vs. The Velveteen Dream vs. Killian Dain: This one is a Ladder Match to crown the first-ever NXT North American Champion. The crowd chants “this is awesome” before this one even begins. The opening bell sounds and all Hell breaks loose as some competitors brawl in the ring and others fight out to ringside. As Lars and Dain face off on the floor, Ricochet comes out of nowhere with a big springboard shooting star press from the top rope onto the two en on the floor. Back in the ring, Ricochet and Dream go at it and Ricochet drops him with a dropkick. Ricochet goes to springboard in, but Dream knocks him out of mid-air. Cole gets back in the ring now and starts cleaning house. Cole climbs but EC3 comes in and drops him. EC3 unloads with offense on another who comes near him, but then Lars comes in and floors EC3 then goes to work on Cole. Dain hits Lars and sends him to the floor, then hits a big suicide dive on him.

Lars uses the ladder as a battering ram in the ring now and cleans house. Ricochet runs back in now and helps everyone gang up on Lars to get him off the ladder. They drop Lars, then EC3 starts dropping people. Dain and Cole go at it near the ladder, and Dain drops Cole and then throws Ricochet onto a ladder. Cole and EC3 team up now to work on Lars and drop him with a ladder shot. Back in the ring they continue working on Lars until EC3 seems to mock Cole, and Cole superkicks him. Cole starts handing out superkicks to anyone who comes near him, then he starts climbing the ladder. Lars shoves him off, then Dream drops Lars. Dreams climbs the ladder and hits a flying elbow drop on Dain, then goes back up top and hits the elbow on Cole too. Back to the top turnbuckle, Dream hits the flying elbow on Ricochet this time. He goes up top again, but Lars stops him. Dream fights him off and climbs a ladder and hits another flying elbow on Lars.

Dream climbs the ladder now, but EC3 comes from behind and powerbombs him off and onto another ladder. EC3 climbs now but Cole stops him. EC3 hits a ireman’s carry off the ladder on Cole, but then Dain drops EC3 with a bicycle kick. Dain drops Cole and then EC3 again, and he hits a senton on EC3 on top of a ladder. Dain puts a ladder on top of EC3 again and goes up top, but Cole attacks him him from behind. Cole climbs on Dain’s back, an with Cole on his back, Dain hits a Vader Bomb on EC3 on the ladder.

Ricochet starts dropping people with kicks, until Lars tosses him across the ring. Dain and Lars go at it now in the ring, and the fight spills out to the floor. Ricochet climbs the ladder and hits a moonsault off the ladder onto the two men on the ring side floor. Ricochet and EC3 go at it in the ring now, and Ricochet hits an SSP on the ladder. Ricochet and Dream go at it now, and Dream hits a Death Valley Driver onto a bridged up ladder. Lars throws Dream outside, then lays him on a ladder bridge across the announce table and the ring. Lars goes the apron, he picks up EC3, then slams him through the Dream on the ladder bridge. Dain then puts Ricochet on another ladder bridge, and slams Cole through Ricochet on that ladder.

Back in the ring, Lars starts climbing the ladder but Dain stops him. EC3 comes in now with a ladder of his own and starts climbing. Dream comes in with a ladder, and now almost everyone is fighting on the ladders. Ricochet grabs Dream and hits a flying neckbreaker off the ladder on him. Lars chokeslams Dain off a ladder on to the mat, then Ricochet springboards in and drops Lars off the ladder. The ring is cleared and Ricochet looks to climb for the Title, but Cole runs in and knocks him off. Cole runs up and grabs the Title hanging from the ceiling to become the first-ever NXT North American Champion.

Winner and wew NXT North American Champion: Adam Cole

– Cole celebrates with his new Title belt as we go to replays. The other 5 stars are shown recovering from their high-impact match.

– NXT Women’s Title Match: Shayna Baszler vs. Ember Moon: Halestorm performs Ember Moon’s entrance song as she comes down to the ring. Ronda Rousey and Jessmyn Duke are shown sitting at ringside. The opening bell sounds and Moon looks for a dropkick and misses. Shayna hits Moon in the head and she rolls outside early on. Back in the ring, Moon and Baszler go back and forth, with Moon hitting a springboard splash in the corner, and Baszler coming right back with a running knee to the face in the other corner. Moon starts firing up again but Shayna gets her in a submission. Moon fights out and hits a dropkick, then hits a facebuster on Shayna for a two count. Shayna drops Moon and looks to stomp on her arm, but Moon breaks free and returns the favor by stomping on Shayna’s arm. Moon takes Shayna down with an arm drag and continues working the arm. Moon goes up top but Shayna knocks her down and starts connecting with kicks. Shayna tries to sell that her shoulder is dislocated and she tries to pop it back in place on the ring post. Ember knocks Shayna down and hits a suicide dive on her at ringside. They roll back in the ring at the ref’s 9 count, and then Shayna puts Ember in a choke hold. Ember fights out and goes back to working on Shayna’s arm. Ember goes up top and looks for the Eclipse, but Shayna blocks it and puts in a the choke hold. Shayna is still selling the bad arm, so Shayna uses her other arm to grab her own hair behind Ember’s head to complete the choke. Ember goes limp and the ref calls it.

Winner & new NXT Women’s Champion: Shayna Baszler

– After the match, Shayna grabs her NXT Women’s Title Belt and celebrates at ringside with Ronda Rousey and Jessmyn Duke.

– We see a preview for the new movie about Paige featuring The Rock.

– Adam Cole is backstage being checked out by medics, and he seems to indicate he doesn’t want to be in the Tag Title match later. Back to the broadcast table, Mauro says William Regal is out with a cold, but Adam Cole must compete tonight.

– We see Aleister Black in the back warming up.

– Goldust and Jeff Jarrett are shown sitting at ringside.

– NXT Tag Team Titles Match: The Authors Of Pain vs. The Undisputed Era vs. Pete Dunn & Roderick Strong: AOP immediately goes after the Era off the opening bell, knowing that Cole is less than 100%. The Authors start dropping everyone, and the fight spills out to ringside where the Authors powerbomb Cole through the Spanish announce table. Back in the ring, Strong and O’Reilly go at it until Dunne runs in and drops O’Reilly. Strong hits a knee on Akam on the apron, then he goes back to work on Kyle. Akam comes in and starts dropping people, but Kyle catches Akam in a submission. Rezar comes in and powerbombs Dunne on to Kyle, then he double teams Strong with Akam.

It comes down to Rezar and Strong in the ring, and Rezar has control of this one. Cole is shown still recovering at ringside after being powerbombed through a table. Rezar drops Kyle off the ropes, then tags in Akam to double team Strong. They drop Kyle when he comes back in, but the distraction allows Strong to hit an enziguri on Akam. Dunne gets the hot tag and cleans house. Dunne and O’Reilly go at it until Akam runs in and drops them both. The Authors start cleaning house and they do the double powerbomb on Dunne and O’Reilly.

Strong breaks up the pin attempt, and the Authors throw Strong to the floor. Dunne gets a shot in on Rezar, then Strong comes back in and decks Rezar. Strong follows up with an Olympic Slam on Rezar for a two count. Stong slams Kyle on the apron, then Dunne hits a double foot stomp to the apron from the top. Dunne and Strong work over Rezar now, but Akam makes the save. Strong takes Akam out to ringside and throws him into the ring steps. Kyle and Dunne go at it in the ring, and Dunne drops Kyle with the Bitter End. Dunne pins, but Strong runs in and breaks up the pin, turning on his own partner. Strong stomps on Dunne’s head then hits the End of Heartache on him. Strong drags O’Reilly on top of Dunne for the pin, and the ref counts to three.

Winners & still NXT Tag Team Champions: The Undisputed Era

– After the match, Strong puts on an Undisputed Era arm band and celebrates with Cole and O’Reilly.

– We see a look outside the arena of the Mercedes-Benz Superdome right next door.

– NXT Title Match: Aleister Black vs. Andrade “Cien” Almas: The opening bell sounds and Black sends Almas out to ringside early on. Black runs up on to the turnbuckle and hits a moonsault on Almas all the way down on the ringside floor. Black beats down Almas around ringside then sends him back in the ring. Zelina Vega gets on the ring apron and hits a hurricanrana on Black at ringside behind the ref’s back. Back in the ring, Almas takes control now and works on keeping Black grounded. Almas locks in a draping arm bar over the ropes for the referee’s 5 count. Almas follows up with a springboard dropkick for a two count. They fight up to the turnbuckle and Almas does another arm bar over the ropes. Almas goes up top and comes flying down, but Black stops him with a knee to the face. Black fires up now with a series of elbows to the face, then a dropkick.

They fight up to the top turnbuckle again, and Black looks for a sunset flip powerbomb, but Almas hangs on to the ropes. Almas ends up hitting a German suplex on Black then he climbs up top. Almas goes for a moonsault, but Black moves and Almas lands on his feet. Almas immediately hits a standing moonsault on Black for a two count. Almas and Black trade strikes in the middle of the ring now until Almas hits a spinning elbow to the back of the head. Black kicks out and answers with a kick to the face for a pin attempt of his own.

Black misses a shot and Almas throws him into the corner. Black fires back with a kick, then he runs to the ropes but Almas runs behind him and knocks Black to the outside. Almas follows up with a corkscrew plancha to the outside. Back in the ring, Almas pins for a two count. Black comes back and throws Almas outside, but then Vega runs in and hits a headscissor take down on Black. Back goes to climb up top, but Vega grabs his leg. Almas hits Black from behind then climbs up the corner. Almas hits a double stop on Black, then the running knees to the face in the corner for a two count. Almas looks for the hammerlock DDT, but Black fights out. Almas hits a running kick on Black, then they fight out on the apron where Almas shoves Black into the ring post. Almas follows up with the running knees against the ring post.

Almas looks for the DDT again, but Black throws him out to ringside. Black follows up with a big suicide swanton bomb onto Almas at ringside. Black throws Almas back in the ring, and Almas hits the hammerlock DDT, but Black kicks out. Vega runs in but misses Black and lands on Almas. Almas catches her, then Black hits the Black Mass on Almas for the three count.

Winner: Aleister Black

– Vega screams at ringside as Black grabs his NXT Title and celebrates the win.

– Tommaso Ciampa comes down to the ring with no entrance music. The referee is in the ring without a normal ref shirt on.

– Unsanctioned Match: Tommaso Ciampa vs. Johnny Gargano: The opening bell sounds and Gargano immediately starts pummeling on Ciampa with right hands. He knocks Ciampa into the corner and stomps a mud hole in him, and as this is an unsactioned match, the ref doesn’t pull him off. Ciampa rolls outside and they brawl at ringside. They briefly fight into the crowd, and Ciampa hits a series of rights hands and takes control. Ciampa hits a backbreaker at ringside, then pulls back the padding on the ringside floor. Gargano hits a superkick, then they fight into the announce table. Gargano picks up Ciampa on the table and gives him a wedgie then looks for the powerbomb. Ciampa fights out and hits a bow blow, then he suplexes Gargano off the table onto the floor.

Ciapa takes Gargano back in the ring and they exchange right hands. Ciampa puts Gargano in a Texas Cloverleaf until Gargano crawls out to the apron to break free. Ciampa repeatedly stomps on Gargano in the back of the head on the apron, then gives himself a pat on the back.

There’s a planted fan with a leg brace and crutches in the front row, and Ciampa chases him off and steals his crutches. Ciampa takes the crutch in the ring and swings at Gargano but misses repeatedly. Gargano drops Ciampa and then lays into him with right hands. Gargano looks for a slingshot DDT on the apron, but Ciampa catches him. This leads to Gargano hitting a sunset flip powerbomb onto the exposed concrete floor.

Back in the ring, they both reach for the crutch, but Gargano gets it and he tees off on Ciampa with the crutch. Gargano misses a shot and Ciampa throws him out to ringside. Ciampa reaches through the ropes for Gargano, but Gargano smashes him over the head with the crutch. Gargano gets on the apron and follows up with a slingshot DDT for a two count.

Gargano rips the padding off of a middle turnbuckle and goes to lawn dart Ciampa into it, but Ciampa escapes. Ciampa blocks a kick and elbows Gargano in the face. Gargano springboards through the ropes, but Ciampa knees him in the face. Ciampa follows up with a suplex for a two count.

Ciampa hits a running knee to the back of the head of Gargano but only gets a two count. Ciampa is slow to get to his feet and he looks for a powerbomb. Gargano escapes and hits a series of stiff lariats and stiff slaps to the face. Ciampa comes back with a lariat of his own, but then Gargano drops him and locks in the Gargano Escape. Ciampa gouges the eyes to escape and Mauro calls him a sadistic son of a bitch.

Ciampa unwraps his wrist tpe and tries to choke Gargano with it, but Gargano stops him and grabs the wrist tape. They trade punches to the face back and forth as the crowd chants along. They continue to trade punches until Ciampa hits a low blow. Ciampa follows up with a shot with the crutch to the back of Gargano’s head, then hits a powerbomb backbreaker onto his knees for a two count.

Ciapa and Gargano come face to face and start trading punches and slaps to the face again. Gargano hits a superkick and a lariat, then he lawn darts Ciampa into the exposed turnbuckle. Gargano follows up with a superkick, then another superkick for a two count. They fight up to the top turnbuckle now, and Ciampa hits the powerbomb backbreaker off the top rope for another two count.

Ciampa removes his knee brace and goes for a running knee to the face, but Gargano dodges and smashes the knee brace over Ciampa’s knee. Gargano picks up the broken crutch laying in the ring and goes to stab Ciampa in the head with it, but Ciampa cowers and Gargano hesitates and appears to have decided against hitting him. Gargano gets on one knee next to Ciampa. Ciapa grabs the knee brace and goes to cheap shot Gargano, but Gargano dodges it and locks in the Gargano Escape. Gargano grabs the knee brace and wraps it around Ciampa’s face and yanks back on it, and Ciampa taps out.

Winner via submission: Johnny Gargano

– Gargano celebrates with his wife after the bell, and we go to replays from this big match. Gargano holds the knee brace and the crutch in the air, then hugs his wife as Takeover goes off the air.

Posted April 7th, 2018 in WWE, NXT. Tagged: .

5 Predictions For NXT TakeOver: New Orleans

NXT TakeOver: New Orleans will air this Saturday night at 8 PM ET on the WWE Network. There will also be a one hour Kickoff Show before the event. Join us on SEScoops for live coverage of NXT TakeOver: New Orleans on this Saturday.

Johnny Gargano will look to get his revenge on Tommaso Ciampa in an Unsanctioned match. Andrade “Cien” Almas will defend the NXT Championship against Aleister Black. EC3, Killian Dain, Lars Sullivan, Velveteen Dream, Adam Cole and Ricochet will battle in a Ladder match to crown the first NXT North American Champion.

Undisputed Era will defend their NXT Tag Team Championships in a Triple Threat match against The Authors of Pain and Pete Dunne & Roderick Strong. Ember Moon will once again defend the NXT Women’s Championship against Shayna Baszler.

Here are 5 predictions for NXT TakeOver: New Orleans:

Undisputed Era Will Retain The NXT Tag Titles

nxt tag team match takeover new orleans

Photo Credit: WWE.com

Bobby Fish has not been medically cleared to compete at NXT TakeOver: Orleans. Adam Cole and Kyle O’Reilly tried to weasel their way out of defending the titles on Saturday night by interfering in the finals of the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic tournament. Cole and O’Reilly attacked Dunne, Strong and The Authors of Pain and the match ended in a double disqualification. NXT GM William Regal came down to the entrance ramp and announced that Undisputed Era will now defend their titles against both teams in a Triple Threat match.

The Authors of Pain have been ready to join the main roster for some time now. I wouldn’t be surprised to see them show up on SmackDown or RAW during WWE’s Superstar Shake-Up following WrestleMania 34. Pete Dunne and Roderick Strong are a new team that have been impressive so far. Dunne is currently the United Kingdom Champion and I don’t see him staying in a team with Roderick Strong much longer. It just makes sense for Undisputed Era to retain and for them to enter a new feud after NXT TakeOver: New Orleans.

Shayna Baszler Will Become The New NXT Women’s Champion

Baszler Moon NXT TakeOver New Orleans

Photo Credit: WWE.com

Ember Moon successfully defended the NXT Women’s Championship against Shayna Baszler at NXT TakeOver: Philadelphia on January 27th. Baszler controlled the majority of the match and focused her attack on Moon’s injured left arm. Moon was able to counter an Arm Bar with a roll-up to escape with the victory.

Baszler was granted her rematch on the February 14th episode of NXT. Shayna picked up the win via DQ after Kairi Sane interfered. Shayna had Moon in an Arm Bar in the metal barricade outside the ring and wouldn’t let go. Sane had seen enough and came down for the save.

Shayna Baszler is ready for the belt and I also think Ember Moon is ready to join the main roster. Their first NXT TakeOver match was very entertaining and I’m expecting an even better match between these two Superstars on Saturday night.

Velveteen Dream Will Capture The NXT North American Championship

velveteen dream north american championship

Photo Credit: WWE.com

On the March 28th episode of NXT, GM William Regal announced the North American Championship. EC3 made his debut during the same segment and just assumed that Regal was gifting him the title. Regal stated that everything is earned in NXT and gave EC3 an opportunity to earn the title at NXT TakeOver: New Orleans. Cole, Dain, Sullivan, Dream and Ricochet were also added to the Ladder match throughout the night.

A case could be made for any of these 6 Superstars to become the first NXT North American Champion. It would be a hell of start in NXT for either EC3 or Ricochet to win the titles. Undisputed Era would become even more powerful if Adam Cole was able to walk out of New Orleans with the belt. Both Dain and Sullivan have been impressive in NXT and absolutely deserve to have the gold around their waist. However, I think Velveteen Dream would make the most interesting champion right now. His character is incredibly unique and he has become very popular amongst NXT fans. Velveteen Dream is already full of himself, I’d love to see how he acts after he becomes NXT North American Champion.

Tommaso Ciampa Will End Johnny Gargano’s NXT Career

gargano Ciampa NXT Takeover

Photo Credit: WWE.com

Tommaso Ciampa betrayed Johnny Gargano following DIY’s loss last May at NXT TakeOver: Chicago. Ciampa then missed a substantial amount of time and Gargano became a star as a singes competitor. Gargano put on an absolute classic with Andrade “Cien” Almas at NXT TakeOver: Philadelphia. Gargano came up just short and lost his opportunity at the NXT Championship.

After the match, Gargano was comforted by his wife, Candice LaRae on the entrance ramp. The crowd cheered him on as Gargano was clearly heartbroken after the defeat. Ciampa returned and struck Gargano in the back with his crutch. Ciampa would then cost Gargano his spot on the NXT roster and his title rematch on the February 21st episode of NXT.

Ciampa has spent the past few weeks on NXT coming down to the ring and getting frustrated that the crowd was booing him. Gargano blended in with the crowd and attacked Ciampa on the March 21st episode of NXT. Ciampa would then confront NXT GM William Regal about the situation. Regal stated that Ciampa will face Gargano at NXT TakeOver: New Orleans in an Unsanctioned match. If Tommaso wins, Johnny Gargano is gone from NXT for good.

I’m expecting this match to be full of emotion and ultimately turn into a war between Ciampa and Gargano. This in an Unsanctioned match, so absolutely anything goes. I want to see tables, chairs, kendo sticks and whatever else these two can grab from under the ring. It should be an incredibly fun match to watch. Ciampa is already hated by NXT fans for what he has done to Gargano. If he ends Gargano’s NXT career, he would instantly become the biggest heel on the show.

Aleister Black Will Become The New NXT Champion

aleister black almas nxt takeover new orleans

Photo Credit: WWE.com

Andrade “Cien” Almas will defend the NXT Championship against Aleister Black this Saturday night at NXT TakeOver: New Orleans.  Zelina Vega signed the contract to make the match official on the March 14th episode of NXT. Almas didn’t show up and Black took at is an opportunity to poke fun at him. Almas then attacked Aleister Black in the parking lot on the March 28th episode of NXT.

I have very high expectations for this match. Aleister Black is an absolute rock star in NXT and Almas has raised his game to a whole new level. Zelina Vega has been the perfect manager for Almas and she will most likely attack Aleister Black during this match. I just think it is Aleister Black’s time to become NXT Champion right now. Almas has had a great run with the title since taking it from Drew McIntyre last year at NXT WarGames.

The outcome of this match really doesn’t matter to me. Almas could retain due to outside interference and I’d be fine with it. I cannot envision a scenario where Aleister Black isn’t the NXT Champion in the near future if he loses on Saturday night. The real prediction for this match is that it is going to be absolutely amazing. Every match on the  card for NXT TakeOver: New Orleans has the potential to be special.

Posted April 5th, 2018 in News, NXT. Tagged: .

New Match Set For WWE NXT TakeOver: New Orleans, Updated Card

As seen on this week’s episode of WWE NXT on the WWE Network, the finals of the WWE NXT Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic were held and turned into a no contest once NXT Tag Team Champions The Undisputed Era interfered. 

This led to NXT General Manager William Regal officially announcing The Authors of Pain vs. Roderick Strong & WWE UK Champion Pete Dunne vs. The Undisputed Era taking part in a three-way match that will see the winners being crowned Dusty Classic winners and the NXT Tag Team Champions.

With Bobby Fish being out of action with an injury, Adam Cole is going to have to replace him to team up with Kyle O’Reilly. Regal announced late in the show that Cole has a few options. Either he can take part in the Tag Team Title Match and forfeit his spot in the Ladder Match to crown the first-ever NXT North American Champion, O’Reilly can work the match alone, or Cole can work both matches.

The NXT TakeOver: New Orleans event takes place on Saturday, April 7, 2018, in New Orleans, Louisiana at the Smoothie King Center and will air on the WWE Network. Here is the updated card:

NXT Championship Match: Andrade Cien Almas (c) vs. Aleister Black

NXT Women’s Championship Match: Ember Moon (c) vs. Shayna Baszler

NXT Tag Team Championship: Roderick Strong & WWE UK Champion Pete Dunne vs. The Authors of Pain vs. The Undisputed Era

NXT North American Championship Ladder Match: EC3 vs. Killian Dain vs. Lars Sullivan vs. Adam Cole vs. Velveteen Dream vs. Ricochet

Johnny Gargano vs. Tommaso Ciampa

Posted April 5th, 2018 in News. Tagged: .

New Matches Announced For WWE NXT Takeover: New Orleans, Updated Card

WWE is gearing up for the next Takeover event for the NXT brand.

As seen on this week’s episode of NXT on the WWE Network, the sports entertainment company announced several matches for this upcoming special. Johnny Gargano would take on Tommaso Ciampa in an unsanctioned match.

Also announced was a six-man Ladder Match featuring Ethan Carter III, Ricochet, Killian Dain, Adam Cole, Lars Sullivan and The Velveteen Dream to crown the inaugural North American Champion.

The NXT TakeOver: New Orleans event takes place on Saturday, April 7, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana at the Smoothie King Center and will air on the WWE Network. Here is the updated card:

NXT Championship Match: Andrade Almas © vs. Aleister Black

NXT Women’s Championship Match: Ember Moon (c) vs Shayna Baszler

NXT North American Championship Ladder Match: EC3 vs. Killian Dain vs. Lars Sullivan vs. Adam Cole, Velveteen Dream vs. Ricochet

Unsanctioned Match: Johnny Gargano vs. Tommaso Ciampa

This event will have to go head-to-head with many shows on this night during WrestleMania 34 weekend including the ROH Supercard of Honor event just a few miles away.

Posted March 29th, 2018 in WWE, News. Tagged: .

(Spoilers) Updated Takeover Card: Big Dusty Classic Change, Ladder Match, More

NXT Tag Team Champion Bobby Fish was at tonight’s NXT TV tapings but was on crutches after suffering a knee injury at a weekend live event. PWInsider reports that Fish is scheduled to undergo knee surgery later this week in Birmingham, AL.

There’s no word yet on when Fish will be back from the surgery but it was announced at tonight’s tapings that he and partner Kyle O’Reilly will put their titles on the line at “Takeover: New Orleans” during WrestleMania 34 Week.

In a change of plans, perhaps due to the injury, the finals of The Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic came down to air on NXT TV instead of Takeover. Roderick Strong and WWE UK Champion Pete Dunne vs. The Authors of Pain was set to begin as the finals but Adam Cole and O’Reilly attacked both teams for the contest. NXT General Manager William Regal then announced a Triple Threat for Takeover with Dunne & Strong vs. The Authors of Pain vs. O’Reilly & Fish with the winners being crowned Dusty Classic winners and NXT Tag Team Champions.

It was also confirmed at the NXT tapings that the Ladder Match to crown the inaugural NXT North American Champion will feature EC3, Adam Cole, Lars Sullivan, Killian Dain, The Velveteen Dream & Ricochet.

Here’s what looks to be the updated card for Takeover, which takes place on Saturday, April 7th from the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. Stay tuned for more updates & clarifications on the Takeover card.

NXT Title Match
Aleister Black vs. Andrade “Cien” Almas

NXT Women’s Title Match
Shayna Baszler vs. Ember Moon

NXT Tag Team Title Match, Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic Finals
Roderick Strong & WWE UK Champion Pete Dunne vs. The Authors of Pain vs. The Undisputed Era

Ladder Match to Crown the First-Ever NXT North American Champion
Ricochet vs. Ethan Carter III vs. Killian Dain vs. Lars Sullivan vs. Adam Cole vs. The Velveteen Dream

Johnny Gargano vs. Tommaso Ciampa

Posted March 7th, 2018 in WWE, News. Tagged: , , , , , , .

William Regal Announces New Secondary Championship For NXT

A new secondary singles title is being planned for the NXT brand.

General Manager William Regal announced at tonight’s TV tapings from Full Sail University that the NXT North American Title will be introduced at NXT “Takeover: New Orleans” during WrestleMania 34 Weekend.

No word yet on what kind of match would be held at Takeover or who the participants will be but we will keep you updated.

As noted, WWE is planning on introducing new Cruiserweight Tag Team Titles to the 205 Live brand after WrestleMania 34 as well.

Posted March 7th, 2018 in News, WWE. Tagged: , .

Rumored Card For NXT Takeover: New Orleans

With WWE NXT TakeOver: Philadelphia in the history books, WWE officials are planning for the next special event.

NXT TakeOver: New Orleans is scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 7, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana at the Smoothie King Center and will air on the WWE Network.

Dave Meltzer speculated on the potential matches for the event, which is slated to go down the night before WrestleMania 34. Here is the rumored card:

– NXT Title Match: Andrade Almas © vs. Aleister Black

– Singles Match: Johnny Gargano vs. Tommaso Ciampa

– Six-Man Tag Team Match: Sanity vs. Undisputed Era

– NXT Women’s Title Match: Ember Moon © vs. Shayna Baszler

Posted February 1st, 2018 in WWE, News. Tagged: .