Fallout from Dynasty!

Swerve Strickland is NOT AEW World Champion, both because of The Death Riders AND The Young Bucks! Will Swerve take out Pac before hunting Bucks?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Jon Moxley w/ Marina Shafir VS Katsuyori Shibata; Moxley wins.
• Swerve Strickland w/ Prince Nana VS PAC; Swerve wins.
• $400K 8 Man Tag: Will Ospreay, Kevin Knight, Mark Briscoe & “Speedball” Mike Bailey VS Ricochet, The Beast Mortos & Cru; Ospreay, Knight, Briscoe & Bailey win.
• 2025 Women’s Owen Hart Foundation Tournament Opening Round: Kris Statlander VS Thunder Rosa; Kris wins and advances.
• Samoa Joe & Hook VS Claudio Castagnoli & Wheeler Yuta; Joe & Hook win.

PLAY BY PLAY

The Death Riders speak.

Jon Moxley says, “The single greatest roster of pure talent ever assembled under one roof every week on AEW Dynamite. So, why can’t any of these guys get their act together when it counts? They come with their talents and they come with their gifts and they come with their fanfare and their bodies hit the dirt and they roll back down the hill. They will excuse themselves of they will seek comfort without addressing the real problem: You don’t want it. You don’t. We will scorch the earth with anybody who wants to call themselves a contender before we give a single inch. Not an inch.

“This is my life’s work. It will not be bought or sold. Matt & Nick Jackson have returned. Interesting. Power players in pro-wrestling’s new gilded age. Let’s do a little who’s who. I’m surrounded by warriors, I am the world champion, a king on the frontlines. You two? I don’t recognize you two anymore. I haven’t for a long time. You stumbled onto a board and you don’t know what the game is. You better figure it out, and you better be real, real careful. Better be real careful before you make any moves.” The Maniac keeps everyone on edge as he puts them all on notice, but will someone finally beat him at his own game?

Jon Moxley w/ Marina Shafir VS Katsuyori Shibata!

While The Maniac thinks he and his Death Riders are feared and untouchable, The Opps showed they are #NeverLacking! The Opps did what they could to keep things even between Death Riders and Swerve Strickland, but will The Wrestler make sure Moxley realizes what he’s lacking?

The bell rings, the two circle, and Baltimore rallies up. The two clinch, fight for control, and Shibata slips through to waistlock. Moxley wrenches free, but Shibata hooks a leg. Moxley rolls to get a wristlock but Shibata headscissors. The fans cheer, but Moxley fights around and pops free. The two stare down and go again. Shibata stays low as he looks for a leg, but then stands as Moxley tries for knuckle locks. They clinch, Moxley facelocks, but Shibata fights around. The fans duel, Shibata slips out to waistlock, then he grabs a leg. Moxley fights up, Shibata goes back to the waistlock and wrangles Moxley again.

The two move around, Moxley goes to the ROPEBREAK, and Shibata lets off. The fans rally as the two reset. They circle, tie up collar ‘n’ elbow, and Moxley powers Shibata back to the ropes. Shibata turns things around, only for Moxley to turn them back around, and they’re in the corner. Moxley lets off slowly, then he pie faces Shibata! Shibata CHOPS Moxley! The fans fire up as Shibata gives as good as he gets! Moxley is already red, so he CHOPS! Shibata CHOPS, Moxley CHOPS, the fans “WOO~!” and the CHOPS keep going! As soon as Mox CHOPS, Shibata CHOPS! Moxley snarls, kicks low, then runs, to then BOOT Shibata!

Moxley gets in Shibata’s face, but Shibata just eggs him on! The fans fire up, so Moxley BOOTS Shibata again! Shibata just turns himself around and eggs Moxley on! Moxley BOOTS, but Shibata gets in Moxley’s face! Moxley runs, but into a clinch, S T O! The fans fire up, and Shibata clamps on a chinlock. Moxley fights up, but Shibata catches him into a COBRA TWIST! Moxley endures, reaches out, but Shibata shifts position to have an IRON OCTOPUS! Moxley still endures, fights his way forward, and has the ROPEBREAK! Shibata lets go to CLUB Moxley, then whips him to a corner and BOOTS!

The fans fire up as Shibata fires a flurry of forearms on Moxley! The ref counts, Shibata sits Moxley down, then he runs corner to corner, HYDRAULIC DROPKICK! Then he gets going again, but Moxley LARIATS first! Moxley hurries to get Shibata up, LARIAT! Cover, ONE!! Shibata is tougher than that, but Moxley reels him in, PILEDRIVER! Moxley grins while Shibata staggers up, but Shibata PENALTY KICKS! The fans fire up as Shibata quite literally kicks that smug look off Moxley’s face! Marina is worried, but Shibata clamps on with a chinlock. Moxley fights up, slips out, and he has a SLEEPER!

Shibata pries at the hold, slips around, spin and snapmare, then the SLEEPER! Moxley fights up, reaches out, and he reaches back to THUMB Shibata in the eye! Shibata lets go, Moxley has the SLEEPER, and drops for the REAR NAKED CHOKE! The fans boo but Shibata is caught! The ref calls it, Moxley wins!

Winner: Jon Moxley, by submission

Dirty deeds done dirt cheap, but it still gave Moxley the win. Will Moxley continue to act in opposition to his words? Wait! The Young Bucks are here! Matthew & Nicholas Jackson make their way out on stage, Baltimore booing all the way. The prodigal EVPs go to the ring, and step inside to join Moxley & Marina. Moxley eyes The Bucks, The Problem standing in their way. Moxley has Marina stand down and the Death Riders fall back. Nick gets a mic to say, “Please give it up for your World Heavyweight Champion, Jon Moxley!” The fans boo instead. Nick says, “And show some damn respect for the Founding Fathers of AEW, YOUR EVPs!”

The fans boo more, but Nick tells them to “Shut the F up!” And yes, he used the letter F, so he self-censored. Nick knows everyone is wondering why The Bucks did what they did. Why did they cost Swerve the world title? Well, they have a couple good reasons why. First of all, they did it for their good friend. Hangman Adam Page, you’re welcome! This is what Hangman wanted all along! He never wanted Swerve to be world champion ever again, so they did that for him. The Bucks do NOT forget who their friends are. They still love Hangman and they know Hangman loves them. The fans chant “Whose House?“ “SWERVE’S HOUSE!”

Matt says Moxley, if only you stuck around to hear this, but Matt isn’t afraid to say this in front of the world. The fans continue to chant for “SWERVE’S HOUSE!” but Matt tells The Death Riders that what they did for them is a peace offering. The Bucks have no problems with The Death Riders, and they hope The Death Riders have no problems with them. While Matt & Nick sat at home for months and months, they realized while watching The Death Riders, that they’ve all got more in common than you’d think. The Death Riders wanna see that locker room rise to the occasion, just like The Bucks.

The Death Riders want AEW to be the best company in the world, just like The Bucks! They want to change the world, just like The Bucks! And Jon, Matt is impressed. Watching Jon, Matt saw him do what The Bucks could not. Jon Moxley succeeded in taking over AEW, and even got the world title. The Bucks could never do that. So last Sunday was their elevator pitch to The Death Riders. Imagine the synergy if The Death Riders & The Elite worked together as one! Moxley, the world champion, and The Founding Fathers of AEW, The EVPs, all together…! So please, Moxley, come on back out here with your boys, and let’s discuss a little bit of business.

The fans boo, but instead of Moxley, it’s KENNY OMEGA! The other Founding Father is here, and the fans fire up! The AEW International Champion has a mic to tell The Bucks, “So you did this all for your friends, huh? Mox, Hanger. You forgot to do me. But actually, I remember the last time we met. And if memory serves me correctly, it’s when at the height of my diverticulitis, you pushed me off a stretcher that was taking me to the hospital.” The fans boo, and Omega says this might sound crazy, but he never forgot. And he even forgave them! When he returned, he said that what he was doing was for his own legacy and for the safety of this company, not for revenge.

The fans cheer, and Omega says what we’re all trying to do here is #BringBacktheFeeling. Now, Omega hates to divert from the story, but allow him to tell The Bucks a story. Omega had a friend in high school who had two Shi Tzu dogs. It doesn’t really matter the type of dog, but they were both yappy as all heck. Ugly little mutts, but hey, Omega is an animal lover, so he loved these dogs. Every time he visited his friend’s place, they’d play games, but the dogs would take a dookie on the floor. The friend didn’t care, and those two little Shi Tzus were ever so pleased with themselves.

But as time went on, and more dookie kept collecting, and the stains left behind were getting more pungent, Omega had to say, “Hey, pal. Maybe we move this over to my place?” That is what The Bucks, without Omega, were like here in AEW. The fans chant “DOOKIE! DOOKIE!” Omega says the last time we saw The Bucks on AEW TV, they were shredding documents like there was some big incriminating thing they were covering up. Guys, Omega is gonna spoil the surprise right now. We all know how The Bucks live. We all know exactly how they operate! They brag about their earnings and their money, so yes, they were tearing up receipts!

Receipts of private jets! Of that big chair one of them has facing the bed in their master bedroom. The OnlyFans accounts! But it doesn’t matter! The part that matters most, the part that pisses Omega off the most, is that not because of The Death Riders, but because of The Young Bucks that AEW almost died! The company Omega loves and gave his very life, heart and soul for. The fans cheer that, and Omega says he cannot lie. The time off did The Bucks wonderfully. Nick looks every bit of that 90 pounds he was before he left. And Matt… Well, sure, he looks fine in that low cut V neck, but lay off the hot stuff! He’s as red as Nick’s lapels!

And quite frankly, now that we’ve gotten to this point, Omega could go on and on and on. But he doesn’t know, maybe they cut out the middle man and just fight. The fans fire up as Omega storms his way forward! Nick & Matt are ready, but then here comes Kazuchika Okada! The Elite’s Rainmaker is here and Omega realizes this is now 3v1. But wait! SWERVE shows up! The fans fire up as now things look to be 3v2! Swerve slips in from the crowd side, with a chair! The Elite runs off, avoiding retribution for the Dynasty screw job. The fans cheer as Baltimore is now “Whose House?” “SWERVE’S HOUSE!”

Omega offers a fist bump, Swerve gives him the fist bump! Will The Cleaner and The Realest be unlikely allies in this war for AEW’s heart and soul? Swerve grabs a mic to shout, “I now pronounce it is Buck Hunting Season! And I’m here with a loaded shotgun ready to blast on some freakin’ EVPs! You couldn’t leave well enough alone, could you? I dealt with you last year. And now-” PAC ATTACKS! The Bastard has a match with Swerve, so he decides to take it now! The fans boo but Pac digs his boot into Swerve in the neck! The ref rushes in, he has Pac back off, and things cool off while Dynamite goes to break!

Swerve Strickland w/ Prince Nana VS PAC!

Dynamite returns as Swerve tells the ref this match is still happening. The bell rings, Pac runs up, and Swerve BOOTS him down! The fans fire up and Swerve brings Pac up for fast hands! Swerve has Pac in a corner, fires off more shots, then fireman’s carries to hit SNAKE EYES! Swerve runs and he BOOTS Pac down again! Pac flounders, the fans fire up, and Swerve sees Pac bail out. Swerve BOOTS Pac from the apron! Swerve snarls, then drags Pac up to whip hard into railing! And then whips him the other way, into more railing! Pac writhes, but Swerve brings him up to send into steel steps! Pac slumps down while the fans fire up!

Nana says this is the REAL world champion here! Swerve refreshes the ring count, then revels in the fans chanting “One More Time!” Pac hurries into the ring to deny Swerve that, but Swerve goes around the outside. Swerve storms into the ring, but Pac goes back to the apron. Swerve storms up but Pac RAMS into him! Pac slingshots up and over, keeps moving, but Swerve stops the rana! Swerve hauls Pac up to BUCKLE BOMB! Pac writhes, drags himself up, and Swerve snapmares him to go up and FALLING UPPERCUT! The fans fire up while Swerve hits the Griddy! Swerve stalks Pac, stands on him at the ropes, but steps off as the ref counts.

Pac sputters, Swerve eggs Pac on, but Doc Sampson is called over to check on Pac. Pac’s foot seems to be the body part in question, and Swerve is annoyed that this is denying him his payback. The fans rally and Swerve paces. Doc double checks Pac, he is okay to continue, so he slides into the ring. SUPERKICK from Swerve! Swerve goes up the corner and the fans fire up! KILL STOMPS! Cover, Swerve wins!

Winner: Swerve Strickland, by pinfall

The Bastard takes a shot intended for The Bucks, but Swerve surely has ammo to spare. Will Swerve get at Matt & Nick soon enough?

Ricochet, Beast Mortos & Cru speak.

The One & Only says, “There is a lot that Daddy can do with $400,000. And tonight, I will lead Team Ricochet to victory.” The others take offense to that. But yeah, he’s the captain now. AHA~! The others roll their eyes, but will they all be rolling in money after tonight?

Will Ospreay, Mark Briscoe, Kevin Knight & “Speedball” Mike Bailey speak.

The Sussex County Chicken says, “Ladies and gentlemen, the word of the day is entrepreneurial! Because tonight, fellas, we have a opportunity to split 400 hundred thousand dollars! Will, whatcha gonna do with a hundred grand?” The Aerial Assassin shouts, “DISNEY WORLD~!” Mike, how ’bout you? He’ll buy some new shoes! And Jet, what about you? Kevin Knight is gonna go to Atlantic City, baby! What about Mark? Well, he plans to diversify his financial portfolio. But that’s besides the point! They’re coming for ya, baby! RAH RAH RAH! Which team will #ManUp and bring up the jackpot?

AEW hears from the many entrants of the Women’s Owen Hart Cup.

The CEO brags about how she beat the Princess of the Black Throne, but Billie Starkz reminds us that this is about honoring a legend. Jamie Hart says Billie is young, but scrappy and has heart. Mone continues to brag that the Money Train is going to win The Owen, pull into Globe Life Field stadium and become AEW Women’s World- Wait, Mini Mone pops in and says, “CHAMPION~!” Harley Cameron is all smiles but Mone has a headache. Billie knows Jamie doesn’t doubt herself because she beat Billie before, but in the Owen Hart Cup, it’ll be different. Harley tells Mone that she might go to All In. Or maybe, just maybe, Harley does, because she’s also in the tournament.

And you never know! Maybe Harley and Mone could face off! Jamie knows Billie wants her moment, but Jamie just wants to fight. Let’s see which one wins out on Saturday. Mone wishes Harley luck against Athena, and may the best woman win. Mini Mone tells Harley that next time, she’ll do the talking. But as stated, the Owen Hart Cup will have a Collision in Springfield, Massachusetts! Who makes it out of there to move on to Boston and the Spring Breakthru?

Backstage interview with Hangman Page.

Renee Paquette brings up The Cowboy facing the Wild Card entrant to the Men’s Owen Hart Cup. How does he prepare for a question mark? Hangman doesn’t know who this guy is, and he doesn’t know what he’s supposed to say, but he’s kinda doing something right now so excuse him. Hangman storms on down the hall and goes right into Swerve’s room!? Hangman asks Nana, “Where’s he at?!” Nana asks what the hell, and Hangman knows Nana knows, so he needs to sit his ass down! Nana sits down, and Hangman wants to make something perfectly clear! At Dynasty, Hangman was NOT trying to help Swerve, understand?

And next week, Hangman has his match in The Owen! So tell Swerve if he so much as thinks about getting in the way, Hangman will pick up with him where they left off. Hangman then turns to go, but Nana has him hold on. There’s something he’s been wanting to tell Hangman for the last year. Nana can’t talk for Swerve, but Nana regrets what they did. Hangman tells Nana to stop! Not another word! Nana does not get that. Hangman storms off, not wanting an apology. Is Hangman that determined to hate someone?

$400K 8 Man Tag: Will Ospreay, Kevin Knight, Mark Briscoe & “Speedball” Mike Bailey VS Ricochet, The Beast Mortos & Cru!

The Aerial Assassin teamed with The Jet last week, and had a stellar match at Dynasty as part of the Owen Hart Cup. They team with Mark & Mike to make some bank, can they do it? Or will “Team Ricochet” be #OuttaThisWorld?

Dynamite returns as Briscoe makes his entrance, followed by this conglomeration of high-fliers. The teams sort out, and Bailey steps up so he can call out The One & Only. The fans cheer that, so Ricochet steps in. The bell rings, Bailey and Ricochet circle, but Ricochet keeps his distance, and he tags to Mortos! The fans boo Ricochet but he claims he needs some time to stretch. Mortos stares down with Bailey, and then both men roar! Mortos runs up, Bailey dodges, drops down, hurdles over, but Mortos leaps over! Bailey runs up, but Mortos stops the rana! Bailey slips free, dodges, then goes up a corner to FLYING RANA!

The fans fire up while Mortos tumbles, and Ricochet tags back in! Bailey shows roundhouse and Ricochet backs off! The fans laugh at Ricochet as he cowers in the ropes. Ricochet tags out to Lio Rush, and the fans rally Ospreay reaches out. Bailey obliges and tags Ospreay in! The fans fire up as #BillyGOAT and #ManOfTheHour circle. They feel things out, but then Action Andretti steps in! Ospreay stares Action down, but that lets Lio CLUB Ospreay from behind! The fans boo as Lio rains down shots, then Mortos and Action join in! The ref reprimands, Action stomps away on Ospreay, then he tags Ricochet.

Ricochet stomps away on Ospreay, the fans boo, but Cru double whip Ricochet in, only for Ospreay to BOOT him! Ospreay then ELBOWS Action, dodges Lio, and his team jumps in! The fans fire up as all eight men stand off! The ref wants this to calm down, Ospreay has his team stand down, and Ricochet talks trash like he’s so tough. Bailey ROCKS Ricochet and the brawl is on! The fans fire up as Ospreay has Lio, Knight has Action, and Briscoe has Mortos! They’re all in corners, then climb up for a rain of fists! The fans fire up as as we go to TEN, forty total! The fans fire up as Ospreay ELBOWS Ricochet, Knight SPLASHES, and Mark LARIATS!

Mark feeds Ricochet to Bailey’s ROUNDHOUSE! Cru gets up, Ospreay & Mark BLAST them off the apron! Ospreay PLANCHAS onto Lio! Mark DIVES onto Action! Knight PLANCHAS onto Mortos! Bailey goes up, up, and TRIANGLE MOONSAULTS Cru! The fans fire up as Ospreay and the others put hands in, Entrepreneurial! But then Ricochet FLIES! Ospreay and team get out of the way, and Ricochet lands on his feet! Good news is Ricochet isn’t hurt. Bad news is, he’s not surrounded. QUADRUPLE “BALD!” SLAP!! The fans are thunderous while Ricochet writhes, and Dynamite goes picture in picture.

Ospreay stands Ricochet up to DECK him, then Bailey has Lio & Action by the hair. Bailey gives Cru a meeting of the minds while Briscoe WRECKS Mortos with a dropkick! Bailey puts Ricochet in the ring, bumps him off buckles, then bumps him off Knight’s boot! The fans fire up as Bailey joins in, Ospreay bumps Ricochet off double boots! Knight tags in, he drags Ricochet up and CLUBS him. Ricochet goes to a corner as Knight stalks him, and Ricochet wants mercy. But he just YANKS Knight into buckles! Ricochet tags Action, Action tags Lio, and Action LARAITS! Lio LARIATS! Lio feeds Knight to the mule kick, knee lift, and ROLLING ELBOW!

Lio fires fast hands and DECKS Knight! Cru talks trash, then they kick Knight around. Lio CLUBS Knight down, rains down fists, then drags Knight up to whip and ELBOW him down! Lio tags Action, Cru double whips, and they DOUBLE ELBOW Knight! Action covers, ONE!! Knight stays in this but Action stays on him with a chinlock. Knight endures, fights up, and fires body shots. Action CLUBS Knight again, CHPOS him in the corner, then tags Ricochet. Ricochet CHOPS Knight, then snapmares for a basement DROPKICK! Ricochet taunts Briscoe, the ref keeps him back, and Ricochet drags Knight to the corner.

Mortos tags in, he and Ricochet mug Knight, then Mortos brings Knight around. Mortos CHOPS Knight, sucker punches Briscoe, then roars. Mortos KICKS Knight in the leg, then brings him around for a snapmare. NECK TWIST! Mortos whips Knight to ropes, scoops him, and CIPHER- RANA from Knight! Knight hurries, hot tag to Bailey! Bailey goes up to MISSILE DROPKICK Mortos down! The fans fire up with Bailey as he SOBATS Mortos, then AX KICKS! Mortos kneels, Dynamite returns to single picture, and Bailey BUZZSAWS Mortos down! The fans fire up and Bailey runs, SHOOTING STAR PRESS! Cover, TWO!

The fans rally for “SPEEDBALL! SPEEDBALL!” and Bailey stays between Mortos and Cru. Bailey KICKS Mortos, but Mortos snarls! Bailey KICKS again! Mortos rises! Bailey KCISK, Mortos blocks, and Mortos spins Bailey to scoop and CIPHER UTAKI! Both men are down and the fans rally up. Bailey and Mortos crawl, hot tag to Ricochet, but Ricochet takes his time to swagger. The fans boo, but Ricochet springboards in, only for Bailey to dodge! Ricochet BLASTS Ospreay and Briscoe, but then Bailey dodges to BLAST Cru! Bailey runs up, but Ricochet hits a CAVE IN!! Bailey tumbles away but Briscoe runs in!

Briscoe dodges Ricochet, dodges again, then waistlocks. Ricochet switches, Briscoe breaks that and PELES! Mortos is back to shove and POP-UP SAMOAN DROP Briscoe! Knight whips Mortos to go up, but Mortos catches him! Knight fires hands, but Mortos still fights the rana! But Knight makes the bomb a DDT! Action kicks Knight, whips him, but Knight reverses. Lio is in and he fires hands! Lio whips, “This is Awesome!” as Knight reverses. Action goes up and out while Lio slides to a stop. Knight runs in, but Action ROCKS him! Lio UP KICKS, Action ENZIGIRIS, then Lio whips. Knight and Lio dosido with their reversals, RUSH HOUR!

Action is there to torture rack Knight, SWINGING NECKBREAKER! Ospreay runs up, Lio has a leg! Action runs up but Ospreay ducks to then break free, dodge and handspring, DOUBLE PELE! The fans are thunderous, but Ricochet SHOVES Ospreay right out! Bailey PENALTY KICKS Ricochet, then sets up, STANDING- NO, Ricochet avoids the knee drop! A little like Dynasty there, and Ricochet hauls Bailey up to a fireman’s carry, RUNNING DEATH VALLEY DRIVER! Cover, TWO!! Bailey survives and the fans fire up! Briscoe ROCKS Ricochet, Ricochet tumbles away and tags Mortos. Briscoe LARIATS Ricochet up and out!

Mortos aims at Bailey and runs up, but into a BOOT! Mortos roars, runs up, but into another BOOT! Mortos goes again, blocks the kick this time, but Briscoe is back! Mortos blocks him, FLIPS both Bailey and Briscoe, but they both land out! Bailey’s foot jams a bit, but he and Briscoe use that to stereo crane stance! Mortos isn’t sure what to do with that, but he gets DOUBLE CRANE KICKS! Ospreay slips in, to springboard and OSCUTTER! Tag to Knight and he goes up top! U F O SPLASH!! Cover, TEAM RICOCHET BARRLES IN! The fans boo, but then Ospreay’s team TOSSES Ricochet & Cru out!

Ospreay tags back in, he takes aim, and Mortos sits up for the HIDDEN BLADE!! Cover, Ospreay’s team wins!

Winners: Will Ospreay, Kevin Knight, Mark Briscoe & “Speedball” Mike Bailey, by pinfall (win the $400,000 cash prize)

The fans are sure happy that money is going to a good cause! Will Ospreay awaits a top notch opponent in the Owen Hart Cup, Kevin Knight is going to be in NJPW’s Best of the Super Juniors, will $100,000 help each man prepare for those high stakes?

AEW has an injury report on Adam Copeland.

After failing to dethrone the Death Riders as AEW World Trios Champions, FTR betrayed Cope and absolutely brutalized him! The Rated R Superstar is ruled out of action indefinitely, did Dax Harwood & Cash Wheeler just end the career of a man they once called friend?

The Hurt Syndicate is here!

Baltimore cheers as Montel Vontavious Porter and the AEW World Tag Team Champions, Bobby Lashley & Shelton Benjamin, head to the ring. There’s already quite the set up waiting for them: a table decked out with food and drink; a pedestal to rest the belts on; and a picture commemorating their victory. The fans cheer for MVP as he grabs the mic, and he says, “Ladies and gentlemen of the AEW viewing audience, this is an official announcement from The Hurt Syndicate. Punks jump up to get beat down. Two more challengers stepped up for the AEW Tag Team Championships, and two more challengers got beat down.”

The fans cheer, and MVP says if they would be so kind, please join him and his colleagues in a toast to celebrate yet another successful title defense. They take the bottles of champagne from the bucket of ice, and the fans chant, “We Hurt~ People!” They raise their glasses, but then MJF makes his way out here! Maxwell Jacob Friedman smiles, has a mic in hand already, and he goes right to the ring. MJF apologizes and then stands in line beside Shelton. The fans are torn, Shelton chuckles, MVP smirks, but Lashley is not amused. Baltimore duels, “He’s Our Scumbag!” “NO, HE’S NOT!” MVP talks with Lashley to relax, but then MJF speaks.

“Look at us, huh? I don’t know if you’ve heard, but we hurt people, baby! This is great, this is great. Guys, look at us, huh? Dripping in gold! You’re welcome, by the way. I couldn’t be happier. This couldn’t have come at a better time, mind you. Because that guy, Tony Khan, he wanted me to do the Owen Hart Cup Tournament? So I could what? Sweat my balls off, break my back, wrestle every week like some shmuck! I don’t think so, Maryland. See, I work smarter, not harder. And now that I’m rolling with The Syndicate? Whew! Daddy gets to cut the line and get back what is rightfully mine, and that is the Triple B, baby!”

The fans cheer, MVP chuckles, and MJF says this is a perfect fit! He scratches their backs by helping them maintain their tag team titles, because let’s face it, without his help, woof. And now, they help little ol’ MJF! Everyone wins! So, Montel, serious question, how does the initiation work? Does he sign a contract? Or is it an old school blood brothers thing? Lashley tells MJF to shut up. “Shut your freakin’ mouth!” Everyone saw what MJF did! When Lashley turned around and saw Big Bill standing, Lashley cut him in half and finished it, cuz that’s what they do. Now MJF tried to help, which was cute, but he didn’t get the job done.

So Max, this is yet another reason why they don’t need MJF! MJF says okay, cool. First, don’t point. Lashley says he’ll point at whoever he wants! They argue, but then Shelton & MVP step in. MVP tells Lashley to chill, Lashley says MJF will respect him! MVP wants Shelton to cool off, too, just give MVP a second. MVP tells MJF he knows how MVP feels about him. They go way back. Lashley & Shelton know that, too. So in order for MJF to join the Syndicate, he has to get three thumbs up. We already know how MVP feels, he is thumbs up. Shelton? MJF says yeah, they go way back, too! Shelton’s answer is thumbs… DOWN!

MJF thought they were cool! Lashley says thank you, Shelton. That’s two to one, the motion is denied. Lashley & Shelton head out, MJF turns to MVP, and MVP shrugs. The Syndicate heads out, not bothering with The Scumbag. What must MJF do to get what he wants?

Backstage interview with Megan Bayne & Penelope Ford.

Renee is with The Megasus & The Superbad Girl, and says she wanted to catch up on how they’re feeling after what was honestly, a surprising loss at Dynasty. Ford says that was just a taste of defeat. But it changes nothing. “Everything that this woman has been through is what? Just erased all because Toni Storm barely survived? No. Everything is just gonna get worse. This division cannot move on, because she won’t let it. She’s gonna be at Collision. And she doesn’t care who, she doesn’t care how many0” Megan brushes Renee aside to step forward, and she tells everyone, “I will make you bow down.” Ford says, “See what you did?”

The female titan of AEW was dominant before, and now she’s angry! Who will be destroyed all because Toni Storm still reigns?

Toni Storm is here!

Speaking of The Timeless AEW Women’s World Champion, she heads down to ringside to join commentary, as she wants to bear witness to this next match.

2025 Women’s Owen Hart Foundation Tournament Opening Round: Kris Statlander VS Thunder Rosa!

The Galaxy’s Greatest and La Mera Mera almost had it out last week in just talking about this match-up and what it means. Kris wants to finally be THE champ, but Rosa wants back what she never truly lost. Who wins here to prove they are the best bet on winning the Cup?

The bell rings and the fans rally up. The two tie up, go around, and Kris waistlocks. Rosa fights the lift, then fights with elbows, then arm-drags Kris down for a wristlock. Kris fights up, rolls, and wrenches to headlock. Rosa powers up and out, but Kris runs her over! Kris flexes, Toni says if she was Kris’ teammate, they could be #ThunderThighs. But if Toni teamed with Schiavone, well, they’d just be #Tits. Rosa runs up on Kris, waistlocks, then slips past her, only for Kris to drop down and hurdle over. Rosa stops herself to avoid the powerslam, then Oklahoma Rolls! TWO, and Rosa wheelbarrows to arm-drag! Rosa has the armlock, but Kris fights around.

Kris rises up, powers Rosa to a corner, and the fans cheer. Kris lets off, CHOPS Rosa, then whips corner to corner. Rosa reverses, Kris goes up and over and arm-drags! Then she SHOTGUNS Rosa down! The fans fire up for Kris while Rosa goes to a corner. Kris lets Toni know she sees her, then runs in at Rosa for an UPPERCUT! Kris goes side to side, but Rosa ROUNDHOUSES first! Kris falls, the fans fire up for Rosa as she runs, but Kris avoids the dropkick! Kris goes to the apron to slingshot in, but Rosa avoids the elbow drop! Rosa reloads and runs again, DROPKICK through the ropes! The fans fire up while Rosa goes to the apron.

Rosa aims at Kris and says YEEHAW! SEATED SENTON! Rosa puts Kris in, covers, TWO! Kris stays in this but Rosa CHOPS! And CHOPS! Rosa ducks a roundhouse but Kris kicks low to DDT! Both women are down and the fans duel! Rosa goes to the outside, the ring count starts, and Dynamite goes picture in picture.

Kris goes out after Rosa, stands her up, and CHOPS her against the apron! Kris SMACKS Rosa off the apron, CHOPS her again, but Rosa CHOPS in return! Rosa refreshes the ring count, then brings Kris around to Toni can see this. GRIZZLY MAGNUM DOUBLE CHOP! Rosa then hugs her #ThunderStorm/#ThunderTits teammate, before she brings Kris up. Rosa reels kris in, but Kris fights the suplex! Rosa kicks low, KNEES Kris, then gets space to SHINING WIZARD! Rosa fires up, then puts Kris in the ring. Rosa storms up on Kris, but Kris cradles! TWO! Both women rise up, and Kris fires a forearm!

Kris CHOPS Rosa, shoves her, then scoops her to BACKBREAKER! Rosa writhes, Kris covers, TWO! Kris clamps onto Rosa with a chinlock and grinds her down. Rosa fights up, fires body shots, but Kris CLUBS Rosa, then THROWS Rosa down by her hair! The ref reprimands that last part, but Kris drops a JUMP ELBOW on Rosa! Cover, TWO! Rosa stays in this and goes to a corner, but Kris storms up. Kris whips corner to corner hard, then storms up on Rosa again. Kris wrenches and whips back the other way, and Rosa hits buckles hard! Kris storms up again, but Rosa RAMS her low! Kris stuffs Rosa to have a facelock.

Rosa endures, Kris gator rolls her, but Rosa fights up. Kris pushes her back down, throws in some knees to the side, then gator rolls Rosa again. Rosa endures, fights back up, but Kris CLUBS her again and again! Dynamite returns to single picture and the fans rally. Kris runs to a corner, goes up, but Rosa CLUBS her on the back! Rosa then has Kris stuck on the top rope to YANK her down! The fans fire up and Rosa fires forearm after forearm! Rosa runs, ROCKS Kris, and Rosa runs  to springboard and FLYING RANA! The fans fire up as Rosa reels Kris in, NORTHERN LIGHTS! Bridging cover, TWO! Kris survives, but Rosa clamps on a STRAITJACKET CLUTCH!

Kris endures, and she picks Rosa up as a backpack to RAM her into the buckles! Kris RAMS Rosa again, then gets space. Rosa BOOTS Kris, goes up, and then leaps for a flying wheelbarrow and BULL- BLUE THUNDER BOMB! Cover, TWO! Rosa survives Kris’s sudden turnaround and the fans fire up! “This is Awesome!” as Kris gut wrenches Rosa, but Rosa slips free! Rosa THRUST KCIKS Kris, then vows to end this! Rosa tucks Kris in, but Kris fights the lift! Rosa CLUBS away on Kris, but Kris fireman’s carries! Kris spins but Rosa swings through to arm-drag her away! Rosa then runs up, slips around, and hits a DESTROYER!! Cover, TWO!!

Kris survives, Rosa is shocked, and Toni herself is stunned by that sequence. The fans rally even harder, and Rosa drags Kris up. Rosa vows to put this one away for Texas! SHINING WIZARD! Cover, TWO!! Kris survives again and Rosa is beside herself! Rosa drags Kris up, but Kris fires a forearm! Rosa eggs Kris on, then SLAPS her! Rosa fires up, runs, but Kris LARIATS! Kris hauls Rosa right up, gut wrenches, STATURDAY NIGHT FEVER!! Cover, KRIS WINS!!

Winner: Kris Statlander, by pinfall (advances to the next round)

Kris takes a bow and blows a kiss to the champ, and Baltimore gives a standing ovation. Kris shows Rosa respect by helping her stand, will Rosa’s dream of going All In have to live on vicariously through Kris?

The Don Callis Family speaks.

Kyle Fletcher & Konosuke Takeshita stand behind Don Callis himself as he says, “All signs are pointing and all roads are leading to a Proto-shita final for the Don Callis Family in the Owen Hart Tournament. I mean, the Protostar here, he already beat that degenerate, Mark Briscoe. And even though Brody King got one over on the Don Callis Family when he beat Lance Archer, I can tell you, my word, it shan’t happen again! Because we’ve got valuable intel, and you’re in the ring, Brody King, with The Alpha. Look at these two! I mean, in their 20s, jacked, oiled up, hot! The talk of the town! Very healthy young men.

“Y’know who’s not healthy? A couple other members of the Don Callis Family. So I’m gonna put it out there officially tonight: The Don Callis Family, given the rash of injuries that has taken place, is now accepting potential new members. Send your résumé, send your picture, send your bank account number, because as these guys have proven, this is straight to the top.” Callis is expanding his stable, who will accept his offer? And will Takeshita make it through the King of Death this Saturday on Collision?

The Undisputed Kingdom speaks.

Kyle O’Reilly says, “There’s been a lot of ups and downs for us in AEW, boys. And since I joined the Undisputed Kingdom, we’ve been chasing that one moment to kick things off. And the TNT Championship tells the world what we already know: We are the elite of the elite, and watch us as we collect moment after moment after moment.” Roderick Strong says, “Speaking of moments, Kyle, I think it’s about time that we have our moment.” Adam Cole tells Roddy that they will. “Because excellence is not just defined by your successes. Excellence is defined by how you handle your failures.

“The past two years, I’ve been through hell and back. They were two of the most challenging years not just in my career, but in my life. And now I stand before you the Face of TNT, your NEW AEW TNT Champion. And trust me when I tell you, this is just the start for the three of us. Because it’s a new era in All Elite Wrestling, because we… We are the paragons, and that is Undisputed.” Cole, Kyle & Roddy are ready, will they redefine what it is to be All Elite?

Chris Jericho is here!

The former ROH World Champion goes to the ring, where he has his podium, prop trees and TV set up. Jericho has the mic to say, “I am the legendary Chris Jericho, but I am no longer the ROH World Champion.” The fans cheer that! Jericho says he lost his match, he lost a tooth, and he lost his title. And while that is disappointing, he will give credit where credit is due. Congratulations, Bandido, you pulled it off. After months of conflict with one of the greatest pro-wrestlers of all time, Jericho, Bandido was finally victorious. Bandido won the title and saved his mask, but of course with the assistance of his intrusive siblings and his stooge of a mother!

But Jericho gets it. Bandido has his familia, and Jericho has his. Jericho will bring them out now: “Big Bill” Morrissey & Bryan Keith! The Redwood & The Bad Apple make their way out now, and they’re just as upset given they also lost on Sunday. Bill & Keith step into the ring to join Jericho, and Jericho says he was hoping they’d all have titles here tonight. He was hoping they would win the AEW World Tag Team Championships at Dynasty. But they didn’t, did they? That’s why Jericho- Bill stops him?!

Bill grabs his own mic while the fans cheer him on, and Bill says, “Look, Chris, I already know what you’re gonna say. You’re angry, and you have every right to be angry. I’m angry. In fact, I’ve been getting real angry a lot as of late.” Keith wants Bill to stop, but Bill says no, Jericho needs to hear this. Bill knows Keith knows this, too, because they’ve talked about this. Keith is still conflicted, but Bill tells Jericho that Bill has the utmost respect for Jericho. Jericho is one of the greatest of all time. Jericho is one of the most decorated performers in the history of this industry. The fans do cheer that, and Bill says that is why he joined The Learning Tree.

Bill wanted to learn from Jericho. But… Bill did not sign up to be Jericho’s punching bag whenever things go wrong. The fans cheer that! Jericho has a bit of a smirk, and Bill says if he and Keith are out here because Jericho is going to teach them something, then by all means, go ahead and teach. But if they are just here so Jericho can berate and humiliate them, then let Bill know right now, so Bill can leave. And Bill knows Bryan feels the same way. Jericho steps closer to Keith and asks if that’s true. Because that isn’t why Jericho brought them out here. If that’s what they think, then they do have a lot more to learn than he thought.

Jericho believes in them. And when he said he wanted them to win the AEW World Tag Team Championships, he meant that, because he cares about both of them. He handpicked both of them to stand by him to teach them, help them, and believe him, he doesn’t have to help anyone in AEW if he doesn’t want to. But they have potential. They’re future world champions! That is why their victories are his victories, and their failures are his failures. And that is why Jericho is empathetic to Bill when Bill was not there when Jericho needed him most! Jericho lost the ROH World Championship, and Bill wasn’t there!

Some might go so far as to say it was Bill’s fault that Jericho lost! The fans boo, this is clearly the berating Bill spoke of. Bill tries not to react, but Jericho says he isn’t saying that. He doesn’t believe that at all. It is okay, because he is not angry. Just disappointed. Jericho SMASHES his TV with Floyd the Baseball Bat! Jericho again says, “I’m not angry, just disappointed.” And then SMASH goes the TV! SMASH! SMASH! SMASH! Then he goes after the trees! Jericho keeps saying, “I’m disappointed! I’m disappointed! I’m disappointed! I’M EFFING DISAPPOINTED!” And unlike Nick Jackson earlier, Jericho does say the full word.

The fans boo and Bill glares at Jericho. Jericho says he is disappointed in them, and until they change that, it is best that he leaves. Jericho pushes his podium over, storms out of the ring, and the fans sing, “Hey Hey Hey~! GOODBYE~!” If this is disappointed, what would angry even look like? Keith and Bill are upset, but in different ways. What happens to The Learning Tree if The Nueve is going to be MIA?

Anthony Bowens speaks.

It was after the huge return at Dynasty during the Zero Hour that the Pride of Pro-Wrestling said, “I’m finally free of the shackles that is Max Caster. The Five Tool Player has finally arrived. I’ve got five tools, and one rule: And that’s  to prove them wrong.” Bowens returns to AEW TV as he takes on Blake Christian this Saturday, will the Vanilla Baby survive this Collision?

BREAKING NEWS for Collision!

Almost a week after the brutal beating they gave Adam Copeland, Dax Harwood & Cash Wheeler will be in Springfield, Mass to speak on #WhyFTRWhy. Will their answer be satisfactory? Or simply self-serving?

Backstage interview with The Hurt Syndicate.

Alicia Atout has caught up with MVP, Lashley & Shelton to bring up the interactions with MJF. Where do things go from here? Lashley asks why they’re even talking about MJF. Everyone knows MJF is not to be trusted, and then after what he said out there tonight? Lashley does not like MJF, and the Syndicate does not need MJF. Shelton agrees there. They don’t need anybody else. Though, “Lil’ George Costanza is pretty funny.” Lashley rolls his eyes and storms off, Shelton says he’ll go talk to him. MVP says they’re just trying to figure out- Wait, someone knocks on the door. MVP says come in, and it’s MJF!

MJF tells Alicia, “Honey, this is an AB conversation, so why don’t you C your skank ass outta here? Buh-bye, catch you around.” MJF apologizes to MVP that he had to see that, but he is just a little perturbed. Can he ask a question, plain and simple? Sure, go ahead. Does MJF look like a “female dog” to him? MVP wants MJF to get to the point. MJF’s point is, why does he always end up treated like some punk b*tch!? Do these guys not know who he is? He’s M J F! MVP has MJF stop there. That’s the problem: They know exactly who MJF is. MJF’s reputation precedes him. But this is business, and in the world of business, you get your consumer, find out what they want, and give it to them.

MVP heads out, and MJF thinks on that. Will he figure out what the supply and demand for the Hurt Syndicate is?

Jericho is in the parking lot.

He storms around, and he takes out his “disappointment” on some spare sodas before getting into his car. The driver takes it away, when and where will we see The Learning Tree again?

Samoa Joe & Hook VS Claudio Castagnoli & Wheeler Yuta!

While Jon Moxley beat Shibata earlier tonight, Swerve did take out The Bastard soon after. The rest of The Opps take on the rest of The Death Riders, who will it be that’s caught lacking here tonight?

The teams sort out, Joe starts against Yuta, and the fans rally behind the Samoan Submission Specialist. The two circle, Yuta waistlocks, but Joe wrenches out and wristlocks. The fans sing, “Joe is gonna kill~ you!” but Yuta rolls, only for Joe to wrangle him. Yuta fights up, spins and works on the grip, but Joe wrangles him again. Yuta kips up, spins, rolls, and fires a forearm! Joe lets Yuta go, but he’s more mad than anything. Yuta runs off before Joe can take a swing! The fans boo but Yuta wants the ref to back Joe off. The ref has Joe step back, then Yuta slides in. Yuta tags Claudio and the fans boo more.

Joe smirks as now the Swiss Cyborg steps in. Joe and Claudio knuckle lock, then Claudio kicks low! Claudio UPPERCUTS, UPPERCUTS again, but Joe CHOPS! And JABS! JABS! JABS! Joe fires JAB after JAB, then whips Claudio to a corner. Joe runs up, ELBOW and PELE! Claudio sputters along the ropes but Joe bumps him off buckles. Tag to Hook and the Opps mugs Claudio. Hook fires body shots then clinches, but Claudio CLUBS him, then scoops and SLAMS him! Tag to Yuta, Yuta climbs up, and Yuta CROSSBODIES but Hook says nope! Yuta belly flops on the mat, then Hook waistlocks for a deadlift GERMAN SUPLEX!

Hook holds on, to GERMAN SUPLEX again! And GERMAN SUPLEX again! The fans fire up for Hook while Yuta flounders to the corner. Tag to Joe and Joe JABS, CHOPS, and repeat! The fans cheer as Joe then snapmares Yuta, CHOPS him on the back, and KICKS him in the front! Joe runs to ELBOW DROP! Tag to Hook, he runs up to fire knees. Hook puts Yuta in a corner and fires body shots! Hook whips corner to corner, Yuta reverses, but then Hook puts Yuta on the apron. Hook ROCKS Yuta, Yuta falls to the floor, but then Yuta grabs a foot! The ref reprimands as Yuta trips Hook, but Hook kicks free! Only for Claudio to APRON DOUBLE STOMP!

The ref reprimands while Hook writhes, and Dynamite goes picture in picture.

Yuta storms back in and brings Hook up. Yuta CHOPS Hook, but Hook CHOPS in return! Yuta CLAWS Hook’s eyes, tags Claudio, and they double whip Hook to then DOUBLE BOOT! Yuta soaks up the heat while Claudio glares at Joe. Joe warns Claudio, but Claudio drags Hook around into a top wristlock. Claudio grinds Hook down with that wristlock, but Hook fights up. Claudio knee slow, KNEES Hook again, then shoves him to the corner. Claudio stomps Hook down, argues with the ref, but that lets Yuta CHOKE Hook! Joe protests, the ref is busy with him now, so Yuta gets away with it. Claudio smothers Hook, KNEES him low, then tags Yuta.

Yuta runs up to stomp Hook, then brings him around. Yuta talks trash on Baltimore, but Hook fires body shots! Yuta KNEES low, hooks a leg, and hits a FISHERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, TWO! Not quite perfect, but Yuta doesn’t care as he just clamps onto a foot. Yuta drags Hook around, YANKS the leg, then tags Claudio. Claudio stomps Hook, then smothers him with a chinlock. Hook endures, even as Claudio grinds him down. Hook fights around, fights up, and he fires body shots. Claudio shifts to a SLEEPER, but Hook still fights. Hook reaches out for Joe, Joe reaches out for Hook, but Claudio shifts around to have a COBRA CLUTCH!

The fans rally as Hook fights up, and he has Claudio as a backpack! Hook stomps forward, but Claudio slips down and THROWS Hook down! Claudio then UPPERCUTS Hook to the corner! Tag to Yuta, he drags Hook up and snapmares for a chinlock of his own. Hook endures all over again while Dynamite returns to single picture. The fans rally for Hook and they taunt Yuta, but Yuta leans on the hold. Hook fights to his feet, fires body shots, then he SAYANAGIS free! But Yuta comes back for a PAIN THRILLER! Cover, TWO! Yuta tags Claudio, Claudio scuffs Hook, then Claudio eggs Hook on. “Who’s the man?”

Claudio shoves Hook to the corner, but Hook ROCKS Claudio, ELBOWS Yuta, and repeat! Hook hurries for his corner but Claudio catches him with a clinch. Claudio KNEES low, then whips Hook to the corner. Claudio storms up, but Hook clinches! CORNER EXPLODER! The fans fire up while both men are down! Hook crawls, but Yuta is right there, Claudio tags Yuta in! Yuta runs to BLAST Joe! The fans boo but Hook catches Yuta! EXPLODER! Hook crawls, as does Yuta, but Joe’s still down! Yuta tags Claudio, Claudio runs at Hook, UPPERCUT! Cover, TWO! Hook survives but Claudio drags him back up!

Tag to Yuta, and Yuta climbs! Claudio hauls Hook up, DOOMSDAY POWERBOMB! Cover, TWO?!?! Hook survives and shocks The Death Riders! They argue with the ref, but Joe rises to the apron! Only for Claudio to slide out, YANK Joe down, and throw forearms! Joe fires in return and the fans fire up! Joe whips, Claudio reverse, Joe hits railing! Claudio runs up, but into an URENAGE to the floor! Yuta drags Hook up, but Hook standing switches and clamps on! REDRUM!! No, Yuta is fighting it, and here comes Moxley! The ref has Moxley back off, but this lets Yuta CLAWS Hook’s eyes! The fans boo but Moxley does his part.

Moxley has a chair, he tells Yuta to finish this, but SHIBATA returns! He has Moxley in a SLEEPER! The fans fire up as Moxley flails! REDRUM for Yuta!! Joe has Claudio, COQUINA CLUTCH!! The Opps have the Death Riders all caught! Yuta TAPS, Opps win!!

Winners: Samoa Joe & Hook, by submission

They truly are #NeverLacking! Joe, Hook and even Shibata had the grit to tough it out and take the win! Shibata’s even putting the Maniac AEW World Champion to sleep! But Marina Shafir slithers in, chair in hand! She CHOP BLOCKS Joe! Yuta CLOBBERS Hook, Claudio is back to help mug Hook! The fans boo, Shibata hurries to help his guys, but Claudio fires shots! Yuta joins in to TOSS Shibata out! Claudio has the chair, sits it upside-down, and he reels Hook in! GOTCH NEUTRALIZER onto the chair legs!! Hook is all but skewered on those, and now The Death Riders run away before Joe can get them!

The fans boo, but what did anyone expect from the dastardly, no good Death Riders? Joe is the only one standing, and he has a mic to shout, “DEATH RIDERRRS~! You cowardly SOBs! You see, the Opps came to Baltimore to give you a fist fight! And it seems like the Death Riders are acting more like a bunch of D*CK RIDERS right now, to come out here and do what they want!” The fans fire up behind Joe, and Joe says they make it real simple! The Opps VS The Death Riders, and they’re coming for the AEW World Trios Championships!! Joe has thrown down the challenge, will The Death Riders have no choice but to accept?

My Thoughts:

A great Dynamite for the follow-up to Dynasty, but something promo wise must’ve gone long because the main event needed most of that overrun. Part of me thinks it was Kenny Omega with The Bucks. We got a good opening promo from Moxley that properly uses that Heel hypocrisy to act like he didn’t get saved by everyone in the Death Riders and The Bucks, and then we got a great match from Moxley VS Shibata. Moxley of course wins by using dirty tactics, but I liked the segue into The Bucks having their promo, which then brought out Kenny. Part of why this part took longer was cuz the fans were having too much fun chanting “Dookie.”

But there’s something about The Elite wanting to work with The Death Riders, but they’ve got Omega and Swerve opposing them, I wonder if Double or Nothing gets to have Anarchy in the Arena 2025. The Owen Hart Cup Finals determine a #1 contender to the world title, so Double or Nothing doesn’t have to have a world title match. Honestly, seeing as how Revolution and Dynasty basically had the same upsetting end to a world title match, Anarchy in the Arena would be a much better main event. Though, that really depends on what happens with The Opps and the trios titles. Honestly, The Opps better win those titles.

We got a great tag team main event, and while Joe & Hook win, Death Riders get the better of them with that beating. I really hope Pac is okay, his ankle scare might have been what wrapped his match against Swerve. If Pac’s ankle is still a concern, that’s perhaps all the more reason to take the trios titles off The Death Riders and put them on The Opps so that The Opps can carry those into Double or Nothing or even All In. Then Anarchy in the Arena can be Bucks, Okada, and at least Moxley, Claudio & Yuta, against Omega, Swerve, and certainly Hangman Page. Hangman had a great bit with Prince Nana, and they’re really taking this to interesting places. Swerve says he deserved what Hangman did, Nana wants to apologize for what Swerve did, and Hangman isn’t sure how to handle any of it.

Now, Hangman also said his Owen Hart Cup match is next week, and that complicates what some fans were hoping to see. Fans hoped Darby Allin would go All In (see how his name and the words work together?) but Darby wants to climb Mount Everest. Apparently that climb is either happening now or within the next week, meaning he’s not going to be available for the Wild Card position. Not sure who they could put in that spot, not sure why they had a Wild Card spot to begin with, but if it isn’t Darby, I feel like Hangman wins that to at least be a bit closer to the Cup. But with The Bucks back, I could see them pulling strings to try and help Hangman, he doesn’t like it, all the more reason he joins Swerve and Omega against The Elite.

Very good promo segment from The Hurt Syndicate with MJF. MJF just assuming he’s in was great, as was Lashley’s entire reaction to it. Not sure we needed that backstage promo, that could’ve been left for Collision. Also, I believe Alicia Atout is MJF’s newest girlfriend, so she clearly knew MJF would be misogynistic for the bit. Good promo from Undisputed Kingdom, or perhaps the Paragon? I feel like “Paragon” was floated around as a faction name a year or so ago, not sure they need to try that again. And surprisingly, a very good TV Time with Chris Jericho. I really liked Bill being blunt with Jericho, and then Jericho turning that around to be somewhat psycho was actually a good move, too. Can’t wait for Bill and Jericho to have it out, and for Keith to choose a side.

That was a great 8 Man Tag, with great promos, but like… Does a kayfabe “big cash prize” really have to be the reason? I suppose it’s TK’s best way of justifying such an assortment of wrestlers in a match, but it still seems really silly. They never really did that much with Top Flight & AR Fox after they won that Three Kings $300K battle royal. The gear didn’t change or improve that drastically, there was no promo/vignette where they had fun with the $300K, so why bother? Good promo from Don Callis, though, to hype up his guys in the Owen Hart Cup, and to open the door to new members. Maybe guys lost in the shuffle can finally do stuff on TV. Also, a shame about Mark Davis and Brian Cage, I hope those guys get well soon.

And great stuff in the Women’s Owen Hart Cup. Very good promo from all the other entries, and a great match from Kris VS Rosa. Toni on commentary is still good, but she really does like innuendos, doesn’t she? Maybe too much? I’m just a touch surprised Kris won, I thought they were going to give us Thunder VS Storm again, given Rosa never actually lost the title. They can still do that for Double or Nothing on the side while someone else wins the tournament, but Megan & Ford also had a very good promo. I figured with Dynasty that Megan would want a rematch, but maybe she has to go through Rosa to get it. Or maybe Triple Threat since the PPV is Double or Nothing?

My Score: 8.9/10

Dark State takes on the Stand & Deliver main event!

Before they battle for THE NXT Championship, Oba Femi, Trick Williams and Je’Von Evans must work together against Dark State in a Six Man Tag! Will they survive?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Jordynne Grace VS Jaida Parker; No Contest.
• Fraxiom VS Swipe Right; Fraxiom wins.
• NXT Women’s North American Championship Ladder Match Qualifier: Sol Ruca w/ Zaria VS Jazmyn Nyx w/ The Fatal Influence; Sol wins and advances to Stand & Deliver.
• Hank ‘n’ Tank VS Niko Vance & Brooks Jensen; Vance & Jensen win.
• Wes Lee w/ Tyriek Igwe & Tyson Dupont VS Yoshiki Inamura w/ Josh Briggs; Wes wins.
• NXT Women’s North American Championship Ladder Match Qualifier: Izzi Dame w/ The Culling VS Wren Sinclair w/ No Quarter Catch Crew; Izzi wins and advances to Stand & Deliver.
• Six Man Tag: Oba Femi, Trick Williams & Je’Von Evans VS Dark State; Dark State wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Stephanie Vaquer is here!

Kelly Kincaid knows the NXT Women’s Champion gets to choose her opponent for Stand & Deliver, but when can we expect that decision? Vaquer is sure she’ll have that decision after this match. La Primera goes to ringside, who will impress her with a victory?

Jordynne Grace VS Jaida Parker!

The Juggernaut and Miss Parker have had a bit of back ‘n’ forth, both in words and in brawling backstage. But this here could very well be seen as a #1 contender’s match! Will Grace make an impact on WrestleMania Weekend? Or will Jaida get #OutTheMud with this one?

The bell rings and and the two run up! Grace TACKLES Jaida, rains down fists, and the fans fire up! Jaida turns things around, Grace turns it back, and they scrap out to the floor! The fans fire up more as the shots keep going! Grace stomps Jaida, then SMACKS her off the apron. Grace jumps on for a SLEEPER, but Jaida RAMS her into the apron! And into the apron again! Jaida goes into the ring, but Grace drags her back out. Grace slides in, but Jaida drags her back out! Grace ELBOWS Jaida, SMACKS her off the apron, then TOSSES her into the ring. Grace slides in, but Jaida stomps her down!

Jaida drags Grace up, whips, but Grace reverses to atomic drop! Then she fireman’s carries Jaida for a ROLLING DEATH VALLEY! Then a SLIDING FOREARM! Cover, TWO! Jaida stays in this but Grace stays on her. Grace TOSSES Jaida to the apron, then goes out after her. Grace CLUBS Jaida, Alabama Lifts her, and even Vaquer is worried about this one. Jaida fights that slam off to lift Grace! Grace kicks free, but then Jaida fireman’s carries! HOTSHOT off the ropes! The fans fire up while Grace flounders, but Jaida storms in and runs, BLOCKBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Grace survives and the fans fire up more!

Jaida drags Grace up, but Grace fights the suplex! Grace RAMS Jaida into a corner, then RAMS her in again! Grace backs up, runs in, but Jaida puts her on the apron! Grace blocks a shot to ROCK Jaida! Grace then climbs, but Jaida trips her up! Grace is in the ropes, Jaida ROCKS her, then puts her in the corner! Jaida CHOPS, then runs, TEARDROP! Jaida high steps and the fans fire up! Jaida says Parker don’t play, and NXT goes picture in picture.

Jaida talks trash on Grace, then drags her up to CLUB her in the corner. Jaida runs to LARIAT Grace in the back! Jaida reels Grace in, REVERSE SUPLEX! Cover, TWO! Grace survives that rough landing, and she seems to be okay to continue. Jaida clamps onto Grace with a GROUND COBRA TWIST! Grace endures, fights around, but Jaida CLUBS her! Grace fires HEADBUTTS into Jaida, but Jaida CLUBS her again and again! Jaida pushes Grace onto her stomach, then clamps on with a chinlock stretch! Grace endures, fights up, and has Jaida as a backpack! BACKPACK SENTON! Cover, TWO! Jaida stays in this but Grace stays focused.

Grace drags Jaida up, whips her to a corner hard, and then scoops Jaida for a POWERSLAM! Grace goes up, up, VADER BOMB FLOPS as Jaida moves !HIP- NO! Grace rolls Jaida up, TWO! Jaida trips Grace, and she rains down furious fists! Grace turns things around but Jaida pulls hair! But then Grace pulls Jaida’s hair! The ref counts, both women let go at 4, and then Grace rains down fists! Cover, TWO! Grace tumbles to ropes, Jaida storms up to cravat. Jaida grinds Grace’s face off the ropes, puts her in the corner, then runs, but into an ELBOW! Grace reels Jaida in, but Jaida hoists Grace up top!

Jaida fires forearms and a CHOP, then climbs up after Grace. NXT returns to single picture as Grace fires forearms! Jaida fires a body shot in return! Jaida reaches the top, brings Grace up to join her, but Grace fights back! SUPER SUNSET FLIP, but Jaida holds onto the ropes! Jaida ROCKS Grace, then kicks her away! The fans rally as Jaida adjusts, but Grace runs up! Jaida leaps over, fireman’s carries, but Grace fires elbows! Jaida still RAMS Grace into buckles, and pops Grace around! But Grace fights through to have Jaida up! The fans are thunderous as Grace then ALLEY-OOPS Jaida away!

The fans cheer “NXT! NXT!” for making this the opener, and even Vaquer is impressed. Grace and Jaida rise up, go forehead to forehead, then they go forearm for forearm! The fans fire up, Grace gets the edge, and she RAMS Jaida into the corner! Grace swings, Jaida dodges, but then Grace catches Jaida to a backslide! Jaida rolls through, Grace blocks the kick, but the POINT-BLANK HIP hits! Jaida then whips corner to corner, but Grace goes up and over! GRIZZLY MAGNUM! The fans fire up for that double chop, and then Grace blocks a boot! Grace lifts Jaida into the Electric Chair, and SLAMS her into buckles!

Grace torture racks Jaida now, for a SWINGING NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Jaida survives and “This is Awesome!” Grace and Jaida rise up again, and Grace pump handles! Jaida fights free, dragon sleepers, REVSRE- NO, Grace turns suplex into dragon sleeper! Jaida fires knees, powers through, and she standard suplexes to GOURD BUSTER! And now, the HIP- NO!! Grace ducks and Jaida crashes! Grace runs to DIVE! The ropes get her first, she crashes at Jaida’s feet! Jaida hurries to get Grace up, but Grace shoves her away. Jaida bumps into Vaquer, and Vaquer takes exception to that. Jaida SLAPS Vaquer!

The fans fire up but Grace fires off on Jaida! Vaquer swings on Jaida, Jaida dodges, Grace takes the shot! Jaida then SLAPS Vaquer! The ref stops the match but the brawl continues!

No Contest

Grace ROCKS Jaida, then goes to the ring to off on Vaquer! Jaida storms in and goes after Grace! The fans fire up, and now GIULIA is back?!? The former NXT Women’s Champion returns, and she dodges Grace to BOOT Jaida! And she ROCKS Grace! ELBOW for Jaida, SHOTGUN for Grace! Vaquer SHOTGUNS Jaida! The fans fire up as now Giulia and Vaquer bump into each other! They turn and see who it is, and while Vaquer smiles, Giulia HEADBUTTS Vaquer! NORTHERN LIGHTS BOMB!! And she holds up the NXT Women’s Championship! The Beautiful Madness is back, will it be madness this close to Mania?

Hank ‘n’ Tank talk backstage.

They again go over what went wrong last week, and bring up how Nathan Frazer was a bit harsh with his words. But maybe they should just watch and learn from Fraxiom tonight. After all, those guys are the NXT Tag Team Champions, so they gotta know something. But then speaking of that match, Swipe Right walks in. Brad Baylor says, “What’s up, big boys?” Brad Baylor & Ricky Smokes introduce themselves as “The hottest tag team on WWE Evolve,” and they already know Tank ‘n’ Hank. Well, it’s Hank ‘n’ Tank but same thing. Swipe Right heard about the rough patch and know they’re looking for advice from successful tag teams.

Well, don’t sweat it, Swipe Right loves to pay it forward. Tonight, after they beat Fraxiom, #Hundos, they will get back to you boys for a tight five. For now, get pens, paper, and take notes. Brad & Ricky head out, and Tank asks, “Who even…?” Hank says they’re not THAT desperate. Are they? Tank says no, they are not. But to the point, will studying from the most functional dysfunctional and dynamic duo in WWE really help Hank ‘n’ Tank narrow down what they’re missing?

The Culling has a group discussion.

They are all upset over last week. Brooks Jensen tells Shawn Spears that the group let him down. Niko Vance says Ricky Saints has no idea what’s coming his way. Izzi Dame swears they will do everything they can to get the North American Championship back, and Niko adds that it doesn’t matter if Ethan Page thinks it’s his turn. The Chair Man has them stop. He admires the passion, he really does. And is he grateful that he finally won gold in the WWE for the first time? That he’ll be a champion for the rest of his life? Yes. But that title is no longer his focus. It was a vessel that brought The Culling together. Their bond was never about his success, but theirs.

The focus now shifts to Izzi. She will qualify for the Women’s North American Championship Ladder Match and go on to Stand & Deliver. Do not focus on Spears’ loss but what she can achieve. And as for Brooks & Niko, Hank ‘n’ Tank are looking to find their way. Ensure that they don’t. It was always about them shining. And it all starts tonight. Spears smiles, will the “family” he brought together soon reign together?

Fraxiom VS Swipe Right!

NXT returns and Swipe Right makes their entrance. The fans are a bit torn on the self-professed hottest team in Evolve, but will Brad Baylor & Ricky Smokes make man change their minds? Or is this going to be more of a swipe left moment?

The teams sort out and Smokes steps up, but Frazer and Axiom argue a bit. Axiom concedes and lets Frazer start, only for Smokes to DROPKICK him off the apron! The fans boo but Frazer goes after Smokes! Smokes BACKHANDS Frazer, RAMS him into the corner, then tags Brad. Feed to a lift and then DROPKICK SPINEBUSTER COMBO! Cover, TWO! Brad drags Frazer up, RAMS into him, then tags Smokes. They snapmare, and Brad NECK SNAPPERS! Smokes adds a basement DROPKICK! Cover, TWO! Axiom is back up but Smokes CLOBBERS him! Smokes grabs Frazer’s legs, YANKS him up, but Frazer PELES!

Brad tags in, Frazer dodges, but Brad blocks a kick! The DRAGON WHIP hits! Tag to Axiom and the tag champs unleash the speed blitz! Basement DDT for Brad! Smokes runs up but into a mule kick! Frazer kicks, then gives Axiom a boost for the DROPKICK! Swipe Right bails out, and Axiom DIVES onto Brad! Frazer DIVES onto Smokes! The fans fire up as they keep going! DIVE for Brad! DIVE for Smokes! The fans are thunderous because the champs #NeverSlowDown! Axiom CHOPS Brad in the corner, then CHOPS again! Axiom fires hands on Brad, adds stomps, then lets off. Smokes sneaks a tag, and then slingshot SPEARS Axiom! Cover, TWO!

Smokes puts Axiom int he ropes, bends him back, then Brad KNEES Axiom! Tag to Brad, feed to a springboard X FACTOR! Cover, TWO! Axiom stays in this but Brad clamps on with a full nelson. Axiom endures, fights up, and he breaks the grip. Axiom then slips around to GERMAN SUPLEX! Smokes tags in, he anchors a foot, and avoids the enzigiri! Smokes runs, but into a SPANISH FLY! The fans fire up and Axiom rolls, hot tag to Frazer! Frazer rallies with FOREARM after FOREARM on Smokes! Brad is in, but he gets a BUCKLE SHOT! Frazer dodges Smokes, QUEBRADA, and then he adds Brad to the mix, COMPLETE SHOT DDT COMBO!

The fans are thunderous again as Frazer sets up, RUNNING SHOOTING STAR on Smokes! Cover, TWO! Smokes survives and Frazer is a bit surprised, but he hurries to a corner. Frazer goes right up, takes aim, and FROG- NO, Smokes dodges! Tags to Brad and Axiom! Smokes runs up, Frazer waistlocks, but Smokes switches. Smokes sends Frazer at Axiom, Axiom goes up and over, but Smokes BOOTS him! Frazer runs up, Brad ROCKS him! Smokes JUMP KNEES, Brad underhooks! Swipe Right combines, butterfly underhooks and MATCH KILLER! Brad tags Smokes, they set Axiom up as Smokes climbs!

Axiom sends Brad into Smokes! SUPERKICK for Brad! Hot tag to Frazer before a GAMANGIRI to Smokes! Axiom goes up to give Smokes the SUPER SPANISH FLY! Frazer is up top, PHOENIX SPLASH!! GOLDEN RATIO for Brad! Cover on Smokes, Fraxiom wins!

Winners: Fraxiom, by pinfall

For what it’s worth, Swipe Right did impress. But in the end, they saw why Frazer & Axiom are the NXT Tag Team Champions. Did Hank ‘n’ Tank learn plenty from this match?

Fatal Influence talks backstage.

Jacy Jayne deserves the opportunity, and Jazmyn Nyx agrees. Fallon Henley walks in and asks if they heard the news. Yes, one member of Fatal Influence gets the chance to qualify for Stand & Deliver. Fallon being the former champion, she is ready to get that title back. Um, no. Fallon had the title, failed to keep it, so it is Jacy’s turn to step up. Fallon says last time she checked, Jacy was too busy eating a superkick. Jazmyn tells them to stop, because it’ll be neither of them. It’s her turn to get an opportunity. And they’ll be their for her, right? Jazmyn heads out, and Jacy asks what just happened. Fallon has no idea. But will the Toxic Rookie prove she’s ready for more?

NXT Women’s North American Championship Ladder Match Qualifier: Sol Ruca w/ Zaria VS Jazmyn Nyx w/ The Fatal Influence!

NXT returns as the “goddesses of mayhem” stand in the ring together, and then #ZaRuca makes their entrance. The Agent of Change is already in the ladder match after winning big last week, will the Soul Surfer soon join her?

The bell rings and the fans rally behind Sol. The two tie up, go around, and Nyx headlocks. Sol powers up and out, but Nyx holds on tight! Sol fights while Nyx grinds the hold. Sol headstands and pops out the back! Then she handsprings to avoid the leg sweep! Sol gest around, headlocks, and wrenches to then wristlock. Nyx wrenches back, but Sol whips. Nyx reverses, Sol goes up and over, to then X FACTOR! The fans fire up as Sol kips up and Nyx bails out. Sol storms up, counter punches Nyx at the apron, then hoists Nyx up! Sol has a stalling suplex, but Nyx fights it! Nyx tries but Sol spins that around to snap suplex!

Sol backflips to have the top mount cover, TWO! Sol is annoyed but Zaria coaches her to keep going. Nyx blocks a superkick, spins Sol and sweeps the leg! Jacy & Fallon applaud, and Nyx stalks Sol as she goes to the apron. Sol ROUNDHOUSES Nyx, then springboards for a SPLASH into boots! Nyx runs, springboard and FLYING CHUCK! Sol goes to a corner, Nyx stomps a mudhole in, then digs her boot in. The ref counts, Nyx lets off, and Sol fires a forearm. Nyx ROCKS Sol in return! Nyx whips Sol to ropes then CALF KICKS! Nyx kips up smooth, and hooks a leg, FISHERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, TWO!

Nyx isn’t quite perfect, but she clamps on a LAST CHANCERY! Sol endures, powers up, and the fans rally as Sol pries the hold open! Sol rises, Nyx runs, PENALTY KICK! Cover, TWO! Nyx is frustrated but she has Sol on the ropes. Nyx KICKS away on Sol’s stomach, but Sol blocks the roundhouse! Nyx ROCKS Sol, but Sol slips around to lift and BLUE THUNDER FACEBUSTER! Both women are down and the fans rally up. Sol and Nyx rise up, and Sol mule kicks! So CLUBS Nyx, CHOPS her, CHOPS her again, then whips. SHOULDER TACKLE! Springboard FLYING FOREARM! The fans fire up as Sol springboard FLYING FOREARMS again!

Sol fires up while Nyx goes to a corner. Sol runs in and ELBOWS Nyx! Sol cravats Nyx and picks her up, for a BACKPACK STUNNER! Sol keeps running to SHINING WIZARD! Cover, TWO! Nyx survives and Sol grows frustrated. But now Jacy picks a fight with Zaria. This lets Fallon distract Sol! Sol takes a swing, Fallon gets away, and the NYX KICK hits!! Cover, TWO!! Sol survives the Fatal screw job and Nyx can’t believe it! Nyx hurries to get Sol up, but Sol cradles her, TWO! Both women hurry up, ROUNDHOUSE from Nyx! Sol goes to a corner, but she jumps to ENZIGIRI! Sol goes up to SOL SNATCHER!! Cover, SOL WINS!

Winner: Sol Ruca, by pinfall (advances to Stand & Deliver)

Fatal Influence could not get this done 3v2, and now both members of #ZaRuca are going for the gold. Will at least one of them rise up and take the title home?

Backstage interview with Je’Von Evans.

Sarah Schreiber finds the Young OG preparing for tonight. She says that at Stand & Deliver, it will be the Triple Threat of Je’Von, Trick Williams and Oba Femi for THE NXT Championship. Tonight, they all team up against Dark State and- Je’Von apologizes for interrupting, but he called this! He knew this Dark State would be a problem, and if Trick and Oba had just listened in the first place, they wouldn’t be in this situation. Those two are gonna try and “lil bro” Je’Von less than two weeks away from the match? He’s coming for that title. Je’Von doesn’t have an era, he isn’t The Ruler, and he doesn’t wanna be like them anyway!

Je’Von dropped Oba not once but twice, and Trick is trying to snuff out the potential before it even sparks. That’s cool. Je’Von takes this step by step. Tonight, it is Dark State. At Stand & Deliver, it is the NXT Championship. Je’Von lets Sarah know he appreciates her, and then heads out. Will the Young OG be ready for all the success in the world? Or will something stop him before he gets the chance?

NXT Media catches up with Giulia.

The reporter asks her why she dropped Stephanie Vaquer, someone who was supposed to be a close friend. Giulia says Stand & Deliver is why. No friends, just a rematch! The Beautiful Madness put it plainly, but what will NXT GM Ava have to say about it?

Hank ‘n’ Tank VS Niko Vance & Brooks Jensen!

The big belly boys have been trying to break through to the next level, and trying to be like the Hardys, Motor City Machine Guns, and even Pretty Deadly did not work out. Will they figure out what’s wrong? Or will they simply be victims of The Culling?

The teams sort out, Tank starts against Jensen, and Jensen hits a leg takedown right at the bell. Tank avoids the headlock to then RAM Jensen to ropes. Hank tags in, Tank misdirects Jensen and Hank CLOBBERS him! The fans fire up and the boys go to the corners! HONK HONK, BIG BELLY SANDWICH! Niko runs up, Hank ‘n’ Tank dodge him, and then ASSISTED SEATED SENTON! The fans fire up as now they go to the corners, HONK HONK! BIG BELLY SANDWICH for Niko! The fans fire up and Hank goes for Jensen. Hank wrenches Jensen’s arm, tags Tank in, and they whip Jensen for a drop toehold and CAMEL CLUTCH!

Tank holds Jensen in place for Hank to run, but Niko trips him up! Tank protests but the ref keeps him back as Niko drags Hank out! Niko RAMS Hank into the apron, Jensen WHEEL KICKS Tank! Jensen rains down forearms on Tank while the fans boo. Jensen drags Tank up, turns him, and hits a NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Tank toughs it out but Jensen drags him over. Tag to Niko and we see Spears watching from backstage. Niko drops a HEADBUTT on Tank, then clamps on a chinlock! Tank endures but the fans rally up. Tank fights up, fights around, and he JAWBREAKERS free! Tank dodges Niko, hot tag to Hank!

The fans fire up as Hank CLOBBERS Niko! Hank DECKS Jensen, ELBOWS Jensen, then whips him to a corner. Hank LARIATS, then whips corner to corner. Hank LARIATS again, then BULLDOGS! The fans fire up as Hank goes out, runs around the way, and he BOOTS Niko down! Hank gets back in, he dodges Jensen and CLOBBERS him! Cover, Niko breaks it! Tank runs up to ROCK Niko, then LARIAT him up and out! Tank goes after Niko but Niko RAMS him down low! Then he THROWS Tank into barriers! Jensen has Hank in a cradle, TWO! Hank scoops for a BOSS MAN SLAM! Hank goes up top, for a SWANTON FLOP!

Hank flounders, Niko tags in! Gut wrench and Jensen climbs, KNEE DROP DOMINATOR COMBO!! Cover, Culling wins!!

Winners: Brooks Jensen & Niko Vance, by pinfall

Hank ‘n’ Tank did their best to #NeverSlowDown, and it almost worked. Tank is frustrated, he shouts, “What’re we doing wrong?!” Will they ever figure it out?

Ricky Saints is here!

The fans fire up as The Absolute NEW NXT North American Champion makes his way to the ring. Saints grabs the mic on his way into the ring, and the fans chant, “Ricky! Strokes!” Saints appreciates the sentiment, he really does. But he will say this: The first night he stepped into NXT, he told everyone that he was gonna turn this place upside-down. He told us that the revolution would be televised again, and you’d get an Absolute Superstar. And if you haven’t figured it out yet, Saints is a man of his word, cuz baby, he is the NEW NXT North American Champion! The fans cheer that, and then chant, “You Earned It! Stroke!”

Saints says while he’d love to keep the celebration going, he has a bitter taste from last week, all due to “All Ego” Ethan Page. Yeah, he gets it, he fully understands. If a guy like Saints, the caliber of a star that he is, and did what Ethan did but better, his little ego would be shattered, too! And since we all know Ethan has never been known to be the bigger man, he had to go and ruin Saints’ moment. As the champ, Saints ain’t no punk, it is time to discuss this man to man. But instead of All Ego, it’s the Drama King! Lexis King brings his NXT Heritage Cup out, but sets it on his throne before going to the ring.

Lexis has a mic to tell Saints, “Hold your horses, Slick Rick. I think you’re worried about the wrong guy. Now I know The King has the prestigious Heritage Cup Championship.” The fans boo as Lexis joins Saints in the ring, and Lexis says, “If there’s one thing about me, brother, I love gold~!” But before Lexis can continue, Eddy Thorpe makes his way out here! The Alpha Wolf “congratulates” Saints, and says, “It must be nice, huh? To waltz in here and be handed opportunities while other people are starving to get what they deserve. All this time, I’ve been on a quest to win a title here in NXT, but now I realized, I had my sights set on the wrong place.

“Because that title, Ricky, that title represents the land of my people. The same land that was stolen from them. So as far as I’m concerned, that title is a shot at retribution. Hell, that title is my birthright! So you don’t need to worry about King, you don’t need to worry about Ethan, you need to worry about me.” But wait! Wes Lee makes his way out here! He has Tyriek & Tyson with him as he has everyone hold up. He has Inamura tonight, but he will take care of that later. They cannot have a conversation about the NXT North American Championship and NOT include Wes Lee! That title right there was at its peak when it was on Wes’ shoulders!

Wes says he is long, LONG overdue for having gold around his waist again. Lexis has Wes hold on, because he gets it. If Lexis was in Wes’s shoes, he would be devastated! He would be desperate to relive his glory days. Eddy tells Lexis to shut up! Another greedy White man who is not content with what he already has! Even Wes is surprised Eddy went there. But that title belongs to Eddy. Ricky tells these three that it is not the time to figure this out. If they want a shot at what Ricky’s got right here, then ETHAN PAGE SLIPS IN! TWISTED GRIN!! Just like last week! But then All Ego, The Drama King, the Alpha Wolf, and the Cardiac Kid all grab the belt.

They all look at each other, it is a four man tug-o-war, until the fists start flying! Ethan has Lexis, Eddy has Wes, and the fans fire up! Lexis RAMS Ethan into the corner, Eddy UPPERCUTS Wes again and again, but then Wes SUPERKICKS Eddy out of the ring! Ethan pushes Lexis aside, BOOTS Wes, but Lexis whips Ethan. Ethan reverses to TOSS Lexis, but Eddy drags Ethan out! Those three brawl, but Wes FLIES in! Down goes everybody! Ty & Ty help Wes stand tall, was this a proper warm-up for the Great Rush headed this way?

Ava watches backstage with Robert Stone and Stevie Turner.

Suit Man Stone hopes “Mayor” Ava saw that. It is truly Stand & Deliver Season! They agree, and then Ava greets Vaquer as she steps into the office. Has Vaquer made her decision? Is it Jaida, Jordynne or Giulia? Vaquer says yes, she has made her decision. And at Stand & Deliver, she wants… ALL THREE OF THEM! Ava says okay. Las Vegas is all about raising the stakes and taking a risk, but will Vaquer regret taking this gamble just to prove a point?

Backstage interview with Trick Williams.

As the shirt says, Sarah Schreiber is with “Crash Out Trick,” and brings up that in just under two weeks is Stand & Deliver. What are his thoughts about being in a Triple Threat match with Oba Femi and Je’Von Evans in order to win back the NXT Championship? Trick says he ain’t here to give no sob story, but every time it comes to him getting his, there’s always someone in the way. First, Eddy Thorpe. Now, Je’Von Evans. But pull up the resume, see what you find. Iron Survivor, North American Champion, TWO-TIME NXT Champion, back-to-back main event of Stand & Deliver, let’s talk about it! Except this time, Trick is going to leave with the title around his waist.

But then are there any concerns about teaming with his opponents tonight to take on the destructive Dark State? Hell yeah, he’s concerned! We all saw what Dark State did! They don’t care about nobody. Trick wants Oba and Je’Von to be on their A Game, cuz they’ll need it. And then at Stand & Deliver, he whoops both their asses.

Wes Lee w/ Tyriek Igwe & Tyson Dupont VS Yoshiki Inamura w/ Josh Briggs!

NXT returns to ringside as Inamura makes his entrance, The Bullhead Brawler by his side. Will Inamura prove to Wes that he has lost his honor?

Wait, Ty & Ty get into it with Briggs & Inamura, and then Wes builds speed! Wes DIVES, but Inamura catches him! Inamura SLAMS Wes on the apron! The fans rally up as Inamura puts Wes in the ring. The bell rings, Wes BOOTS Inamura, then fires hands! Wes has Inamura on the ropes, fires shots from all sides, then runs. But Inamura runs him over! Inamura stomps Wes, drags him up, then scoops, only for Wes to slips free! Wes HOOK KICKS, then CHOPS! Then he fires a forearm! Inamura just gets mad, so Wes fires hands. Inamura blocks one to CHOP, SLAP, CHOP, and ROCK Wes! The fans fire up while Wes wobbles!

Inamura whips, Wes slides under, then UP KICKS back! Inamura goes to a corner, Wes runs in, but Inamura puts him on the apron. Wes avoids the chop, RAMS into Inamura, then CHOKES Inamura on the ropes! The ref counts, Wes lets go at 4, and he slingshot SEATED SENTONS! Cover, TWO! Wes is annoyed with Inamura and kicks him down. Briggs coaches Inamura but Wes goes up. 450, but Wes has to roll through! Inamura BACKDROPS Wes high and hard! The fans fire up as Inamura hits his sumo stance! Wes rises, Inamura runs up for SUMO PALM STRIKES! Inamura has Wes in a corner to JAB and CHOP on repeat!

The fans fire up but the ref counts. Inamura winds up, to CHOP! Wes sputters, Inamura brings him out, and Inamura reels Wes in to CLUB him, suplex him, and hold him up! Wes fires knees, Inamura kneels, but Inamura just hooks that leg! FISHERMAN BUSTER! Cover, TWO! Wes stays in this but Briggs coaches Inamura. Wes crawls to a corner, Inamura hits the sumo stance again, then runs up. But Wes dropkicks the legs out! Inamura hits buckles, Wes BLINDSIDE SUPERKICKS! Briggs coaches Inamura but Wes DIVES onto Briggs! Briggs is sent into barriers, Wes says to stay out of his business!

Wes GAMANGIRIS Inamura at the ropes, then climbs up to CROSBODY! But Inamura catches him!? SPINNING POWERSLAM! The fans fire up and Inamura climbs! But Ty & Ty rush the apron! Briggs CLOBBERS them, but that shakes the ropes and Inamura falls! Wes handsprings, CARDIAC KICK!! Cover, Wes wins!

Winner: Wes Lee, by pinfall

Ty & Ty had Wes’s back, that’s a big win to get Wes back up. Will there be no denying Wes is deserving of something for Stand & Deliver Season?

Oba Femi speaks.

“Dark State. Your presence here in NXT seems to have put the entire locker room on edge. Everybody is wondering when you’ll strike and where you’ll strike from. The Ruler knows all too well about that. Because in addition to you guys attacking me last week, I haven’t forgotten what you did at Vengeance Day. Because you hit me with your last shot, with your best shot, and you failed to put me down. So tonight, I’m going to return the favor. And when I’m done with you four fools, I will turn my attention to Trick Williams and Je’Von Evans.

Because in two weeks, they will get their opportunity to hit me with their best shot, and they will find out the hard way that The Ruler can’t be stopped! And they will suffer the same fate that Dark State is going to suffer tonight. And that is defeat at the hands of Oba Femi.” The NXT Champion has spoken, but will it be that easy when we don’t even know which three men are stepping up?

NXT Women’s North American Championship Ladder Match Qualifier: Izzi Dame w/ The Culling VS Wren Sinclair w/ No Quarter Catch Crew!

Jensen & Vance did their part tonight by taking down Hank ‘n’ Tank. Now it is up to The It Girl to earn her spot at Stand & Deliver. Will she make Shawn Spears proud? Or will the #WrenQCC soon be headed to Las Vegas?

The bell rings and the fans rally behind Wren. Izzi RAMS Wren into a corner, RAMS her again and again, but stops as the ref counts. Izzi short arm LARIATS, then covers, TWO! Izzi is annoyed, but the fans rally for “WREN X T!” Izzi scoops, Wren slips free, and Wren waistlocks. Izzi bucks the O’Conner Roll, runs up on Wren, but Wren dodges and redirects to CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Izzi storms up but Wren wrenches her to a wristlock. Izzi whips Wren away, Wren goes up, only to get caught to an Electric Chair Lift! But Wren spins and arm-drags Izzi away! The fans fire up and Wren Oklahoma Rolls, TWO! Ghost pin by Wren, TWO!

Wren rolls to have another ghost pin, TWO! Izzi kicks low, then whips. Wren reverses to wrench and hook Izzi up, IRON OCTOPUS! The fans fire up while Izzi endures, so Wren sunset flips! Izzi stays up, drags Wren right up, and BOOTS Wren right down! Izzi then hauls Wren up, scoops and SLAMS her, and adds a basement DROPKICK! The fans boo Izzi but she talks trash on Wren. Izzi drags Wren up, bumps her off buckles, then puts her on the ropes. Izzi taunts the NQCC while she CHOKES Wren! The ref counts, Izzi stops, but Wren fires body shots. Izzi wrenches to short arm LARIAT again! Izzi rains down fists, then covers, TWO!

Izzi is frustrated but the fans rally up. Izzi clamps onto Wren with a chinbar and armlock. The fans rally as Wren endures, but Izzi cranks the hold! NQCC coaches Wren, Spears is again watching backstage, and Wren fights to her feet. Wren pries the hold open, then elbows Izzi! Wren ROCKS Izzi with a forearm, but Izzi KNEES low! Izzi runs in at the corner, but Wren KNEES her away! Izzi comes back, Wren dodges! Wren ROCKS Izzi, CHOPS her, then DOUBLE CHOPS! The fans fire up as Wren runs, and LARIATS! Wren CLOBBERS Izzi, keeps moving, BASEMENT BULLDOG! Cover, TWO! Izzi toughs it out, but Wren rusn back up!

Wren slips around, underhooks, but Izzi fights the suplex! Izzi powers up, wrenches out, and whips Wren, only for Wren to CROSBODY! But Izzi catches her! Izzi swings but Wren reels her in, crucifix takedown! TWO!! Izzi runs up, Wren ducks the boot, but the SKY HIGH hits! Cover, Izzi wins!

Winner: Izzi Dame, by pinfall

NQCC may not like it, but it iz what it iz. The Culling stands tall tonight, will they make The Chair Man even prouder when Izzi brings the Women’s North American Championship home?

Ava Raine is surrounded!

Roxanne Perez, The Meta Girls and Fatal Influence are all in there complaining to her about their losses! The Bougie Bully hopes The Mayor is planning a Last Chance Qualifier for Stand & Deliver, because the Meta Girls deserve to be there. Fallon says she will represent Fatal Influence in that match. Jacy and Jazmyn bicker about how they already talked about this earlier, but Ava hushes everyone. There is no Last Chance Qualifier this year. What?! Roxie says Ava better figure something out, because The Prodigy deserves to be on Stand & Deliver! She is the only former NXT Women’s Champion in here right now, obviously.

The others scoff but Ava calms them down. Now that she’s looking around, she has an idea. Oh? She’ll work things out, but Roxie tells her it better not be some form of tag match. Roxie does not have a tag partner. Oh, well, that’s kinda on her. Roxie pouts and knocks Ava’s rubbery ducky over! How dare she! Roxie storms out, but what is the idea Ava is cooking?

Kale Dixon & Uriah Connors watch back film.

They take notes on how they were doing last week, and it started off well. Andre Chase comes along and says they won’t win like that. What’s he mean? Kale was moving too fast. Then what should he do instead? Chase says trust him, they don’t want his help. But they do! Mr. Chase, please help. Chase sighs, but he agrees. They keep watching tape, but then Hank ‘n’ Tank storm in. They’re still upset for how they fell short again. Is it even worth it anymore? But then someone says, “Nah, don’t go doing all that.” It’s Angelo Dawkins! He and Montez Ford are here, and Ford tells Hank ‘n’ Tank that they’ve got better days ahead.

Dawkins tells Hank ‘n’ Tank they get it. There will be ups and downs. The downs will be rough, but the Profits have been watching these past few weeks. They watch the product! Hank ‘n’ Tank, the problem is, you’re trying to be tag teams that you are not. Take it from two guys who have been through their fair share of identity crises. Just lean on each other, and stick to being who you are! Be who you are! Be Hank ‘n’ Tank! Then you will be rewarded. Maybe even next week! Ava let the Profits know that there’s a tag team gauntlet next week, and the winners go on to face Fraxiom for the titles at Stand & Deliver!

Time to lock in! Lock in! They all fire up, and Ford says it is time to rise to the occasion! It is time to STAND & DELIVER~! The Profits just fired up Hank ‘n’ Tank, and it seems even Chase, Kale & Uriah take note of this. Will Hank ‘n’ Tank be ready to win the big won their way?

BREAKING NEWS for next week!

After the big confrontation involving Ricky Saints, there will be a #1 Contender’s Fatal 4 Way! Lexis King VS Eddy Thorpe VS Wes Lee VS Ethan Page, the winner challenges Saints for the NXT North American Champion! Who defies the odds to then go for gold in Las Vegas?

Six Man Tag: Oba Femi, Trick Williams & Je’Von Evans VS Dark State!

Tensions have been rising between The Ruler, #CrashOutTrick and The Young OG, and it all exploded a couple weeks ago. The easy solution was to have them all fight for the title at once, but then things got complicated again when Dion Lennox, Cutler James, Osiris Griffin & Saquon Shugars made them targets of their campaign to sew discord and chaos. Will it even matter which three step up when Oba, Trick & Je’Von are so, so ready to throw hands with each other?

NXT returns and Dark State makes their entrance, and surprisingly it is from the ramp. They all rush the ramp to brawl 4v3 with Je’Von, Trick & Oba! They TOSS Je’Von & Trick out, then mug Oba in the corner! The ref reprimands, but the bell hasn’t rung so this isn’t a match! Meaning it’s all legal as Osiris THROWS Je’Von into barriers! Oba rises up, he still wants this fight, so the bell rings! Dion runs up to LARIAT! On his corner are Cutler & Saquon, answering who will be the three men. Dion fires body shots, then he bumps Oba off buckles. Dion fires body shots, but the fans chant “Oba’s gonna kill~ you!”

Dion fires hands, puts Oba into the corner, then tags Culter. Culter tags Shugars, and Cutler whips Dion in so he can RAM Oba! Dion traps Oba for Shugars to DROPKICK! Then they feed Oba to Cutler’s LARIAT! The fans rally for Oba but Shugars whips. Oba blocks, reverses, and scoops Shguars, but Shugars slips free! Shugars goes to a corner, BOOTS Oba away, but Trick tags in. Shugars dodges Trick, goes for a leg, but Trick steps over to roll Shugars up! TWO, Shugars has a cradle, TWO! Trick POP-UP UPPER- NO! Shugars blocks, wrenches, wristlocks, and he throws Trick down by his hair! The fans boo while Shugars keeps the wristlock.

Trick kips up, wrenches and WRINGS Shugars! Trick tells Shugars to get up, then he UPPERCUTS and JUMP NECKBREAKERS! The fans fire up with Trick, but Cutler runs in! Trick wrenches, ROCKS and UPPERCUTS! But Shugars anchors Trick’s leg! Cutler CLOBBERS Trick, covers, TWO! Cutler drags Trick up, clinches, but Trick ROCKS him again and again! Cutler slips around the third shot to have a SLEEPER! Then a BACKBREAKER! Cutler scoops and SLAMS Trick, then has a standing toehold! Trick kicks at Cutler again and again, then EDDY GORDO KICKS! Shugars tags in and he slides in front of Trick, only for Trick to BACKDROP him!

The fans fire up with Trick, he brings Shugars up, and he snap suplexes! Cover, TWO! Trick stays on Shugars with a facelock and grinds him down. Shugars fights up, pries at the hold, and he wrenches out to ROCK Trick! And CHOP! And CHOPS again! Shugars CHOPS Trick again, taunts Trick, but then Trick dodges the chop to CHOP! And CHOP! And CHOP! Shugars falls, Trick fires up, and Trick scoops Shugars to SLAM him down! Trick glares at Osiris and Dion, but Je’Von wants Trick to think about teamwork. Trick scoops and SLAMS Shugars, then he tags Je’Von! Je’Von leaps over Shugars, SMACKS Dion, then dodges Shugars agian!

Je’Von RANAS Shugars, the fans fire up, and Je’Von hits a SPINEBUSTER! Je’Von rains down fists, Shugars gets loose, but Je’Von CHOPS! Shugars KNEES low, then runs up, but into a sweep! Je’Von runs to DOUBLE STOMP! Cutler storms up to get at Je’Von, but Je’Von shoves free! Cravat, snapmare, and SUPERKICK! Cutler falls out of the ring, Je’Von runs at Shugars, BOUNCY~ RANA! Then a DROPKICK for Dion! DROPKICK for Shugars! Cutler is back, Je’Von dodges, Oba & Trick DOUBLE LARIAT Cutler! The fans are thunderous but Trick and Oba still argue with each other. Je’Von lets them be as he builds speed, but then Osiris is on the apron!

Osiris dares them to bring it, and the rest of Dark State gets up. The fans rally behind this 4v3 stare down, but NXT goes picture in picture.

Dark State keeps barking, so the Stand & Deliver main event trio says bet. They TRIPLE BOOT Dark State off the apron! Shugars is the only one left on the apron, but then Je’Von TOSSES him into the ring! Je’Von wrenches and wrangles Shugars, Oba tags in, and Je’Von hands Shugars off to Oba. Oba wrenches and YANKS Shugars’ arm, then YANKS it again. Oba YANKS Shugars right down to the mat! Oba covers, ONE, but then Oba clamps onto Shugars with a facelock. Oba drags Shugars over, tags Trick, and they mug Shugars. Trick wrenches and grinds the arm, but Shugars arm-drags! Shugars steps on Trick’s face!

Shugars drags Trick up to bump off buckles, and tag to Dion. They mug Trick, then Dion wrenches and RAMS Trick down! Dion drags Trick up just to RAM him down again! Dion wrenches Trick’s arm, hits an ELBOW BREAKER, then tags Cutler. Cutler takes the other arm, they double wrench and DOUBLE YANK! cutler CLUBS and UPPERCUTS an arm, then HIP DROPS Trick down. Cutler grinds Trick down with a mounted armlock, but Trick endures and fights up. Trick fights up, fires haymakers, then whips. Cutler reverses but Trick hits a DDT! Both men crawl, the fans rally up, hot tags to Shugars and Je’Von!

Je’Von fires hands on Shugars, then dodges the counter punch to springboard CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! They both get up and Je’Von whips Shugars to a corner. Shugars reverses, Je’Von slides out to the apron, then Je’Von goes up and around to ROCK Shugars! NXT returns to single picture for Je’Von’s springboard CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Je’Von glares at Dark State while he drags Shugars away. Shugars fights back, sneaks a tag to Cutler, and then Shugars puts Je’Von in an open corner. Je’Von BOOTS Shugars, Osiris storms up but Je’Von backs him off with a step! Je’Von then dodges Shugars, but Cutler LARIATS!

Cutler drags Je’Von into a chinlock, and he rains down fists. The fans boo but Cutler scoops to SLAM! Cutler covers, TWO! Cutler drags Je’Von up, puts him in the Dark State corner, then tags Dion. Cutler digs his forearms into Je’Von’s face, then he sends Je’Von into Dion’s SPINEBUSTER! Dion rains down fists, then clamps on with a chinlock. Je’Von endures, pries at the hold, then fights up. The fans rally, Je’Von fires body shots, but Dion shoves him away. Dion hits a HUGE SPINEBUSTER!! Cover, TWO!! Je’Von survives but Dion drags him over. Tag to Shugars, and Dion scoops Je’Von to SLAM!

Shugars says do him, and Dion scoops Shugars to SLAM him onto Je’Von! Cover, TWO! Shugars keeps Je’Von from his corner, clamps on with a neck wrench, but Je’Von fights up. The fans rally, Je’Von pries the hold and arm-drags free! Je’Von leaps, but Shugars catches him! Fireman’s carry and pop-up to a SLAM! Shugars aims, but Je’Von avoids the elbow drop! Hot tag to Cutler and he keeps Je’Von from his corner. Cutler runs in, but Je’Von dodges, and Cutler POSTS himself! Dion tags in, he hurries to stop Je’Von, and he hits a BIG- CROSSBODY! Je’Von turns things around on Dion and now both men are down!

Dion anchors Je’Von’s legs but Je’Von ENZIGIRIS free! Je’Von crawls, Oba pushes Trick aside to tag in! The fans fire up as Oba rallies on Dark State with big hand after big hand! Then a BOOT for Cutler! EXPLODER for Shugars! URENAGE for Dion! The fans fire up and Oba has Shugars for the SHOTPUT at Trick!? Was that on purpose? Or could Oba just not see where he was going with that? Dion runs up, but Oba gives him a FALL FROM GRACE! Trick storms in and argues with Oba over that shotput mishap! Je’Von wants them to stop and focus on the mission at hand, so Oba tags him in. And then Oba brawls with Trick!!

The fans go nuts as Trick and Oba trade shots! Oba LARIATS Trick and himself up and out! Je’Von says fine, whatever, and he goes up top! FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH!! Cover, TWO?!? Dion survives, more refs rush out to stop Trick and Oba from demolishing each other, but Je’Von keeps his focus. Je’Von runs, but Shugars holds the ropes down to mess up the springboard! Tag to Cutler, he tags Shugars! Shugars climbs the corner, Dion & Cutler drag Je’Von up, FLYING TRIPLE BOMB!! Cover, Dark State wins!!

Winners: Dark State, by pinfall

Oba and Trick brawl their way to the back, Je’Von suffering for the dysfunction. But wait! The D’Angelo Family calls out Dark State via the tron! Stacks says, “On behalf of The D’Angelo Family, you wanna cause chaos? Fine. How ’bout next week, in the parking lot? You four are gonna learn that messing with The D’Angelo Family has severe consequences.” Dark State says bring it! But will they show that no one, not even The D’Angelos, are safe anymore?

My Thoughts:

A great NXT here with them sneaking in some more Stand & Deliver build. Great opening with Vaquer watching Jordynne VS Jaida, and I should’ve figured something would keep either Jaida or Jordynne from losing. Giulia showing up to really complicate things is great, and that Fatal 4 Way is going to be wild. Great promo from Saints with Lexis, Eddy, and Wes, as well as Ethan getting another sneak attack in. By the way, a bit surprised they waited this long to have Eddy Thorpe go for the NA title and pull the Native American card on it. The Fatal 4 Way #1 Contender’s Match will be great stuff, but I feel like Wes winning tonight over Inamura might indicate he isn’t winning. It just makes more sense for Ethan to win given the parallels in their NXT runs pointed out by Saints.

Awesome tag match from Fraxiom VS Swipe Right, and Swipe Right definitely proved they’re the frontrunners in the Evolve roster. They’ve already got solid personas, and their skills are this good already, I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re the first Evolve “call-ups” to NXT, not even needing a full year in Evolve to get there. Good promo from The Culling to set up matches, and a very good match from Hank ‘n’ Tank VS Jensen & Vance. Hank ‘n’ Tank of course lose, but we got a great promo with them and The Profits. And finally, The Profits are the ones who say it, Hank ‘n’ Tank just need to be themselves and it’ll all work out. I have a feeling Hank ‘n’ Tank win that tag gauntlet to test both their friendship and tag skills against Fraxiom’s.

The Culling of course had a strong showing tonight because they had to at some point. Izzi VS Wren was a really good match, maybe a little janky at some parts but that might be from Wren having been off TV for a minute. Izzi won, she’ll be a great part of the ladder match because she’s so tall. Sol VS Nyx was really good, too, but of course Sol won that. Fatal Influence is about to fall apart, and we can see #ZaRuca have their own dysfunction in the ladder match. Good promo from Ava with the many losers of the qualifiers, and there are quite a few possibilities for all those great talents at Stand & Deliver. Roxie doesn’t want a tag match, hard to say it won’t be a tag match, but I could also see a battle royal to help set someone up as a contender for after WrestleMania season.

The NXT Championship story was a great throughline for tonight, with great promos from Je’Von, Trick and Oba. A good Six Man Tag main event, and naturally, this was Je’Von trying to keep the peace but Trick and Oba couldn’t help themselves. They lose, that keeps them all relatively even going towards the Triple Threat, and it gives Dark State a strong win for their first time actually in a match together. An interesting detail I hadn’t thought about: Cutler James is part of LFG. LFG is a reality show and probably already done filming by now, so I wonder if Cutler’s involvement in NXT is a spoiler for how that show turns out. Either way, he has the in-ring stuff to hang, we’ll just have to wait and see how the character stuff goes.

My Score: 8.9/10