Will the Heatwave get to HIM?

NXT brings back the Heatwave, and Carmelo Hayes defends the NXT Championship against Wes Lee! Who survives this scorching Summer night?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Trick Williams VS Ilja Dragunov; Dragunov wins.
• Ivy Nile VS Ava Raine w/ The Schism; Ivy wins.
• Undisputed NXT Heritage Cup Championship: Nathan Frazer w/ Tyler Bate VS Noam Dar w/ The Meta Four; Dar wins and is the Undisputed NXT Heritage Cup Champion.
• Mixed Tag: Rhea Ripley & Dominik Mysterio VS Lyra Valkyria & Dragon Lee; Lyra & Dragon win.
• Baron Corbin VS Von Wagner w/ Robert Stone; No Contest.
• NXT Championship: Carmelo Hayes VS Wes Lee; Melo wins and retains the title.

PLAY BY PLAY

Tony D’Angelo gets a phone call.

It’s from Stacks! And he says The Don has to get back quick, there’s a situation that needs handling. What does he need Tony for? Tony’s in enough heat as it is. Well there’s a heatwave going through and Tony needs to see this. Stacks dives into the pool and splashes Tony! Okay, it’s gonna be like that? Go get him, guys! The boys jump in! That was good, huh? Yeah, almost as good as tonight’s Mixed Tag match will be. Mami & Dommy VS Lyra “Val-Cree-Uh,” did he say that right? Close enough. And Dragon Lee! That’ll be a banger. And speaking of dragons, The Mad Dragon wants to put a whooping on Trick!

Hey, the streets are all about respect. And they gotta respect what Trick’s trying to do. Trick wants to prove he’s more than a talking head, but taking on Ilja Dragunov is a tall task. Hey, Tony! The ladies are here! The boys stand up and say more the merrier. Now it’s a party. But who do they have in the main event? Tony’s cousin is going with Wes Lee, “the human stick of dynamite.” He’ll bring everything he’s got to take the title away from HIM. Him? Yeah, HIM, Carmelo Hayes! But the streets are putting a lot of money on both guys. Stacks thinks Wes is gonna score big. Hey, Stacks, you talking ’bout Wes or yourself?

Oh, uh, Wes, of course. But now listen. When they celebrate int he family, they raise a glass. Summer’s coming to an end, so let’s go out with a bang. Here’s to an unforgettable Summer!

Trick Williams VS Ilja Dragunov!

Just as The Don said, Trick wants to prove he isn’t Carmelo’s sidekick but his equal. Plus, he looks to settle some scores with The Mad Dragon. Will Dragunov get back at Trick for the controversy behind what happened at the Great American Bash? Or will UNBESIEGBAR fail to #WhoopDatTrick?

The bell rings and the two run in! Dragunov BOOTS Trick, CHPOS him in a corner, then bumps him off buckles. Dragunov throws knees, then fires forearms! Dragunov CLUBS Trick, CHOPS him again, then brings him around to bump off more buckles. But Trick fires forearms in return! Trick scoops, Dragunov slips free and waistlocks, but Trick fights the suplex! Trick runs, RAMS Dragunov, btu Dragunov returns to ENZIGURI! Down goes Trick and fans fire up! Dragunov drags Trick up in a waistlock, Trick fights, but Dragunov CLUBS him again! And again! And then against ropes!

Dragunov brings Trick around to spin and CHOP! Trick sputters and fans fire up! Dragunov BOOTS Trick, Trick goes to a corner, and Dragunov CHOPS him again! Dragunov brings Trick out to spin and CHOP again! Dragunov BOOTS Trick down, but then Trick blocks a kick! Trick spins Dragunov to ROCK him with forearms! They go back and forth, and Trick DECKS Dragunov! Dragunov gets up, Trick whips but Dragunov reverses to wrench and CHOP! Trick DROPKICKS in return! Fans fire up and Trick roars! Trick brings Dragunov up, whips him to ropes, but Dragunov ducks and CONSTANTINE- POP-UP HAYMAKER!

Dragunov stumbles and falls! He bails out, but Trick is after him! Dragunov RAMS him into the apron, BOOTS him, then GERMAN SUPLEXES to the floor! Fans fire up and the ring count starts, Dragunov puts Trick in, stalks him, and fans rally as NXT goes picture in picture.

Dragunov stomps Trick, storms around, then brings him up to ROCK with a haymaker! And CHOP! Dragunov brings Trick around, to hit a headlock takeover! Trick keeps his shoulders up, but Dragunov throws furious fists! Trick endures, even as Dragunov grinds the headlock. Trick fights up, powers out, but Dragunov RAMS him! Dragunov BOOTS Trick, then CLOBBERS him from behind! Trick writhes and Dragunov seethes. Dragunov KNEES Trick in the side! Dragunov brings Trick up, suplexes, but Trick fights it! Trick suplexes but Dragunov fights back! They fight for suplex control, Trick gets Dragunov up but he slips free!

Dragunov shoves Trick, then spins to CHOP! Then he CHOPS the leg, then he KNEES Trick down! Cover, TWO! Trick is still in this but Dragunov jumps on him! Dragunov has a chinlock and he grinds Trick down. Trick fights up again, but Dragunov UPPERCUTS him! Trick ROCKS Dragunov in return! The forearms fly back and forth, and then Dragunov CHOPS, ROCKS and SLAPS Trick down! Both men are on the mat as Dragunov also catches his breath. Dragunov runs in at Trick to BOOT him down! Dragunov YANKS the rope to tweak Trick! Dragunov runs in CHOP Trick in the corner!

Trick sputters, the ref checks on him, but then Dragunov runs in to BOOT WASH! Dragunov backs away as NXT returns to single picture. Fans rally up, Trick drags himself to his feet, and Dragunov storms back up. MACHINE GUN CHOPS! Trick sits down but Dragunov stands him back up. But Trick CHOPS back! Dragunov grins, and he MACHINE GUN CHOPS again! Dragunov tries another round but Trick blocks it! Trick and Dragunov stare down and Trick fires forearms! Dragunov throws them back and fans are thunderous! Trick LARIATS, Dragunov kips up to PELE! But Trick EDDY GORDO KICKS!

Fans are thunderous as both men are down! They chant for “NXT! NXT!” giving them this wild opener. They both stand, and the forearms start going back and forth again! Trick gets the edge, then ducks the back hand to fire off fast hands! Trick DECKS Dragunov! And BOOTS him down! And again! And again! Dragunov leans against ropes and he eggs Trick on! Fans fire up again as Trick stomps Dragunov! Trick drags Dragunov up but Dragunov fires clubbing shots! Dragunov trips Trick, but Trick BOOTS him away! Both men rise, Trick runs up to whip, and he FLAPJACKS Dragunov! Trick aims, runs in, TRICK TRIGGER!! Cover, TWO!!

Dragunov survives that shot right to the head, but there’s blood from his forehead! Trick jumps and ripcords Dragunov up, but Dragunov DDTS! And then another DDT!! Cover, TWO!! Trick survives, fans are thunderous, and Dragunov puts Trick in a corner. “This is Awesome!” as Dragunov puts Trick up top. Dragunov ROCKS Trick, climbs up, but Trick throws hands! They fight up top, and Trick hits a SUPER BOOKEND!! Cover, TWO!?!? Dragunov survives and no one can believe it! Trick is furious, but he aims again. Dragunov rises, Trick spins, but Dragunov blocks the kick! GERMAN SUPLEX!

Dragunov PUNTS Trick in the side of the head! And then reels him in, but Trick still fights the lift! Dragunov tries again, but Trick is fighting! Even so, Dragunov powers through to POWERBOMB!! And then FALLING HAMMER!! Cover, TWO!??! Trick survives and again, no one can believe it! Trick SLAPS Dragunov from below! So Dragunov stomps Trick! Fans hope they “FIGHT FOREVER!” but this has to end somehow. Dragunov goes up a corner, SUPER FALLING HAMMER!! Cover, Dragunov wins!

Winner: Ilja Dragunov, by pinfall

The Mad Dragon got one hell of a fight out of Trick, but in the end, he still won! However, as Trick sits up, Dragunov seems to nod his respect. Did Trick prove he is a top contender in his own right?

Tyler Bate meditates with Tai Chi.

The Big Strong Boi is Zen enough that he knows it is Nathan Frazer who walks in. Bate says hello, and Nathan asks what he’s up to. Bate brings up how Dabba-Kato hurt him last week. This is how Bate embraces the pain and moves forward. Right, that was brutal. Yes, but that was last week. Tonight, Nathan will show the world who the true Heritage Cup Champion is. Is he ready? Yeah, he is! But that’s kinda why he’s here. Meta Four has a second, third and fourth, so Frazer could use someone out there to watch his back so they can settle things with Noam once and for all. Bate gets that. He’ll have Frazer’s back.

Frazer thanks Bate, and acknowledges that this is two favors now he owes Bate. So should Frazer win tonight, Bate will be the very first challenger to the TRUE Heritage Cup Champion. Bate likes that. Let’s take care of the Meta-Four Massive Frauds. Frazer nods, but will one Big Strong Boi be enough to stop Noam’s main man and leading ladies?

Rhea Ripley & Dominik Mysterio prepare backstage.

Dom says Mami inspires him. Rhea asks Dom what they’re gonna do tonight. Dom says, “Punish.” Rhea says that’s right, cuz punish is what Mami likes to do. But then Mustafa Ali walks in. Hey, Dom-Dom! Oh, sorry, is he interrupting? Well, this is their locker room, so go away. Guys, c’mon, he was gonna wish them luck. Go out there and break a leg. But like, actually, Dom. Into a million pieces. Then Dom can go away and NXT can have a North American Champion they can be proud of. Dom says he doesn’t care about NXT. He just cares about Mami. Rhea says Dom is a champion everyone can look up to.

But Ali, you have ten seconds to get out of here before they give him a preview of what happens to Lyra & Dragon tonight. Wow, just ten seconds? Sounds like something they might be used to. Ali does leave, and Rhea is confused as to what he meant. But will Rhea & Dom have more than they bargained for against Lyra & Dragon?

Ivy Nile VS Ava Raine w/ The Schism!

Diamond Mine lost the Losers Leave NXT match, and yet something a little fishy seems to be up. The Diamond Pitbull will neither confirm nor deny, but will she put Ava in her place? Or will The Schism have the last laugh after all?

NXT returns as The Schism make their entrance, the yellow masked minions following. The bell rings, the two circle, but The Schism already starts distracting Ivy. Ava CLOBBERS Ivy, the ref reprimands The Schism, but Ava RAMS Ivy into buckles! Ava then brings Ivy out, scoops and SLAMS her! Then scoops and SLAMS her again! Ava tells Ivy to just give up already. She whips Ivy to a corner then SPLASHES! Ava fires off hands on Ivy, brings her around, scoops and hits a BACKBREAKER! Ivy writhes, Ava covers, TWO! Ava drags Ivy up, whips her to a corner, then runs in, but Ivy dodges! Ivy fires off forearms!

Ivy KICKS, KICKS and KICKS! Ivy whips, Ava reverses and HEEL KICKS Ivy down! Cover, TWO! Ava CLUBS Ivy, drags her up to SLAM her off the mat, and then soaks up the heat. Ivy crawls to ropes, but Ava CHOKES her! The ref counts, Ava YANKS the ropes to send Ivy tumbling! Ivy gets up, but Ava runs her over! Ava drags Ivy up again, scoops, but Ivy slips into the DIAMOND DRAGON!! Ava TAPS, Ivy wins!!

Winner: Ivy Nile, by submission

The Schism is shocked! They didn’t think Ivy would be able to break Ava so easily, but now the yellow masks get on the apron! Ivy holds onto Ava, but the minions still storm in! Ivy SUPERWOMAN PUNCHES one, then dodges another to GERMAN SUPLEX! And then CALF KICK! Some of the minions drop back and a few get Ava out of the ring. Ava grins as she gets away, but this was still a hit to The Schism. Will the roots still be strong after this newest failure?

Wes Lee is on the phone.

He just wishes that they could be here. But then Dragunov walks in, still very sore from his match with Trick. Wes asks if he’s good, and Dragunov says yes, he is good. Because Trick is no longer an issue. And nothing stands in his way to the title! Nothing will get between him and his destiny! Wes almost has a spit-take hearing that. Dragunov needs to hold on. He does know there will be a new champion tonight? Oh, we’ll see. Dog, you’re looking at him right here! The title that Dragunov wants so badly that he claims to be destined to have will be on Wes’s shoulder!

Wes wasn’t destined for any of this. Not the main event or even in this building, but he makes his own destiny! And tonight, he beats Carmelo Hayes. And from that reaction, maybe Wes will go one-on-one with the Mad Dragon. He looks forward to it as NXT Champion! Wes storms off, will he come through to change Dragunov’s destiny?

Undisputed NXT Heritage Cup Championship: Nathan Frazer w/ Tyler Bate VS Noam Dar w/ The Meta Four!

Through excuses, legalities and technicalities, the British Rocket must defend his Heritage Cup Championship against the former Heritage Cup Champion to finally get to the bottom of this. Will Frazer prove he was the real champ all along? Or will the Scottish Supernova snatch this cup back by any means necessary?

The introductions are made, the cup’s on display, and we see if Frazer denies Dar once and for all!

The bell rings and we’re on the clock for the first round. The two circle, feel things out, then tie up. Dar goes for an arm, wrenches to a wristlock, but Frazer rolls. Frazer hooks a leg but Dra still wrangles him down to a wristlock. Dar bends and twists the arm against his leg, then spins Frazer around to wrenches and ELBOW BREAKER! Frazer reaches out, ROPEBREAK! Frazer flips and wrenches back to hit an ELBOW BREAKER of his own! Frazer clamps onto the shoulder but Dar pulls hair. They end up on ropes, Frazer lets off and dares Dar to come back. The two reset, feel things out, and knuckle lock.

Dar rolls, wrenches and wrangles Frazer again. Dar steps over and he hip drops the arm! Dar then snapmares, covers, TWO! Dar keeps on Frazer’s arm, but Frazer fights through to have a headlock. Dar endures, Frazer hits a takeover, but Dar pulls hair! The ref reprimands, the two stand up, and Dar brings Frazer down to a knee. But Frazer fights back up! Dar powers out of the headlock, they RAM shoulders, and Dar KICKS a leg! Dar headlocks as we go under a minute, but Frazer pries the hold open. Frazer headlocks back, Dar powers up and out, but Frazer redirects, ducks ‘n’ dodges, then rolls Dar up! TWO! Dar has an omoplata!

Frazer rolls, gets free, dodges but Dar dodges back! Frazer dodges stomps, runs and springboards but Dar stays back, to SLAP Frazer! Frazer DECKS Dar! Fans fire up as Frazer gives Dar ground ‘n’ pound! We reach the last 10 seconds, Frazer keeps after Dar, but the time is up!

Frazer: 0; Dar: 0

Fans fire up as Frazer holds back that last punch. The ref has Frazer let off, and NXT goes picture in picture.

Meta Four hurries to refresh Dar while Bate and Frazer are much more relaxed themselves. The grace period is over, and round two begins. Dar puts his dukes up, he and Frazer circle, and Dar gets a shot in. Dar grins, the two tie up, and they’re in a deadlock. Dar manages to push Frazer to ropes, but Fraezr gets away before the kick! Frazer hits a headlock takeover! Dar keeps his shoulders up, he rolls Frazer to a cover, TWO! Dar headscissors, then SLAPS Frazer on the chest! Frazer fights around, headstands, and he pops free to then dropkick! And back to the headlock! Frazer grinds Dar down but Dar fights up.

Dar trips Frazer, drops an elbow on the leg, and Frazer clutches the knee. Dar kicks Frazer around, flexes on Bate, then brings Frazer up. Dar snapmares to UPPERCUT in the back! Cover, TWO! Dar clamps onto Frazer with a chinlock, but then grinds his forearm in Frazer’s face. The ref counts, Frazer fights up, but Dar knees low before the jawbreaker! Frazer goes to ropes as we hit one minute, and Dar fires off hands! Dar whips, Frazer ducks ‘n’ dodges and DYNAMIC DROPKICKS Dar down! Fans fire up, but DABBA-KATO ATTACKS BATE AGAIN!! APRON CHOKE SLAM!! Refs rush out to stop Dabba, but Dar rolls Frazer up! DAR SCORES!!

Frazer: 0; Dar: 1

The Supernova sneaks one because the behemoth Dabba beat down Bate! Dar then scrambles away to maximize his refresh period. Frazer is furious at both Dar and Dabba, but Bate is being checked on by medics. NXT returns to single picture as Frazer isn’t sure what to do now. Meta Four is confident Dar has this now, and we start round three. Dar rushes right in to fire off on Frazer! The ref counts, Dar backs off, and Frazer hits him back! Frazer whips, Dar reverses but Frazer goes up and over and handsprings away while Bate is helped to the back. Frazer runs up, he rolls Dar into an STF!!

Fans fire up as Meta Four freaks out! Dar endures, reaches out, scrambles around, but he’s turning red like Frazer’s tights! Dar reaches out, ROPEBREAK! Frazer lets go in frustration and Dar goes to a corner. Frazer runs in, but Dar puts him on the apron. Frazer ROCKS Dar, springboards, but Dar trips him up! Rough landing for Frazer and Meta Four is loving it! Dar drags Frazer through the ropes, drops him and PUNTS him! Cover, TWO! Dar is annoyed but he walks around Frazer. Dar lines up a shot and boots Frazer down! Fans rally for Frazer, but Dar UPPERCUTS him! Dar brings Frazer up to CLUB him on the neck!

Dar pretends he can’t hear the ref, and then he snapmares Frazer to stomp the arm! We go under a minute and Dar stomps Frazer more. Fans duel, “SUPERNOVA!” “SUCKS!!” Frazer fires body shots in return, but Dar blocks a kick! Dar counters enziguri with a DRAGON SCREW! And AKNLE LOCK! But Frazer rolls to send Dar out! And then he DIVES! Direct hit at the ramp! Frazer puts Dar back in the ring, and QUEBRADA DDTS! Frazer RUNNING HSOOTING STARS a la Bate! Cover, TWO!! We’re under ten seconds! Dar hurries away, saved by the bell! BUT HE CHEAP SHOTS FRAZER!!

Frazer: 0; Dar: 1

The ref warns Dar on this one, even as Meta Four argues that’s a “Buzzer beater.” They hurry to refresh Dar again, and now we’re on to round four. Frazer is getting angry now, and he dodges Dar to mule kick, run and DROPKICK! Cover, TWO! Frazer sees Dar go to a corner, runs in and CHOPS! Frazer whips, Dar reverses, Frazer goes up and over to scoop and SLAM! Cover, TWO! Frazer hurries up a corner, aims, PHOENIX- NO, Frazer rolls through as Dar moves! Dar runs in, Frazer rolls him up, TWO! Dar blocks a kick, to BACK ELBOW! Cover, TWO!! Frazer survives and Dar is frustrated.

Meta Four coaches Dar and he drags Frazer to ropes. Dar puts the leg on ropes, goes up a corner, but Frazer runs up! Dar ROCKS Frazer, but Frazer is right back on him! SUPERPLEX! Roll through, FINAL CUT!! Cover, Frazer scores!!

Frazer: 1; Dar: 1

Meta Four has to drag Dar back to his corner, he is in bad shape after that one! Frazer catches his breath as NXT goes picture in picture.

Dar sputters, Jakara & Lash fan him off, but it could come down to the very next round. Oro stands Dar up as best he can, Frazer watches and waits. Round five starts, and Frazer runs in! Dar dodges, but then Frazer comes back to TACKLE Dar! Frazer rains down fists! Frazer goes to a corner, climbs up, and POHENIX SPLASHES into a TRIANGLE HOLD! Dar holds onto Frazer as Frazer fights the hold! Frazer deadlifts Dar to SITOUT POWERBOMB!! Cover, TWO!! Dar survives and Frazer is stunned! But Frazer drags himself to the apron, gets to his feet, and he feints the springboard to make Dar move!

Dar is on the apron, Frazer gets him from across the corner! They brawl, climb, and Dar pulls on an arm! Frazer throws hands, but they both DECK each other! Frazer AND Dar fall to the floor! A ring count starts, Meta Four panics, but both Dar and Frazer are down at 5 of 10. Lash drags Dar up and puts him in!? She got away with it cuz the ref was checking Frazer! And she even tries to stop Frazer from getting in! The ref reprimands, Frazer gets away but Dar HOOK KICKS! And FISHERMAN BUSTERS! cover, TWO!!! Dar is shocked that his team couldn’t cheat this one for him!

Frazer goes to a corner as we hit 45 seconds. Dar flexes, runs in, but Frazer hits a BUCKLE SHOT a la Seth Rollins! NXT returns to picture in picture as Frazer then skins the cat to the top rope a la Sheamus. Fans fire up, Meta Four freaks out, but Dar gets out. So Frazer SUPER CANNONBALLS Dar & Oro down!! Frazer puts Dar in, but Dar distracts the ref and both Lash & Jakara try to stop Frazer! Frazer gets in but Lash has a foot! Cover, TWO!! And then the bell!

Frazer: 1; Dar: 1

The Meta Four didn’t cheat the win out but they did cheat to keep Dar alive! They help Dar get back to his corner while Frazer crawls to his. The refresh period is over pretty quickly this time as we go to the sixth round! Will this one end in regulation?

Dar and Frazer stand, fans fire up, and the two storm up to throw forearms! They go back and forth, Dar KICKS, but Frazer knees low! Dar KICKS, fires off forearms, then flexes. But Frazer fires them all back! Frazer DECKS Dar! But Dar kicks a leg out! And kicks Frazer from below! Dar holds a wrist and kicks away on Frazer’s face! Dar goes to a corner, takes aim, NOVA FEINT! But Frazer avoids the leg sweep! Frazer runs in but into a SUPERMAN PUNCH! But Frazer ENZIGURIS! Frazer storms up but Dar dodges to sweep the legs after all! Dar goes to the corner, climbs up, but Frazer avoids the guillotine stomp!

Frazer SUPERKICKS! And QUEBRADA- NO, Dar slips out of the reverse DDT to get the CHAMPAGNE SUPER KNEEBAR!! Frazer endures, but we have 90 seconds to go and he’s so far from the ropes! Frazer manages to roll over, and he throws hands on Dar! Dar lets go, and we’re still at one minute left! Frazer goes to ropes, drags himself up, and fans rally. Dar stands, Frazer DECKS him! Frazer goes up the corner, but Dar goes after him. Frazer ROCKS Dar, BOOTS Oro onto the ladies, and then PHOENIX FLOPS as Dar moves! NOVA ROLLA!!! Cover, DAR WINS!!

Winner: Noam Dar, 2-1, by pinfall (NEW NXT Heritage Cup Champion)

Meta Four does it again! They CHEAT to WIN! Is Dar ever going to stop being the Heritage Cup Champion with all these pawns in his corner?

Ava Raine speaks.

“Thanks to the bravery of these two loyal and devoted followers, I am once again standing safely underneath The Schism’s Tree. Ivy, you tried to end my career! You tried to inflict permanent damage! But Ivy, you failed. You are a failure, just like The Creed Brothers, and just like all of Diamond Mine. Ivy, if you wanna prove me wrong, you know exactly where I am. So come and find me.” Ava has called Ivy out to fight under the shade of the Tree, will Ivy look to tear The Schism out of NXT, roots and all?

Tiffany Stratton is here.

NXT returns with The NXT Women’s Champion already in the ring, and with mic in hand. “The Summer of Tiff Tiff is coming to an end, and let me tell you all, it has been a hot one. It officially began at Battleground, where I won the NXT Women’s Championship. And then, I went on a winning streak, retaining my title against Thea Hail at Gold Rush, and then again at the Great American Bash. And with Summer coming to an end, and the Fall of Tiff Tiff is right around the corner, I am going to make this much, much better. And I’m sure you’re all wondering, how can it get better than it already is? I’m basically a perfect champion!

“And I know the word ‘perfect’ scares some people, but when you’re Tiffany Stratton, perfection comes easy. Which is why this title isn’t going anywhere. Matter of fact, I’m gonna go down in history as one of the best NXT Women’s Champions of all time!” Fans boo but Tiff says she will be better than Bayley! Than Asuka! Than Becky Lynch! And even Charlotte Flair! The list can go on and on and on, but for now, she remains at the #TiffyTop. Wait, who is this coming out? Gigi Dolin! She tells Tiffany that while she’s at the top, do us a grand favor and SHUT THE HELL UP! Fans cheer that!

Gigi says she gets it, the Summer of Tiffany. But what Gigi is dying to see is the Fall of Tiffany, as in falling off being champion. So look no further for your next challenger than Gigi Dolin! Tiff isn’t sure what hole Gigi crawled out of, and doesn’t care, but if this is Gigi shooting her shot, then consider this Tiff shooting it down. Gigi doesn’t deserve a shot against Tiff! Oh, deserve? Deserve? The audacity! Tiff doesn’t deserve to stand here and call herself a champion cuz the last time she defended that title here on NXT TV, she TAPPED OUT! Tiff did not! But wait, now Kiana James walks out. And she says Gigi must be lost.

Kiana doesn’t know what delusional world Gigi lives in, but there is not a shot in Hell that Gigi deserves a title match. Tiff thanks Kiana for saying that. Kiana says Gigi’s record against Kiana is terrible. Gigi doesn’t deserve the match, but Tiff can bet her Barbie wannabe little ass that Kiana sure does! Rude. But then Blair Davenport walks out! “Ladies, ladies, ladies. You know I’m sure we can stand here and argue all night long about who has the fanciest materialistic possessions, the biggest, gaudiest shoes, and even the most social media followers. But I don’t care about any of that crap!”

It was a cruel Summer in the NXT Women’s Division, courtesy of Blair Davenport. If you don’t believe her, just ask around. Blair joins everyone else in the ring, and says that one thing that is not up for debate is that Blair deserves a shot at the title, because it’s Blair! Gigi says Blair and her haven’t crossed paths, but before laying claim to the division, she has to go through the division! And Gigi knows that everyone knows Blair beat Dana Brooke, Kelani Jordan, but nobody has forgotten that little trip to the convenience store! Kiana adds on, “Clean up on aisle Blair!” Though Gigi says she would’ve rather seen it be “business b*tch” Kiana!

But seeing Blair’s face ping pong off that frozen food door was priceless! Blair mockingly says “Look at the dark side of Gigi Dolin finally coming out. Aw, cute.” But Gigi doesn’t want to mess with Blair. If you thought that kick from Jacy Jayne was bad, wait until Blair pounds Gigi’s face so bad, her own brother won’t recognize her! Tiff says this is all getting out of hand. They can figure this out on their own and she’ll just go. But wait! Here comes Roxanne Perez! “Hey, Blair. Hi. Y’know, it’s mind boggling to me that you’re out here running your mouth, cuz I thought I ended things with you at the Great American Bash when I put your ass through a table and a bed of chairs. In case you forgot.

“But more importantly, Tiffany, I actually have something to tell you.” Tiff says it better be good. Roxie DECKS Tiff!! And then a brawl breaks out! Tiff runs away while Gigi is after Blair and Kiana is after Roxie! The refs rush in to stop this and Tiff actually thinks this is funny. But will all four of these women get their shot at the Center of the Universe?

Damon Kemp trains with Charlie Dempsey & Drew Gulak.

Gulak coaches them through the hand grappling, and Myles Borne runs over. Gulak has him wait as the two in the ring get loose. Gulak then asks Myles what he wants to say. Myles says he washed the mats, swept the ring, and even sprayed the ropes. Good boy, Myles. Is he tired? No, sir. Good, because they don’t get tired. Dempsey then clamps on a SLEEPER on Myles!! Myles taps but Gulak says no, you gotta fight! They don’t get tired! Will Myles be able to keep up with the technical savages he’s following?

Ava speaks again.

“With each passing second, Ivy proves exactly what I was saying. She’s weak, she’s a failure, and most of all, she’s way too scared to stand on her own two feet. Don’t fall for the façade, because behind that strong physique-” But then Ivy shouts at Ava. Speak of the devil, here she is. Get her, boys! The “boys” don’t respond. SIURPRISE! They’re the Creed Brothers! And then Ivy snatches Ava! Julius asks The Schism, “Do we have your attention now? If you want to see Ava again, then next week, we get a match against The Dyad, and when we win, we’re reinstated in NXT.” Brutus says, “And this time, so no Schism followers interfere, it’s gonna be a Steel Cage Match!”

Julius says, “Don’t keep us waiting.” They drop the camera and take Ava who knows where. Will The Schism have no choice but to accept the challenge?

The Meta Four celebrates backstage.

They drink champagne and Dar says he is UNDENIABLE! He’s been the best at this since day one, and now, nobody can touch him! Jakara says they’re not back, they’re better. And finally, Nathan’s phony reign is over. Lash says it should’ve have happened anyway, so really, it doesn’t count in their books! They fill the Heritage Cup and Oro says the world is right again. But someone serves Dar documents from the NXT Heritage Cup Committee?! What?! Dar has Oro read this for him. Oro looks the letter over, and says, “Dear Mr. Dar, congratulations on winning the NXT Heritage Cup.”

Winning?! What? No! Retaining! But the letter goes on to say that in order to assure Dar has a proper contender for the cup, next week will be the NXT Heritage Cup Global Invitational. An eight man tournament where the winner gets their shot at the Cup at NXT No Mercy! Dar says that means he doesn’t have to do anything for five weeks! They celebrate even more! But Dar says it makes sense they’d have to look around the world to find enough people to fight for this opportunity. Let’s go to California! NXT is putting together quite the event, who will make it through to face Dar on September 30th?

Mixed Tag: Rhea Ripley & Dominik Mysterio VS Lyra Valkyria & Dragon Lee!

Judgment Day is still looking to dominate Mondays and Tuesdays, but they’re running into some stiff opposition. Will the Morrigan & The Wonder Boy bring down the Women’s World Champion & NXT North American Champion? Or will Mami & Dommy do them dirty like they do everyone else?

NXT returns as Dragon makes his entrance, followed by Dragon’s. The teams sort out, and Dragon starts against Dom. They circle, fans rally, and the two tie up. They go around, Dom puts Dragon in a corner, but he lets off. Dragon dodges the chop to CHOP back! Dom runs up but Dragon trips him to rain down fists! Dom gives those back, then knuckle lock covers, TWO as Dragon bridges up! Dom pushes Dragon down, TWO as Dragon gets an arm up. Dom jumps but Dragon uses that to get up and wheelbarrow to a victory roll! TWO! Dom scrambles up, kicks low and he throws hands!

Dom has Dragon in a corner, whips corner to corner, Dragon reverses, Dragon runs in but is put on the apron. Dragon bumps Dom off buckles, KICKS him away, then goes up and in and somersaults, but Dom fireman’s carries! Dragon slips free, Dom switches, but Dragon elbows free. Dom BOOTS back, dodges a boot, then CHOPS! Dom runs, but Dragon DROPKICKS him down! Dom staggers up and Rhea calls to him. Dom hurries over and he tags her in. Lyra steps in and fans fire up as she and Rhea step to each other. They talk some trash, Rhea pokes Lyra in the head while she says she was giving Lyra advice.

Lyra pushes back and says Rhea was just keeping her down. Rhea shoves back, so Lyra shoves again! Then headlocks! Rhea powers up and throws Lyra way, but Lyra comes back to wrench and YANK the arm! Lyra whips, Rhea blocks and reverses. Lyra goes up and over and then hip tosses! Lyra runs up on Rhea, Rhea blocks the hip toss to body shot and choke grip! But Lyra wheelbarrows, but Rhea back suplexes! Lyra lands on her feet, shoves, but Rhea runs Lyra over! Fans rally up and Rhea reaches down, but Lyra KICKS her away! Lyra almost gets the heel kick! Rhea keeps away as Lyra keeps spinning!

Fans fire up as Rhea stays in the ropes. The ref has Lyra back up, and rhea SLAPS Lyra down! Rhea tells Lyra not to test her, but Lyra swings! Rhea blocks to short arm LARIAT! And again! Rhea reels Lyra in, she gives some Latina Heat, and suplexes, but Lyra slips out! Lyra CHOPS Rhea on the back! And SLAPS her across the face! Lyra eggs rhea on, bobs ‘n’ weaves then fires off fast hands! SOBAT! Front kick! HEABUTT! Rhea blocks the roundhouse to pick Lyra up! Lyra sunset flips but Dom tags in! Rhea scrambles away and Dom storms up on Lyra. Dom eggs her on but Dragon SUPERKICKS him down!

Dragon is all fired up and so are the fans! Rhea returns, Lyra dodges and springboards, but Rhea moves so the CROSSBODY hits Dom! Fans fire up more as Rhea pops Lyra up, but Lyra RANAS! The Judgment Day regroups, Dragon & Lyra build speed together to WRECK Rhea and FLY onto Dom! Fans fire up as Dragon & Lyra stand tall as NXT goes picture in picture.

Dragon drags Dom up, puts him in the ring, and he stalks Dom. Dom wants mercy, but Dom BOOTS him down! Dragon bumps Dom off buckles, fires hands, then has everyone hush. He CHOPS Dom! Fans fire up, Dragon says one more, and he puts Dom back in the corner. Dragon climbs up onto the corner, but then lets off to take a big swing! Dom gets away, but Dragon is still after him. Dom kicks low, bumps him off buckles, then swings, but Dragon dodges! Dragon CHOPS Dom again! Dragon snapmares, covers, TWO, but then he clamps on a chinlock! Dom endures, fights up, and throws body shots!

Dom knees low, whips Dragon but Dragon reverses. Dom slips out as Dragon run sin, and Dom HOTSHOTS Dragon down! Dom gives some Latino Heat before the slingshot SENTON! Cover, TWO! Dom looms over Dragon, talks some trash and kicks him around. Dom clamps onto a chinlock and he grinds Dragon down. Fans rally as Dragon endures, but Dom pulls back on the hold. Dragon still fights up, still throws elbows, but Dom knees low. Dom whips Dragon to a corner, runs in, but into a boot! Hot tag to Rhea! Rhea storms up but Lyra CROSSBODIES her down! They stand, Lyra LARIATS! Lyra LARIATS again!

Lyra ducks ‘n’ dodges, tilt-o-whirls and RANAS! Rhea flounder sup into knees! Lyra fires off, puts Rhea in a corner, then climbs up to rain down fists! But Rhea stops Lyra at 4! Lyra fights the bomb, slips free, and SOBATS! But Rhea throws Lyra down by her hair! The ref reprimands, Rhea slaps Lyra around, then CLUBS her down. NXT returns to single picture as Rhea wraps Lyra up in body scissors. Lyra endures the squeeze and fans rally up. Rhea slaps Lyra around some more while putting on the pressure. The ref counts as Rhea pulls hair, so Rhea keeps on the body scissors. Lyra reaches out, but Rhea talks trash.

Lyra pushes back to a cover, TWO! Rhea keeps on the body scissor but Lyra throws elbows. Another push back to a cover, TWO! Rhea turns Lyra over so she can have the rear mount. Rhea slaps Lyra around, grinds her forearm into Lyra’s neck, but Lyra throws headbutts! They roll, Lyra is still caught in the scissors, but Lyra powers up and manages to turn around! Lyra throws down forearms! Rhea lets off the body scissors to get up and BOOT Lyra down! Rhea stands Lyra up, throws kicks then KNEE SMASHES Lyra! Rhea reels Lyra in, double pump handle and flip into a BIG suplex! Cover, TWO!

Lyra is still in this but Rhea looms over her. Rhea stares Dragon down, fans rally up, and Lyra grabs at a foot. Rhea KICKS Lyra in the side! Rhea CLUBS Lyra, tells Dragon to “SUCK IT!” then goes back to Lyra. Rhea CLUBS Lyra more, but Lyra throws body shots! Rhea CLUBS and HAMMERS Lyra down to the mat! Fans boo but Rhea looms over Lyra. Rhea brings Lyra in, pump handles again, but Lyra turns suplex into DDT!! Fans fire up while Rhea is dazed! Both women crawl, Rhea grabs at Lyra’s feet. Lyra kicks Rhea away, hurries up but Rhea YANKS her back down! Rhea pushes Lyra around but Lyra stands up.

Rhea has Lyra’s leg, but Lyra dodges Rhea’s boot! HEEL KICK! Rhea wobbles, Dom reaches out, he tags in! Dragon runs in to dodge and rally on Dom with elbows! dragon whips, Dom reverses but Dragon RANAS! Dom staggers to the corner, Dragon runs up to put legs in the ropes! DRAPING DRAGON SCREW! And then Dragon hangs Dom out to dry, CLUBS away, then goes up a corner! Dragon GUILLOTINE DOUBLE STOMPS! Cover, TWO!! Dom survives but Dragon waistlocks. Dom elbows free so Dragon schoolboys and then reels Dom in. Dom knees low! Dragon fires back! Dom runs, Dragon follows, but Dom drop toeholds him onto ropes!

Dom dials it up, but Dragon ducks 619! Dragon runs in, flips through a lariat, and hits a SITOUT POWERBOMB! Cover, Rhea breaks it! But Lyra goes after Rhea and TOSSES her out! Lyra then goes to the apron, leaps, but Rhea blocks the flying rana! Rhea SWINGS Lyra into barriers! Rhea fires up, goes to her corner, but RAQUEL RODRIGUEZ is here!! They brawl like they did on Raw! Big Mami Cool fires off on Mami Rhea and they go to the back! Dragon runs in to tilt-o-whirl, DESTINO!!! Cover, Dragon & Lyra win!

Winners: Dragon Lee & Lyra Valkyria, by pinfall

Dragon just pinned the NXT North American Champion! Despite Mustafa Ali’s campaigning, is Dragon going to be the one to take that title off Dom?

Carmelo Hayes mentally prepares backstage.

Trick finds him and asks if the champ is ready. Melo is ready, he’ll have Wes in the bag. Melo says he’s proud of Trick for tonight. Trick thanks Melo, and says that his singles run isn’t really going the way he wanted, but he’s putting the work in. Hey, tonight started with Trick, and it ends with Melo. First defense without Trick by his side, is Melo okay? Yeah, he’ll be fine. But last time at the Bash, with how things went down between Trick and Dragunov, there’s an asterisk on that win, Melo can’t have that on the reign. Trick asks if Melo’s blaming him or something. No, no, no! He just wants to silence the doubters, starting tonight against Wes Lee.

Trick gets that. He hands Melo the belt, and they secret handshake. Melo heads out, will he return with the title?

Backstage interview with Tiffany Stratton.

She’s scrolling through her phone while McKenzie Mitchell asks that she requested this time, so what is this about? Tiff says she knows, her mentions are through the roof! All the Twitter trolls, X trolls, whatever trolls, she gets it! Becky was never NXT Women’s Champion. But in Tiff’s defense, Becky may be Big Time to all of them, but to Tiff, she is quite literally irrelevant. Moving on to things that matter, like Tiff, the title, and duh! Did you see the atrocity that happened out there? McKenzie has eyes, right? That is not how she wanted to end the Summer of Tiff Tiff.

However, as champion, Tiff has the inside scoop. Those four wannabes are gonna have the opportunity to fight it out for a chance against Tiff. Now say it back. McKenzie says that next week, it will be Roxie VS Gigi VS Kiana VS Blair, #1 Contender’s match. Good enough. Tootles. Tiff heads out, who will be up next to fight the Pro-Wrestling Barbie?

NXT shares footage from last week.

Thea Hail pleaded with a ref that the decision in her match can’t count because of the interference. But the ref apologizes, there’s nothing he can do. Thea says her life sucks now! She had momentum but now it’s gone, poof, and it’s all Mr. Chase’s fault, all because he knows best or whatever. Jacy walked over, Thea is ready to go, but Jacy says relax. Jacy just wants to say that “that beast” she just fought out there is not the same Thea that walked into the locker room a year ago. Thea knows, she’s a grown woman. Well, sure. Don’t get hot at Jacy. But if it makes Thea feel any better, everyone’s let down by someone in their lives.

Jacy and Thea both sigh, and Jacy gives Thea advice: you can get through it; people like them always do. Thea wonders if that’s true. Will Thea start doing things her way instead of Mr. Chase’s way?

Baron Corbin VS Von Wagner w/ Robert Stone!

Corbin says he’s No BS this time, but he sure talked a lot of trash on Von. Von gave it back, and then bodied him in their brawl. Will Von do it all again? Or will there be no need for a table tonight when Corbin #BurnsTheShips?

But speaking of Corbin, he attacks Von during his entrance! And keeps after him! Fans boo, Stone can’t do anything to stop this as Corbin RAMS Von into steel steps! The ref reprimands, but Corbin storms his way up to the apron. Corbin FLYING CLOTHESLINES Von down! But Von fights up to RAM into Corbin! Von fires off hands, SMACKS Corbin off apron, and then throws knees! Corbin throws them back, then aims for the post! Von stops himself, to then POST Corbin! Fans fire up as Von now has control, but Corbin throws hands! Corbin SMACKS Von off steel steps! And then brings him around to ROCK with a right!

Fans are torn but Von comes back to throw more shots! Corbin ROCKS Von, Von ROCKS Corbin, repeat! They go back and forth, fans cheer as Von RAMS Corbin into steps! And now he eyes the desk! Fans fire up as Von clears the desk, but Corbin DECKS Von! Corbin drags Von up and around, to back suplex to the floor! Corbin then grabs Stone! Fireman’s carry, but Von ROCKS Corbin! Stone is saved, and Von BOOTS Corbin! Fans fire up as Von stalks Corbin. He clears the desk, drags Corbin up, but BRON SPEARS VON!! The “Best Spear in the Business” just hit Von outta nowhere, and Bron says if Corbin doesn’t fear him, he will.

Bron barks it up, fans join in, and there’s not gonna be a match tonight. But will there be no mercy in the future for these three monsters?

The Schism speaks.

Joe Gacy tells The Creeds, “Where is your morality!? You disguised yourselves and infiltrated our family, and tarnished the purity of The Schism!” Rip Fowler says now this kidnapping and ransom of their dear Ava, for what?! Jagger says, “For one more chance to save your floundering careers?” Gacy says there is nothing The Dyad wouldn’t do for their sister in the Schism! Return her safely and they will agree to the Creeds’ demands. Rip knows the Creeds think the cage will keep the others out, but what they need to realize is who they are locking themselves in with! Jagger says grit your teeth! They beat The Creeds before, and next week, The Dyad ends this once and for all!

Dijak speaks.

“The opportunity at the NXT Championship, the reason that I returned to NXT, and you diverted my attention. Eddy Thorpe, you’re the reason I’m not becoming NXT Champion tonight. I don’t need to look up to the stars or perform an ancient ritual to know what your future holds. If you thought the beating that I gave you last time that sent you into the wilderness was bad, you have seven days to become one with the spirits. Because this time, once I’m through with you, not only will your body be broken, but so will your spirit!” Hard Justice has spoken, will he bring down the Alpha Wolf?

Becky Lynch tweets. (Or whatever it’s called on X)

“I haven’t been NXT Women’s Champion… yet.” Becky’s watching you, Tiff Tiff! Be careful not to get into big time trouble!

NXT Championship: Carmelo Hayes VS Wes Lee!

While there is still the cloud of controversy on Hayes VS Dragunov, Trick took Dragunov on a detour, and that opened the way to the #WesSide. Will the Cardiac Kid have his most exciting, most incredible and most historic victory yet? Or will NXT still belong to HIM?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who makes it through the Heatwave!

The bell rings, the two circle and they tie up. Fans chant for “Both These Guys!” as Melo headlocks. Wes powers out, Melo whips and ELBOWS Wes back! Melo snapmares but Wes ducks the Penalty Kick! Wes rolls Melo up, Melo rolls through, but Wes headlocks. Melo powers out, things speed up, Melo drops down then hurdles but Wes also rolls. Wes comes back, Melo dodges and leaps, but no Code Breaker as Wes throws him away. Wes handsprings, Melo avoids the kick to get legs, but Wes rolls to throw Melo away. They both rush back in, both block a kick, then both push back and dropkick! Those cancel out and both men kip up!

Fans fire up as the two stand off, Wes a touch steadier than Melo. Fans rally, Melo runs in but Wes DROPKICKS! Cover, ONE! Melo says okay, and the two reset. Melo ROCKS Wes! Wes JABS Melo! Melo ROCKS Wes, Wes ROCKS Melo back! They go back and forth, and DOUBLE BOOT! Then both go down, then they both kip up! DOUBLE FOREARMS! Melo staggers, rebounds, but into a SPANISH FLY! Both men are down and fans fire up as NXT goes picture in picture!

Melo checks his chin and shakes out his arms. Melo stands, Wes goes to ropes. Wes runs in, Melo dodges and clotheslines! Melo snapmares, Wes gets up and he sweeps low! Melo jumps over the kick but Wes fires off hands! Wes snapmares and basement dropkicks! Cover, TWO! Wes keeps cool as Melo goes to a corner. Wes runs in, Melo goes up and over, things speed up and Melo springboards to FLYING LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Wes is still in this but Melo drags him back up. Melo brings Wes up, reels him in, and snap suplexes! Cover, TWO! Melo brings Wes around, headlocks and grinds Wes down.

Wes endures, fans rally up, and Wes fights to his feet. Wes pops out the back to throw body shots. Melo goes to a corner, Wes runs in, but Melo dodges! Melo storms up, blocks boots and puts Wes in the ropes to ENZIGURI! And then FADE- NO, Wes kicks Melo’s legs! DRAPING NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Wes keeps cool as he storms up on Melo. NXT returns to single picture, Wes brings Melo up but Melo RAMS him into a corner! Melo digs his shoulders in but Wes CLUBS Melo. The ref counts, Wes CLUBS Melo again but Melo RAMS Wes. Wes CLUBS Melo, ROCKS him, but Melo BOOTS Wes!

Wes ROCKS Melo again! Melo ROCKS Wes again! Wes GAMANGIRIS! Wes goes up while Melo wobbles, but Melo GAMANGIRIS back! And ENZIGURIS as Wes is in the ropes! FADE AWAY JUMPER! Fans fire up while both men are down! Melo snarls as he watches Wes rise. Melo storms up on Wes, ROCKS him with a right, but Wes ROCKS Melo back! They go back and forth again, fans rally and duel with each shot. They go faster and faster, shot for shot! Melo eggs Wes on, then kicks low! Front kick! CHOP! Wes stays up to CHOP back! Melo CHOPS, CHOPS and CHOPS! Melo whips, Wes reverses but Melo rolls off his back to LARIAT!

Wes is right up but into an atomic drop! Melo whips Wes to a corner hard, then runs in to forearm smash! Melo then snapmares and SUPERKICKS Wes down! Cover, TWO!! Wes is still in this and fans cheer. Melo is a little annoyed but he nods in some respect. Melo drags Wes up as fans duel again. Wes fights the suplex, Melo still drags him up and CLUBS him on the back. Melo suplexes but Wes knees free! Wes shoves, Melo springboards but Wes dodges to RUNNING METEORA! Cover, TWO!! Melo escapes and Wes is seething! Wes hurries up on Melo, but Melo ELBOWS him! Melo jumps, but into a SUPERKICK!

Wes brings Melo around, scoop and MICHINOKU DRIVER! Wes hurries to a corner, goes right up top, and SKY TWISTER!! Cover, TWO!!! Melo survives what finished Dijak just last week, and Wes is frustrated. Wes drags Melo up, reels him in, but Melo wrenches out to facelock. Melo suplexes, but Wes fights the cutter! Wes shoves Melo away to then ENZIGURI in the corner! Wes pushes Melo down, CARDIAC- NO, Melo catches Wes, flips him, and suplexes! CUTTER!! Melo aims from the corner, runs in, CODE BREAKER! Cover, TWO!!! Wes survives the First 48, and Melo is surprised.

Melo tosses Wes out, goes out after him, but Wes ELBOWS Melo! Melo BOOTS Wes! Wes ends up on the desk, and Melo goes to the apron!? Fans fire up for the SUPER NO LOOK JUMPER, through the table!! The fans lose their minds while the ref checks both men. They’re both conscious, so Melo drags Wes up and puts him in the ring. Melo then goes up the corner, NOTHING BUT- NO, Wes dodges! CARDIAC KICK!!! Melo flounders around, Wes hurries after, but Melo gets out of the ring! Fans fire up while Wes is furious! Wes grits his teeth, aims from the corner, and he runs to DIVE! But he FLOPS as Melo moves!

The ref checks Wes again, his head having hit barriers! Wes jarred that one loose, even! Melo hurries back into the ring as the ring count climbs. It’s past 5 of 10, Wes flounders around at 7 and drags himself up at 8. Melo shakes his head but Wes is still in at 9.99!! That’s a buzzer beater! But Melo is up top, for NOTHING BUT NET!!! Cover, Melo wins!

Winner: Carmelo Hayes, by pinfall (still NXT Champion)

Wes took a shot from downtown not even Melo would’ve tried, and that cost him in the end! Melo continues his reign, will he now look to settle things with Dragunov? As for Wes, will he be able to recover from having his shot blocked?

My Thoughts:

A great Heatwave, though it sure felt like Heel Heatwave at one point. I cannot believe Dar has the Heritage Cup back again. Dabba-Kato going after Tyler Bate again was expected, but I guess I should’ve expected Meta Four to get involved in things again. I just didn’t think it would be to that level, with Lash & Jakara getting away with anchoring Frazer’s feet. I get the logic of Faces being (considered) better in the chase, but c’mon! I’ve said it before here, I have no choice but to say it again: How many times are we going to have a Heel Faction holding onto a title/prize like this? Where are Heels with the grit and power to win on their own?

The silver lining they gave us is that there’s going to be a “global” invitational, meaning it will be a diverse tournament with representatives from various countries. That is going to be a lot of fun, and I bet Dabba VS Bate happens through that as Dabba will represent Nigeria by way of Poland, and of course Tyler Bate represents England and the UK. Frazer could argue he deserves a spot in the tournament after getting screwed over, so he can represent Jersey Islands, and we can throw in at least one American wrestler like from Gulak’s new faction. Poor Myles, though. I hope he costs whoever it is (Gulak, Kemp or Dempsey) in the tournament as his way of breaking from their group.

Good stuff in setting up the NXT Women’s Championship story. Gigi, Kiana, Blair and Roxie all get their own bit with Tiffany, Roxie’s being the best. But of course they’ll all fight now in a Fatal 4 Way with Tiff just relaxing. But I do like that Becky responded to Tiffany talking some smack. An NXT “callback” for Becky would be interesting, but she’s not taking that title off Tiff and I don’t like the idea that Tiff might beat Becky, no matter how they protect it. Great brawl from Von and Corbin in place of a match, and Bron adding on was great. While Bron’s shirt says he’s got the best spear in the business, I don’t know about that. But the one he hit tonight was really good. Pretty sure this will end up a Triple Threat for No Mercy, as an unofficial #1 contender’s match to the top title.

Good promo from Dijak to call out Eddy, they’re gonna have a great match of their own. And good promo from Thea and Jacy. Jacy showing some respect to Thea isn’t gonna turn Jacy Face, especially because Jacy is too good at being obnoxious. Thea might turn Heel, or at least have a gimmick change. I wonder if these two stick together as a team, united by this “we’re survivors” mentality Jacy introduced. Hopefully NXT properly returns to being in the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships story. Piper & Chelsea only just got started on their run together, maybe they get a match for No Mercy because it just doesn’t feel like there’s time to do something for Payback.

Ivy VS Ava was good but of course just a big vehicle for setting up Diamond Mine abducting Ava. The Creeds reveal themselves to The Schism, but I don’t know why we’re getting another steel cage match with the Trish VS Becky one for Payback. Did they need to dust the cage off before it rusted? Cage matches don’t actually stop interference. But I would love seeing the yellow masks storm the cage like zombies trying to get in. But since this is to reinstate The Creeds in NXT, I would think they win. It’d seem silly for them to do all these shenanigans if they still end up on RawDown. Though that does beg the question of just what is The Schism to do? Their one big win in banning The Creeds isn’t even holding up, so what else do they have to lose? Other than being a faction at all.

Great mixed tag match, and what a nice surprise that Raquel followed Rhea back to NXT to continue where they left off on Raw. And Dragon pinning Dom is great, those two can have a great title match, with Ali facing the winner. Heck, Ali should cost Dom so that he and Dragon can have a match at No Mercy instead, letting Dom focus on the Judgment Day dysfunction. And then great bookending (pun intended maybe) of Trick VS Dragunov to open and Melo VS Wes to close. That opener was wild! One of, if not Trick’s very best match.

And a good promo between Dragunov with Wes to fire Wes up, and one from Trick and Melo where there’s a little passive aggressiveness from both sides. Being this was TV, I figured Melo would win, but what a way for Wes to look strong in defeat. It’s pretty  clear Melo VS Dragunov Round 2 is gonna happen at No Mercy, paralleling how Melo had multiple matches with Bron, but no idea which way that goes. Personally, I still want Dragunov to finally be top guy, but there’s a good chance Melo retains cleanly this time just to prove a point.

My Score: 8.9/10