All In: Texas just gets bigger and bigger!

AEW raises the stakes on All In with a Men’s AND Women’s Casino Gauntlet! But who will win the treasured number one spots and improve their odds?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Will Ospreay & Swerve Strickland w/ Prince Nana VS Blake Christian & Lee Johnson; Ospreay & Swerve win.
• Kota Ibushi VS Trent Beretta w/ Rocky Romero; Ibushi wins.
• Ricochet & AR Fox VS #JetSpeed; win(s).
• Hangman Page VS The Beast Mortos; wins.
• Women’s Casino Gauntlet Number One Spot Fatal 4 Way: Athena VS Willow Nightingale VS Thunder Rosa VS Kris Statlander; wins and will start the All In: Texas Women’s Casino Gauntlet.
• Men’s Casino Gauntlet Number One Spot Fatal 4 Way: Bandido VS Konosuke Takeshita VS Mark Briscoe VS Roderick Strong; wins and will start the All In: Texas Men’s Casino Gauntlet.

PLAY BY PLAY

Toni Storm arrives backstage.

Luther accompanies the AEW Women’s World Champion, only for MERCEDES MONE to attack! The CEO wipes out the butler, SMACKS Toni off the road cases, and talks trash as she pulls Toni’s red jacket off her! Mone SMACKS Toni off more cases, laughs as she welcomes us all to Dynamite, and then drags Toni to the stage! Mone KICKS Toni, SMACKS her off the stage, then takes a mic from the ring staff before she SHOVES that guy down! Mone asks Toni, “You wanna play games, huh? Is this what you wanted? You wanted to embarrass me, you stupid little b*tch?! Well, let’s play!” Mone clamps on the STATEMENT MAKER!!

The fans boo as Mone makes Toni suffer! Toni kicks and flails but can’t get free! Mone tells Toni is just a stupid act, and she will never beat Mone! Refs rush out here, as does Christopher Daniels! Mone ignores them all, but then MINA SHIRAKAWA rushes out here! Mone runs from Mina and the fans cheer her on. Mina is pissed, but Mone tells them both, “Darling… Let the games begin!” The CEO leaves, the fans boo, but will Mone pay for escalating this feud?

The Young Bucks are on the tron.

Nicholas Jackson starts with, “Hear ye, hear ye, hear ye. ‘Tis your Founding Fathers, Matthew & Nicholas, your Executive Vice Presidents of AEW. Hey, Will Ospreay and Swerve Strickland, you guys are teaming up in a tag match tonight. It’s in the second hour and-” Matt stops Nick there. He lets Nick know that Matt used their “backstage influence” to move that match up on the card. Matt hopes Ospreay & Swerve are prepared, because that match isn’t later tonight. It’s right now! So go ahead, guys, cue up Ospreay’s music. The fans are excited, but this is clearly an abuse of power just to mess with their enemies.

Blake Christian & Lee Johnson wait in the ring, this match being moved up on them as much as on Ospreay & Swerve. And whoa, here comes Ospreay as fast as he can, wrapping his wrists with tape! Can the Aerial Assassin & The Realest prove they’re always ready? Or will the Bucks serve them up on a silver platter to the Vanilla Babyface & Big Shotty?

Will Ospreay & Swerve Strickland w/ Prince Nana VS Blake Christian & Lee Johnson!

The teams sort out and Swerve starts against Lee. The fans rally as the two circle, and they tie up. Swerve wrenches and wrangles Lee with a wristlock, but Lee kips up and whips. Swerve reverses, Lee goes up and over to roll. Lee eggs Swerve on, then dodges to get around and waistlock. Lee shoves Swerve, Swerve ducks ‘n’ dodges, Lee drops then hurdles, but Swerve avoids the dropkick! Swerve runs up, Lee avoids the kick, but Swerve gator rolls! Lee fights free of the suplex and tags Blake. The fans rally for “Whose House?” “SWERVE’S HOUSE!” Swerve tags Ospreay in and the fans rally as Ospreay and Blake circle.

Ospreay CHOPS Blake, CHOPS again, then CHOPS again. Ospreay whips, Blake hurdles then RANAS! Ospreay is up but Blake DROPKICKS him down! The fans sing for Ospreay but Blake swaggers. Blake SLAPS Ospreay, then soaks up the heat. Blake runs in at the corner, but Ospreay BOOTS him! Blake runs up but Ospreay atomic drops, CHOPS, and then he tags Swerve. The fans fire up as Ospreay sends Blake to Swerve for a BACKBREAKER! Ospreay adds a KNEE DROP! Blake flounders away but Lee runs up, only to get a DOUBLE FLAPJACK! Ospreay & Swerve run to DOUBLE BOOT Lee down! The fans fire up as Ospreay & Swerve stand tall!

Swerve brings Blake up, tags Ospreay, and then Swerve scoops to SLAM Blake! Ospreay STANDING SKY TWISTERS! Cover, TWO! Blake shows some toughness so Ospreay stands him up, but Blake CLAWS Ospreay’s eyes! Blake whips, Ospreay ducks ‘n’ dodges to handspring and NEURALIZER KICK! Lee is back in but Ospreay TOSSES him back out! The fans fire up as Ospreay now PLANCHAS! Down goes Lee and Ospreay hurries back to the apron. Ospreay waits, but then the Young Bucks decide to come out here? Matt & Nick strut on stage, but Blake BOOTS Ospreay off the apron! Swerve runs in but Blake dodges to triangle jump DROPKICK!

The fans boo as Blake builds speed to FOSBURY TOPE! The fans boo but the Bucks approve, and Dynamite goes picture in picture.

Blake throws hands on Ospreay, puts him back in the ring, then puts him in the corner. Blake RAMS into Ospreay, digs his shoulder in, but stops as the ref counts. Tag to Lee and Lee stomps a mudhole into Ospreay. The Bucks get big armchairs to watch this from the stage as Lee stops. Lee drags Ospreay up, RAMS into him again and again, then snapmares to roll and SLIDING FOREARM! Cover, TWO! Lee drags Ospreay over, tags Blake, and they mug Ospreay, focusing on his arm. Blake keeps Ospreay from Swerve and puts him in an open corner. Blake wraps Ospreay’s arm around the ropes and pulls!

The ref reprimands and counts while Ospreay grabs at Blake’s hair. Blake YANKS Ospreay’s arm before he backs off. Ospreay comes back with JABS, but Blake kicks low. Blake CLUBS Ospreay and puts him in the corner. Blake fires body shots, then he digs his boots in. The ref counts, Blake stops, but Lee CHOKES Ospreay behind the ref’s back! Lee gets away with that and Blake brings Ospreay around. Blake CLUBS Ospreay’s bad arm, then steps over to HIP DROP it! Blake ROCKS Ospreay to a corner, then wrenches for a knuckle lock. Blake goes up a corner, flexes, and he tightrope walks with some swagger.

Blake reaches all the way to his corner and Dynamite returns to single picture. Blake says let’s keep it going, and he tightrope walks towards the other corner, for a FLYING ARM-DRAG! Then he fireman’s carries, ROLLING DEATH VALLEY! Sucker punch on Swerve! Lee hits a FROG SPLASH, Blake hits a 450 SPLASH! Cover, but Swerve breaks it! The fans cheer but the ref reprimands. Swerve backs off and Blake stands Ospreay up. Ospreay ROCKS Blake! Blake keeps Ospreay from Swerve but Ospreay fires forearms! The fans rally as Ospreay still reaches out, but Blake whips Ospreay away. Ospreay BOOTS Lee!

Ospreay fires forearms on Blake but Blake kicks low! Blake runs, but into the TIGER WALL KICK, then ENZIGIRI! Both men are down but the fans fire up! Ospreay reaches out, rolls, and hot tags Swerve! Swerve rallies on Blake & Lee with kick after kick! HAYMAKER and ROLLING ELBOW for Blake! Wrench and lift for Lee, CORNER BOMB into Blake! Swerve UPPERCUTS Blake, snapmares him, then goes up for the FALLING UPPERCUT! Swerve hits the Griddy and Seattle loves it! The fans fire up as Swerve goes out, BOOTS Lee down, then goes up and in, somersault FLATLINER! Cover, TWO! The fans cheer and Swerve grins as he watches Blake sputter.

The Bucks are upset as Swerve half nelsons, but Blake slips out and under! Blake BOOTS, but he runs into a HIP TOSS! Lee has Swerve but Swerve uses the British Escape! Swerve then drops down, and Ospreay’s HIDDEN BLADE takes out Lee! The fans fire up and Swerve gator rolls Blake! Suplex, CHASING THE DRAGON!! Then the fans fire up even more for “Whose House?!” “SWERVE’S HOUSE!” HOUSE CALL!! Cover, Swerve & Ospreay win!

Winners: Will Ospreay & Swerve Strickland, by pinfall

Ospreay & Swerve win the little game The Bucks tried to play, but now security rushes in to keep Swerve away from the EVPs. The fans boo while The Bucks taunt Swerve, but Ospreay tells Swerve they can do this another time. Swerve grabs a mic to say, “Year after year after year, not only me but the rest of us have to deal with this bull crap from these EVPs right here!” The fans boo but Nick says Swerve needs to shut up. Swerve says after the incredible year AEW has been having, this is the last time Swerve wants to deal with The Bucks. “So how about I… WE do something about it?” Ospreay says he’s in!

Swerve says he is The Franchise, Ospreay is The Feeling! The Most Dangerous Man & The Aerial Assassin challenge The Young Bucks to a match! And Swerve knows just the place to do it! Swerve looks up at the poster and says, “ALL IN!!” The fans fire up for that! Ospreay says, “YES, BRUV!” Ospreay isn’t sure about Swerve and Seattle, but Ospreay wants to up the stakes a bit! Ospreay says they do have to give it up to The Bucks, they are the Founding Fathers of AEW. But AEW exists because of the fans that supported them! And tell Ospreay if he’s wrong, but he’s pretty sure we’re all done with the power that the Bucks keep abusing!

The fans cheer but The Bucks are getting mad! Ospreay says The Bucks have done more harm than good, so they need to be stripped of that power! Ospreay says at All In, they need to put the titles of being EVP on the line! The fans love that idea but the Bucks are livid! They push their way forward through security and referees, only for Swerve to SUPER KILL STOMP!! Swerve wipes out the whole pile, but The Bucks narrowly avoided disaster! Swerve chucks one of the chairs at them as they go running! Swerve & Ospreay have Seattle feeling electric! Will Matt & Nick risk losing their authority? Or will The Bucks prove they’re really just weasels?

The Young Bucks regroup backstage.

Nick tells Swerve he is a dumbass! Does Swerve not realize what he’s just done? Matt says that trick he just played…! Yeah, Swerve really IS stupid. Per the AEW employee handbook, Swerve “put his hands” on an AEW official! The ref going down in that pile means Swerve is SUSPENDED WITHOUT PAY! Get Swerve’s ass outta the building! But in steps Kazuchika Okada. The Rainmaker calms The Bucks down and introduces his new friends. Or rather, his new family. The Don Callis Family’s Konosuke Takeshita, Rocky Romero & Trent Beretta step in.

Rocky says, “Who would’ve thought? From the days of Okada & Roppongi Vice in Chaos feuding with you guys in Bullet Club, to all of us on the same side.” Matt admits, that is a long and storied past, and the Bucks like all of them. But their boss? Kind of a prick. Be careful with him. But yes, one common goal. That common goal is to strap Okada up and make him the first-ever AEW UNIFIED Champion. And speaking of a common goal, the other goal is to hurt Kenny Omega. And what better way to do that than to hurt his Golden Lover? Trent says he wants us all to watch what he’s gonna do to Ibushi, because they’re gonna love it.

The Bucks fist-bump with RPG Vice and Nick says this might just work out after all. Okada also fist-bumps his friends, but then has a tense stare down with Konosuke. The Alpha reminds Okada that this is only temporary. Okada says okay, daijobu (it’s all good). The Rainmaker heads out, but will he have a family feud with Konosuke after All In?

Kota Ibushi VS Trent Beretta w/ Rocky Romero!

Just when The Jackal claimed Kenny Omega was all out of friends, the Golden Star returned to AEW! Callis claims Ibushi is a violent maniac that needs to be put down, but will #JustTrent be enough? Or will Ibushi cut through the family tree to avenge The Best Bout Machine?

The bell rings and the fans rally behind Ibushi. Ibushi and Trent slowly circle, tie up, and Ibushi powers Trent back. They end up on ropes but Trent turns things around. The ref counts, Trent lets off slowly, and the two reset. They circle again, tie up, and Ibushi waistlocks. Trent switches, Ibushi switches back then SLAMS Trent down! Ibushi facelocks, Trent slips free to facelock back, but Ibushi rolls through to wrench the arm. Ibushi then trips Trent, rolls him using a leg, and he snapmares to ghost pin! TWO, and Trent hurries to ropes. Trent runs back up, Ibushi dodges to DROPKICK! The fans fire up as Ibushi stands.

Trent goes to a corner, Ibushi rallies the fans, but Rocky distracts from the apron! This lets Trent CLOBBER Ibushi! The fans boo but Trent scowls as he stands Ibushi up. Trent fires forearms on Ibushi against the ropes, the ref counts, and Trent backs off. But then Trent runs and DROPKICKS Ibushi outta the ring! The fans boo while Ibushi flops to the floor. Trent stays back, but that lets Rocky KICK Ibushi! Rocky gets more cheap shots in, then hurries away before the ref sees him. Trent goes out to BOOT Ibushi into railing! The fans boo Trent and rally for Ibushi, but Trent puts Ibushi in the ring. “YOU LOVE IT! YOU LOVE IT!”

Trent storms in while Ibushi goes to a corner. The fans rally, Trent runs up, but Ibushi goes up and over! SNAP POWERSLAM! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Ibushi rises, the fans rally, and Ibushi KICKS Trent down! And KICKS him down again! Trent rises a third time, into Ibushi’s strike fest! And KICK! The fans fire up while Trent is down, and Ibushi STANDING MOONSAULTS! Cover, TWO! The fans fire up and Ibushi brings Trent around. Trent fights the half nelson, arm-drags Ibushi away, then SUPERKICKS! Both men are down and the fans boo! Trent rises, soaks up the heat, then aims from a corner.

Trent runs in, BUSAIKU KNEE! Trent reels Ibushi in, lifts, and GOTCH PILEDRIVER!! Cover, TWO?!?! Ibushi survives and Trent is fuming! Rocky coaches Trent while Ibushi sputters and snarls. Trent kicks Ibushi around, pie faces him, and the fans boo. Ibushi gets mad, but Trent SLAPS him! And kicks him! Ibushi CHOPS! Ibushi throws palm strikes but Trent ducks the kick! Trent half nelsons for the SNAP HALF ‘N’ HALF! But Ibushi’s right up!! And he catches Trent to a SNAP DRAGON! A shoutout to Kenny and the fans fire up! Both men are down but the fans rally. Ibushi rises, feeds off the energy, and he sits Trent up.

Ibushi runs but Trent ducks the kick! Ibushi turns victory roll into a sit-down cover, TWO! Trent has the victory roll, TWO! Trent ghost pins, TWO!! Ibushi barely gets free, but Trent grabs an arm! Trent wrenches and ROCKS Ibushi, then short arm LARIATS! Trent drags Ibushi up, fires another forearm, then winds up for another LARI- NO, Ibushi blocks, double cording holds, and he pushes Trent down! Ibushi DOUBLE STOMPS Trent! The fans fire up and Ibushi sits Trent back up! Trent flails, he knows what Ibushi wants! Trent arm-drags Ibushi into ropes! Ibushi staggers up, Trent runs, but into a V-TRIGGER from Ibushi!

Ibushi has Trent’s wrists, for KAMI-GOYE!! Cover, Ibushi wins!!

Winner: Kota Ibushi, by pinfall

The Golden Star has Trent seeing stars, but wait! The Rainmaker decides to make his way out here! Okada struts out on stage, belt on his shoulder, and he soaks up the heat from Seattle. Okada goes to the ring, and he stares down with Ibushi. Seattle is losing its mind just seeing this, and Ibushi dares Okada to bring the fight. Okada decides not to, and he leaves the ring. The fans boo, but Ibushi is patient. Because BREAKING NEWS courtesy of Tony Khan! For next Wednesday, Dynamite 300, we WILL see Okada VS Ibushi 1v1! Will Ibushi make sure Okada feels just a bit of what he did to Omega? Or will Okada be rolling towards All In: Texas?

Jon Moxley speaks.

“The only thing we ever actually have is the present moment. And it slips through our fingers like sand. Hangman Page has lost hold of what’s come before a thousand times over, and here it is in his hands again. Will he grab it and take hold of it? Will he show up for it like it’s shown up for him? I don’t think so. Why would I? The Cowboy is afraid. Not afraid of me, not a fear of failure. Hangman Page is afraid to become what the world needs him to be. He shies away, ‘Aw shucks. I’m not so special.’ For a guy like me, who’s walked the path that I’ve walked, to be standing here today the world champion, Hangman Page makes me absolutely sick.

“I have less than zero sympathy for your plight. For your crybaby emo crap. The world champion doesn’t shy away from responsibility. The world champion walks into the fire and does not take a single ounce of crap from anybody! You make me absolutely sick. Reach out and grab it, man! Shy away from your gifts, what you’ve been given… What happened, man? You ain’t what these people think you are. On July 12th, when you’re fiddling around with your emotional turmoil, worrying about who’s your friend and who’s not your friend, I don’t care who’s your friend, I don’t care who’s not your friend.

“Your enemies attack from the past, your enemies attack from in here (the mind). While you’re playing around with this, you’re gonna be getting elbowed in the face. On July 12th, you’re going to be choked into oblivion. On July 12th, you’re gonna be getting dumped on the top of your skull. On July 12th, I show the world what the world champion looks like! You? You oughta start looking for another job.” The Maniac has issued another warning, but will Hangman make it all talk when it’s time to go All In?

Backstage interview with AR Fox.

Renee Paquette is with the Whole Fox’n Show and says there has been a lot of momentum on his side lately. Just last Saturday, Fox went toe-to-toe with the AEW World Champion, Jon Moxley. It wasn’t a victory for Fox, but it still feels like things are moving in his direction. What’s next for him? Fox says he got all this momentum, but- Ricochet interrupts. Ricochet assures Fox, he is not here with any animosity or ill will. It’s the opposite. Ricochet isn’t sure if Fox is aware, but Ricochet has been searching for specific individuals with a unique set of skills to help his quest for gold become a reality.

And they’ve known each other for decades! Fox has everything it takes to help Ricochet. Ricochet wants Fox to join his crew. They can team up against those “two chumps,” Mike Bailey & Kevin Knight, aka JetSpeed. What’s Fox say? Fox considers the team-up, but then Ricochet takes his hand to shake it! Ricochet knew Fox would be up for it! A man never forgets his handshakes or goes back on his word! Ricochet heads out, and Fox just got dragged into something. But will things really go as smoothly as Ricochet hopes? Or will The Only & Only stay the One & Only?

Ricochet & AR Fox VS #JetSpeed!

Can the Bullhead Brawler #WhoopDatTrick?

Yoshiki Inamura won, but he’s giving his friend, Josh Briggs, the shot at Trick Williams’ TNA World Heavyweight Championship! Will Briggs finally reach the mountaintop?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• TNA World Heavyweight Championship: Trick Williams VS Josh Briggs; Trick wins and retains the title.
• High Stakes Showdown: Tavion Heights VS Je’Von Evans; Je’Von wins and Tavion must stay with the No Quarter Catch Crew.
• Ricky Saints VS Ashante THEE Adonis; Saints wins.
• Vacated NXT Heritage Cup Championship: Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo VS Tony D’Angelo; Stacks wins and is the new NXT Heritage Cup Champion.
• NXT Women’s Championship #1 Contender’s Fatal 4 Way: Jaida Parker VS Lash Legend VS Izzi Dame VS Jordynne Grace; Grace wins and will challenge for the title at WWE Evolution.

PLAY BY PLAY

Tonight’s contenders speak.

Lash Legend says that the time for her to rise to the top has come. The other three can step aside, because the Bougie Bully is winning tonight and returning to her hometown, the ATL, and walking out of Evolution the NEW NXT Women’s Champion. Izzi Dame says she would sit and hope for opportunities like this to present themselves. But being part of The Culling has made her realize there is no glory waiting in the darkness. So she stepped into the light, and looks to take a step closer to the gold. The Culling always prevails, and that Iz what it Iz.

Jaida Parker says there ain’t no ifs, ands or butts about it. She will do whatever it takes to get hers, and what’s hers is that title match at Evolution! So Jordynne, Izzi, and Lash all better find someone else to play with, Miss Parker’s got this on lock. #ClockIt! Jordynne Grace says she dominated the wrestling world outside of the WWE just to get here, and she did that by building her strength from scratch. There is nothing more motivating than desperation, and Jordynne didn’t come here to not be champion. She will get her hand raised tonight, and at Evolution, she will finally be the NXT Women’s Champion, because she has to.

Who does find the way to win their golden ticket to the Great American Bash? We’ll find out in tonight’s main event!

TNA World Heavyweight Championship: Trick Williams VS Josh Briggs w/ Yoshiki Inamura!

#TrickyTwoBrands took the L last week in the massive crossover Six Man Tag, and yet Yoshiki Inamura is gifting this opportunity to his friend! Will the Bullhead Brawler make the most of this golden opportunity? Or will we still be in the Trick’N A Era?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who makes the bigger impact!

The bell rings and the two feel things out. They circle, Trick gets around, and he shoves Briggs. Briggs and Trick talk trash, the two go again, and Trick slips around. Briggs avoids the heel kick but Trick hits a capoeria pose. Only for Briggs to run him over! Briggs bumps Trick off buckles, brings Trick around, then bumps him off more buckles. The fans are torn, but Briggs CLUBS Trick down! Briggs paces and brings Trick up. Briggs whips, Trick spins through the hip toss, but Briggs blocks the whip! Briggs whips Trick, Trick ducks ‘n’ dodges, but so does Briggs! Briggs LEAPING LARIATS! Cover, TWO! Trick survives but Briggs stays focused.

Briggs storms up but Trick takes a swing. Briggs dodges the counter punch but Trick CHOPS! Briggs scowls, but Trick CHOPS again! Briggs puts Trick in the corner and fires fast hands! Briggs ROCKS Trick, talks trash, then backs off as the ref counts. Trick throat chops Briggs! And FLAPJACKS him off buckles! Trick headlocks for the takeover and he grinds Briggs down. Fans chant, “Lock It In~! Lock It In~!” Briggs fights up, powers up, but Trick hits a flying takeover! The fans are torn as Briggs again endures. Trick puts on the pressure but Briggs rolls to a cover! ONE, and Trick holds on. Briggs fights up as the fans rally, and Inamura coaches him.

Briggs powers up to suplex Trick up and over! Briggs brings Trick around, whips him to the corner, but Trick goes up and over. Trick kicks, Briggs blocks, but Trick spins through to LARIAT! Briggs just claps! The fans fire up, Trick runs, and he LARIATS again! Briggs wobbles, Trick runs, but Briggs follows and ELBOWS! Briggs runs but Trick follows to LARIAT! Trick runs, Briggs dodges, and Briggs comes back, but into a DROPKICK! The fans fire up as Briggs tumbles out! Inamura coaches Briggs but Trick goes out after him. Inamura and Trick talk some trash, but then Trick goes to slap! Inamura blocks, and Briggs BOOTS Trick down!

Briggs asks Trick what’s up now! The fans are torn, but Briggs is feeling good while NXT goes picture in picture.

Briggs fist-bumps with Inamura, then he looms over Trick. Briggs dusts himself off while Trick stands, and then Briggs RAMS Trick into the apron! Briggs puts Trick in the ring, stalks him to a corner, and CHOPS! Briggs shakes out his hand from that, and he stomps Trick down. Briggs whips corner to corner hard and Trick falls in a heap! Trick writhes while Briggs paces around. Briggs drags Trick up, GROUD BUSTERS, then drops a BIG ELBOW! Cover, TWO! Trick is tougher than that but Briggs stays cool. Briggs puts Trick on the ropes, runs, but into a SPIN KICK! Both men fall over and the fans rally up.

Trick hurries to rain down fists! Trick drags Briggs up, whips him to ropes, and he FLAPJACKS Briggs down! Cover, TWO! Trick is annoyed but he clamps onto Briggs with a facelock. Briggs endures as Trick grinds the hold, but Trick almost has a guillotine on him! NXT returns to single picture and Briggs fights up! Briggs fires body shots, the fans rally, and Briggs is free! Briggs ROCKS Trick, but Trick LEG LARIATS! Briggs huffs ‘n’ puffs as he sits back up and the fans rally. Trick is annoyed but he runs and LEG- NO, Briggs catches Trick for a BIG back suplex! Briggs growls as he rises up, and he CLOBBERS Trick! Then DECKS him!

Briggs whips Trick, then scoops for a SIDEWALK SLAM and SPLASH DOWN! Briggs roars, Trick goes to a corner, and Briggs runs in for an ELBOW! Briggs keeps going, he ELBOWS again! Briggs runs corner to corner again, but Trick goes up! FLYING KNEE! Both men are down again and the fans fire up! Cover, TWO! Briggs survives and Trick is frustrated. The fans rally up while Trick rains down forearms! “This is Awesome!” as Trick waits on Briggs. Briggs sits up, Trick ROCKS him with a haymaker! Briggs eggs Trick on so Trick fires more shots! Briggs swings back, Trick dodges to body shot and UPPERCUT!

Trick runs, but into a guzel! CHOKE- NO, Trick flips through! But Briggs ducks a kick! Only to run into a kick! Trick reels Briggs in, lifts, but Briggs flips free of the bomb to CHOKE SLAM!! Cover, TWO!! Trick even grabs the ropes for good measure! The fans are thunderous for “NXT! NXT!” while Briggs is stunned. Briggs and Trick sit up, and they trade shots! The fans are torn even now, and the two men stand up. Trick UPPERCUTS, then counter punches! Trick runs, but Briggs BOOTS Trick down first! Briggs hobbles, but Trick EDDY GORDO KICKS, then BOOTS! Then he pie faces Briggs, runs, but Briggs reels him in! SHORT ARM LARIAT!!

Briggs goes to a corner?! Briggs climbs up, HOSS SAULT FLOPS as Trick moves! TRICK SHOT!! Cover, Trick wins!

Winner: Trick Williams, by pinfall (still TNA World Heavyweight Champion)

Briggs put up a fight, but one split second difference and Trick comes out on top! Trick grabs a mic and says it is about time y’all put some respect on his name! He went from carrying H1M, to carrying two brands at the same time! That makes him the greatest TNA Champion- WAIT! Joe Hendry is here?! The music plays, but where is the Prestigious One? He sneaks in from the crowd! Trick hears the cheers, turns around, and Hendry LARIATS! And LARIATS again! And then Hendry LARIATS Trick up and out of the ring! TNA Slammiversary is coming, and with it comes a rematch for this title! Will Hendry make us all believers once again?

The No Quarter Catch Crew talks backstage.

Tavion Heights & Wren Sinclair look at footage of him getting some stitches in over the weekend. Charlie Dempsey wishes Tavion luck, and Tavion says yeah, despite Dempsey’s best efforts. What’s that supposed to mean? Admit it, Charles! You know Tavion’s going to beat Je’Von Evans tonight and be free of NQCC. That’s why you purposefully hurt him during training. Wren says no, that was an accident, Charles cares about them. Sure he does. Wren says yes, that was just Charles’ way of pushing Tavion to be stronger. They’re family! Right, Charles? Dempsey says yes, of course they are. Tavion, that was an accident.

But if he feels he isn’t ready to face Je’Von, Charlie wouldn’t blame Tavion. Tavion says yeah, he’d like that, huh? But the doc got him a special mask. Tavion is cleared as tolerated, and after tonight, he won’t be Charlie’s problem anymore. Charlie says that’s fantastic. Yeah, it is fantastic! Wren agrees, it is fantastic. The sarcasm might have gone over Wren’s head, but will Tavion reach new heights after tonight? Or will the Young OG be too bouncy to lose their bet?

Myles Borne meets with some special guests.

He is so excited that George Gumbs Jr. & Tyreak Sapp of the Florida Gators football team is here. Myles was born in North Carolina, but he’s been a big fan of the Gators ever since the Tim Tebow days. And now, with their improved offense and defense, the Gators are so back! Gumbs & Sapp agree and high-five with Myles. Lexis King walks over and asks Myles if he has a moment to talk. But Lexis says of course Myles has time to talk, he’s a lone wolf now, just like Lexis. And oh, right, he’s deaf. Lexis talks louder, but Myles tells Gumbs & Sapp that he heard Lexis, it’s no big deal. Oh, so he heard Lexis? Since he’s such an active listener, he’s some advice!

Myles cuts Lexis off there and says he doesn’t want his advice. They are not alike. Lexis takes every shortcut possible while Myles works hard to get what he has. Lexis is his father’s son, and that’ll never change. Well, nothing will change for Myles if he’s talking to losers instead of listening to The King! The Gators haven’t done jack in two decades. Gumbs & Sapp warn Lexis, he backs off, and Sapp says that is a gross beard. Will Lexis have to show not tell when it comes to giving out advice?

High Stakes Showdown: Tavion Heights VS Je’Von Evans!

Ready or not, the moment of truth is here. Tavion wants to prove he no longer needs to be under Dempsey’s wing, and definitely doesn’t need to be under his thumb. Can Tavion fly high all on his own? Or will the Young OG have to hold him down so he can get ahead?

The bell rings, the two approach and Tavion TACKLES Je’Von! Cover, ONE, but Tavion waistlocks and then deadlifts Je’Von for the SLAM! Tavion keeps hold, brings Je’Von back up, and SLAMS him again! Je’Von still fights but Tavion gator rolls him with that waistlock. Tavion floats to turn Je’Von for a cover, TWO! Tavion is a dog with a bone and he has a fisherman cradle! TWO!! Je’Von escapes in time but Tavion holds Je’Von down with a facelock. The fans rally, Je’Von fights, but Tavion rolls it to a cradle, TWO! Tavion keeps Je’Von down, brings him up and whips him to a corner hard! Then fireman’s carry takeover!

Tavion has the wristlock, makes it a cover, TWO! Tavion floats to the top wristlock and he grinds the arm. Je’Von endures, bridges to keep his shoulders up, and the fans rally. Je’Von fights up, rolls, but Tavion keeps that top wristlock! Tavion pushes on the arm but Je’Von endures. Je’Von fights up with another bridge, the fans rally again, and Je’Von runs to slip around and arm-drag! But Tavion’s right back on Je’Von! Tavion lifts, Je’Von sunset flips, TWO! Both men stand, Je’Von dodges Tavion to springboard and CROSSBODY! Je’Von keeps moving, BOUNCY~ RANA! The fans fire up and Tavion bails out!

The fans rally as Je’Von builds speed and FLIES! Down goes Tavion and the fans fire up! Dempsey & Wren are worried, but NXT goes to break.

NXT returns and the fans are even more fired up as Je’Von and Tavion rise. Tavion storms up but Je’Von blocks a shot to body shot! Then he blocks a shot to CHOP! Tavion ROCKS Je’Von, but Je’Von nods and CHOPS! Je’Von ROCKS and CHOPS Tavion on repeat, then he whips. Tavion grabs ropes to redirect himself, and he LARIATS Je’Von down! Cover, TWO!! Je’Von survives that curveball and Wren says Tavion is looking good. Tavion fireman’s carries but Je’Von slips free. Je’Von waistlocks, Tavion switches, but Je’Von fights the lift. Je’Von fires an elbow, but Tavion reels Je’Von in for a HEADBUTT! GERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, TWO!

Je’Von survives but Tavion holds onto the waistlock! Tavion drags Je’Von up, and he lifts Je’Von again, only for Je’Von to victory roll! TWO! Tavion is up, Je’Von dodges and handsprings, RED DOT GAMANGIRI! The fans fire up and Je’Von goes to a corner. Tavion runs up, but into a SUPERKICK! Tavion falls, Je’Von goes right up top, and he SKY TWISTERS!! Cover, Je’Von wins!!

Winner: Je’Von Evans, by pinfall (Tavion stays with the NQCC)

Tavion may not be free from the NQCC, but he may have just proven himself worthy of big things. Will Tavion still reach those heights he looks for? As for The Young OG, JASPER TROY finds him for a BLACK HOLE SLAM!! The Monstar strikes! The fans boo, but will Troy be the one changing the landscape around here?

BREAKING NEWS!

It was revealed over the weekend that unfortunately, Noam Dar is injured and can no longer defend the Heritage Cup. It will now be vacated, changing the stakes of tonight’s match. Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo is still in the match, but who is he facing? Luca Crusifino posted online, “Tony, you looked me in the eyes and you told me to prove my loyalty to you. So I did just that. Ava confirmed this: Tony D’Angelo VS Stacks Lorenzo this Tuesday for the held-up NXT Heritage Cup.” The Don has the chance to not only become a two-time Heritage Cup Champion, he can also settle things with Stacks. This hasn’t completely gotten Tony to trust Luca, but it’s a great start.

Stacks’ response is that this only makes it sweeter for him. He gets to beat Tony down while taking the Cup that once belonged to him. So all Stacks has to say to Luca is… “Thank you, my consigliere!” Is the Underboss continuing to play mind games to tear Tony and Luca apart? Or is Luca playing both sides?

Ricky Saints VS Ashante THEE Adonis!

The Absolute is finally cleared to compete, and while he wants after Ethan Page, NXT’s resident ladies man put his foot in his mouth acting like he was on the team. Will Adonis regret standing up for All Ego? Or will he ruin Ricky’s return to in-ring action?

Adonis THROWS his jacket at Saints but Saints ducks it! The bell rings and the fists fly! The fans fire up, Saints ROCKS Adonis again and again, then has him in a corner for a CHOP! Adonis goes to another corner, Ricky runs up to UPPERCUT again! Adonis fires hands back, Saints knees low and Saints ROCKS Adonis again. Adonis goes to a third corner, Saints CHOPS again, but Adonis headlocks. Saints powers up and out, Adonis hurdles, but then Saints hurdles, ducks, dodges, then KICKS! Saints ROCKS Adonis again, bumps him off buckles, and Adonis goes tumbling away. Adonis gets up, throws hands, but Saints blocks to wrench!

Saints goes up the corner, struts Old School for the AX HANDLE! Saints TOSSES Adonis and the fans fire up! Saints strikes his pose and NXT goes to break.

NXT returns and Saints fires hands on Adonis! Adonis fires hands in return, Saints fires back, and the fans fire up. Adonis knees low, whips, but Saints reverses, only for Adonis to wrench and DDDT! Then Adonis fireman’s carries for a CASH-OUT! Cover, TWO! Adonis’ take on the Death Valley Driver wasn’t quite enough, but he brings Saints up. Adonis shoves Saints to a corner, whips him corner to corner, and Saints sputters and coughs. Adonis is right on Saints to push him back into the corner, then whips him hard corner to corner! The fans boo but Adonis soaks it all up. Adonis whips again, but Saints reverses! Adonis hits buckles, Saints LARIATS!

Saints rallies, clinches, but Adonis fights the overhead throw! Saints keeps trying, Adonis keeps fighting, so Saints wrenches and reels Adonis in for a BACKDROP! Adonis flounders, the fans fire up, and Saints reels Adonis in! TORNADO DDT! Adonis flounders, Saints covers, TWO! Saints scowls but he stays on Adonis. The fans rally behind “RICKY! RICKY!” and he reels Adonis in. But Adonis wrenches out, whips, only for Saints to duck  ‘n’ dodge and SPEAR! The fans fire up and Saints reels Adonis back in! Canadian Rack, ROSHAMBEAUX!! Cover, Saints wins!

Winner: Ricky Saints, by pinfall

It was a gritty return but Saints comes walking in a winner! But wait, Ethan Page is on the tron. “Ricky, we’ve been doing this for a long…” Wait, the video glitched? OH NO, ETHAN ATTACKS FROM BEHIND! All Ego just wanted to distract Saints long enough to set him up! Ethan thinks about Twisted Grin, but then changes his mind. Ethan Canadian Racks, and steals ROSHAMBEAUX!! Ethan tells Ricky that he will not get his smile back, nor will he get this title back! Will All Ego be right on all counts?

Dark State speaks.

Dion Lennox says NXT has forgotten about them. “Just cuz y’all ain’t seen us doesn’t mean we ain’t been making moves.” Osiris Griffin says all the shiny new toys have everyone’s attention, but that’s understandable. That’s only going to help them. Cutler James says that’s right. And Dark State is cooking up something for NXT, just wait. Osiris says they’ll get the attention back. And when they do, Dark State will be front and center. Saquon Shugars asks Cutler if he feels that. Cutler says yes, he does. That’s the heat rising, the pot boiling, ready to spill over and burn this whole place to the ground! When Dark State strikes, #NoOneIsSafe!

Oba Femi is here!

The fans cheer as The Ruler is still NXT Champion as he struts his way to the ring. Oba grabs a mic and says, “Since January 7th, 2025, I have been your NXT Champion. And in that time, I have put down any challenger that stepped forward to oppose me. The best from NXT, TNA, Raw, SmackDown. One by one, they came. And one by one, they fell. And do you know what that makes them? That makes them footnotes to my legacy! Capable contenders, but footnotes! And now, I sit comfortably at the top of the pedestal, but this is where it gets dangerous.

“Because any man in my position would start to rest on his laurels, would start to coast, and bask in the euphoria of his victories. But The Ruler is not just any man, now is he? I get restless when I’m idle. I get restless when there’s no contenders, when there’s no competition. Because I crave the fight, I enjoy the fight, I embrace the fight! And I NEED challengers! So any man who thinks they are worthy to take this title from me, any man who thinks they can stand up to The Ruler himself, THIS is your opportunity! THIS is your moment! The Ruler is ready.” The fans like that, and then here comes Yoshiki Inamura!

The Great Rush heads to the ring, and this falls in line with what he was telling Josh Briggs last week. The fans cheer for “YO-SHI-KI! YO-SHI-KI!” Inamura tells Oba that he came to NXT to chase glory, just like Oba. But when it did not come, Inamura went home to Japan. Inamura realized all the things he missed: his partner and best friend, Briggs, but also… he missed NXT! The fans cheer, and Inamura says it was because he loves NXT! He loves this culture! He loves this passion from the fans! The fans cheer more, and Inamura says he wants to pay them all back by becoming the NXT NXT Champion!

Oba grins and Inamura says he wants to go bigger! And Oba and that title are bigger. Oba tells “Mr. Inamura” that one thing they both have in common is that they both know what it is to be strangers in a different land. But Oba made this place his home a long time ago, and then it became his kingdom. Oba has thrived ever since the beginning. But that is where they are different. Inamura has had his struggles that made him go home. But that is why the fans embraced Inamura: he came back, he turned the tide, and all with a smile on his face.

But Inamura can’t fool Oba. Oba sees beyond the smile, and he knows that inside is a fighting warrior! A man with a warrior spirit who craves the fight, just like Oba. So if Inamura wants to fight for the honor of this title… big mistake! When you face The Ruler, you will fall, just like everybody else! The fans applaud, but Inamura says, “I! AM! READY!” The fans cheer that, too! Can The Great Rush be the one man that dethrones The Ruler? Or- JASPER TROY ATTACKS!! Troy goes through Inamura to tell Oba that they are not finished! Oba holds up the belt, also ready for Troy to try again. But who will battle Oba first? And will there be anything left for who comes second?

Tatum Paxley is backstage.

She is taking apart some of her dollhouse furniture, but then Izzi Dame walks over. Izzi says she has something for Tatum. It’s an Izzi doll? Tatum is so happy, but then Izzi says she also has a question to ask, but she’s a little nervous. How does Tatum feel about being in Izzi’s corner? Izzi wants Tatum in her corner? Tatum is again very happy, but #ZaRuca walk over. They cannot believe this. Sol says Izzi is clearly just using Tatum! Zaria says if Tatum thinks Izzi is being genuine, then let her. Izzi sarcastically says good to see they’re not bitter about last week’s loss. And also, the only title Zaria’s ever getting close to is the one she’s “sharing” with her best friend.

Izzi again offers the invitation to Tatum, then heads out. Tatum follows Izzi and The Culling is there. Shawn Spears asks who Izzi’s new friend is. Izzi introduces Tatum to Spears & Niko. Spears asks Izzi if she’s ready. Of course. Will Tatum join her ringside? Of course. And what about the boys? Niko says they have something in the works. Just like Izzi, they’re also eyeing gold. Izzi walks hand-in-hand with Tatum and they head to gorilla. Tatum may have a new toy, but is she the one being played with?

Trick Williams returns backstage.

He rests in the locker room, but then Wes Lee & High Ryze walk over, wanting to talk. Trick says now’s not the time, Joe Hendry got him messed up, thinking he’s gonna go out like that. After everything that happened last week, that ain’t happening. Wes says there is a lot going on, and Trick says yeah, he had it all taken care of. Until Yoshi hit his splash from the top rope, almost broke Trick’s ribs. Wes says yeah, he missed that. Then looked what happened tonight! Briggs loses but Hendry appears outta nowhere! Wes says yeah, that’s what he wanted to talk about. Next week, we’ll find out how much people believe when Wes whoops Hendry’s ass.

They all look around, Joe doesn’t appear. Trick mutters just to be safe, “You’re gonna whoop Joe’s ass?” Wes nods. Trick says he likes the sound of that. Wes can take care of Joe next week, and better yet, how about all three of them take care of it, then Trick will owe them one. Wes says it ain’t nothing but a thing. They shake hands and the deal is struck. But can the High Ryze bring Joe Hendry down before Slammiversary? Or will Joe make everyone believe in him more when he overcomes the odds?

Vacated NXT Heritage Cup Championship: Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo VS Tony D’Angelo!

Noam Dar’s misfortune became serendipity for what was The D’Angelo Family. Stacks and Tony will settle their grudge while fighting over quite the prize, but will The Underboss finally bring down The Don? Or will Tony make Stacks pay for everything he’s done?

NXT returns and Stacks makes his entrance, still accompanied by those goons from last time. The introductions are made, the cup is on display and Stacks’ goons do their best to intimidate Tony. Tony is not even reacting, he’s that focused on Stacks. The bell rings, the two tie up, and we have British Rounds back! The clock ticks as Tony throws hands with Stacks! Tony ROCKS Stacks, then whips corner to corner hard! Tony runs in and LARIATS! The fans fire up for Tony and he fires more hands! Stacks staggers away, Tony storms up, but Stacks turns things around! Stacks fires hands, reels Tony in, then talks trash.

But Tony wrenches out, wristlocks, and he keeps Stacks from ropes to CLOBBER him! Tony ROCKS Stacks, Stacks goes to the apron but Tony runs up on him. Tony ducks the haymaker and HIP TOSSES Stacks! Tony clinches, Stacks fires elbows, and Stacks ROCKS Tony! Tony powers up and out, Stacks ducks ‘n’ dodges, but Tony BACKDROPS Stacks! Tony stalks Stacks to a corner, but Stacks YANKS him into the buckles! We hit 90 seconds in the first as Stacks stomps away on Tony! The ref counts, Stacks backs off, but then Stacks runs in. Tony clinches and OVERHEAD SUPLEXES! The fans fire up as Tony brings Stacks up.

Stacks RAMS Tony into a corner, then he fires forearms! The ref counts, Stacks digs his knee in, but the ref counts more. Stacks steps off as we drop under a minute. Stacks runs in but Tony BOOTS him down! The fans fire up while both men flounder. The goons coach Stacks as he and Tony rise. They go forehead to forehead, then they go haymaker for haymaker! We’re under 30 seconds, Tony TACKLES Stacks! Stacks and Tony scrap as time ticks away! Stacks HAMMERS Tony, we hit ten seconds, and Tony fights up! The hands keep going, and time is up on the round! The ref gets in there as the two keep going!

Stacks: 0; Tony: 0

The ref and the goons separate the two, and they refresh in the corners. And now on to round two! Tony TACKLES Stacks, they scrap some more, and Tony gives those hockey scrum punches. Tony runs, CLOBBERS Stacks, but Stacks ELBOWS him away! Stacks goes to the apron, but Tony BLASTS him! Stacks hits the desk! The fans fire up as Tony puts Stacks in and SPEARS!! Cover, Tony scores!

Stacks: 0; Tony: 1

A quick second and Tony SHOVES Stacks to his corner. The refresher period is on, but NXT goes to break.

NXT returns again and all of round three happened off camera, but with no change to the score!

Stacks: 0; Tony: 1

Round four begins, Tony gasping for air, and Stacks is right on him. They both throw hands, and Tony still has the edge. Tony then atomic- NO, the knee gives up, Stacks cradles, STACKS SCORES!

Stacks: 1; Tony: 1

The fans boo but the goons cheer as Stacks has tied things up late in the game! Will he steal this one away? Or- Wait! Luca finally shows up! The Consigliere is here to back up The Don, and the bell rings! Tony and Stacks grapple but Stacks trips Tony! Stacks ties up the legs, INDIAN DEATHLOCK! Tony endures as Stacks puts on the pressure and the fans rally. Tony fires hands, Stacks lets the legs go, but he comes back to throw hands. Tony still has the edge there, then he whips. Tony DECKS Stacks again and again, then clinches for a BELLY2BELLY! And then another whip for a SPINEBUSTER! The fans fire up as Tony stalks Stacks again.

Tony tells Stacks this is what he gets, and he HIP TOSSES Stacks out onto the goons! The fans fire up and Tony hurries to fetch Stacks. Tony puts Stacks in, but one goon distracts the ref so the others can attack! Tony DECKS one, Luca grapples with the other! They’re fighting over the spit bucket, but then the goon lets go, and the bucket SMACKS Tony in the back!! Luca panics, but Stacks hits a BIG suplex! And then the BLINDSIDE SHINING WIZARD!! Cover, Stacks wins!!

Winner: Channing Lorenzo, by pinfall (NEW NXT Heritage Cup Champion)

Luca tried to help Tony and it all backfired! But without him, would the goons have made sure Stacks won all the same? Luca goes to help Tony to his feet, but Tony DECKS him!! The fans boo but Tony says he no longer trusts anyone! All according to Stacks’ plan. Will Tony truly be left with nothing now?

Backstage interview with The Fatal Influence.

Sarah Schreiber is with Jazmyn Nyx, Fallon Henley & NXT Women’s Champion, Jacy Jayne. Sarah brings up how last week, The Influence interrupted and ruined Blake Monroe’s NXT contract signing by putting her through a table. Fallon Henley says Blake Monroe really thought she was just going to walk into the deepest women’s division and go straight to the top? Absolutely not. Monroe learned her place in this roster, and that’s at the feet of The Fatal Influence. Jacy adds that that was their fun way of “welcoming” Monroe to their division. Monroe says “Glamour is forever,” but the only thing that IS forever is the Influence’s control over NXT, and the women’s title.

Speaking of the title, how are they feeling about tonight’s Fatal 4 Way match to determine Jacy’s challenger for Evolution? Jacy says Evolution is a historic event, and she remembers watching the original thinking, “If they ever do another one, I’m gonna make damn sure that I’m on it.” And look where we are today! As for tonight, the Influence will be watching to see who the lucky person is to get their hand raised. But one thing is for sure, they won’t be getting their hand raised in Atlanta, that’ll be Jacy. The Influence heads out, but will they be disappointed in seeing who Jacy will have to face at the Great American Bash?

Thea Hail might be crashing out…

The “Grown Ass Woman” is warning the LFG candidates and Evolve stars that “adulting is hard,” just as these young prospects are surely finding out. And everyone else on NXT SUCKS! Last week, she tapped Jaida out, she had the arm, but on the record, no she didn’t. Does it even matter what “right” and “wrong” are anymore!? But then in steps Lainey Reid. And she says for a grown ass woman, Thea sure knows how to get played like a fiddle. Wow~, she already has a mouth? Congrats, Lainey! But you don’t know Thea. Lainey says calm down now. She’s watched Thea, and realized that Thea hasn’t changed a bit.

But Lainey will be sure to learn from those mistakes and blow right past her. Thea says if Lainey wants to try that right now, she’s game! But Lash Legend pulls up and says SKRRRR~! Pump the brakes. If y’all got a problem, save it and solve it later. Because right now, Lash has her match to get to, and ladies… Just watch how the Bougie Bully gets things done. Lash heads for gorilla, but will Thea and Lainey be too busy to take notes?

Ava Raine confronts Ethan Page.

The NXT General Manager asks the NXT North American Champion, “What the hell was that?!” Ethan says, “Well, that was Ricky Saints being Ricky Saints and getting exactly what Ricky Saints deserves. Boss, honestly, I’ve been trying my best to be on my best behavior for you, but this man keeps pushing my buttons every single week.” Ava says wow, that is his best? That’s pathetic! And she’s sick of this! Well, so is Ethan! Ava can help him solve both of their problems. All she has to do is make sure Saints stays very, very, very far away from Ethan, and we’ll never have to deal with this issue ever again.

Oh, he’d love that, wouldn’t he? He would, actually. That’s why he suggested it. Ava warns Ethan not to piss her off. Ethan and Ricky are now required to be in her office for a meeting next week, because they are both the problem here. They are going to settle it. Oh, they can settle it. On Ethan’s terms, though. Ethan has Siri (wait, he still has a Siri?) and he wants her to text Vanity Project. He needs them to show up next week. Ethan heads off, and now something else goes down! Someone just attacked Hank ‘n’ Tank and ran for it! Wait, could it have been Dark State? Are they targeting the tag titles as their first conquests?

Backstage interview with Joe Hendry.

Sarah Schreiber is now with the Prestigious One, and she says it is good to have him back in NXT. Hendry says it is good to be back. Sarah says last time we saw him was Battleground, where he unfortunately lost the TNA World Heavyweight Championship to Trick Williams. Hendry says yes, that is a night he has thought about every single day since. But while he can’t change the past, he can change the future. And the future is TNA Slammiversary, where Hendry gets his chance to regain that title from Trick. Hendry says Trick has made himself very comfortable just showing up to TNA whenever he wants, so Hendry decided to return the favor.

Sarah says we will see Hendry VS Wes next week, and Hendry says Wes is a superstar who cut his teeth in TNA, but it seems Wes has forgotten where he came from. Don’t worry, Hendry hasn’t, and he’ll remind Wes. Wes faces 252 pounds of pure motivation, a man on a mission, and the NEXT TNA World Champion! Sarah wishes Hendry luck, but will he not need it when he’s got that fire inside?

Chase U is in session.

Another intense class, and we see Kale Dixon & Uriah Connors struggling to keep up. After the lecture, Mr. Chase says he does want to address last week. He apologizes to Kale. This is new to both of them, but what Chase said was… 100% fact. Chase U does believe that the toughest road creates the greatest champions. Mr. Chase sticks by what he said, they just need to toughen the F up. The rest of the class applauds, but Uriah stands up for Kale. Mr. Chase and this whole school are tripping if they think Chase can just talk to students like that and create a toxic environment in here!

Chase asks who the F Uriah thinks he is! This “attitude” is what built the entire foundation of this school. The same university that these two wanted to be part of. They need to respect Mr. Chase and accept that he knows what he is doing. Kale says that attitude is the very thing that also destroyed this school in the first place. Kale & Uriah storm out, grumbling that they thought Chase U would be different this time. Kale regrets ever calling out to Mr. Chase, wanting him to reopen this place. Mr. Chase hears that and remembers that day, when he was distraught and lost. Is listening to Kale & Uriah now the secret to them all succeeding?

BREAKING NEWS for next week!

With Great American Bash closing in, we’re getting a BIG showdown! Yoshiki Inamura and Jasper Troy will have it out in a #1 Contender’s match to the NXT Championship! Who survives this head-on collision to challenge Oba Femi? Plus, after the verbal altercation backstage, Myles Borne is going to make Lexis King put up or shut up! They go 1v1, but will Myles prove he doesn’t need The Drama King’s arrogant advice?

NXT Women’s Championship #1 Contender’s Fatal 4 Way: Jaida Parker VS Lash Legend VS Izzi Dame w/ Tatum Paxley VS Jordynne Grace!

After winning their “Evolution Eliminator” matches last week, four of the best in the best women’s division anywhere are going to battle for that number one spot! Who overcomes the odds to have their moment in Atlanta?

NXT returns and Lash makes her entrance to join Jaida and Izzi in the ring. And just as promised, Tatum has accompanied Izzi to the ring. This leaves Jordynne Grace for last, with her song starting with, “It’s not over until I win.” Will that be proven as not just a statement but a fact?

The bell rings, the four watch each other, and then Grace fires fists with Izzi while Lash brawls with Jaida. The fans fire up, Grace whips but Izzi TOSSES her out! Grace drags Izzi out to join her, Lash sends Jaida to a corner, but Jaida dodges Lash’s splash. Jaida runs up to KNEE low! Lash DECKS Jaida in return! The fans rally, and the Fatal Influence watches from the perch, as they promised they would. Grace storms in after Lash, DOUBLE LARIATS, but Lash stays up! Lash scoops and SWINGING BACKBREAKERS! Grace tumbles out, Jaida is back, but Lash wrenches and snap suplexes! Lash kips up, the fans fire up, but Izzi returns.

Izzi and Lash stare down as the tallest women in this match. They circle, Izzi shoves but Lash shoves back! Jaida and Grace return to throw hands on Izzi and Lash! Grace whips, Lash reverses, and Izzi LARIATS Jaida! Grace slumps down, she and Jaida bails out, and then Lash shoves Izzi. Izzi swings, misses, but slips free of the scoop. Izzi scoops, Lash slips free and CHOPS! The fans fire up, but Izzi CHOPS back! Lash rebounds to RAM Izzi, Izzi rebounds, but Lash dodges to LARIAT! The fans fire up and Lash TOSSES Izzi. Grace is back, she goes to throw Lash, but Lash ELBOWS Grace away!

Lash RAMS Grace into the corner again and again, then runs up, only for Grace to go up and over! Lash POSTS herself, Jaida runs in, but Grace dodges to ROCK and CHOP on repeat! Grace whips, Jaida reverses, but Grace reverses back! Kick, DOUBLE CHOP, and then the FISHERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, Izzi breaks it! Izzi drags Grace up to RAM her into a corner! The fans boo as Izzi ROCKS and CHOPS! Izzi brings Grace out of the corner for a BACKDROP! Tatum cheers but she’s the only one. Izzi stands Grace up, fireman’s carries, and FLAPJACKS! Cover, Lash breaks it! Lash stmops Grace, Jaida CROSSBODIES from the top!

Jaida runs, dodges Izzi, then CLOBBERS Izzi! Jaida dares someone to get up, and she has Grace for a wrench and suplex! GOURD BUSTER, and then Jaida builds speed. But Lash trips Jaida, drags her out, and SMACKS her off the desk! The fans are torn, but then Grace DIVES! Down goes Lash and the fans fire up! But then Izzi APRON CHOKE SLAMS Grace!! The fans boo, but then Jaida TRUCKS Izzi! The fans fire up for “NXT! NXT!” as Jaida puts Izzi in the ring. Izzi kicks back, whips, and Tatum trips Jaida! It’s not illegal but it’s not cool, either! Izzi runs up but Jaida dodges to roll her up! TWO, and Izzi ELBOWS Jaida down!

ZaRuca storm out here, and while Sol wants to talk sense into Tatum, Zaria says screw it, and she just picks Tatum up! Tatum is taken away kicking and screaming, and Tatum wants her friend to save her! Izzi obviously chooses this golden opportunity over Tatum, but even Fatal Influence is surprised to see ZaRuca do something about it. The fans love it either way, and NXT goes picture in picture.

Lash DECKS Izzi! Lash then goes after Jaida, brings her around, wrenches and RAMS her down! Then stands her up to RAM her down again! Lash drags Jaida up again but Jaida rolls Lash, TWO! Jaida stands but Lash RUNS her over! Lash shakes out that arm, then she DRIBBLES Jaida off the mat! Lash turns Jaida over runs and ELBOW DROPS! Cover, TWO! Jaida is tougher than that, but Lash stays on her. Lash drags Jaida up to scoop, and she puts Jaida in the ropes for more dribbling! Lash TOSSES Jaida, the Influence likes it, but here comes Garce! Lash fireman’s carries Grace, but here comes Izzi!

Lash catches Izzi in her arms, and she DRIBBLES them both in the ropes! Lash TOSSES Grace and Izzi aside, then brings Izzi up to bump off buckles. Lash goes back to Jaida to bump her off buckles, but Jaida jumps on to Lash’s back! Jaida is a backpack, Izzi hobbles that way, but then Grace CLOBBERS Izzi! Grace rains down forearms, then she reels Izzi into a CAMEL CLUTCH! Lash drops to her knees, so Jaida copies Grace! CAMEL CLUTCH for Lash! But they’re close enough so that Grace can SLAP Jaida! So Jaida SLAPS back! It is a SLAP fight with dueling submission at the same time! But this lets Lash and Izzi rise up!

Lash and Izzi RAM Jaida and Grace into buckles, Lash bails out, and Izzi runs corner to corner! Jaida dodges and ROCKS Izzi! Jaida puts Izzi in the ropes, talks trash and CHOPS her! NXT returns to single picture as Jaida runs side to side, for the TEARDROP! High step, then she runs up on Grace. Jaida blocks a boot, ROCKS Grace and puts her in the ropes! TEARDROP!! More high stepping, but here comes Lash! Jaida dodges the pump kick, fireman’s carries, and SAMOAN DROPS! The fans fire up and even Fatal Influence applauds. Grace runs up, Jaida fireman’s carries, but Izzi BOOTS them both down!

Izzi scoops Grace, swings her, SIDE SLAM! Cover, LASH SPLASH! “This is Awesome!” as Lash stands Izzi up. Lash UPPERCUTS Izzi back down, then she brings Jaida up. Lash whips Jaida to ropes for a scoop and gut wrench, then she throws KNEE after KNEE! Lash SMACKS Izzi with Jaida to then TOSS Jaida! Cover on Jaida, TWO!! Jaida survives and Lash is annoyed. Lash goes to Grace but Grace CHOPS! Grace hops up, but Lash ROCKS Grace! Jaida BACKSTABBERS Lash! Jaida climbs up after Grace and throws forearms. The fans rally while Jaida and Grace brawl, and Lash joins in! Lash Electric Chair Lifts, then shifts to a fireman’s carry!

Jaida flails and manages to sunset flip through! Lash stays up, only for Grace to CROSSBODY! This lets Jaida have the cover, but Izzi breaks it! The fans fire up and Jaida CHOPS Izzi! Izzi ROCKS Jaida! Jadia ROCKS Izzi! Izzi ROCKS Jaida! Jaida goes to a corner, Izzi runs up, but Jaida ELBOWS her away! Jaida goes up, Izzi ROCKS her! Izzi climbs, but Lash is back! Lash climbs up to join Izzi on this, only for Grace to climb up over them all! SUPER DUPER DOUBLE SUNSET FLIP POWERBOMB SUPERPLEX INSANITY!! The fans are losing their minds, and even the Fatal Influence can’t believe what they just saw!

Grace crawls and covers Lash, TWO! Grace covers Izzi, TWO! Grace covers Jaida, TWO! Grace is furious, but she scoops Jaida for a POWERSLAM! Grace goes up, up, and VADER FLOPS as Jaida moves! Jaida runs to HIP-NOTIC!! But she sends Grace outta the ring! FLYING CODE BREAKER from Izzi! PUMP KICK from Lash!! Lash TOSSES Izzi, then DECKS her!! Lash hauls Jaida up, hooks her up, and hits the LASH EXTENSION!!! Cover, but Grade slingshots and DOUBLE STOMPS!! The fans fire up and Grace BOOT WASHES Lash outta the ring! Grace torture racks Jaida for a TOWER HACKER BOMB!!! Cover, GRACE WINS!!

Winner: Jordynne Grace, by pinfall (NEW #1 Contender to the NXT Women’s Champion)

Perhaps “new” isn’t really the right term when Grace has had opportunities in the past. However, could the third time truly be the charm? Or will the Fatal Influence help Jacy Jayne survive The Juggernaut?

My Thoughts:

A great NXT here to set the stage for the many events on the horizon. When news broke that Joe Hendry was challenging for the TNA World Championship at Slammiversary, it was clear it would be against Trick Williams, so of course Trick was winning tonight. Good promo from Hendry, and I think his claim of showing up to NXT more often is a subtle way of having him gradually move to NXT and WWE over time. Trick making that deal with Wes & High Ryze fits, too, and we’ll get a great match from Wes VS Hendry. If that acts as the go-home segment, I feel like Hendry would have to lose against Wes, even if he’s cheated, to fit him winning at Slammiversary.

Great showing from Briggs in that match, but I think his first singles title is going to be more a midcard title, not any company’s top title. Great promo from Oba Femi and Yoshiki Inamura, but of course Jasper Troy got involved again. Troy’s attack on Je’Von will definitely factor into the #1 contenders match next week, as we’re not going to get Oba VS Troy 2 so soon. And while Oba VS Inamura will be great, I’m pretty sure Oba retains. Je’Von VS Tavion was awesome stuff, especially with how Tavion was showing his great technical skill. But the stakes being Tavion leaving NQCC sure gave away that Je’Von was winning. Je’Von and Troy are going to have a very good match, but I feel like that is a win for Troy.

Good promo from Dark State, but Cutler needs to work on not sounding so stiff. And I would think they’re the ones that attacked Hank ‘n’ Tank, the faction will start with taking the tag titles before going for the others. Speaking of which, great stuff in the D’Angelo Family story with the Heritage Cup being part of it now. I am glad the British Rounds returned, but I’m a little disappointed they just skipped the third using a commercial break for it. And Luca was glancing up at Tony a bit too much before “accidental” bucket strike. That could be shoot, Luca just wanted to make sure the spot would work out, but they could use it for kayfabe. Either way, Stacks is new Cup champion, Tony is growing more paranoid and angry, so it is only a matter of time until Tony melts down.

Very good match from Saints VS Adonis, but naturally Saints win, and naturally Ethan has to ruin it. Good promo from Ethan with Ava, and I like that Ethan is going to call on Vanity Project to be his backup. Obviously Ethan VS Ricky will happen, title on the line, but I would love if they added a “Loser Leaves NXT” stipulation because the story is clearly these two need to be separated. Ethan can lose, given the title to Saints, and then use this “banishment” as his call-up. Good promo from Myles and Lexis to set up their match, and I feel like Lexis will cheat to win. Then his “advice” can be to do anything you have to in order to win.

Good promo from Chase U to finally force Chase to face how things went last time. I appreciate the direction they’re going with this, I’m sure they’ll have a promo next week where Chase properly apologizes. Great opening promo from the four main eventers tonight, and good promo from Thea and Lainey to help lead into the main event. #ZaRuca had a good interaction with Izzi & Tatum, who then have a good interaction with Shawn Spears & Niko Vance. That main event was great, but I had a good feeling Grace would win. The Fatal Influence talked trash on Blake Monroe, I feel like Monroe will get back at Jacy, but I fear that will cost Grace her title match. In that scenario, Grace moves on to main roster and Monroe is the one to dethrone Jacy at the next major show. As I said before, that’s a shame for Grace, but not everyone gets to be a top champion in their NXT run.

My Score: 8.9/10