NXT ‣

[Deco90]

NXT [EPISODE #471] ‣ TUESDAY 24 AUGUST, 2021 REVIEW:

- Good intro with the voiceover recapping High Stakes which really was an awesome show. Everything changed indeed, and I can’t wait to see the fall out on this show.

- I liked the use of Bate & Trent for the opening segment to give Dunne a real moment and it makes the win at High Stakes feel like such a big deal. The use of the “Ace” is great as well because it gives the match importance.

I loved the promo from Dunne, very on brand for him. The first showdown with Bronson was nice as well - excited to see what’s to come.

- Great promo from LA Knight (YEEAAAAHH!) and I’m not sure if it’s been mentioned before but LA Inc? Interesting! Also some seeds being planted in the relation of Knight & Cal. The use of Tony at High Stakes was perfect - so nice to see that continued here.

- Good opening match with Swerve picking up the win! Seems like a cross-roads for Roddy Strong after the defeat despite another good performance.

- I LOVED that segment with Kyle, Roddy & Bobby Fish. Your character work for Bobby has been the highlight of this BTB for me and again this was a really cool moment with three men who all have such history but seemingly on their own paths. Good stuff.

- Nice segment with Persia & Indi to continue the story with Indi being led to be something she isn’t and the interaction with some of the female tag teams.

- Light work for the returning Ember Moon as it should be picking up the win

- I can appreciate what you’re doing with the Brand, and trying to make something out of nothing from the IRL group that didn’t really do anything or even get the chance but so far hasn’t really intrigued me. I think you got the Franky Monet character down though, I think it’s just the other two feel beneath her in the sense that they’re kinda average, which wasn’t how I felt seeing Mandy Rose with Jayce & Gigi for example when toxic attraction became a thing.

- Pete Dunne giving zero fucks Haha! Poor Lorcan - This was another good segment and I’m already enjoying Dunne as the ‘Ace’ and this seemingly I’m untouchable now attitude he’s carrying around - Really suits him

- Good win for Mercedes as expected and the promo afterwards was good too!

- Killian Dain vs Finn Balor? Ooo, that could be fun!

- Lucha House Party coming to NXT - Okay, cool. Let's see what you have planned. Nice job with the little voiceover as well - small details that really add to the show.

- Small details again but I love them - so I enjoyed the little voiceover and package for the next TakeOver and how returning to Brooklyn feels like such a big deal. The GFX is nice as well man as always from you.

- Reed & KUSHIDA? What a mix that is Haha! I liked the reasoning though and after losing the NXT Cruiserweight Championship it still keeps KUSHIDA feeling important being in the Main Event to come and teaming with the Champ, Champ.

- I’m really enjoying LA Knight and how the relationship with Cal is developing. Dominant win from Lannister and an early message sent to Tony D.

- Private? Nooo! I want to know what the news is from Tegan Knox Haha! Dammit.

- Love the vignette from Legado and El Gran Jefe! Been enjoying this and along with the Bobby Fish character, it’s probably been my favorite two things of the BTB until now. We also get the name reveal of Don Reyes. Interesting. I think I might have been inclined not to name him and kept him cloaked in mystery as Gran Jefe.

- Good Main Event here! Right winner but again a nice rub for KUSHIDA who is rewarded with an NXT Championship match. It’s obvious he’s not going to win but it’s cool how despite losing the NXT Cruiserweight Championship he’s almost now become elevated.

I really enjoyed the show as I always seem to. It’s never easy coming off a PPV especially once as big as High Stakes where so much happened and now you’ve got to set the table again with some new stories etc - but you did a really good job. The show was loaded but I think the only miss was maybe not having Ciampa appear on the show as the new NXT Cruiserweight Championship - especially as so much importance went to KUSHIDA who lost the match that maybe some of them could have gone on the new Champion. That said, so much talent, and so little time - so I’m sure he will get his moment.

………………………………………………………………………………………….

NXT EVOLVE [EPISODE #08] ‣ THURSDAY 26 AUGUST, 2021 REVIEW:

- What a better way to get the show up and running then a promo from the Virtuoso of Violence! Great stuff as always with the Infamous one; Bobby Fish.

- Fish picks up the win, and I enjoyed the way he won the match with the submission and the holding it longer than he needed to after the match had ended - just given that impression that he likes hurting people and finds solace in the violence.

- Kudos on creating some intrigue using Blade, Enofe & Ruff alongside Carmelo. Interesting approach from Ruff seemingly unhappy being a bit-part player and an extra in the story - not sure there’s ever going to be a time where he will be the main role but we will see

- La Visión picked up the win and again it’s the right choice for me. I like the feel of this trio, it just seems like a really nice fit for all of them. Badly need some female tag teams in this division so the ‘Main Roster’ thanks you for your contributions Haha!


- Not really feeling the Ever-Rise/Bivens stuff and this was a miss for me if I’m being honest but a show should always have a variety and never going to enjoy everything in most scenarios so all good

- Really cool vignette for the Untouchables! I enjoyed that. Very creative and again I feel like I say it every review but you’re so good at using people who are not the obvious and trying to give them a purpose like you’re doing with these two.

- Good match next and the result surprised me, not going to lie. Nice win for Sterling & Baxter though!

- Enjoyed the vignette from Tian Sha - intrigued to see what’s going to come next.

- Also enjoyed the promo and exchange between Jacy, Gigi & Dakota. Having Jacy & Gigi starting together on Evolve is great to see.

- Fun exchange with Ruas & Roddy Strong with the Diamond Mine overarching story.

- Who doesn’t love a bit of backstage drama? Enjoyed this as well with all the different characters and stories intertwining together - Gigi to leave Cora and side with Jacy? I could see the attraction..

- Nice little hype package for Bronson vs KUSHIDA - I fancy some shenanigans to ruin the match but we will see.

- Needed win for Tony D and it’s been a good introduction for him on NXT and now Evolve. Don of developmental got a giggle out of me Haha!

Enjoyed this show as well mate. I like the balance you have with many new faces but also sprinkled with a few known and some who need the reps so to speak. I like how you putting teams together across both shows with the Women’s tag division which is badly needed within our Universe > Good stuff man!

 

[Looking Glass]

NXT [EPISODE #472] ‣ TUESDAY 31 AUGUST, 2021
CAPITOL PERFORMANCE CENTER ‣ ORLANDO, FLORIDA
"THE PRICE OF GREATNESS"

---

A slow, rhythmic beat builds under a recap of last week’s closing moments.

Bronson Reed and Kushida stand tall after their win over Moustache Mountain, exhausted but united in mutual respect. The handshake is shown in close-up as the sound of the crowd swells.

VIC JOSEPH (V.O.)
"Last week, respect wasn’t spoken. It was earned."

The picture fades to black before transitioning into quiet, stylised shots of Reed and Kushida preparing for tonight’s NXT Championship match.

Reed laces his boots in the locker room, both titles resting beside him.

Kushida stretches calmly, his movements deliberate and precise.

BRONSON REED (V.O.)
"When you carry gold, you carry responsibility. Every challenger, every target, every expectation. That’s what the NXT Championship means to me."

Cut to "The Time Splitter" Kushida, taping his wrists, eyes focused. His words appear subtitled along the bottom of the screen in white and gold.

KUSHIDA
"I don’t fight Bronson Reed because I am angry.
I fight him because I respect him.
To grow, I must face the best."

The sound of the crowd returns as the music intensifies.

A brief sequence shows Reed driving through opponents with his Colossal Slam and Kushida twisting into the Hoverboard Lock.
Pete Dunne is shown backstage, seated in shadow, idly turning the Ace of Spades card between his fingers.

VIC JOSEPH (V.O.)
"For one man, it’s about proving he can bear the weight of greatness. For the other, it’s about reclaiming what was lost through perseverance and pride."

The NXT Championship graphic fills the screen with the words:

Tonight – Bronson Reed vs Kushida – A Battle of Respect.

The music fades into the ambient sound of the live crowd. The camera pans across the Capitol Wrestling Center, packed with a vocal, socially distanced audience behind plexiglass.

VIC JOSEPH
"We are live inside the Capitol Wrestling Center, and the energy is electric. Tonight, a true test of champions as Bronson Reed defends the NXT Championship against Kushida in our main event."

WADE BARRETT
"Two competitors built on respect, Vic. Reed’s been the cornerstone of NXT since he ended Karrion Kross’s reign at End of the Line, and Kushida’s the kind of fighter who never stops moving forward."

As Barrett speaks, the camera slowly pans backstage to a monitor feed showing the Reed vs Kushida match graphic. Pete Dunne sits watching, the Ace of Spades card resting between his fingers.

VIC JOSEPH
"And you can see it there, Wade. The Ace of Spades himself, Pete Dunne, keeping a close eye on tonight’s title bout. He’s got the power to challenge whoever leaves with that championship."

WADE BARRETT
"You know Dunne, Vic. He’ll wait for the right moment and strike when it suits him best. Whoever wins tonight already has a target on their back."

Cut back to live, Bronson Reed steps through the arena corridor, both championships gleaming under the light. A few crew members offer quiet nods as he passes. Moments later, Kushida arrives through the opposite tunnel, taping his wrists, his focus unbroken.

VIC JOSEPH
"The champion and challenger have arrived, and later tonight, they’ll meet in a match built on pride and respect."

WADE BARRETT
"It’s the kind of contest that defines NXT, but first, the Tag Team Champions are set for action."

The crowd erupts as MSK’s entrance lights fill the arena, signalling the start of the night’s opening contest.

The opening shot lingers on the crowd as the energy builds. Chants of “NXT! NXT!” echo around the Capitol Wrestling Center as the commentary team recap the state of the tag team division.

VIC JOSEPH
“We’re kicking things off with tag team action, and what a division it’s become in recent weeks. MSK continue to carry the flag as champions, but after the return of Legado del Fantasma - now under the direction of Don Reyes - competition has never been tougher.”

WADE BARRETT
“You’re right, Vic. Reyes has completely recalibrated Legado del Fantasma’s approach. With Santos Escobar leading from the shadows, Wilde and Mendoza look more dangerous than ever. Add in Breezango, Ever-Rise, Hit Row, The Way, this is as deep as the tag division’s ever been.”

VIC JOSEPH
“And speaking of pride, tonight’s opening match is about exactly that. Breezango stepped up last week, reminding the champions that they’ve held this gold before. For Fandango and Tyler Breeze, this is about proving they can still hang with the best.”

WADE BARRETT
“And for MSK, it’s about reminding everyone why they’re the standard-bearers. They’ve been fast, fearless, and frustratingly good since the moment they arrived.”

The lights drop. A pulse of green and gold fills the arena.

♪ SWARM ♪

ALICIA TAYLOR
“The following non-title contest is a tag team match, scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, the NXT Tag Team Champions… Wes Lee and Nash Carter… M–S–K!”

MSK make their entrance through fog and strobe lights, greeted by the NXT faithful. Wes Lee sprints onto the stage first, animated and smiling, while Nash Carter follows with a nod of confidence. Both men slap hands with fans through the plexiglass before sliding into the ring, holding their titles aloft as the lights swirl.

VIC JOSEPH
“The tag team champions have made a habit of turning every match into an exhibition of speed and creativity. They’ve brought new life to this division.”

The atmosphere shifts as the music changes.

♪ #MMMGorgeous ♪

ALICIA TAYLOR
“And their opponents, the team of Tyler Breeze and Fandango… BREEZANGO!"

Tyler Breeze and Fandango emerge in coordinated Fashion Police jackets, mirrored aviators gleaming under the lights. They strut halfway down the ramp, pausing to look at the crowd before shedding their props. Their expressions are serious - gone are the winks and smiles of old.

WADE BARRETT
“There’s a chip on Breezango’s shoulders tonight, Vic. They’ve been watching the new generation take over and I think they’re tired of feeling like the punchline. This is a chance to remind everyone they still belong in the conversation.”

The energy inside the Capitol Wrestling Center is electric as both teams stand in the centre of the ring. MSK set their titles down on the apron and extend their hands toward Breezango as a show of respect.

Wes Lee offers his first. Tyler Breeze steps forward and accepts, nodding firmly. Fandango hesitates, glances at the crowd, and then reluctantly joins in. As the handshake breaks, he wipes his hand on his chest and smirks, muttering something under his breath that only Breeze seems to hear.

VIC JOSEPH
“MSK setting the tone early with a gesture of respect, but I don’t think Fandango’s buying into it.”

WADE BARRETT
“You can sense the tension, Vic. Breezango aren’t here to play nice. There’s pride on the line, and Fandango’s not handling that too well.”

Referee, Eddie Orengo, checks both corners and motions for the bell to start this non-title bout.

The Bell Rings.

The Capitol Wrestling Center comes alive as the bell rings.

Wes Lee and Fandango start for their teams. The crowd claps in rhythm as they circle. Collar-and-elbow tie-up. Fandango uses his height and leverage to drive Wes into the corner. Eddie calls for a break at four; Fandango lifts his hands, then gives a sly jab to the ribs as he steps back.

The crowd boos softly. Wes nods, absorbing it. They lock up again. This time Wes ducks under, hits the ropes, and connects with a sharp headscissors takedown. He springs up into a dropkick that sends Fandango tumbling through the ropes. The fans applaud the burst of speed.

VIC JOSEPH
“Wes Lee wasting no time showing that quickness. You can’t let MSK get rolling early.”

Fandango slaps the barricade in frustration before tagging in Tyler Breeze, who enters composed and focused.

WADE BARRETT
“Breeze has always been the calm half of the equation, Vic. He’ll want to dictate the pace before this becomes a track meet.”

Breeze and Nash Carter tie up. They exchange holds, rolling through each other’s counters in smooth rhythm. Breeze transitions to a wristlock; Carter floats out into an arm drag. Both kip up. The crowd applauds the technical exchange.

Breeze smirks, nodding at the younger man - then backs into his corner to tag in Fandango, who insists he can handle it.

Fandango enters with more urgency, grabbing Carter in a side headlock, then flooring him with a shoulder tackle. He struts briefly, drawing cheers and jeers in equal measure, then turns his back to preen for the camera.

Carter kips up behind him. Dropkick square to the chest. The crowd roars.

Carter drags Fandango into MSK’s corner and tags Wes. They whip him into the ropes and hit a running double dropkick. Wes covers.

ONE!

TWO!

NO!

Fandango powers out and rolls to the floor to regroup. Breeze leans over the ropes to give advice, telling him to breathe.

VIC JOSEPH
“Breeze trying to settle his partner down. This is where their experience usually comes through.”

Fandango climbs back in, catches Wes with a knee to the midsection, and plants him with a suplex. He floats over.

ONE!

TWO!

KICKOUT!

Fandango immediately tags Breeze. The two deliver a double back elbow, then a leg sweep and quick elbow drop combo for another near fall.

WADE BARRETT
“That’s vintage Breezango right there. When they’re in sync, it’s poetry in motion.”

Breeze keeps control, grounding Wes with a chinlock. The champions start a slow clap from the corner, the crowd joining in rhythm. Wes pushes to his feet, backs Breeze into the ropes, and escapes with an elbow.

Breeze regains momentum with a dropkick. He covers again.

ONE!

TWO!

NO!

Tag to Fandango, who storms in with a flurry of right hands. He whips Wes hard into the turnbuckles, follows with a running knee, then steps onto the second rope to pose again. Breeze shouts from the apron, “Stay on him!”

Fandango hops down, catches Wes in a spinning tilt-a-whirl slam, and covers.

ONE!

TWO!

NO!

The frustration starts to show. Fandango drags Wes up by the hair. Wes counters with a jawbreaker and dives toward the corner. Tag made.

Carter bursts in, lighting up both opponents with sharp strikes. He hits a standing moonsault on Breeze for a near fall, then springboards into a spinning heel kick on Fandango. The pace quickens.

Carter tags Wes. The champions hit stereo kicks and send Breeze rolling outside. They follow immediately -

Carter with a suicide dive through the ropes...

Wes with a tope con hilo over the top.

The crowd erupts.

VIC JOSEPH
“MSK can hit you from every angle! That’s the difference-maker in this division.”

Both champions roll Breeze back in. Wes heads up top, but Fandango grabs his foot from the apron. Carter charges and knocks Fandango off the apron with a running forearm. Breeze capitalises, spinning with a Supermodel Kick that catches Wes flush.

He falls into the cover.

ONE!

TWO!

NO!

Carter dives in to break it at the last moment. The crowd gasps.

Breeze slaps the mat, regrouping, then glances at Fandango, who’s still trying to shake off the blow outside. He tags him in to finish it.

Fandango climbs to the top rope and calls for the Last Dance, but Wes rolls away at the last second. The veteran crashes to the mat.

Both men crawl. Tag to Carter.

Carter hits the ropes, nails Breeze off the apron with a kick, then turns back to Fandango. Wes re-joins him, and the crowd knows what’s coming.

VIC JOSEPH
“The champions are lining it up!”

Carter lifts Fandango slightly as Wes rebounds, vaulting forward into a standing moonsault. Carter shoves him mid-rotation for extra force...

HOT FIRE FLAME CONNECTS!

Carter hooks the leg.

ONE!

TWO!

THREE!

Spoiler: MATCH RESULT

Winners: MSK (Nash Carter and Wes Lee) via pinfall in 10:25

The bell rings as MSK’s music hits. The crowd erupts. Eddie Orengo raises the champions’ hands while Breezango regroup in the corner.

ALICIA TAYLOR
“Here are your winners - M–S–K!”

Breeze looks disappointed but calm. Fandango kicks the bottom rope in frustration and storms out of the ring.

VIC JOSEPH
“What a way to start the night. MSK remain the gold standard, but something’s coming undone between Breeze and Fandango.”

WADE BARRETT
“Breeze wants to win the right way. Fandango’s just desperate to win at any cost. That kind of friction doesn’t stay buried for long.”

Wes offers a handshake. Breeze accepts respectfully before following his partner up the ramp, calling after him. The camera lingers on the curtain as they disappear backstage, the tension unresolved.

Cut to a backstage monitor. Legado del Fantasma stand watching the finish - Joaquin Wilde, Raul Mendoza, Santos Escobar, and Don Reyes, all in tailored suits. Reyes adjusts his cufflinks, smiling faintly.

VIC JOSEPH
“And there’s the new power in the tag team division. "El Gran Jefe" Don Reyes and Legado del Fantasma, keeping a very close eye on the champions.”

WADE BARRETT
“When those men watch, it isn’t as spectators. It’s as predators.”

The shot fades from Legado’s silent stare back to MSK in the ring, celebrating with the crowd chanting “M-S-K! M-S-K!” which plays us into the commercial break.

The camera finds Pete Dunne backstage, texting on his phone, the Ace of Spades card sitting neatly on a nearby crate.
James Drake and Zack Gibson step into frame, both smirking.

ZACK GIBSON
“Pete, mate, we were watchin’ that main event last week. I know you and Moustache Mountain go way back, but really? Them? You had us right here.”

JAMES DRAKE
“If we’d been by your side, Bronson and Kushida wouldn’t even be cleared tonight. You’d have had a clear path to cash in that card.”

Dunne doesn’t look up.

PETE DUNNE
“If last week taught me anything… it’s that I can’t trust anyone but myself.”

He keeps typing away on his phone. Gibson steps closer, tone softening but sharp.

ZACK GIBSON
“Come on, mate. You don’t need to do this alone. You’ve got the Ace of Spades in your pocket and two lads who can make sure you play it right.”

Dunne finally meets Gibson’s eye.

PETE DUNNE
“You mean two lads who’d take the credit when I win. Not happening.”

Before Gibson can reply, Oney Lorcan storms in.

ONEY LORCAN
“You talk about trust, Pete -what about loyalty? I was there when no one else was. You left me to rot the second it suited you. And last week? That was the final straw.”

Gibson chuckles quietly.

ZACK GIBSON
“Easy, lad. You’ll pop a vein.”

Lorcan steps right up to him, unblinking.

ONEY LORCAN
“I’m not here for you, Zack. I’m here for him.”

He nods toward Dunne, who tucks his phone away and slowly stands, nose-to-nose with Lorcan.

PETE DUNNE
"Maybe you should have taken the hint.”

Dunne slaps him hard across the face. Lorcan reels, swinging back, but GYV grab him by the arms, holding him long enough for Dunne to drive a forearm into his jaw. Lorcan hits the wall and slides down, dazed.

ZACK GIBSON (grinning)
“Still the Bruiserweight. Same as ever.”

Dunne cracks his neck, eyes cold.

PETE DUNNE
“Exactly. My way.”

He grabs the Ace of Spades card, tucks it into his jacket pocket, and walks off.

GYV glance down at Lorcan, impressed but uneasy, before following Dunne out of frame. The camera lingers on Lorcan, clutching his jaw and glaring after them.

VIC JOSEPH
“Pete Dunne reminding everyone why he’s called the Bruiserweight - but he’s running out of friends fast.”

WADE BARRETT
“Dunne doesn’t need friends, Vic. He’s got that Ace of Spades - and when he plays it, it could change the whole landscape of NXT.”

Backstage. Gorilla Position.

The camera shows Raquel González walking with Dakota Kai toward the entrance area.

Raquel carries the NXT Women’s Championship confidently over her shoulder, while Dakota stays close beside her, still wearing her tinted glasses, guided lightly by Raquel’s hand on her arm.

Raquel pauses at the curtain, nods to Dakota, and rolls her shoulders, ready to compete.

VIC JOSEPH
“Up next is our second match of the night featuring one of NXT’s reigning champions - the NXT Women’s Champion, Raquel González, who is set for non-title action against the debuting Jacy Jayne.”

WADE BARRETT
“Jayne’s been making plenty of noise on NXT Evolve, Vic. She’s brash, she’s loud, and tonight, she’s stepping straight into the deep end against Big Mami Cool.”

VIC JOSEPH
“And with Dakota Kai still in recovery, Raquel’s keeping one eye on her best friend and the other on a locker room full of contenders.”

The camera cuts to the ring, where Jacy Jayne stands with a microphone in hand, pacing back and forth as the crowd buzzes curiously.

JACY JAYNE
“So this is NXT? Big lights, big crowd - and apparently, a big champion who thinks she runs the place.”

The audience boos lightly. Jacy smirks and flips her hair, unbothered.

JACY JAYNE
"Raquel, you may think that you're untouchable after TakeOver, but everybody knows that it was your Springer Show antics with Dakota and Mercedes that won you the match against Toni Storm."

That draws a louder reaction. Jacy laughs nervously, thinking the crowd’s with her.

JACY JAYNE
Hey, I’m not saying you’re not strong. You’re tall, you’re tough - you even scare the locker room. But I’ve got something you don’t.

She pauses dramatically, trying to bait the audience.

JACY JAYNE
“Charisma. Personality. The kind of spark that gets you noticed. And tonight, I’m about to go viral when I drop the NXT Women’s Champion flat on her back in my first match.”

The crowd jeers as Jacy smirks into the camera.

JACY JAYNE
“So come on out, Raquel. Let’s see if ‘Big Mami Cool’ can handle a little heat from the future face of this division.”

She tosses the mic aside and leans against the ropes, feigning confidence before she's interrupted.

♪ TRAP QUEEN ♪

The lights dim before the champion's new theme echoes through the Capitol Wrestling Center. Raquel González steps onto the stage, the NXT Women’s Championship over her shoulder, with Dakota Kai walking a half-step behind her.

The camera lingers on Dakota’s tinted glasses, then back to Raquel’s focused expression.

VIC JOSEPH
“The NXT Women’s Champion looks less than impressed, and frankly, who can blame her?”

WADE BARRETT
“Confidence is one thing, Vic, but Jacy Jayne just poked the hornet’s nest. Raquel’s got enough people chasing her - Franky Monet, Mercedes Martinez, and now an upstart trying to make a name off her.”

Raquel walks with purpose, Dakota trailing at ringside as the champion steps between the ropes, eyes locked on Jacy. The newcomer bounces on her heels, mouthing “Let’s go!” as the referee steps forward.

Aja Smith is the assigned official.

ALICIA TAYLOR
“The following contest is a non-title match scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, already in the ring — JACY JAYNE! And her opponent - she is the NXT Women’s Champion, RAQUEL GONZÁLEZ!”

Raquel raises the title high, expression unreadable.

VIC JOSEPH
“'Big Mami Cool' is back in action for the first time since High Stakes, and with both Mercedes Martinez and Franky Monet watching closely, the champion can’t afford any slip-ups tonight.”

Jacy rushes out of her corner, shouting as she swings wildly with a discus forearm she calls The Roaring Encore, but Raquel ducks under it.

The crowd reacts immediately as Raquel hits the ropes and blasts Jacy with a big boot that drops her flat. Raquel pulls her up by the arm, driving a knee into her midsection before launching her across the ring with a fallaway slam.

VIC JOSEPH
“Raquel González showing exactly why she’s the NXT Women’s Champion - total control from the outset.”

WADE BARRETT
“This is week's worth of frustration and aggression being unleashed on Jacy Jayne right here."

Jacy scrambles to her feet, trying to throw frantic forearms, but Raquel barely budges. She hooks Jacy, lifts her high, and plants her with a spinning powerslam for a near fall.

ONE!

TWO!

NO!

Jacy kicks out weakly. Raquel nods, almost amused, then hauls her up again.

WADE BARRETT
“Jacy Jayne might be regretting that little speech earlier, Vic. There’s confidence, and then there’s calling out Raquel González.”

Raquel lifts Jacy for the Chingona Bomb, holding her in the air for a moment before driving her down hard in the centre of the ring. She folds her up for the cover.

ONE!

TWO!

THREE!

Spoiler: MATCH RESULT

Winner: Raquel González via pinfall in 02:06

ALICIA TAYLOR
“Here is your winner... the NXT Women’s Champion, RAQUEL GONZÁLEZ!”

Raquel gets to her feet, taking her title from Aja Smith. She raises it proudly as Dakota Kai applauds at ringside.

VIC JOSEPH
"A commanding performance from Raquel González, sending a clear message to the entire division."

WADE BARRETT
"Franky Monet, Mercedes Martinez, every challenger in the back, they all saw that. Raquel’s at the top of her game."

The cheers fade as the crowd begins to react to something at ringside. Aliyah appears on the ramp, wearing a rhinestone neck brace, clearly still hurt from last week's match with Mercedes Martinez. She smirks and walks down toward the ring.

VIC JOSEPH
"Aliyah shouldn’t even be out here, look at her! She’s still recovering from last week’s beating at the hands of Mercedes Martinez."

Aliyah circles the ring, moving toward Dakota Kai on the outside. She stops behind her, raising her hands as if to strike. Dakota turns and freezes, unsure whether to move.

Inside the ring, Raquel spots the threat and steps toward the ropes, but Franky Monet and Jessi Kamea slide in from behind. They club Raquel across the back and drive her to the canvas with repeated stomps.

Raquel tries to fight them off, hitting a forearm to Monet and a back elbow to Kamea, but Aliyah climbs into the ring and joins the attack, neck brace and all. The three women stomp Raquel into the mat as Dakota watches from the outside, disoriented.

VIC JOSEPH
"The Brand are ambushing the champion, and Dakota Kai’s in no position to help her!"

WADE BARRETT
"Franky Monet’s just making a statement, Vic. The Brand are showing the champion what competition looks like!"

Raquel powers back to her feet, sending Kamea tumbling with a clothesline and shoving Aliyah away. Monet grabs the NXT Women’s Championship and swings it at Raquel, connecting across the back. The boos echo through the Capitol Wrestling Center.

Franky stands tall, holding the belt over Raquel’s body as Aliyah claps proudly beside her. Monet mouths to the camera, "My division now."

The crowd erupts as Mercedes Martinez storms down the ramp. She slides into the ring and immediately drops Kamea with a right hand. Monet turns but gets rocked with a forearm that sends her spilling through the ropes. Aliyah scurries out after her, clutching her neck brace.

Mercedes checks on Raquel, helping her to her feet. The two women lock eyes for a tense moment, neither backing down. Mercedes nods once, pointing to the title belt before turning to leave.

VIC JOSEPH
"Mercedes Martinez just saved Raquel González from a three-on-one assault, but there’s no love lost there. Mercedes still wants that championship."

WADE BARRETT
"Let’s be honest. Franky Monet and The Brand were sending a message, but Mercedes sent one louder. She may have stepped in tonight, but she’s not Raquel’s friend - she’s her next challenger."

Raquel watches Mercedes walk up the ramp, clutching her championship close. Dakota leans against the apron, shaken but upright, as The Brand regroup near the stage.

VIC JOSEPH
"Chaos once again surrounding the NXT Women’s Champion. Franky Monet is coming for her and Mercedes Martinez is coming to collect what she believes she's owed."

WADE BARRETT
"Everyone’s gunning for Raquel, and with Dakota Kai still not 100 percent, the champion might be more vulnerable than she thinks."

Raquel raises her title one last time as Mercedes pauses on the stage and looks back, the tension between them thick enough to cut.

Back from commercial, the camera cuts to Finn Bálor and Kyle O’Reilly talking in a hallway near the locker room. Both look tense, deep in discussion.

In the background, Killian Dain can be seen down the corridor, listening in silently.

KYLE O’REILLY
"I’m still deciding which title I’m coming for. I mean, Ciampa’s intense, but Bronson’s the guy to beat right now. He’s on fire, but he’s also juggling everything, and I’m not about to take the North American Title off him just because he’s having an off day."

FINN BÁLOR
"Whatever you decide, just know I’ll be keeping a close eye. Once I’m done dealing with that maniac Killian Dain, that is."

Kyle smirks, nodding.

Before he can reply, Austin Theory strolls up, arms folded and full of attitude.

AUSTIN THEORY
"Oh, here we go, the two guys who treat me like a kid. You think you’re the only ones who can hang at the top? Whatever title Kyle goes for, I’ll be first in line to challenge for it."

Bálor lets out a quiet laugh, shaking his head.

FINN BÁLOR
"Kid, the line starts somewhere behind me."

A voice cuts in from off-camera.

BOBBY FISH
"Correction. It starts behind me."

"The Infamous" Bobby Fish steps into frame, dressed sharply, scarf draped over his shoulders.

BOBBY FISH
"But that’s if I even want to work with Kyle again. He can be a bit of a… how do I say… bitter co-star to work with. Bobby Fish doesn’t do ensemble pieces anymore."

Kyle raises an eyebrow, unimpressed.

KYLE O’REILLY
"Good to know, Shakespeare."

Fish smirks, adjusting his scarf like a stage actor bowing after a line.

The tension builds until Johnny Gargano and Dexter Lumis walk in, both amused.

JOHNNY GARGANO
"Okay, okay, this is getting pretty dramatic back here, even for NXT. I’m nothing if not a leader, so how about this? Next week, we settle it. Trios match. The Way versus whoever’s feeling brave enough to test themselves."

Fish laughs softly to himself.

BOBBY FISH
"Bobby Fish doesn’t do small parts… and he most certainly doesn’t do tag matches with Kyle O’Reilly. I’ve paid my dues. Find somebody else to carry you."

Fish turns to leave, muttering something about “creative miscasting.”

At the end of the hall, Roderick Strong steps into view.

RODERICK STRONG
"Then I will."

The room falls silent. Bálor looks sceptical; Kyle nods once. Gargano and Theory exchange a knowing smirk.

RODERICK STRONG
"I know my head hasn't been in it lately, but trust me, I've got this."

O'Reilly nods reassuringly to Bálor, vouching for his former stablemate.

FINN BÁLOR
"Then I guess we’ve got ourselves a fight next week."

Everyone begins to walk off in different directions. In the background, the camera catches that Killian Dain has vanished from his spot - unnoticed by anyone.

The shot lingers on Johnny Gargano, who pauses mid-step. He glances over his shoulder and spots Tommaso Ciampa standing a few feet away, leaning against a production crate with the NXT Cruiserweight Championship resting on his shoulder.

The two share a silent, heavy look - not hostility, but history. Ciampa adjusts the title, pushes off the crate, and walks past Gargano toward the curtain. Gargano exhales, watching him go.

A replay rolls clips from NXT TakeOver: High Stakes:
​

Kushida wrenching the Hoverboard Lock tight. Ciampa clawing toward the ropes. The brutal rope-assisted knee strike. Then Willow’s Bell on the apron, followed by the three-count.

VIC JOSEPH (ARCHIVE)
"Ciampa has done it! Tommaso Ciampa is the new NXT Cruiserweight Champion!"

The footage freezes on Ciampa kneeling over the title. The color drains to black and white, and the crowd noise distorts into a low hum as the lights inside the Capitol Wrestling Center flicker back on.​

♪ No One Will Survive ♪

Back live, a single spotlight illuminates the stage. Tommaso Ciampa steps through the curtain, trench coat over his gear, the Cruiserweight Championship draped over his shoulder.

His expression is unreadable - colder, sharper. The crowd’s reaction is mixed: admiration tinged with unease.

ALICIA TAYLOR
"Please welcome, the new NXT Cruiserweight Champion… Tommaso Ciampa!"

Ciampa walks to the ring without breaking stride. Once inside, he stops in the center, lowers the microphone to his side, and waits until the noise dies down.

TOMMASO CIAMPA
"You ever notice how people only love redemption when it isn’t theirs? They cheer when you fall, they cry when you break, and they clap when you crawl back up. But they never ask what happens when you stop crawling."

He looks down at the title, brushing his thumb along the faceplate.

TOMMASO CIAMPA
"They call this the heart of NXT. Said it was for the fast, the fearless, the future. And yet… it took me to give it a pulse."

He lets that sink in before continuing.

TOMMASO CIAMPA
"I beat Kushida for this championship - and now, he’s off chasing the NXT Title. Meanwhile, everyone acts like I’m the one standing still. But I’ve held every championship this brand has ever had, except one. And still, they question my legacy.."

He raises the Cruiserweight Championship toward the hard camera.

TOMMASO CIAMPA
"I didn’t win this to relive the past, or play hero for the next generation. I won it to hold a mirror up to this place. To test who’s real. To see who still bleeds for it."

He sets the belt on the top rope, pacing slowly.

TOMMASO CIAMPA
"You want to call me the Devil? The Blackheart? Fine. I’m the Devil who tells the truth. And the truth is, nobody works harder, nobody fights dirtier, and nobody deserves this more than me."

Ciampa taps the title with his fingertips, voice low but steady.

TOMMASO CIAMPA
"I am the standard. The line between savior and sinner. And every soul who walks through that curtain thinking they belong here…"
(He taps the title again.)
"…will have to come through me first."

He lets the silence stretch before lifting the title high one final time. Then he sets it gently in the center of the ring and steps through the ropes.

VIC JOSEPH
"Tommaso Ciampa making his intentions clear. No apologies, no humility - just dominance. The Blackheart has returned with a mission."

WADE BARRETT
"Kushida might be chasing the NXT Championship, but Ciampa’s determined to make the world look his way again. He’s redefining what it means to hold that Cruiserweight Title, Vic. The question now is… who dares step up?"

The camera lingers on Ciampa halfway up the ramp, the gold reflecting the light, before fading to a wide shot of the Capitol Wrestling Center.

VIC JOSEPH
"Tommaso Ciampa sending a message to the entire NXT roster. He isn’t just defending a championship, he’s trying to reshape what it means."

WADE BARRETT
"And I believe him, Vic. Ciampa’s done nearly everything there is to do in NXT, and now he’s promising to make the Cruiserweight Championship the title the world’s watching."

VIC JOSEPH
"Well, from one outspoken champion to another, coming up tonight we’ll hear from LA Knight as his 'Million Dollar Dream Match' returns. But don’t go anywhere, because after the break, Raw’s Lucha House Party bring their high-flying energy to NXT tag team action."

We cut to commercial.

VIC JOSEPH
“Welcome back to NXT! Before the break, we heard strong words from the new Cruiserweight Champion, Tommaso Ciampa, and right now, we turn our attention to the tag division, where two familiar faces from Monday Night Raw are set to compete.”

WADE BARRETT
“Gran Metalik and Lince Dorado have been around the world, Vic. They’re lightning in human form - and they’re here tonight to show this tag division why they’ve lasted this long.”

♪ LUCHA LUCHA ♪

The crowd buzzes as Raw’s Lucha House Party make their entrance. Gran Metalik and Lince Dorado leap through gold and purple light, full of energy and showmanship.

ALICIA TAYLOR
"The following contest is a tag team match scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, representing Monday Night Raw , weighing in at a combined 366 pounds... Lucha House Party!"

They strike matching poses on opposite turnbuckles before backflipping to the mat, leading the crowd in rhythmic “Lu-cha! Lu-cha!” chants.

The music shifts to a minimalist pulse as Ru Feng and Dante Chen step out from the curtain. Calm and focused, they bow slightly before entering the ring.

VIC JOSEPH
"Last week, Lucha House Party told us this wasn’t a return, it was a takeover of tradition. But tonight, they’ll be tested by two young upstarts, Ru Feng and Dante Chen."

WADE BARRETT
"And they’ll need that experience, Vic. These two young men have shown promise in NXT Evolve, and you can tell from their composure they’re not intimidated in the slightest."

Metalik starts opposite Chen. They circle and lock up. Chen takes the early advantage with a waistlock and smooth takedown, holding tight until Metalik kips free, rebounding off the ropes into a springboard arm drag. Chen lands on his feet, nodding.

They reset. Chen pushes Metalik into the corner, breaks clean, and gestures for another lock-up. Metalik obliges, but this time springs to the top rope, walks across the entire top strand, and dives with a flying arm drag that sends Chen sprawling.

VIC JOSEPH
"The Master of the Ropes showing off his signature precision and balance!"

Metalik tags Dorado, who lands a running dropkick and a standing moonsault.

ONE!

TWO!

NO!

Chen kicks out and brings Dorado toward the corner to tag Feng.

Feng lands a spinning heel kick, then traps Dorado in a grounded headlock. Dorado fights free, flipping over with a jawbreaker to create space. Both men crawl for tags.

Double tag. Metalik and Chen collide mid-ring - Chen surprises everyone with a sharp knee strike, then hoists Metalik into a butterfly suplex for a near fall.

ONE!

TWO!

NO!

Dorado breaks it up.

Feng rushes in, but Dorado catches him with a tilt-a-whirl DDT. Metalik climbs the top rope, walking the length of it before dropping a rope-walk dropkick to Chen’s chest. Dorado follows with a diving splash.

ONE!

TWO!

THREE!

Spoiler: MATCH RESULT

Winners: Lucha House Party (Gran Metalik and Lince Dorado) via pinfall in 06:47

ALICIA TAYLOR
"Here are your winners...Lucha House Party!"

The crowd cheers as Metalik and Dorado celebrate their win, rallying the Capitol Wrestling Center with chants of “Lu-cha! Lu-cha!”

But the atmosphere suddenly changes. The lights dim to a deep amber as Legado del Fantasma appear through the crowd - Santos Escobar, Joaquin Wilde, and Raul Mendoza - attacking from behind.

Dorado is rammed shoulder-first into the ring post. Metalik takes a running knee from Wilde before Mendoza plants him with a twisting driver. The fans boo loudly as Legado stand tall.

At the top of the ramp, Don Reyes appears, stoic in his black suit, hands clasped behind his back.

VIC JOSEPH
"Legado del Fantasma striking without warning again, and look at Don Reyes. Cold. Calculated. Just watching his order at work."

WADE BARRETT
"Vic, this is what Reyes promised last week, a cleansing of Lucha Libre. He said the masks and acrobatics had turned heritage into performance. And tonight, he’s proving that the new era of Lucha Libre belongs to him."

Escobar grabs Metalik’s torn mask, holds it aloft, and drops it deliberately at Reyes’s feet.

VIC JOSEPH
"That’s no random attack, it's a declaration. Lucha House Party came here talking about a takeover of tradition, but Legado del Fantasma have just rewritten what that tradition means."

WADE BARRETT
"And you can bet MSK are watching. Don Reyes isn’t trying to uphold Lucha Libre, he’s trying to own it."

Reyes gives a subtle nod, his men exiting the ring in formation. The camera lingers on Metalik, clutching his face as Dorado helps him sit up, the crowd chanting “Lu-cha!” in sympathy.

We cut to a 'Digital Exclusive' from showing events from NWA EmPowerrr, St. Louis.​

Highlights play from the viral moment: Shotzi, Tegan Nox, and Ember Moon making their surprise appearance at NWA EmPowerrr and defeating Ray Lyn, Heather Monroe, and Madi Wrenkowski.

The Chase Park Plaza crowd roars as the NXT trio celebrate - until Indi Hartwell and Persia Pirotta, the NXT Women’s Tag Team Champions, interrupt, microphones in hand.

PERSIA PIROTTA
(archival)
"Aww, look at Shotzi and her rotating besties. New bestie. Old bestie. One’s just got back from being on the shelf, and one’s a kneebar away from going back on it!"

The audience boos loudly. Moments later, The Hex, Allysin Kay and Marti Belle, the newly crowned NWA Women’s Tag Team Champions - storm out to confront them.

EmPowerrr Executive Producer and women's wrestling legend, Mickie James, appears cutting the tension:

MICKIE JAMES
"Ladies, I'm thrilled to see the NXT Women's Tag Champs here tonight. Really. But we invited Ember, Shotzi, and Tegan? You? You're party crashers. So, unless you paid for a ticket like all these fans in The Chase tonight - you're going to have to leave"

The crowd explodes as The Hex join Ember, Shotzi, and Tegan to send Indi and Persia packing.​

We return backstage to the present day. A soft buzz of locker-room chatter fills the hallway. Shotzi, Tegan Nox, and Ember Moon are with Kacy Catanzaro and Kayden Carter, replaying the EmPowerrr footage on a tablet.

SHOTZI
"You three broke the internet with that! No one could believe you just showed up at EmPowerrr!"

KAYDEN CARTER
"You really brought NXT party to the NWA!"

SHOTZI
"Total mayhem, baby. I live for chaos, but even I didn’t think we’d blow up the wrestling world."

EMBER MOON
"And it wasn’t about stealing attention, it was about sharing it. That’s what this division should be."

KACY CATANZARO
"So, Tegan, how did you even pull that off?"

TEGAN NOX
(smiling)
"What can I say? I’m a big Smashing Pumpkins fan."

Everyone laughs, until the air changes. The laughter dies as Indi Hartwell and Persia Pirotta stroll in, the NXT Women’s Tag Team Titles glinting under the fluorescent lights. Their presence shifts the energy in the corridor immediately.

PERSIA PIROTTA
"Aw, how sweet. The viral sensations are still watching reruns."

INDI HARTWELL
"Hey, don’t thank us all at once. After all, that little crossover got everyone talking about our division. You’re welcome."

EMBER MOON
(steps forward, coldly)
"You mean the same show we were trending for...and you got tossed out of?"

Persia’s smirk falters slightly, before she straightens her shoulders.

PERSIA PIROTTA
"We made that show worth watching. Without us, it would've been a total snooze fest."

SHOTZI
"Funny, ‘cause the only thing people remember is us standing tall while you were halfway to the parking lot."

TEGAN NOX
"Keep talking. When you finally stop hiding behind those belts, we’ll be right here waiting."

INDI HARTWELL
(snickers)
"I thought you'd be too busy making friendship bracelets for each other, or maybe plaiting each other's hair? Besides, we've already beaten you! We don't need to hide."

Tegan tenses. Ember shoots Indi a glare but keeps her composure.

From the background, Nigel McGuinness strides in, headset around his neck, clipboard in hand.

NIGEL MCGUINNESS
"Alright, alright - enough! First off, Shotzi, Tegan, Ember, congratulations. That appearance at EmPowerrr was brilliant. Great exposure for NXT, great business with the NWA - Billy and Mickie were thrilled."

He turns to the champions, tone sharpening.

NIGEL MCGUINNESS
"As for you two. I’ve already had to do some damage control after your little stunt. Now seeing as there still seems to be some bad blood, here's what we're going to do. Next week, one member from each team goes one-on-one. No titles, no interference, no excuses." he gestures to the trio of babyfaces. "If your side win, your team get another opportunity at the NXT Women's Tag Team titles." he turns to the champions. "and I guess if you win....they don't."

PERSIA PIROTTA
(smiling)
"Fine by us. Indi’ll take care of it."

EMBER MOON
(stepping forward)
"Then I’m in."

EMBER MOON
"Tegan..."

Tegan cuts her off with a look. Ember exhales, frustrated.

EMBER MOON
"Then that's settled. Best of luck for next week."

Nigel walks off, still muttering under his breath. Indi and Persia exchange a smug glance before heading down the corridor. Ember leans back against the wall, silent, as Shotzi pats Tegan on the shoulder.

VIC JOSEPH
"A massive match made official for next week, Tegan Nox versus Indi Hartwell, and the fallout from NWA EmPowerrr continues here on NXT!"

WADE BARRETT
"Credit to Nigel for keeping order, Vic, but next week, the talking stops. Tegan wants to prove she’s still got it, and Indi’s out to prove why she’s champion."

A graphic appears on-screen to promote the match next week as the segment comes to a close.

A cold open video rolls.​

Footage from NXT: High Stakes shows Tony D’Angelo at the Kick-Off Show gambling table, placing a cheeky bet against LA Knight.

Cut to clips from NXT Evolve, showing D’Angelo’s debut win over Tyler Rust.

As he celebrates, LA Knight and Cal Lannister interrupt the broadcast, clapping sarcastically from the ramp.

Quick cuts show the two groups crossing paths backstage - Lannister jawing at Tony, Knight smirking behind sunglasses.​

The screen fades to black. Vic Joseph and Wade Barrett are shown at ringside.

VIC JOSEPH
"And now, LA Knight’s looking to make another statement in one of his so-called 'Million Dollar Dream Matches,' where a rookie gets five minutes to prove they belong...or get exposed in the process."

WADE BARRETT
"It’s the kind of tough love I respect, Vic. LA Knight calls it mentorship. I call it a reality check."

VIC JOSEPH
"Can he still call it a Million Dollar Dream match if he's not holding the Million Dollar Championship anymore?"

WADE BARRETT
"Well he can, and he is, Vic, so why don't you try adjusting your tone and calling this match down the middle."

♪ WELCOME TO LA ♪

LA Knight steps onto the stage in his black vest and aviators, smirking, with "The Mountain" Cal Lannister at his side in a tailored jacket. The crowd jeers as Knight raises a finger and taps his watch, mouthing “five minutes.”

ALICIA TAYLOR
"The following contest is scheduled for one fall with a five-minute time limit. Introducing first, accompanied by "The Mountain" Cal Lannister, from Los Angeles, California… LA Knight!"

They head to the ring, the camera catching Knight gesturing at the crowd.

LA KNIGHT
"Yeah! Let me talk to ya!"

He takes a microphone as the boos swell.

LA KNIGHT
"Ever since I walked into NXT, people have been betting against me - literally. Tony D’Angelo, you got jokes, you got that whole 'Goodfellas' routine. Cute. But what you don’t have… is me. The Megastar."

He glances at Lannister, who adjusts his cufflinks with a grin.

LA KNIGHT
"So you know the drill by now. I give some rookie the opportunity of a lifetime: five minutes in the ring with greatness. Tonight’s lucky kid must survive five minutes. My goal: remind everyone why I’m untouchable. Yeah!"

Knight tosses the mic aside.

Knight's opponent, 24-year old Channing Lauren runs out full of energy, nodding to the crowd before sliding into the ring. He stares Knight down, not backing off.

ALICIA TAYLOR
"And his opponent from Raleigh, North Carolina… Channing Lauren!"

Referee, Darryl Sharma, signals for the bell and starts the timer.

Knight circles Lauren, talking trash. Lauren surprises him with a quick dropkick that sends Knight stumbling into the corner. The crowd reacts with a pop.

VIC JOSEPH
"Channing Lauren showing some fire early - that might’ve rattled Knight!"

Lauren follows with a running forearm and rolls Knight into a quick cover.

ONE!

TWO!

NO!

Knight powers out and scrambles to his feet, visibly annoyed. He charges, but Lauren ducks and lands an arm drag, then another. Lauren kips up, drawing cheers.

WADE BARRETT
"Alright, credit where it’s due. The kid’s got something. But let’s see how long it lasts once Knight gets serious."

Knight catches Lauren with a boot to the gut, followed by a hard neckbreaker. He covers lazily.

ONE!

TWO!

KICKOUT!

Knight argues with the referee, smirking as he glances at the clock, 3:12 remaining.

He drives Lauren into the corner and unloads with shoulder thrusts, shouting, “You’re in the ring with a megastar!” He backs up, hits a running knee, and slaps Lauren across the head.

Lauren fires back with a flurry of chops and a spinning elbow, forcing Knight to retreat. He goes for a flying crossbody, but Knight catches him mid-air and turns it into a powerslam.

Knight poses for the camera as Cal Lannister applauds from ringside.

VIC JOSEPH
"Knight getting a little too comfortable, the clock’s ticking, and Channing Lauren’s still in this match!"

Knight lifts Lauren for the BFT, but Lauren wriggles free and rolls him up from behind.

ONE!

TWO!

NO!

Knight kicks out at the last second and immediately hits a spinebuster. The clock shows 0:58.

Knight shakes his head, irritated now. He drags Lauren up, shouting, "You wanted five minutes, kid, you’re gonna wish you asked for four!" He plants him with the BFT and covers.

ONE!

TWO!

THREE!

Winner: LA Knight via pinfall in 04:51

ALICIA TAYLOR
"Here is your winner, LA Knight!"

Knight smirks and kneels beside Lauren, patting him on the shoulder.

LA KNIGHT
"Lesson learned, kid. Five minutes with a megastar, you’ll tell your grandkids about it."

He stands, arms raised, as Lannister enters the ring to applaud. Then, without warning, Lannister grabs Lauren from behind and locks in the Vice Grip, wrenching it tight. Lauren thrashes in pain until the referee and officials rush in to pull him off.

Knight feigns innocence, hands raised, mouthing, “What? Just teaching respect.”

VIC JOSEPH
"Come on! That was uncalled for, the match was over!"

WADE BARRETT
"Hey, it’s a valuable lesson, Vic. Welcome to NXT, the bell doesn’t always save you."

As LA Inc. celebrate, the titantron flickers to life.

On-screen, Tony D'Angelo sits alone in a softly lit Italian restaurant. A half-finished espresso sits in front of him, the faint sound of an old jazz record playing in the background. He looks up at the camera with an easy smile.

TONY D’ANGELO
"Hey, LA… Cal. How’s business?"

He takes a slow sip of espresso, sets the cup down neatly on its saucer.

TONY D’ANGELO
""Congrats on the big win. I saw what you did there. You two are tough guys, huh? You know, I’ve been keepin’ an eye on you two, you see, I didn't like how things went down on NXT Evolve last week."

He chuckles lightly, the kind of laugh that feels both friendly and dangerous.

TONY D’ANGELO
"Now don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind a little fun. Sure, I bet against you at High Stakes. You know why? Because I’m smart. I play the odds. But then you two start gettin’ personal, throwin’ shade, takin’ shots , and I can keep doin’ that all day if you want. But that’s not how I like to handle business."

Tony leans forward slightly, tone still smooth but darker now.

TONY D’ANGELO
"So next week, how about we do just that? No suits, no spotlights. You bring your corporation… and I’ll bring the family. We’ll have ourselves a little sit-down. Just business."

Tony taps his espresso cup twice with the spoon, the sound echoing through the speakers before the screen cuts to black.

Knight stares up at the screen, jaw tightening. Lannister leans in and mutters something, the two men exchanging a tense look.

VIC JOSEPH
"Tony D’Angelo sending a message loud and clear - LA Knight might’ve made an example of Channing Lauren tonight, but next week, he’s got business to handle."

WADE BARRETT
"Knight’s no fool, Vic. He’ll show up to that meeting but Tony D had better know who he’s inviting to the table."

Knight exits the ring with Lannister close behind, both keeping their composure but clearly unsettled as the crowd jeers.

VIC JOSEPH
"Still to come tonight, our main event, Bronson Reed defending the NXT Championship against Kushida. But before we get there, we want to take you backstage for an update on the Women’s Champion following that earlier attack by The Brand."

WADE BARRETT
"Franky Monet and her entourage have been running riot lately, Vic, and after tonight’s stunt, you’ve got to wonder how much longer Raquel can keep her composure."

We cut backstage to the Medical Area.

McKenzie Mitchell stands beside a trainer tending to Raquel González, who’s seated on a bench with her right shoulder wrapped in ice. Dakota Kai stands nearby, listening quietly.

MCKENZIE MITCHELL
"Raquel, earlier tonight The Brand blindsided you following your match with Jacy Jayne, can we get an update on your condition?"

Before Raquel can answer, Mercedes Martinez strides into frame, still fired up from the brawl.

MERCEDES MARTINEZ
"She’s fine, McKenzie. I just came from Nigel’s office. The match is made. Next week, it’s me and Raquel versus Franky and Jessi. No more cheap shots. No more numbers game."

Raquel exhales, standing up slowly and nodding.

RAQUEL GONZÁLEZ
"I've had about as much as I can take with those Mean Girl wannabes!"
(she pauses)
"I guess, I should be thanking you?"

Mercedes crosses her arms but softens slightly when she looks at Dakota.

MERCEDES MARTINEZ
"I didn’t do it for thanks. I did it because they pushed the wrong buttons. But credit where it’s due, you’ve still got fight in you."

DAKOTA KAI
"I might not have seen what happened out there, but I heard enough. You didn’t have to get involved, Mercedes. You chose to. And after what Tian Sha did to us, after everything we’ve both been through… maybe it’s about time we stopped fighting each other and started fighting for the same thing again."

Mercedes gives a small reluctant nod - wary, but appreciative.

MERCEDES MARTINEZ
"Guess we’ll see how that goes next week."

RAQUEL GONZÁLEZ
"We’ll handle The Brand first. Then we’ll see what happens after that."

The two women exchange a subtle but knowing nod. McKenzie looks from one to the other, sensing the fragile truce.

MCKENZIE MITCHELL
"Well, there you have it, you heard it here first. Next week, Raquel González and Mercedes Martinez will team up to face Franky Monet and Jessi Kamea of The Brand, live on NXT."

Raquel rolls her shoulder as the trainer steps aside. Dakota gives a faint, genuine smile.

VIC JOSEPH
"A huge tag team showdown made official for next week, Raquel and Mercedes uniting against The Brand! And for the first time in weeks, Dakota, Raquel, and Mercedes might be on the same page."

WADE BARRETT
"Let’s hope so, Vic, but I have to see it to believe it first. That’s a combustible team waiting to blow up."

Footage rolls briefly of Legado del Fantasma’s brutal assault on Lucha House Party earlier in the night. Santos Escobar and his men standing tall as Don Reyes watches, expression unreadable.

Cut to Nigel McGuinness pacing outside a door marked Legado del Fantasma - Private Suite. Two security guards stand nearby. Nigel looks to the camera, visibly irritated.

He knocks once, then walks straight in.

Inside, Don Reyes, Santos Escobar, Raul Mendoza, and Joaquin Wilde sit around a low table. The lighting is cool, the atmosphere tense. Reyes doesn’t rise, he simply gestures to the empty chair opposite him.

DON REYES
“Ah, Mr. McGuinness. To what do we owe this visit?”

NIGEL MCGUINNESS
“You know why I’m here. That attack out there was completely uncalled for. You’ve got one of the most talented tag teams in the world at your disposal, and instead of competing, you’re sending messages with cheap shots.”

Reyes smiles faintly, folding his hands.

DON REYES
“Cheap shots? No. Corrections. We didn’t attack those men because they were weak. We attacked them because they were making a mockery of our heritage. Our history. Parading around like circus clowns.”

Nigel scoffs, shaking his head.

NIGEL MCGUINNESS
“I don’t know how you ran things in the Temple, but that’s not how it works in NXT. You want to make a name for yourself here, you do it between the ropes, not by blindsiding guests who came to compete.”

Reyes’ smile widens, his tone dipping almost to a whisper.

DON REYES
“You call it blindsiding. I call it re-education. The Temple taught me that order is born from fear, not rules. I’m simply applying what works.”

Nigel steps closer, unflinching.

NIGEL MCGUINNESS
“I’ll tell you what works here - honor. Respect. You want to build a legacy, you do it the right way. Otherwise, I’ll make sure your little empire burns before it ever gets off the ground.”

For a moment, neither man speaks. Santos Escobar finally breaks the silence.

SANTOS ESCOBAR
“Is that so?.”

Nigel locks eyes with Reyes one last time.

NIGEL MCGUINNESS
“You’re on thin ice. Don’t mistake patience for weakness.”

He turns and leaves the room. The camera lingers on Reyes, who calmly replaces his sunglasses and leans back in his chair.

DON REYES
(to Escobar, quietly)
“The old guard still think they control the board. They’ve forgotten who built the temple in the first place.”

Escobar smirks. Mendoza and Wilde exchange nods.

VIC JOSEPH
“Nigel McGuinness confronting Don Reyes after that attack on Lucha House Party, and I’ve got to say, Legado del Fantasma don't seem one bit fazed by the GM's warning.”

WADE BARRETT
“Don Reyes isn’t backing down from anyone, Vic. He’s here to take over, and he’s making it very clear he’s not asking for permission.”

We return to commercial to the commentary table. Vic Joseph and Wade Barrett framed mid-shot as the Capitol Wrestling Center crowd buzzes behind them.

VIC JOSEPH
“What a night it’s been here on NXT, and before we get to our championship main event, Wade, next week’s card is already shaping up to be unmissable.”

WADE BARRETT
“Let’s start with a major Trios Match, Vic - The Way - Johnny Gargano, Austin Theory, and Dexter Lumis - take on Kyle O’Reilly, Finn Bálor, and Roderick Strong! Three of NXT’s biggest egos versus three of its most battle-tested names. That’s going to get messy.”

VIC JOSEPH
“Speaking of The Way, Indi Hartwell goes one-on-one with Tegan Nox - a grudge match that could shape the future of the women’s tag team title picture.”

WADE BARRETT
“Sticking with the women's division, how about this blockbuster - NXT Women’s Champion Raquel González joins forces with Mercedes Martinez to face The Brand, Franky Monet and Jessi Kamea! Another match with big title implications.”

VIC JOSEPH
“And after weeks of jockeying for position, we’ll also see a special sit-down meeting between LA Knight, Cal Lannister, and Tony D’Angelo. Business and pride collide, and from what we’ve seen, that discussion could turn physical fast.”

WADE BARRETT
“If I know Knight, Vic, he’ll be doing most of the talking, but Tony D’Angelo’s got a way of making his point, one way or another.”

VIC JOSEPH
“It all happens next Tuesday, right here on NXT. But coming up next, the NXT Championship is on the line. The Colossal Bronson Reed defends against the Time Splitter, Kushida!

The lights dip to deep blue.

♪ NEW MOON ♪

A ripple of recognition sweeps through the crowd. Kushida emerges from the curtain, head bowed, the faint glow of his gear reflecting the light. The audience claps in rhythm, chanting his name. At the ramp’s edge he lifts his right arm and points to his wrist—the future is now. A few fans echo the gesture as he walks to the ring, slapping outstretched hands before rolling under the bottom rope. He crouches in a corner, loosening his shoulders, eyes fixed on the entrance.

The blue fades into gold.

♪ BATTLE TESTED ♪

A wall of bass thunders through the arena as Bronson Reed appears on the stage, both championships gleaming over his shoulders. The audience erupts. He stops at the top of the ramp, breathes in, then lets out a roar that shakes the banners above the ring. “Reed! Reed! Reed!” chants start on the hard-camera side. He walks the ramp with slow purpose, climbs the steps, and ducks through the ropes. Reed hands them to Jason Ayres, who raises the NXT title high while the crowd roars.

Before Alicia Taylor can begin, ♪ BRUISERWEIGHT ♪ cuts through the noise.

Pete Dunne strides out, the Ace of Spades card rolling over his fingers, smirk carved across his face. Boos ripple through the crowd as he joins commentary.

VIC JOSEPH
“Pete Dunne joining us for a closer look. Word from the office is you'll face Oney Lorcan next week."

PETE DUNNE
“They can put Lorcan in front of me next week if they like. Makes no difference. I came out here to watch my title. Whether it's Bronson or Kushida who walk out of here tonight, I'm taking it when I see fit."

WADE BARRETT
“Ever the minimalist. The Ace is already thinking past Oney Lorcan and straight to the gold."

The crowd starts a low “N-X-T” chant as Alicia steps forward again, microphone raised.

ALICIA TAYLOR
“The following contest, scheduled for one fall, is for the NXT Championship!”

The cheers swell before she continues.

ALICIA TAYLOR
“Introducing first, the challenger, from Tokyo, Japan, weighing 192 pounds - Kushida!”

He raises a fist; the fans answer with “Ku-shi-da! Ku-shi-da!”

ALICIA TAYLOR
“And his opponent, from Adelaide, South Australia, weighing 330 pounds - he is the reigning NXT Champion and NXT North American Champion - The Colossal Bronson Reed!”

Reed hoists both arms; the flashes from phones sparkle like confetti.

Ayres checks each man, nods, and signals for the bell.

They circle cautiously, the noise swelling again. Reed’s first lock-up drives Kushida into the corner; a clean break. The second ends the same way. The third time, Kushida slips under, kicks the knee, then the arm. Reed’s growl vibrates the ropes. He throws a forearm that lands with a thud heard in the upper rows. Kushida rolls through, dropkicking the champion’s elbow and sending him into the ropes.

VIC JOSEPH
“You talk about endurance, Wade, this is the third straight week both men have competed here on NXT.”

WADE BARRETT
“And that’s what makes this dangerous. Every shot tonight is landing on bruises that haven’t healed.”

Reed catches Kushida with a shoulder tackle that levels him, then a senton for...

ONE

TWO

NO!
Kushida spins away, firing a kick to the arm, a forearm, and a springboard dropkick to the triceps. Reed shakes it off, hooks him, and throws him halfway across the ring with a suplex. Another cover.

ONE

TWO

KICK OUT!

Kushida grabs the wrist, twists into a hoverboard attempt, but Reed locks his hands, hauls him up, and slams him down. The sound echoes; both men wince. The crowd claps in rhythm. Reed flexes his left arm, grimacing. Kushida pops up and hits a cartwheel dropkick, a forearm, a basement dropkick to the arm. Reed answers with a body block that sends him rolling.

ONE

TWO

NO!

Reed stands, shaking his head; the frustration is visible. Kushida kips up, ducks a lariat, grabs a hammerlock, and plants Reed with a suplex. The crowd rises with him.

PETE DUNNE
“He’s doing everything right. Break the arm, break the man. I’d just make it permanent.”

Both men exchange forearms until Reed drives Kushida to the mat with a running lariat. He drags him into position and climbs the turnbuckles. The audience roars. At ringside, Dunne rises, headset tossed aside, Ace of Spades card between his fingers.

VIC JOSEPH
“Dunne’s up, what’s he doing?”

Dunne steps onto the apron, shouting, “Enjoy it while you can, mate!” Reed glares at him. The hesitation costs him. Kushida runs up the ropes and blasts him in the elbow with a kick, rolling him into a cradle.

ONE!

TWO!

NO!

Dunne stays on the apron, jawing with Reed. Ayres moves to intercept. The crowd suddenly explodes as Oney Lorcan barrels down the ramp, grabs Dunne by the jacket, and yanks him to the floor, unloading with a barrage of chops. They crash into the barricade, security spilling after them.

VIC JOSEPH
“Lorcan couldn't wait for next week! And after the disrespect Pete Dunne has shown him, I can't say I blame him."

WADE BARRETT
“This is outrageous! Lorcan's got no business out here. Let The Ace watch the match in peace for crying out loud."

Security struggles to separate them, Dunne shouting back over the officials shoulders, Lorcan trying to break free. The camera pans back to the ring just as Bronson Reed turns....

...and walks straight into a Hoverboard Lock in the middle of the ring!

The NXT Universe comes alive. Reed thrashes, teeth bared, muscles trembling.

VIC JOSEPH
“He’s got it locked in! Reed’s trapped in the center of the ring!”

Reed heaves upward, lifting Kushida with one arm and driving him backward into the corner to break the hold. Both slump to the mat, gasping.

The crowd begins to stomp. Reed steadies himself on the ropes, climbs again, his damaged arm shaking under the weight.

The lights flicker amber and red.

♪ DESTROYER ♪

The crowd turns. Samoa Joe storms the ramp, eyes fixed on the ring. Reed drops down, ready, but Joe slides under the ropes and explodes with a headbutt that staggers the champion. Another. A uranage into the corner; the impact rattles the frame. Kushida staggers to his feet, dazed. Joe catches him from behind, locks in the Coquina Clutch, and drags him down. Kushida claws at Joe’s forearm before going limp.

Ayres waves both arms frantically.

Spoiler: MATCH RESULT

Match Result: No Contest, Bronson Reed retains the NXT Championship in 17:12

ALICIA TAYLOR
“Ladies and gentlemen, the referee has ruled this match a No Contest”

Joe releases the hold, chest heaving, sweat rolling down his arms. He looks at Reed, then down at the NXT Championship lying by the ropes. He picks it up, studies the faceplate, and raises it high above his head as the camera pushes in.

VIC JOSEPH
“Samoa Joe has just destroyed the champion and the challenger! This match is thrown out - complete chaos!”

WADE BARRETT
“He’s not picking sides, Vic. Samoa Joe is a man scorned after High Stakes, and tonight he’s made his point the only way he knows how, violence.”

Joe drops the title across Reed’s chest and mouths, “Tick tock.” His music swells as he steps through the ropes.

The final shot lingers: Kushida motionless near the ropes, Reed half-upright clutching his ribs, the championship glinting between them. On the stage, Samoa Joe turns once, eyes burning through the light before disappearing behind the curtain.

Fade to black.

Quick Results:

• MSK (Nash Carter & Wes Lee) def. Breezango (Fandango & Tyler Breeze) in a non-title match
• Raquel González def. Jacy Jayne in a non-title match
• LA Knight def. Channing Lauren in a Million Dollar Dream Match
• Lucha House Party (Gran Metalik & Lince Dorado) def. Dante Chen & Ru Feng
• Bronson Reed and Kushida for the NXT Championship ended in a no contest

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