Jerry “The King” Lawler makes his picks!

NXT Deadline is looming, and there are still spots to fill in the Iron Survivor Challenge! Who did WWE Hall of Famer Jerry Lawler choose?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• NXT Tag Team Championships: Tony D’Angelo & Channing Lorenzo VS Angel Garza & Humberto Carrillo; Tony & Stacks win and retain the titles.
• Women’s Iron Survivor Challenge Qualifier: Kiana James VS Kelani Jordan; Kelani wins and advances to NXT Deadline.
• Men’s Iron Survivor Challenge Qualifier: Bron Breakker VS Eddy Thorpe; Bron wins and advances to NXT Deadline.
• Ilja Dragunov VS Nathan Frazer; Dragunov wins.
• Karmen Petrovic VS Arianna Grace; Grace wins.
• Lexis King VS Brooks Jensen w/ Fallon Henley & Josh Briggs; King wins.
• Dirty Dom’s Fatal 4 Way Challenge: Wes Lee VS Cameron Grimes VS Johnny Gargano VS Bronson Reed; Wes wins and will challenge Dominik Mysterio for the North American Championship at NXT Deadline.

PLAY BY PLAY

NXT Tag Team Championships: Tony D’Angelo & Channing Lorenzo VS Angel Garza & Humberto Carrillo!

It’s family against family, and this one’s gotten personal! The former Lotharios took the fight to The Don & Stacks in a parking lot, and- WAIT! They’re brawling now! Tony & Stacks are returning fire and fans fire up! Tony RAMS Angel into barriers, Angel RAMS Tony into the apron! So Tony RAMS him again! Carrillo keeps on Stacks but Stacks POSTS Carrillo! But then Garza throws Tony away to then DROPKICK Stacks! The cousins go looking for weapons, but the ref tells them no! And then Stacks FLIES out onto them! Fans fire up for “NXT! NXT!” as Stacks puts Carrillo in, and the bell rings as Tony starts firing haymakers!

Fans rally up as Stacks CLOBBERS Garza on the outside! Tony DECKS Carrillo, tags Stacks, and then gut wrenches Carrillo. Canadian Rack NECKBREAKER BOMB! Cover, TWO! Stacks fires hands on Carrillo, has him in a corner for more shots, then climbs up. Fans rally up for Stacks and he rains down fists! The ref counts, but the fans also count. Stacks gets to eight but Carrillo shoves him and BOOTS him! Carrillo CLUBS Stacks, back suplexes, but Stacks lands on his feet! Stacks drop toeholds Carrillo onto ropes, tags Tony, and Tony CLUBS Carrillo! Tony throws hands, has Carrillo in a corner, and then hits a BELLY2BELLY!

The fans fire up as Tony ROCKS Carrillo! Then clinches to BELLY2BELLY again! Tony reels Carrillo back in, fires off body shots, and the fans fire up. But Garza saves Carrillo from a suplex! So Tony fires off shots on him! But Carrillo springboards to GAMANGIRI! Fans boo but Carrillo stomps away. Carrillo puts Tony in the corner, tags Garza, and they mug Tony. Garza stomps a mudhole, the ref counts, and Garza lets off. Carrillo gets a cheap shot in, but Garza storms back up. Fans rally for Tony but Garza UPPERCUTS! And CHOPS! Tag to Carrillo, and they set Tony up, but Tony fights free and he TACKLES Carrillo!

Hot tag to Stacks! Stacks rallies on the cousins, DROPKICK for Garza! DROPKICK for Carrillo! Fans fire up as Stacks runs corner to corner, but Garza saves Carrillo again! GAMANGIRI, tag, but Stacks fights back. Garza ROCKS and CHOPS Stacks, then snapmares him for a basement dropkick! Cover, TWO! Stacks hangs tough but Garza drags him up. Starks fires body shots while the fans rally but Garza CLUBS him! Tag to Carrillo, the cousins double whip Stacks for a double hip toss, DOUBLE FACEBUSTER! DOUBLE SUPERKICK! Cover, TWO!! Stacks survives but Carrillo drags him up. Carrillo ROCKS Stacks, Stacks throws hands back!

Fans fire up but Carrillo headlocks. Stacks powers out, Tony tags in, mule kick and waistlock, UPPERCUT GERMAN SUPLEX! Fans fire up with Tony and he brings Carrillo around. Tag to Stacks, and then he hoists Carrillo up. They both climb, but Garza trips Stacks! And Carrillo SUPER SUNSET FLIP POWERBOMBS! The cousins combine on Stacks, SUPER ROCKET LAUNCHER! Fans are torn while Stacks writhes, and NXT goes picture in picture.

Carrillo hurries to cover, TWO! Stacks is hanging tough, but Carrillo TOSSES him out. Stacks tumbles, Carrillo storms out after him, and then puts him on the apron, for Garza to BOOT! Stacks dangles off the apron, then flops to the floor. Garza grins as he goes out to fetch Stacks. SNAKE EYES off the apron! Stacks flounders, Garza puts him in, and cover, TWO!! Stacks is showing some real grit but Garza drags Stacks up. Garza throws body shots, haymakers, and then a kick! Garza blocks to slip around, tag to Carrillo. GORY BOMB CUTTER! Chancery basement dropkick! Cover, TWO!! Stacks is really showing something here!

But then Carrillo snap suplexes Stacks! Uno Amigo! Another suplex, but Stacks fights it to a cradle, TWO!!! Carrillo escapes, and then he BLASTS Tony! Then he BOOTS Stacks! Carrillo CLUBS Stacks, drags him into a seated cobra twist, and Stacks endures the stretch. Fans rally, Stacks fights up, and Stacks throws body shots! Carrillo CLUBS Stacks, snapmares and basement dropkicks! Cover, TWO! Stacks survives again but Carrillo clamps on with a chinlock. Fans rally again, and Stacks fights up as NXT returns to single picture. But Carrillo CLUBS Stacks down! Fans boo but Carrillo tags Garza.

Carrillo sets Stacks up on the apron again, and Garza says they finish this! Garza runs, but Stacks moves! Carrillo almost gets the knee! Stacks POSTS Garza! Hot tag to Tony! Carrillo tags in but The Don rallies on him! OVERHEAD SUPLEX! And then a GERMAN SUPLEX! The fans are fired up as Tony hits  CORNER EXPLODER! Garza hurries to tag back in, and Tony drags Carrillo up. Tag to Stacks, But Garza GAMANGIRIS Stacks! Carrillo TOSSES Tony, but Tony drags Carrillo out! Stacks rolls Garza, TWO!! Garza is up but into a KNEE! Stacks runs to UPPERCUT Garza into the corner! But Garza BOOTS back and Carrillo tags!

Sunset flip and deadlift to the MISSILE DROPKICK BOMB!! Cover, TWO?!?! Stacks is looking like a million bucks out there! Carrillo is furious, he tags to Garza, but Tony is back! Tony SPINEBUSTERS Carrillo! But Garza SUPERKICKS Tony! Stacks kicks Garza, DDT, to a KNEE DROP! Cover, TWO!! Garza survives and “This is Awesome!” Stacks grits his teeth, thinking of what he has to do now. Stacks talks some smack, Carrillo distracts, and Garza LOW BLOWS!! ANGEL’S WINGS!! Cover, TWO?!?! AND A LOW BLOW!! Stacks learns a thing from the Tribal Chief there! Hot tag to Tony!

Carrillo runs in, Tony TOSSES him! The D’Angelos get Garza up, BADA BOOM! Tony then tells Stacks he loves him and all, but he TOSSES him out onto Carrillo! Cover, The D’Angelos win!

Winners: Tony D’Angelo & Channing Lorenzo, by pinfall (still NXT Tag Team Champions)

Garza & Carrillo tried to pull one over on The Don, but he and The Underboss get the job done! Will Garza & Carrillo have to go back to the drawing board if they wanna get the titles?

Various superstars react to Baron Corbin’s video from last week.

Nathan Frazer says Ilja’s sacrifices are unreal. The pain, the isolation, all for the greater good of his family. That’s admirable. Axiom agrees. And then Corbin just “has everything.” Sure, that’s nice and all, from WrestleMania moments to cars and money and a family that’s around. Now, Frazer wants to be NXT Champion, too, but the Hard Hitting Home Truth is… Corbin’s lifestyle is certainly more desired. But then Dragunov steps in and says that means what Dragunov is doing is not worth it. Is that right, Frazer? No, not at all! Then Dragunov’s son shouldn’t be inspired by his actions? Is that it? No!

Frazer is just saying, you compare the two lives and Corbin’s- Seems so much better, right? Isn’t that what Frazer is saying? Seems like Frazer lacks respect. No, man, they’ve known each other for years. Dragunov knows the respect is there. Oh, well, respect here, respect there, but as soon as Dragunov turns his back, Frazer will say what he really thinks. Okay, first off, Frazer didn’t know Dragunov was lurking in the background. But while he’s here, Frazer will say this: YES, Frazer would prefer Corbin’s lifestyle, as would 99% of the people in NXT. Frazer won’t apologize for that. Well, they’re beyond that point anyway.

Oh, okay, Dragunov is a little tightly wound for Deadline. Frazer understands. Yes, Dragunov is tightly wound. And he knows the solution. Is the Mad Dragon going to rampage all over the Jersey Island Rocket?

Jerry “The King” Lawler speaks.

“NXT Universe, Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler here, and Shawn Michaels has given me the honor of selecting this week’s Iron Survivor Challenge qualifying matches. Now, let’s start out with the men. First of all, Badass Bron Breakker. He’s powerful, he’s explosive, and if he qualifies, he’s my pick to win at Deadline. Ah, but standing in his way is none other than Eddy Thorpe. Eddy wants to prove he’s ready. Eddy, it is your chance. And now, for the women. Kelani Jordan has really, really impressed me. And Kelani will face Kiana James. Kiana has all the tools to be a future women’s champion. There are my picks, so enjoy watching NXT.”

Josh Briggs, Brooks Jensen & Fallon Henley talk backstage.

Jensen says we’ve got the guy right here! Has it sunk in that he’s in the Iron Survivor Challenge? Yeah, he’s going to Deadline! Briggs says yeah, last week was the biggest match of his career. Wow, the biggest match of his career? Well, yeah! He beat a former NXT Champion when no one believed in him. Except y’all, he knows that. They hug it out, but Lexis King walks in. If it isn’t Mr. Iron Survivor Qualifier. With a little help from King, of course. No big deal. Credit where credit is due, Briggs beat Carmelo. JBL put his stamp of approval on him and Briggs knocked it out of the park. And Fallon was selected by Foley.

King offers a handshake but she says ew. The guys chuckle and King asks what’s funny. Last King checked, no one chose Jensen. Wonder why. Jensen wonders why King is stirring the pot. No stirring the pot, just calling it like he sees it. Well he sees nothing! King is a parasite of the spotlight! He wants the spotlight so bad, he and his beard can take center stage tonight. Tonight? Yeah, absolutely! Jensen is gonna show the Hall of Famers why they should’ve chosen him. Then sounds like a party. King heads out, will he end up dethroned by Country Strong?

Nikkita Lyons is in the gym!

She shared a video to her Instagram showing her working over a heavy bag. #ThePounceBack is in full effect, when and where will this lioness roar again?

Women’s Iron Survivor Challenge Qualifier: Kiana James VS Kelani Jordan!

The King has spoken, and we see The Calculator collide with the Princess of the Gym! With time running out, it’s time we see who wins that final spot in the Women’s Iron Survivor Challenge!

NXT returns as Kiana makes her entrance. The bell rings and the two circle. They feel things out, tie up, and Kiana CLUBS Kelani! Kelani shakes it off, dodges the elbows, and fans rally up. Kelani blocks a kick but Kiana elbows her away. Kiana whips Kelani to a corner, stomps a mudhole and throws body shots. Kiana RAMS into Kelani, handsprings back and runs in to RAM Kelani again! Kiana mocks the rookie, whips her corner to corner, then runs in. Kelani goes up and over and comes back to DROPKICK! Fans fire up with Kelani and she stomps away on Kiana. Kelani RAMS into Kiana, RAMS again, and again!

Fans rally, the ref counts, but Kelani whips. Kiana reverses, Kelani reverses and headlocks to hit a takeover. Kiana fights up, fans rally, and Kiana headscissors. Kelani kicks and kicks but Kiana keeps her down. Kelani moves around, handstands and pops free to then get a headlock again! Kiana kicks around, fights up, and pries fere, but only for a moment. Kelani grinds the headlock, Kiana pries it open, repeat. Kiana pulls hair! Kiana gets the headlock while the ref reprimands and fans boo. Kelani powers out but Kiana runs her over. Things speed up, Kelani drops, hurdles, then rolls back! Kiana rolls over but Kelani runs in, but Kiana blocks the slingshot arm-drag!

Kiana drags Kelani up, but Kelani springboards to arm-drag after all! Kiana bails out, fans fire up, and Kelani slingshots to RANA! Fans fire up with Kelani and she hurries to get Kiana up. Kelani puts Kiana in, but Kiana rolls all the way back out. Kelani storms up but Kiana trips her! Kiana drags Kelani out but Kelani smacks Kiana off the apron! So Kiana ALLEY-OOPS Kelani off the desk! Fans boo but Kiana grins as NXT goes picture in picture.

Kiana drags Kelani up, SMACKS her off the desk, and soaks up the heat. Kiana drags Kelani up to SMACK her off the desk again! The ref’s ring count is climbing so Kiana puts Kelani in and covers, TWO! Kiana is annoyed but she focuses on Kelani. Kiana CLUBS her around, runs in to KNEE her down, and then storms up to stomp away in the corner. Kelani crawls but Kiana hauls her up for another KNEE! Kiana runs, to BOOT Kelani down! Cover, TWO! Kiana seethes but the fans rally behind Kelani. Kiana storms up, drags her up, but Kiana throws body shots. Kiana fires hands, whips, but Kiana KICKS her and CLOBBERS her!

Kiana CLUBs away on Kelani, cover, TWO! Kiana grows frustrated, and she storms up on Kelani again. Kiana HIP DROPS Kelani down, and Kelani flounders to ropes. Kiana CHOKES Kelani, the ref counts, but Kiana lets off. Kelani sputters, Kiana drags her up again and throws her by her hair! Kiana pushes Kelani to a cover, TWO! Kiana clamps on with a chinlock and she grinds Kelani down. Kelani endures, fights up, but Kiana wrangles her back down! Kelani still fights, the fans rally up more, and she fights to her feet again. JAWBREAKER! Kiana staggers away, Kelani goes back to ropes. Kiana runs in, but Kelani CLOBBERS her!

NXT returns to single picture as Kelani starts to rally! Cartwheel back elbow! And a kip up! Fans fire up again and Kelani SOMERSAULT LEG DROPS! Cover, TWO! Kelani drags Kiana up, hooks her up, but Kiana slips free to SPINEBUSTER! High stack, TWO!! Kiana can’t believe it, and she storms up on Kelani again. Kiana reels Kelani in, fireman’s carries, but Kelani slips free, spins Kiana and ROCKS her! And ROCKS her again! Kiana wobbles, but she ROCKS Kelani! And ROCKS her again! Kelani ROCKS Kiana and fans rally up! Kiana ROCKS Kelani, but Kelani kicks and hooks, OVERDRIVE! Cover, TWO!!

Kiana survives and Kelani grows frustrated. Fans rally, Kelani watches Kiana go to a corner, and Kelani storms up to fire off body shots! Kelani hoists Kiana up top, climbs up after her, and fans fire up as she brings Kiana up. Kiana fights the superplex with body shots! Kiana throat chops and Kelani falls back! Kiana runs in, 401K!!! But she’s not done, she- Wait, the bell is ringing? Roxie did it! Kiana is furious but then Kelani EDDY GORDO KICKS! Kelani goes up and up, SPLIT LEG MOONSAULT! Cover, KELANI WINS!

Winner: Kelani Jordan, by pinfall (advances to NXT Deadline)

Karma bites Kiana in the butt as Roxanne Perez returns the favor for the screw job! Now neither is going back to the Iron Survivor Challenge! Will Deadline be Kelani’s own breakout moment?

The Alpha Academy speaks.

Chad Gable tells Meta Four that last week, they saw how close Gable was to taking the Heritage Cup home to the trophy case. Akira Tozawa points out Noam Dar DID tap out, the world saw it! Gable says that is right, but rules are rules, it was after the bell. Maxxine says regardless of all that, she wants to get her hands on Meta Four, and especially that Lash Legend! Otis agrees there. Okay, Otis, easy now. But Meta Four is riding high with Dar still champion and Lash going to Deadline. But they’re nothing but a bunch of SAVAGES! IDIOTS! SAVAGES! IDIOTS! And the Academy will prove it!

The Academy will prove Meta Four doesn’t have the style, the strength or the spirit! Next week, Mixed Six Tag! No rules, rounds or interference, and the Academy wants an answer by the end of tonight. A THANK YEW~! Will Dar, Oro and their leading ladies step up? Or will they for once be silent?

NXT Anonymous posts a video.

Wait, October 17th, 2023? The night Trick Williams was attacked? Lexis King is lurking, but also on his phone. King stalks Trick through the halls, but we don’t actually see the attack. Is this confirmation that King did attack Trick? Or just a red herring?

NXT holds a press conference.

Jacy Jayne and Thea Hail are already on stage as Andre Chase steps in. And we even see Tony’s cousin, Adriana… Chase steps to the podium and says, “Good evening, everyone. Thank you for joining us this evening. My name is Andre Chase, and I’m the founder of Andre Chase University. Before I address this situation, I would first like to thank the investigators for their communication, cooperation, and professionalism throughout this investigation.” Chase also wants to recognize the student body, faculty and staff for carrying on the day-to-day operations and curriculum. “Without the support of the Chase U family, I’m not sure I’m standing here right now.”

As we all know, this is a moment in time that is historic for NXT. And while he wishes we were all here under different circumstances, he just wants to address the news that broke last week about ACU being under investigation. He wants to be as forthcoming and honest as he can be, but understand that this is still an ongoing investigation, so he is limited in what he can share. That said, Chase knows the ACU has found itself in a difficult situation. There are suspicious and illegal activities, such as gambling–glance at Duke Hudson–and the misuse of university funds, which has landed the university into severe debt.

Unfortunately, he stands here today to tell us that this is all true. As the head of ACU, he takes full responsibility for what has put this university that he loves so much into debt. He will work arduously to pay back these obligations and restore Chase U to what it is: an institution that shapes young minds and future sports entertainers. That is all he can share, but he will open the floor to questions. Then how much do they owe, and to who? The amount is not important, but it is significant. What is important is paying it back to restore university activities.

Does he have any ideas how these activities leaked to the public? He has his suspicions, but he cannot speculate at this time. Next question. Is there something he would like to say to the student body? “If this situation isn’t taken care of, everything that we’ve built at Chase U is in jeopardy. As for the student body, I want to publicly apologize to each and every one of you, because my irresponsibility caused this. I will address the students of Chase U at the next assembly. No further questions, thank you for your time.” Chase heads out, the others following. Just what is going to happen to Chase U now that the world knows?

Men’s Iron Survivor Challenge Qualifier: Bron Breakker VS Eddy Thorpe!

The Badass is #MeanerThanEvil, but he’s also The King’s number one pick. Will he prove that Deadline is his yard? Or will the Alpha Wolf finally have his own breakout moment?

The bell rings and Bron grins as he sees Eddy’s taped up ribs. Eddy throws some kicks but Bron stays up. They keep circling, fans rally behind Eddy, and the two tie up. Eddy wrenches, wristlocks, but Bron shoves him away. Bron and Eddy reset, tie up, and Eddy waistlocks to a headlock. Eddy wrenches, but Bron scoops to SLAM! Eddy writhes, fans bark, and the two reset again. Bron shoots in, waistlocks, and SLAMS, to then float to a facelock. Bron gator rolls, rolls some more, then he drags Eddy up to suplex. Eddy knees free, waistlocks, but Bron bucks the O’Conner. Eddy dodges the clothesline to DROPKICK!

Fans fire up as Bron bails out, and Eddy eggs him on. Bron returns, Eddy sidesteps, hurdles, and CROSSBODIES, but into a POWERSLAM! Fans bark with Bron and he watches Eddy bail out. Bron waits for Eddy, then runs to BLAST Eddy off the apron! Bron goes out to then whip Eddy into barriers! Eddy writhes, fans are torn, but Bron mocks the bad ribs as he stands over Eddy. The ref starts the ring count, so Bron drags Eddy up. Bron puts Eddy into the ring, Eddy throws hands, but Bron knees low! Bron puts Eddy in a corner, RAMS into Eddy again and again, and fans are torn again. Bron hoists Eddy up top but Eddy fires hands!

Bron ROCKS Eddy, then runs up to jump, but Eddy shoves himaw ay! CROSSBODY! But Eddy can’t cover from the pain in his ribs! Fans rally for Eddy as he CHOPS, CHOPS and reels Bron in. But the ribs won’t let him suplex! Bron fireman’s carries Eddy, to GUTBUSTER DROP! Cover, TWO! Eddy hangs tough as NXT goes picture in picture.

Bron huffs and puffs and he CLUBS the bad ribs! Bron rips at the tape, then stomps Eddy down! Eddy crawls, Bron stalks him, and Bron drags Eddy up. Eddy fires forearms! But Bron scoops to a BACKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Bron does push-ups to show he’s got energy to spare, and he storms up on Eddy. Eddy RAMS into Bron with a shoulder! Eddy fires forearms, then CHOPS! Bron just TACKLES Eddy down! Bron rains down forearms, taunts Eddy, and then bends him back against his knee! Eddy endures the modified Bow ‘n’ Arrow, so Bron KNEES him in the back! Bron bends Eddy more, but Eddy still endures.

Bron KNEES Eddy again, then really pulls on the Bow ‘n’ Arrow. Eddy continues to endure, and he fights his way through the hold. Eddy throws body shots but Bron KNEES low! Bron snap suplexes, covers, TWO! Eddy is still in this but Bron drags him up. Eddy fights the lift so Bron CLUBS him! Bron whips, to CLUB Eddy again! Eddy hobbles, Bron whips him again, and another CLUB on the back! Bron then lifts for a torture rack! NXT returns to single picture as Eddy endures and fans rally up. Bron bends Eddy, but Eddy slips around, sunset flip! TWO, and Eddy dodges a clothesline to CROSSBODY!

Fans fire up while Eddy grits his teeth. Eddy goes to ropes, fans rally again, but Bron throws a haymaker. Eddy throws a forearm, Bron throws another haymaker! Eddy forearms, forearms, KICKS and SOBAT- NO, Bron  blocks and waistlocks to GERMAN SUPLEX! Bron storms around while fans are torn. Bron drags Eddy up, whips him corner to corner hard, and Eddy bounces off buckles! Bron talks trash, then he drags Eddy back up. Bron whips corner to corner hard and Eddy falls back. Bron soaks up the heat as he talks trash on Eddy. Bron says Eddy can’t hang with him, nobody can! Eddy’s an embarrassment!

Eddy fires off CHOP after CHOP after CHOP! Bron clinches, Eddy fires elbows! And then another elbow! And a BOOT! Eddy dodges Bron, Bron hits buckles, and then Eddy fires haymakers! Eddy body shots, UPPERCUTS and LARIATS! Fans rally as Eddy hits an STO! Bron flounders to ropes, Eddy hurries after him. Eddy reels Bron in but ducks an elbow, to SAIDO! Bron staggers back up, Eddy SAIDOS again! Fans fire up as Eddy keeps getting back up! Eddy waistlocks again, but Bron holds ropes. Bron throws elbows, he fireman’s carries, but Eddy slips free and shoves, SNAP GERMAN! But Bron brings down the straps to SPEAR!! Cover, Bron wins!

Winner: Bron Breakker, by pinfall (advances to NXT Deadline)

Just as the fire of Eddy’s fighting spirit was growing, Bron snuffs it out! Bron is headed to the Iron Survivor Challenge, will he make the numbers spell disaster for the rest of the field?

Trick Williams is seething.

Melo walks in and asks if Trick saw the NXT Anon video. Yeah, he did! Lexis King is a punk! Melo knew it was that guy! That weirdo following Trick, attacking him, putting all this unnecessary smoke between them! And it was all from behind! And he cost Melo his spot in Iron Survivor! But they’ll get their lick back. Tonight, King’s got a match, so these two are gonna make him pay for messing with the hottest duo in NXT. Is Trick with him? Trick says there’s nothing he wants more to knock King out. It’s what he deserves for keeping Trick down.

But Trick also has to be smart. The Iron Survivor Challenge is in less than two weeks. Nothing or no one is gonna distract him from taking what is his. King will get his. But for now, Trick will keep his eyes on the prize. Melo doesn’t have no prize, because King took that from him. Yeah, but Trick Melo Gang is better than that now! They don’t need to do distraction tactics or jump people from behind. They’re past that now. Melo asks, “We are?” Trick says, “Yeah, we are.” Melo agrees. “Yeah. We are.” They shake hands, and they know King will get his. But when and where will that be?

Roxanne Perez storms into the Women’s Locker Room.

And she says that if she isn’t gonna be in the Iron Survivor Challenge, sure as hell Kiana James will. Actually, Ava Raine was talking with HBK, and he said there’s gonna be a Last Chance Match. Wait, really? Yeah, men and women. Those who didn’t qualify get one last shot at getting in. Well, okay then, Roxie still has a chance. Izzi Dame says “Uh, yeah, sure.” But y’know who else has a last chance? Kiana James. So this desperate move just took Roxie from a last chance to no chance! And then Izzi pie faces Roxie! Roxie DECK Izzi! The others get Roxie off Izzi but Kiana CLOBBERS Roxie! Things are getting wild, who wins their way into that final final spot?

Ilja Dragunov VS Nathan Frazer!

The Mad Dragon was even angrier after the Jersey Island Rocket simply spoke on the truth, superficial though it may be. But will Dragunov show that his passion runs deeper than the oceans as he prepares to sink Baron Corbin’s ship?

NXT returns as Frazer makes his entrance. The bell rings, and Dragunov BOOTS Frazer down! Fans fire up as Dragunov stomps away on Frazer! Then he rains down forearm after forearm! Dragunov lets off to stand Frazer up and bump him off buckles. Then Dragunov CHOPS Frazer down! Fans fire up again as Dragunov bumps Frazer off more buckles, and CHOPS him again! Dragunov hauls Frazer up, whips him corner to corner hard, then runs in. Frazer BOOTS Dragunov, but Dragunov CHOPS back! And CHOPS! And CHOPS! And MACHINE GUN CHOPS! Frazer sits down, Dragunov CHOPS him one more time!

The fans are all fired up behind Dragunov, and he hauls Frazer up to waistlock. GERMAN SUPLEX! Dragunov holds on, he tells Frazer to show him something. Frazer throws elbows, but Dragunov hits another GERMAN SUPLEX! Fans fire up for Suplex City Dragunov style, but Frazer fights with elbows. Frazer pries free, but Dragunov clamps back on, to GERMAN SUPLEX! Frazer goes tumbling and the fans are thunderous! Dragunov hauls Frazer up to CLUB him down! And then he reels Frazer in, gets him up, but Frazer fights with fists! Frazer RANAS Dragunov and then ROCKS him with foraerms and haymakers!

Fans rally as Frazer DECKS Dragunov! Dragunov is up, Frazer dodges and JUMP KNEES! But Dragunov kicks from below! Only for Frazer to PELE!! Cover, TWO! Fans fire up for “NXT! NXT!” as Dragunov goes to a corner. Frazer runs in, and he CHOPS! Dragunov goes to another corner, so Frazer CHOPS again! Frazer whips corner to corner, Dragunov reverses but Frazer dodges to GAMANGIRI! And then Frazer springboards to MISSILE DROPKICK! Both men are down and the fans are thunderous again! Dragunov and Frazer stir, rise up, and Frazer hauls Dragunov up. Dragunov fights the suplex, wrenches and ROCKS Frazer, to then CHOP him on the back!

Dragunov GERMAN SUPLEXES, but Frazer lands on his feet! Frazer dodges Dragunov, Dragunov dodges back, CONSTANTINE- NO, Frazer dodges to QUEBRADA DDT! Cover, TWO!! Dragunov survives but Frazer goes up! PHOENIX FLOP as Dragunov moves! ENZIGURI, and then a POWERBOMB!! And then the H-BOMB FOREARM!! Cover, TWO because Dragunov lets off?!? H-BOMB FOREARM!! Fans want that “One More Time!” so Dragunov obliges. He powers up to JUMPING H-BOMB FOREARM!!! Cover, Dragunov wins!

Winner: Ilja Dragunov, by pinfall

The NXT Champion unleashed fury like we’ve never seen, and this was on a “friend” who simply spoke his mind. Corbin’s the one stoking the flames, is he going to be the one that gets burned?

Speaking of Corbin, he’s on the tron! He figured he’d make this easier by talking to Dragunov through a screen. That’s how he talks to his family back home, right? Corbin could makes this warm and fuzzy, but Dragunov is the one breathing fire. Look what he just did to a guy he used to call a friend! Dragunov beat the hell out of Frazer all because he said Corbin’s life is better. And the fact is, it is! The only reason Dragunov has to be here is that title on his shoulder, and that title is the one thing Corbin happens to be missing in his life. So at Deadline, Corbin takes the title from Dragunov, and Dragunov will have nothing.

But Corbin, he’ll truly have it all. Dragunov can take his nothing back home to his family, and Corbin will even upgrade Dragunov to first class as an early Christmas gift. Corbin chuckles and sees Dragunov is ready right now. But just wait. Next week, they will be face to face. So enjoy your lonely nights, champ. Corbin smiles, but will he be the one getting nothing for Christmas?

Backstage interview with Lyra Valkyria.

McKenzie Mitchell is with the NXT Women’s Champion and congratulates her on the hard fought win over Xia Li. What is next? Well, Deadline, of course! Whoever wins the Iron Survivor Challenge is next in line. There’s Tiffany Stratton, one of the favorites. There’s Lash Legend, who Lyra only measures up to her leg. Then there’s Kelani Jordan now, who is rising up quicker than just about any woman in NXT History. And of course, there’s Blair Davenport. A very dangerous woman, especially if you meet her in the parking lot at night. And now, it’ll be whoever wins the Last Chance Match. Either way, Deadline will be-

Fallon walks over and says that next week, she’s gonna make the most of that Last Chance. And it won’t matter if Fallon enters first or last, she vows to leave Deadline as THE Iron Survivor. Which means the next person Lyra faces will be the #TopShelf of NXT. Oh, Fallon is someone Lyra has never doubted. If Fallon wins, this is a match Lyra looks forward to. But then Tatum Paxley is creeping up behind. It doesn’t matter if Fallon wins, because Lyra will just beat her anyways. Um, is Tatum with Lyra? Nope. But good luck. Thanks! They head out, Tatum waves bye, who makes it in just before the Deadline?

Karmen Petrovic speaks.

“In Martial Arts, we’re taught not to think, but to feel. To have a clear and calm mind and be ready to act, you must trust your instincts. And my instinct is that Arianna Grace believes she’s better than everybody else. She never shuts up and makes everything about herself. Arianna may be a decorated beauty queen, but I’m a decorated third degree blackbelt in Karate. And when it’s time to step through those ropes, it’s not about handwaving and sequined gowns, it’s about competition. And with my name repeatedly coming out of Arianna’s mouth, I think it’s time I kicked that mouth shut.” Karmen gets her chance, will she humble the self-proclaimed Miss NXT?

Meta Four speaks.

Noam Dar says “Hello, hello, hello. Alpha Academy, you dafties! You’re out here, making demands of us?” Jakara says they’re all crying because they lost. AND STILL, cuz no one is taking this cup from Dar. Dar has gone from the greatest sports entertainer to the purest form of energy! Dar says that’s why Oro is his main man. And Gable, you did run Dar close. But Dar is solid beyond belief! Dar survived because he IS a survivor! And he will be the next Iron Survivor. Just another reason why Meta Four is better than Alpha Academy. The fashion, the passion, the action! And nothing would make them happier than beating a team as world-renowned and beloved as the Academy!

So then, Mr. Gable, Dar, Oro & Lash will see them next week. What a great way to warm-up for Deadline! Challenge accepted, but will the Scottish Supernova and his crew really have that easy of a time against all of the Alpha Academy?

Joe Gacy speaks.

“Do you even care about me? Or am I jut a quick moment of thought before you moved on, forgetting that I existed? There are people in this world that think that I’m beneath them, that I’m lower than them. So I decided that I needed to get a better perspective.” Wait, he’s under the ring when he filmed this? Gacy wishes he could refrain from caring what other people’s opinions are, or how it is going up there. If this will be a successful victory or agonizing defeat. He knocks on the wood and says good luck up there.

Being beneath them is where he’s wanted, and this internal struggle, this new perspective, is something that he is dealing with. But it is hard. So, so hard. And he wouldn’t wish it on his worse enemy, whoever they are. And maybe he knows who that is, but then again, maybe he doesn’t.

Karmen Petrovic VS Arianna Grace!

Two women who are pretty much complete opposites finally have it out in the ring! Will Karmen prove her blackbelt trumps Arianna’s sash and tiara? Or will she just have to learn to lose with Grace?

The bell rings and the two circle. The fans rally up for Karmen as she ties up with Arianna, and they go to ropes. Karmen turns things around on Arianna but Arianna turns it around on her. The ref counts, the fans boo, and Arianna lets off at 4. Arianna tells Karmen to kiss the ring. Karmen slaps the hand away! The fans cheer, Arianna frowns, and the two tie up. Arianna knees low, throws Karmen down by her hair, and then taunts her. Kiss the ring! Karmen scowls, stands, then smiles. She slaps the hand again, then ROCKS Arianna to throw her down by her hair! Karmen’s fighting stance scares Arianna away!

Arianna apologizes? Karmen doesn’t trust that, but then tells Arianna to kiss her hand! Arianna rushes in but Karmen gets the arm! Karmen wrenches, wristlocks, and pushes on the elbow. Arianna moves around, Karmen twists the arm more, and fans rally. Arianna fights up but Karmen steps over to hit an armbar takedown! Arianna hurries to stack Karmen, TWO! Karmen wrenches the arm but Arianna pulls hair! Arianna puts Karmen in the corner, Karmen kicks her away. Arianna run sin to clothesline! Arianna reels Karmen in, but Karmen wrenches out to WRING the arm! And then Oklahoma Roll, TWO!

Fans start to duel as Karmen storms up on Arianna. Karmen CLUBS Arianna, Arianna ROCKS Karmen, then Arianna DECKS her! Arianna stomps away at the ropes, the ref counts, and Arianna lets off. But wait, Gacy gets out from under the ring!? And he takes the ring bell!? What was the point of that?! NXT goes to break while they try to sort this out!

NXT returns and Arianna has Karmen in a chinbar armlock combo. Bell or no bell, this match is still going. Karmen fights up, the fans rally, but Arianna throws her down! Arianna dribbles Karmen off the mat, “apologizes” tot he ref, then covers, TWO! Arianna clamps on a chinlock and half nelson combo now, but Karmen still endures. Fans rally, Karmen fights up, but Arianna knees low! Arianna scoops, Karmen slips free to shove and CLOBBER Arianna! Fans fire up as Karmen rallies, BOOT in the corner! Karmen pushes Arianna down, then takes aim, LION’S BARRAGE! Fans fire up with Karmen and she whips Arianna.

Karmen KICKS Arianna, steps over, HOOK KICKS her, and then covers, TWO! Karmen grows frustrated as Arianna goes to ropes. Karmen whips but Arianna blocks! Arianna kick slow, but Karmen dodges the boot! Karmen hops on for a SLEEPER! Arianna flails, reaches out, but she throws Karmen off. Arianna claims Karmen clawed her eye! The ref keeps the two apart, they pull hair, and then Arianna claws Karmen’s eyes!! Arianna fireman’s carries, WASTELAND SLAM! Cover, Arianna wins!

Winner: Arianna Grace, by pinfall

Gacy rings the bell!! The hecc?! But point is, the Beauty Queen is clearly willing to do anything she has to in order to win. Will she do exactly that to make her way to the top of NXT?

Backstage interview with Wes Lee.

McKenzie is with the Cardiac Kid just moments away from the Fatal 4 Way with him and three other decorated former North American Champions. Wes agrees, this is a big night. They say the man defines the title, not the other way around, but something about the North American title… Wes is attached. It made him! That’s why he has to be the one to win and take that title off Dominik Mysterio. But before he gets there, he has Bronson Reed who floats like a butterfly and hits like a truck, Cameron Grimes who always has a trick up his sleeve, and then one of the greatest in NXT history, Johnny Gargano.

The odds are definitely against Wes, but Dom knows that Wes is willing to do anything to have a chance. Then what if he doesn’t win? He can never challenge Dom again! Well, high risk, high reward. McKenzie wishes him luck but Wes says it’s not about luck, it’s about desire. Wes heads out, but will he make it through to Deadline?

Lexis King VS Brooks Jensen w/ Fallon Henley & Josh Briggs!

This King had to rub it in that Jerry “The King” didn’t choose this second generation superstar for the Iron Survivor Challenge, but it’s not like anyone knew about King either. Will Lexis continue to make a name for himself by any means necessary? Or will he wish he hadn’t stirred up trouble?

The bell rings and the two tie up. Jensen puts King in a corner, but King comes back. Jensen blocks the kick to SLAP King! Jensen fires off, whips, but King reverses. Jensen WHEEL KICKS King down! Fans fire up while King flops out of the ring. Jensen pursues, but King kicks low and CHOPS! Jensen ROCKS King, King ROCKS back, they brawl and Jensen DECKS King again! Jensen gets on the apron but King grabs on. Jensen kicks King away, goes up the corner, and SUPER CROSSBODIES! Fans fire up with the country boy as NXT goes picture in picture.

Briggs hypes Jensen up and Jensen CLUBS King. Jensen puts King in the ring, but King runs up, Jensen RAMS into King, reels him in, and snap suplexes! Cover, TWO! Jensen keeps cool, drags him up, and fires off hands! King goes to a corner, Jensen whips corner to corner, then CLOBBERS King! Jensen elbows King down, clamps on a chinlock and leans on the hold. King endures, fights up, and throws body shots. King throws a haymaker, Jensen CHOPS him down! Then ELBOWS him in the back! Cover, TWO! King goes to a corner, Jensen runs in but into a headlock and punch! The ref reprimands but King CHOPS and ROCKS Jensen again.

King whips corner to corner, runs in and clotheslines, then CHOPS! Snapmare and KICK! Cover, TWO! King clamps onto Jensen with a chinlock and grinds him down. Jensen endures, pries at the hold, and fights up. Jensen throws body shots, headlocks, but King powers out, only for Jensen to run him over! Things speed up, Jensen hurdles and NECKBREAKER DROPS! Fans fire up with Jensen while King goes to the apron. Jensen storms over, drags him up, but King swings on him, Jensen counter punches, but then King avoids the shoulder to KICK Jensen down! Slingshot DOUBLE STOMP! Jensen writhes but King soaks up the heat.

King CLUBS Jensen, drags him up, but Jensen throws body shots. King CLUBS Jensen, bumps him off buckles, and kicks low. King ROCKS Jensen, digs both boots in, but lets off as the ref counts. King throws Jensen down while NXT returns to single picture. Fans rally for Jensen but King rains down fists! Trick Melo Gang is watching, they want Jensen to take the fight to King, too. Jensen fights back but King CLUBS him. Melo says he’s gotta go check something and leaves the room. King whips and kitchen sink knees! Then he KICKS Jensen in the back! And KNEES Jensen down! Cover, TWO!

Fans rally, King clamps onto Jensen and throws down elbows! The fans rally for Jensen as King throws down more elbows! King clamps on a chinlock, he grinds Jensen down, but Jensen fights up. King snapmares and covers, TWO! King clamps onto Jensen, KICKS him again, and again, but Jensen gets up to CHOP! And SLAP! King BOOTS, snapmares, and clamps the chinlock on again. King leans on Jensen, but Jensen makes him a backpack as he rises up! Fans fire up for Jensen as he RAMS King into buckles! King lets go, but he KNEES in return! King whips, wraps Jensen up, but Jensen hits a BIG back suplex!

Fans fire up while both men are down. They go to opposite ends, Jensen stands but King runs in, into an ELBOW! Jensen rallies with big haymakers, then an atomic drop! SUPERKICK! King flops back, Jensen storms up on him. Jensen whips King to a corner, King reverses, then King runs in. Jensen BOOTS King, then skins the cat to the top rope! MISSILE DROPKICK! Fans fire up and Jensen crawls to a cover, TWO!! Fans argue the count but Briggs & Fallon tell Jensen to focus. Jensen runs in, but King ELBOWS him! King runs in, into a back drop! Melo runs out here!? Referees hurry after him, and Briggs keeps Melo back!

Jensen runs into a throat chop! Cross arm, STRAITJACKET NECKBREAKER!! Cover, King wins!

Winner: Lexis King, by pinfall

Melo is furious, but he only helped King with this “Coronation!” King smiles, will this only motivate Melo to get his revenge?

Dirty Dom’s Fatal 4 Way Challenge: Wes Lee VS Cameron Grimes VS Johnny Gargano VS Bronson Reed!

Speaking of Dom, he’s on commentary for the match he put together. He is so worried he’s going to lose to the Cardiac Kid, he is putting him up against THREE former North American Champions, with only Wes having a chance at challenging Dom for the title! Will Grimes, Gargano & Bronson do Dirty Dom’s dirty work for him? Or will Wes find a way?

The bell rings and fans chant “Welcome Back!” for the NXT alumni. Grimes and Gargano revel in the moment, but then Bronson CLOBBERS Wes! Gargano and Grimes go after Bronson, they double whip but he breaks the line to DOUBLE LARIAT them! Wes fires off on Bronson, then runs to go up and up and CROSSBODY! Bronson catches him, to hang him out to dry! Bronson then YANKS the ropes to FLING Wes at Gargano and Grimes! Fans fire up as NXT goes picture in picture.

Bronson dusts himself off, then nods, only for Grimes to fire hands! Bronson ROCKS Grimes, then whips him hard into a corner! So hard that Grimes tumbles up and out! Wes fires off on Bronson but Bronson HEADBUTTS him down! Bronson storms up on Wes, but Gargano fires hands! Gargano and Wes both throw hands, but Bronson HEADBUTTS each of them! Bronson then drags Gargano up, whips him hard into a corner, and Gargano falls over. Grimes returns, Bronson throws him back out! Bronson CHOPS Wes in a corner! Wes sputters and sits down, Bronson CLOBBERS Grimes off the apron!

Bronson raises his hands to soak up the cheers and jeers, then he whips Wes corner to corner hard! Wes falls back, and Bronson stands over him. Bronson drags Wes up, TOSSES him out, but Gargano fires hands! Gargano CHOPS and ROCKS Bronson, but Bronson CHOPS Gargano down! Bronson grins, then runs to BLAST Grimes off the apron! Bronson storms back on Gargano, brings him up, and CLUBS him down! Bronson HEADBUTTS Gargano, then runs to ROCK Wes! Wes holds onto ropes to stay on the apron, but Bronson HEADBUTTS him down! Bronson goes back to Gargano as NXT returns to single picture.

Bronson suplexes and holds Gargano up! Gargano throws knees, but Bronson keeps Gargano up to then SLAM him down! Grimes is back, goes for a leg, but Bronson hoists him up! Wes DROPKICKS Bronson! Bronson stays up so Grimes BOOTS him! Bronson still stays up, so Gargano ROCKS him with a forearm! Wes GAMANGIRIS! Gargano DOUBLE KNEES! Grimes clotheslines! Gargano forearms! Then Gargano sets up so Wes can hit POETRY IN MOTION! Grimes adds on! They help Wes RAILGUN DROPKICK Bronson down!! The fans are thunderous for “NXT! NXT!” as the three normal sized men are alone.

Wes gets around, O’Conner but Grimes bucks that. Gargano headlocks, Wes powers out and Grimes runs Gargano over! Dom says Wes is still gonna choke. Things speed up, Wes hurdles and then he and Gargano DOUBLE DROPKICK! Grimes falls out, and fans fire up as Wes and Gargano stare down. They both smile, and Dom says he’s beat both these guys. Gargano and Wes shake hands, tie up, and Wes waistlocks. Wes avoids the elbow, Gargano avoids the elbow, then wrenches an arm. Wes breaks fere but Gargano avoids the superkick. Gargano gets around Wes, schoolboy and kick but Wes ducks it!

Wes aims but Gargano avoids the basement dropkick. Wes avoids another kick and the two stand off. Fans are thunderous again, but Dom acts unimpressed. Bronson is back, Gargano & Wes fire off hands on him first! Bronson ROCKS Wes, dragon sleepers Gargano, and then he catches Wes, URENAGE REVERSE DDT COMBO!! Fans are thunderous, Grimes returns and he KICKS Bronson’s legs! And KICKS! And KICKS! Bronson blocks, to then SPINEBUSTER Grimes down! Bronson scoops to a fireman’s carry, but Grimes fights with elbows and knees! Grimes then QUESTION MARK KICKS! And runs to sunset flip!

Bronson stays up, Wes runs in, but Bronson catches him! Gargano gets Grimes’ legs, CATAPULT into the Colossal Zone! Fans lose their minds and even Dom is hurting from that one! Wes RANAS Bronson out of the ring! “This is Awesome!” as Gargano CHOPS Wes, and then Grimes CLOBBERS Gargano! Grimes atomic drops Wes, KICKS him down, and then atomic drop for Gargano to also KICK! And SOBAT! And SLIDING BOOT! Fans fire up again and Grimes runs up on Wes. Scoop, but Wes slips free. Grimes ELBOWS Wes, and then DOUBLE RANAS Wes and Gargano! The fans are thunderous again!

Grimes pushes Gargano toa corner, runs up to clothesline Wes! And then he runs, but Gargano dodges. Wes dodges Gargano, Grimes dodges Wes, repeat! Grimes goes up so Wes DIVES to take out Bronson! Grimes then goes to the apron, PENALTY KICK for Wes! Gargano GAMANGIRIS Grimes! Fans fire up as Gargano runs to DIVE onto Bronson! Bronson hits the desk! Gargano resets to DIVE onto Wes! The fans are thunderous as Gargano sets up, and he DIVES to take out Grimes! The hattrick is complete and the fans are thunderous for “Johnny Wrestling!” But Grimes ROCKS Gargano, builds speed, but into the SLINGSHOT SPEAR!! Cover, Wes breaks it!!

Fans rally up again as Wes brings Gargano up. Gargano swings, Wes bobs ‘n’ weaves to fire back! Wes KICKS and KICKS and ENZIGURIS! Wes uses Gargano as a step so he can METEORA Grimes! Cover, TWO!! The fans are thunderous again and Bronson is back. Bronson runs in, but into BOOTS from Wes! Wes KICKS Bronson, goes up and up and METEO- NO!! Bronson catches Wes, for a DEATH VALLEY DRIVER!! Cover, TWO!!! Grimes runs up to ROCK Bronson, ROCK him again, and fire off hands! Grimes whips but Bronson reverses. Bronson runs in, but blocks a boot, so Grimes ENZIGURIS! And SUPERKICKS!

Grimes goes up and up, and he CROSSBODIES! Cover, TWO!! Dom reminds us that if someone other than Wes wins, they don’t get a shot. “This is Awesome!” as Grimes kicks but Bronson ducks. Bronson shoves Grimes into Wes, but Gargano mule kicks! Gargano kicks Wes and Grimes to hit the TORNADO- NO, Bronson throws him away! SPLASH on Grimes and Wes in the corner! Bronson shoves Grimes aside, puts Wes up top, and then fireman’s carries Grimes. Gargano is up, Bronson scoops him now! And then Bronson goes back to get Wes!? TRIPLE SAMOAN DROP!!! The fans lose their minds again!

Bronson reaches out to cover Grimes, TWO!! Fans rally up while Bronson is annoyed. Gargano flops out of the ring, Grimes goes to a corner, and Bronson storms after Grimes. The fans hope they “FIGHT FOREVER!” but there has to be a winner. Bronson climbs up after Grimes, but Grimes BITES Bronson! Grimes CLUBS away, adjusts and SUPER SUNSET- NO, Bronson holds on! Wes CLUBS Bronson’s legs and helps out! Gargano does, too! TRIPLE POWERBOMB!!! Even Dom can’t believe what he just saw! The fans are losing their minds again, and then Wes, Grimes and Gargano rise.

Grimes throws a forearm, Wes gives it back,. Gargano throws a forearm, Grimes gives it back. Wes CHOPS, Gargano ROCKS, Grimes ROCKS, Wes fires hands on everyone! Grimes kicks but Wes ducks, the ROUNDHOUSE hits Gargano! Wes fires hands but Grimes waistlocks. Wes elbows free, runs, CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Grimes and Wes rise again, the fans rally up, Wes SUPERKICKS! Wes roars and runs, but into a COLLISION COURSE!! Cover, TWO!! Grimes fire sup and the fans are with him! “TO! THE! MOON~!” But Gargano ENZIGURIS! Gargano aims, but Grimes ROCKS him first!

Grimes runs, Gargano avoids the Cave-In to LA MYSTICA! GargaNO Escape!! Grimes endures, Wes SESNTONS! Bronson is up! He drags Wes from the cover to BUCKLE BOMB him! And then SENTON on Gargano! SENTON on Grimes! Bronson runs at Wes, but Wes dodges! Wes fires hands, Bronson CLUBS him! Fans chant “TOO MUCH MEAT!” but Wes GAMANGIRIS! Bronson is stuck up top, Wes goes up after him, but then Bronson trophy lifts! SUPER GORILLA PRESS!! Wes wipes out Grimes and Gargano, and Bronson hurries back up top! But then IVAR shows up!? Ivar goes after Bronson as revenge for Raw!!

Fans are thunderous as the Viking Raider and Auszilla brawl! Bronson HEADBUTTS Ivar away, then FLYING SHOULDERS him down!! Ivar staggers away, Bronson pursues, but Ivar hits the HEEL KICK OF DOOM! Ivar runs, but Bronson sends him into barriers! Ivar then RAMS Bronson into more! Dom is speechless, he didn’t think Ivar would do this! The fans cheer on “MEAT! MEAT! MEAT!” and then Wes RAMS Gargano into Grimes! O’Conner Roll, TWO! Wes gest around Grimes, Crucifix Takedown, TWO! Schoolboy Kick from Gargano! SUPERKICK from Grimes! SUPERKICK from Gargano! CAVE-IN!! CARDIAC KICK!!! Cover, WES WINS!!!

Winner: Wes Lee, by pinfall (NEW #1 Contender to the NXT North American Champion)

Dom is upset that his plan didn’t work out. But for all his big talk, will Dom have to put up or shut up against Wes at Deadline? Are Dirty Dom’s days as champion numbered?

Wait, there’s a fight in the parking lot!

It’s Roxie and Kiana! They didn’t wanna stop with the locker room! Security has to rush out there to stop them, Roxie gets Kiana down on the ground! NXT has to wrap, but will this fight not end until next week’s Last Chance Qualifier?

My Thoughts:

A great NXT here, great build towards Deadline, and just an awesome main event there. I figured Wes would find a way but I do appreciate Ivar showed up to screw over Bronson. Dom also made a good point to clarify, this was all about Wes winning and Dom could just coast if Wes lost. Dom VS Wes is going to be a great match that could steal the show because of the story. Wes should win, and I would hope HBK plans ahead and bans Judgment Day from ringside. Pro-wrestling promotions really should do that, because how many times in how many years have all the Heel factions out there done that? It’d be a great use of meta self-awareness.

Great tag title match to open, but I’m a little confused as to why Garza & Carrillo repackaged themselves if they’re not tag champs by now. I get that it’s about an attitude change, but c’mon, they’ve lost more than they’ve won even with it. Maybe they should go back to main roster to be Santos Escobar’s new Legado Del Fantasma henchmen, since they’re all multi-generational luchadores. Very good promos from Alpha Academy and Meta Four to set up the Mixed Six, maybe Oro takes the pin so that neither Dar or Lash are hurt going into Deadline. Still would love to see Otis get his shot at the Cup, but I guess we’ll wait and see.

Great choices for the Iron Survivor qualifiers here, with Eddy showing a lot of heart in his loss to Bron, and then Roxie screwing Kiana over. Izzi should know from past examples not to piss Roxie off, but great brawl both in the locker room and to close the show from Kiana and Roxie. They’re definitely going to cancel out in the Last Chance Match, and given the interaction of Fallon and Lyra, it feels like Fallon manages to get in. Not sure her chances of winning, or why Tatum had to insert herself, but something could be brewing there one way or another. And good match from Karmen VS Arianna, with a good cheat win from Arianna, but what was up with Gacy?

Gacy had a great promo last time, but this one was a bit odd. That and impulsively grabbing the bell… Well, grabbing the bell was actually rather clever, I kinda wish we got a promo where he wasn’t under the ring, and then he still took the bell. But something about this feels like Gacy’s trying a little too hard to be Early 2000s depressed teen stereotype. Lexis King is also trying really hard to get a lot of heat, but he and Jensen had a great match. Trick Melo Gang also had a good promo, and then I’m intrigued by Melo going back on his word of not interfering. That with the NXT Anonymous video, perhaps Melo and King conspired to screw over Trick, and now Melo is having to help King win or he’ll use the truth against him.

And wow, what a wild match from Dragunov VS Frazer. I get that Frazer was just trying to say Corbin’s “glamorous” life is the dream and that it doesn’t take anything away from Dragunov’s “sacrifices,” and then Corbin has a point, Dragunov went nuts on a friend. But given this is how wild Dragunov went on a friend, I really hope he just destroys Corbin at Deadline. Well, maybe not, that’d be rough for Corbin. But Dragunov and Corbin are going to bring it, it’s going to be awesome, can’t wait to see it.

My Score: 8.9/10