And we’re on the clock!

Tonight, we begin the qualifiers for this year’s Iron Survivor Challenge! Who looks to push their limits against the very best in NXT today?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Giulia & Stephanie Vaquer VS Lash Legend & Jakara Jackson; Giulia & Vaquer win.
• 2024 Women’s Iron Survivor Challenge Qualifier: Cora Jade VS Sol Ruca; Sol wins and advances to WWE Deadline.
• 2024 Men’s Iron Survivor Challenge Qualifier: Wes Lee VS Cedric Alexander; Wes wins and advances to WWE Deadline.
• Adriana Rizzo VS Nikkita Lyons; Lyons wins.
• 2024 Men’s Iron Survivor Challenge Qualifier: Je’Von Evans VS Lexis King; Je’Von wins and advances to WWE Deadline.
• NXT Women’s North American Championship: Fallon Henley w/ The Fatal Influence VS Kelani Jordan; Fallon wins and retains the title.

PLAY BY PLAY

Giulia & Stephanie Vaquer VS Lash Legend & Jakara Jackson!

The Beautiful Madness & Dark Angle were still on the winning side last week, though not for lack of trying from Meta Four’s leading ladies. Will the Bougie Bully & Miss Jackson do better now that it’s 2v2? Or will Giulia & Vaquer be the ones putting on the brakes?

The teams sort out and Lash starts against Giulia. The fans rally up as the two step up and talk some trash. Giulia calls for the Test of Strength, but Lash taunts Giulia over her height advantage. So Giulia throws a body shot! Giulia headlocks, Lash powers up and goes to a corner. Giulia goes up and around, but Lash fights off the flying takeover. Lash powers out but Giulia BOOTS her! Lash BOOTS back! The fans fire up, Jakara tags in, and Meta Four gets Giulia up. They double whip, drop toehold, and ELBOW DROP! Jakara runs to basement DROPKICK! Cover, TWO! Giulia is tougher than that but Jakara waistlocks.

Giulia fights up, wrenches and switches, but Jakara victory rolls! Cover, TWO! Jakara hits an arm-drag to a lateral press, TWO! Ghost pin from Giulia, TWO! The two reset and the fans cheer. Giulia then kicks low, whips Jakara to a corner, but runs into a BOOT! Jakara goes up, up and MISSILE DROPKICKS! The fans rally up and Jakara hurries to cover, TWO! Giulia is still tougher than that, but Jakara fireman’s carries. Giulia fights into an IRON OCTOPUS! The fans fire up, Jakara heads for ropes, but Vaquer tags in. The Stardom duo double whip, drop, bypasses, hurdle, drop toehold, and 619! Then SHOTGUN!

The fans fire up as Vaquer & Giulia shake hands to DOUBLE ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO! Jakara shows she’s tough, too, but Vaquer brings her around. Vaquer whips, Jakara sunset flips, but Vaquer stays up to scrape Jakara’s face! Then she drops a leg, brother! And fans fire up as the headscissors are on! Vaquer DRILLS Jakara into the mat again and again! The fans fire up while Jakara sputters. Vaquer brings Jakara up but Jakara wrenches to JAWBREAKER! Tag to Lash and she CHOPS Vaquer down! Then DECKS her! Giulia is in, IRON- NO, Lash stays up! So Vaquer SUPERKICKS! Lash is still up?!

Vaquer jumps on, but Lash has them both! DOUBLE DRIBBLE in the ropes! Lash drops Vaquer, then swings Giulia away. Tag to Jakara and she hops up onto Lash. META TOWER CROSSBODY! Jakara wipes out Giulia & Vaquer and the fans are thunderous as NXT goes to break.

NXT returns and Lash holds Vaquer up in a suplex! And then she SLAMS Vaquer at the count of ten! Then Lash kips up, tags Jakara, and sits Vaquer up. Jakara clamps on the chinlock, then shifts to a straitjacket stretch. Jakara thrashes Vaquer but Vaquer endures. The fans rally, Vaquer fights up, and Vaquer powers up to spin things around, only for Jakara to spin it right back around! Jakara then ripcords and whips Vaquer to the corner. Vaquer BOOTS Jakara, HEADBUTTS Lash, then goes up and over Jakara! Roll and hot tag to Giulia! The fans fire up as Giulia SHOTGUNS Jakara! Gijuila fires off hands!

Giulia dodges Jakara, HEABUTTS her, but here comes Lash! Giulia dodges Lash to tilt-o-whirl, and DEJA VU SUNSET BOMB! Jakara storms up to fire hands! Jakara suplexes, but Giulia counters with a snap suplex! Cover, TWO! Giulia drags Jakara right up bumps her off buckles, and she tags Vaquer. Vaquer KICKS Jakara in the face, then Giulia runs to BOOT WASH! Giulia feeds Jakara to Vaquer’s SOBAT! Giulia BOOTS, and then they wrench, crisscross, and DOUBLE BACK SUPLEX! Cover, Lash breaks it! Lash talks trash, but Giulia hops on for a SLEEPER! Lash flails, Giulia shifts around, Vaquer SUPERKICKS Lash!

Vaquer hits a CODE BREAKEAR and Lash tumbles out of the ring! Giulia goes to the apron, and she MISSILE DROPKISK! Lash hits steel steps on the way down! But Jakara O’Conner Rolls deep! TWO!! Vaquer runs up, Jakara gets around, but Vaquer switches! Snapmare into buckles, and Giulia tags in. Giulia climbs up to MISSILE DROPKICK! Jakara flounders but Giulia feeds her to the PRIMERA BACKBREAKER! Then Giulia & Vaquer give Jakara a GOLDEN TRIGGER! Cover, Giulia & Vaquer win!

Winners: Giulia & Stephanie Vaquer, by pinfall

Jakara was ready for action but no one could stare down that double barrel and survive! Will Giulia & Vaquer prove together or apart, they are going to run NXT? Blake Howard interviews them in the ring and says they’ve been a great team. But for the next few weeks, they’ll each be in an Iron Survivor Challenge qualifier. The question is: If they both make it to Deadline, what can we expect to see? Giulia says she knew this day would come. Vaquer says, “See you at Deadline.” The amigas area ready to fight it out for the gold, will either of them win that 25 minute marathon?

2024 Women’s Iron Survivor Challenge Qualifier: Cora Jade VS Sol Ruca!

Speaking of that grueling golden opportunity, #GenerationJade and the Sol Surfer want that first spot! Will Cora prove she’s back and better than ever? Or will Sol finally catch that wave and ride it to the top?

NXT returns and Cora makes her entrance. The bell rings and Cora hops up on a corner as a defense. The fans rally for Sol while Cora pouts. Cora hops down, storms up on Sol, but Sol gets around, tripos Cora, but Cora narrowly avoids the superkick. Sol hops up on a corner to taunt Cora now. The fans fire up, and Cora says clever. Get down! Sol says make her. Cora storms up but sol gets around her again, for a BIG lift and FACEBUSTER! Sol then stands on Cora to surf! The fans cheer as Sol pops ‘n’ locks then hops off, to SUPERKICK! Cora flounders, Sol whips her to ropes, but Cora reverses. Sol holds ropes but Cora SHINING WIZARDS!

The fans boo Cora but she runs to DOUBLE STOMP! Cover, TWO! Sol stays in this and goes to ropes, but Cora storms up. Cora bumps Sol off buckles, then again, then she stomps a mudhole in. The ref counts, Cora lets off, but then she comes back to put Sol on ropes. The fans rally but Cora CHOKES Sol! Cora runs side to side to ELBOW Sol in the back! Cover, TWO! Cora is growing frustrated already but the fans sing for Sol. Cora drags Sol up, but Sol JAWBREAKERS back! Cora wobbles, Sol waistlocks, but Cora bucks the O’Conner. So Sol ROCKS her first! Cora ROCKS back, but Sol ROCKS Cora again!

Cora storms up, but Sol slips around to CLOBBER Cora! Sol springboards to CROSSBODY! Cora flounders to a corner. Sol runs in but Cora puts her on the apron. Sol ROUNDHOUSES Cora, then springboards, but Cora trips her up! Sol flops, Cora underhooks, FUTURE- NO, Sol powers out! Sol baits Cora into a corner and Cora hits her knee! SOL SNATCHER!! Cover, Sol wins!

Winner: Sol Ruca, by pinfall (advances to the Iron Survivor Challenge)

Cora was talking a big game, but it all caught up to her! Sol punches her ticket, will she be the one going for gold in 2025?

Je’Von Evans & Cedric Alexander talk backstage.

They just saw as we all did, Sol is the first woman to qualify for Deadline. If Je’Von beats Lexis King, he’s locked in. If Cedric beats Wes Lee, Cedric’s locked in. It’ll be tough, but they’ll LOCK IN~! They head out, and we see Karmen Petrovic talking with Dion Lennox. Karmen shares that her favorite color is yellow, but who doesn’t like yellow? It’s such a nice color. That is, until Ashante THEE Adonis and his yellow beanie had to go and distract her during her match. Uh-huh… Oh, wait, what was the question again? Color. Right, right. Red’s her new favorite color. Cool. Because of that beanie? Yeah.

Brinley Reece walks in and hopes Karmen is not talking about Adonis. No! No no no. Karmen is getting to know Dion. Dion, what else do you wanna know? Uh… Adonis storms in and asks Karmen, “Really?” This is what they’re doing now? With his best friend of all people! Dion says hold on, when were they best friends? Bruh, since last week, remember? Dion says this is just about them getting involved in each other’s matches. Brin says truth. Dion suggests they should try to be a tag team so they can learn to work together. What? Brin likes that idea! Is Dion free next week? Cuz Brin is. Dion says sure, but-

Karmen asks what Brin’s up to. Brin says Karmen knows she wants to. Adonis says Karmen knows she wants to. Karmen tells him not to tell her what to do. Dion is worried already. But the mixed tag challenge is set! Will Adonis & Karmen be a modern Beauty & The Beast? Or is this going to be a more tragic love story?

Ava Raine holds an NXT Tag Team Division meeting.

We have OTM, Hank ‘n’ Tank, Tyson & Tyriek, Myles & Heights, The D’Angelo Family, and even Gallus, all in the boardroom. Ava says she has invited them all here to discuss the state of the tag division. Recently, Fraxiom has been retaining their titles, but she is looking for the next team to step up. Everyone speaks up, but what is Josh Briggs doing here? Ava wants every man in here to show the world what this division is about. They all have the background to succeed. Gallus are former NXT UK & NXT Tag Team Champions. Hank ‘n’ Tank are each D1 NCAA Football standouts. Myles Borne is a D1 NCAA Wrestler and Tavion Heights is an Olympian.

Ty & Ty could shotput cars over the building any day they want. And The D’Angelos… make people disappear. Whoa, whoa, Ava. Allegedly. But Tank says let’s get after it. HONK HONK. Tavion says they’re just teacher’s pets. Lucien Price says he & Bronco Nima will make them think twice about putting two singles guys against the champs. Ty & Ty say don’t talk about what you can’t back up. The teams all bicker but Ava says yes, this is the energy she wants. But don’t tell her, show her! Meeting adjourned. The teams head out, but who heads up the ladder towards the Undeniable Truth & Jersery Island Rocket?

2024 Men’s Iron Survivor Challenge Qualifier: Wes Lee VS Cedric Alexander!

The corrupted Cardiac Kid couldn’t crush Je’Von’s hopes, but maybe he can get some payback taking out “Uncle Ceddy.” Will Wes make Deadline must-see? Or will PRIMED Alexander be locked in?

NXT returns and Cedric makes his entrance. The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up as fans rally, and Cedric shoves Wes down. Wes gets up and Cedric eggs him on. The two reset, tie up, and Cedric again shoves Wes back. Wes is annoyed but Cedric steps right to him. Wes uses ropes as defense so Cedric backs off. The two reset, tie up, but Wes waistlocks, headlocks, and grinds the hold. Cedric powers up but can’t power out. Cedric slips out the back to wrangle Wes with a headlock of his own. Cedric thrashes the hold and Wes flails. The fans rally, Wes fights around, and rolls to a cover. ONE, and Cedric holds on.

Wes fights up to his feet, powers up and puts Cedric on ropes. The ref counts, Wes lets off slowly, and he swings! Cedric dodges to headlock. Cedric hits a takeover, and he grinds Wes down again. Wes endures, fights up, and powers Cedric down. Wes fires a body shot, then cartwheels to have an armlock. Wes wrenches, wristlocks, but Cedric rolls, rolls, and handsprings. Cedric trips Wes, then speeds up. Wes drops, bypasses, and slides under. Wes rolls back to RANA! Cedric gest up but Wes trips him! SENTON! The fans fire up while Wes shakes it off. Cedric goes to a corner, Wes runs up, but Cedric puts him on the apron!

Cedric UPPERCUTS Wes, ROCKS him, then blocks both shots. Wes tries a shoulder but he gets kick after kick after kick! Wes blocks a kick, tells Cedric to stop kicking him, but Cedric CHOPS him! Cedric then FLIES! Not the cleanest hit but both men are down. The ref checks Cedric but he seems okay, and NXT goes to break.

NXT returns and Wes wrangles Cedric with an armlock. The fans rally up as Cedric fires hands! Cedric ROCKS Wes, but Wes WRINGS the arm out! Cedric writhes, Wes runs and handsprings, but Cedric DROPKICKS Wes upside-down! The fans are thunderous while both men are down! Cedric rises, shakes out the bad arm, and he winds up to CHOP! Wes staggers but Cedric CHOPS him down! Wes gets up, Cedric CHOPS him again! Cedric brings Wes up to CHOP and whip, to then kitchen sink knee! And basement DROPKICK! Cedric kips up and fires up, and the fans are with him! Wes flounders to the apron, so Cedric goes out to join him!

Cedric catches Wes to an APRON URENAGE! Wes flounders back in, the fans duel, and Cedric lines up the shot. GET OVER HERE! Cover, TWO!! Wes survives the tornado flatliner but the fans know “This is Awesome!” Cedric brings Wes up, suplexes, but Wes blocks! Wes wrenches free, but ducks a lariat! Ripcord and SUPERKICK! And then mule kick! Wes handsprings for the CARDIAC KICK!! Cover, TWO?!? Wes is as shocked as anyone that Cedric survives! Wes seethes as he drags Cedric to a drop zone. Wes climbs, aims, and 450- NO, Wes bails out as Cedric moves! Wes turns around into a LARIAT!

The fans are thunderous and Cedric rises again. Cedric storms over to Wes, waistlocks, but Wes grabs a buckle pad! The pad comes lose, Cedric back suplexes, but Wes lands out! Wes throws the pad at Cedric but it’s just a pillow. Cedric scoops, MICHINOKU DRIVER! The ref’s busy with the buckle pad! Late count on the cover, TWO!! Wes survives and Cedric cannot believe it! The fans boo the ref but Cedric just goes to a corner. Cedric focuses, runs up, but Wes drop toeholds him into the bare buckle! The fans boo but Wes takes advantage of the situation! METEORA!! Cover, Wes wins!

Winner: Wes Lee, by pinfall (advances to the Iron Survivor Challenge)

The Cardiac Kid is crafty, turning opportunity into victory! Will he do it all over again at Deadline?

Tony D’Angelo enjoys a nice dinner.

He asks if that thing at the docks was handled. All done, boss. Good. But in steps Shawn Spears & Brooks Jensen. The Don sighs and says he doesn’t like this new obsession Spears has. The Chair Man says it is called being persistent. Yeah, persistently annoying. Well, get used to it, Tony. Spears doesn’t care if he’s The Don, it’s Tony’s other title Spears wants. Tony dismisses his men, and Spears says he’s seen all sorts of guys come in here, sit in Tony’s chair, attack Tony, turn the place upside-down. Spears has let Tony’s disrespect slide twice. There will not be a third. Oh, Spears let Tony slide?

Tony will cut to the chase. Spears wants the North American Championship, right? Spears says Tony’s built one hell of a family, especially after winning the title. The family has been motivated to grow, but Spears feels that title will do the same for him. Tony reminds Spears it took him three YEARS and slaying a monster in Oba Femi to get this title. Yes, Tony played Oba. Good for him. Tony’s stronger than ever. Which is why Brooks Jensen is the one to challenge for the belt. Tony says Spears is a weird guy. He wants a title shot for someone else? Why not think for yourself, kid? Why’s Jensen always following someone else?

Jensen gets heated but Spears has him stand down. Spears doesn’t question how The Don does things, so The Don should not question The Chair Man. Tony says it is smart, having the kid fight Spears’ battles. Spears says intelligence only gets us so far. The difference between Spears and everyone else is that he is starving. The most successful people are hungry to be more, to do more, to have more. And the only thing in NXT that will satisfy Spears’ appettite is the North American Championship. Now… thank you for your time. Spears & Jensen head out, but when and where will they get their shot at The Don?

In the parking lot, Spears tells Jensen that is how you deal with the boss. Isn’t that right, Nico? Yes, it is. Wait, who is this now on Spears’ side? Is The Chair Man’s influence growing in the shadows of NXT?

Backstage interview with Kelani Jordan.

Byron Saxton is with The Standout and notes tonight is her rematch for the Women’s North American Championship against Fallon Henley. Her thoughts? Kelani has been waiting for this since Halloween Havoc. The moment that bell rings, Kelani’s right on Fallon. It doesn’t matter if Jacy’s there, if Jazmyn’s there, if they hop on the apron, they can all get it! All she knows is, she’s getting her title back! But speaking of Jacy & Jazmyn, they step in and Jazmyn mockingly asks, “Will you?” Because Kelani is a great athlete and all, but she is not beating Fallon. And if for whatever reason Fallon can’t get it done, Jacy & Jazmyn will make sure she does.

The Fatal Influence heads out, but Kelani says it’s on sight! Will the inaugural Women’s North American Champion become the TWO-TIME champion tonight? Or will she and NXT all be found under the influence?

Trick Williams is here!

The fans fire up as Tricky Two-Time Two-Time is back, and he grabs the mic to echo Booker T. But Trick knows we already know, Philly was crazy last week. With Deadline around the corner, just a reminder, that was when Trick had the Iron Survivor Challenge and things looked real good for Trick Willy. The fans cheer that. But that’s not what Trick is here to talk about. Last week, Trick & Bubba put Ethan Page through a table, but no, that’s not what he is here to talk about, either. Trick is here to talk about Ridge Holland. Ridge pinned Trick and thinks he got one over on him. Newsflash, Ridge: Trick Williams ain’t going out like that!

That is it say, get your punk- Chase U? Andre Chase comes down from the student section to apologize to Trick. Chase has no beef with Trick, but he still has beef with Ridge. Chase ain’t done with Ridge, not by a long shot. The fans cheer that and Trick knows that. After everything Ridge has done to Chase and Chase U, that’s clear. But as Trick thinks about it, even after everything Ridge did to Mr. Chase, Chase is still back on his feet. The fans cheer that. Trick says he hasn’t really known Chase well, but let’s all take a moment to recognize Mr. Chase for everything he’s done. The fans cheer that, and even chant, “Mr. Chase! Mr. Chase!”

Trick says Mr. Chase is a staple here in NXT. He’s done just about everything here. Well, okay, not everything. Trick hates to say it, but Chase ain’t had a shot at this title. So how about this? For one moment only, let’s forget what Ridge has done to Chase, and- Wait, here comes Yorkshire Grit. Ridge will not let this happen! Chase getting an NXT Championship title shot!? And Trick calls himself a champion?! Ridge steps into the ring while fans boo, but Ridge says Trick is just ducking Ridge to face a guy Ridge put in an ambulance! “Professor” needs to learn that Ridge has moved on. And Trick, Ridge made the famous ECW Arena fall dead silent when he pinned Trick!

We all know that Ridge is the biggest threat to the title! Chase says hold on, wait one second! After everything Ridge put Chase U through, Chase wants one more match! The fans cheer that! Ridge says nope. Chase says he’ll put the university on the line! If Ridge wins, it’ll be his! What!? Ridge says he doesn’t care about Chase’s little school. Chase gambled it away, won it back, and then some. The only thing Ridge cares about is the NXT Championship. Trick says hold on, he gets it. Ridge wants a chance at the title, and Chase wants his chance to whoop Ridge’s ass. Trick says here’s an idea: Let’s talk to Ava, and set up Ridge VS Chase! Winner goes on to Deadline!

The fans like the sound of that! Trick says he won’t lie, he’s pulling for Chase. After everything he’s been through and all the hard work, everything he’s overcome, with Chase U STILL here for him, with NXT here for him, that is a connection! A relationship! One with the people, with Duke Hudson, Riley Osborne & Thea Hail! Ridge says fine, he’ll take that. Wait, take what? All that Trick just said. If Ridge beats Chase, Chase’s friendships with Riley, Duke and Thea, it’s ALL GONE. Chase U will be gone, and Ridge will walk right into Deadline to challenge for the title while Chase has NOTHING.

For a man that could never win the big one, that’s quite the gamble, Mr. Chase. What’s he gonna do? The fans boo Ridge’s cruel stakes, and Chase is torn. But Chase says Ridge is on! Next week, Ridge gets an Andre Chase University sized ass whooping! Ridge DECKS Chase! Then he goes for Trick! Trick hits Ridge with a BOOKEND! The fans fire up and spell it out! “C! H! A! S! E! U!” Trick and Chase both stomp it out, and Ridge runs away! But will Ridge do far more than just win a title opportunity next week?

Jaida Parker speaks.

“Okay, Sol, I see you. Congrats, baby, you qualified. But best believe that’s the closest you get to being called the Iron Survivor. Because I know whoever they put in front of me, I will qualify, and I will have my hand raised, just like last week when I smashed that brick on Lola’s skull. So to Sol and whatever three other little ladies end up in that ring with me, it don’t matter if I start, if I come in the middle of the match, or if I’m in last, Jaida Parker is gonna finish it and leave Deadline as THE Iron Survivor. Clock it.”

Josh Briggs speaks with Ava Raine.

Briggs says that during his time in Japan for Pro-Wrestling Noah, Yoshiki Inamura really impressed him. Inamura thanks Josh-san, and says that it is his honor to be part of an NXT show. But wait, Eddie Thorpe barges in. He’s sick of being blown off! First was the stuff with Rhea Ripley, then with last week’s Deadline announcement. He just needs five minutes, please. Ava apologizes to Briggs & Inamura, they leave, and Ava wants Eddie to understand. Eddie says she doesn’t understand. He needs something! Yes, she does understand, which is why he’s in an Iron Survivor Challenge qualifier.

Eddie thanks Ava for this, heads out, but who will the Alpha Wolf have to make it through if he wants that golden ticket?

Adriana Rizzo VS Nikkita Lyons!

The Don has a target on his back, but Big Rizz is dealing with the one put on hers by the Lyoness. Will Rizzo win big for The Family? Or will Lyons’ roar be deafening?

NXT returns and Rizzo makes her entrance. The bell rings and the two run up to tie up. Lyons puts Rizzo on ropes, Rizzo slips away, and Rizzo SLAPS Lyons! The fans fire up but Lyons is pissed! Lyons KICKS Rizzo, puts her on the apron, but Rizzo RAMS in! Rizzo slingshots up and over, but Lyons stays up. Lyons drags Rizzo right up, they fire forearms back and forth, but Rizzo gets the edge! Rizzo rabbit punches, then she shoves Lyons into a corner! Rizzo DROPKCISK Lyons, runs in, but is put back on the apron. Lyons stops the shoulder tackle this time to CLUB Rizzo! Rizzo Rizzo stays up to hit back!

Rizzo climbs, leaps, but Lyons sidesteps! FULL NELSON! Rizzo flails, so Lyons thrashes her against the ropes! The ref reprimands, but Lyons drags Rizzo to center. Rizzo endures as Lyons throws her around more. The fans rally up but Lyons SLAMS Rizzo down! Lyons stalks Rizzo to a corner, taunts her, then RIPCORD SUPLEXES her! Cover, TWO! Rizzo stays in this but Lyons drags her up again. Lyons whips, but Rizzo manages to reverse! Lyions botty bumps in return! Lyons has Rizzo in ropes, then HIP ATTACKS again and again! The fans are torn as Rizzo flops back. Lyons storms back in to cover, TWO!

Lyons stays on Rizzo with a seated full nelson. The fans rally for Rizzo as she endures, but Lyons thrashes her around. Rizzo fights up, the fans rally, but Lyons wrangles her back down. Rizzo keeps fighting, even as Lyons leans on her. Lyons taunts Rizzo but Rizzo is up again! Rizzo powers up to arm-drag free! The fans fire up but Lyons hurries after Rizzo. Rizzo UP KICKS! And then ELBOWS Lyons! Rizzo runs to throw forearm after forearm! Lyons staggers around, Rizzo knocks her over! Rizzo goes to suplex, but that’s too much Lyons to lift! Rizzo dodges a haymaker to springboard CROSSBODY!

The fans fire up as Rizzo kips up! Rizzo roars, runs, and THESZ PRESS! Fast hands rain down, then Rizzo covers, TWO! Lyons stays in this but Rizzo covers again, TWO! Rizzo whips, Lyons reverses. Lyons runs up but into a BOOT! Rizzo goes up, up and leaps, FLYING THESZ PRESS! But Lyons rolls through! HEEL KICK! Rizzo flounders and Lyons goes to the corner. Lyons climbs, roars, and then hits the LYONS ROAR! Cover, Lyons wins!

Winner: Nikkita Lyons, by pinfall

Rizzo put up a fight, but her lionheart could not stop Nikkita’s lion strength! Wait, Rizzo gets the trust crowbar! CLONK! Down goes Lyons! That’s how they do it in the D’Angelo neighborhoods! Rizzo says now they’re even! Will Rizzo let Lyons have this win if it means parting ways?

Andre Chase returns backstage.

And Chase U runs up to ask what the hell! Putting the school on the line? What’s that about? Chase tells Riley & Thea that high risk means high reward. Duke asks how that worked out last time. They’ve had his back through it all, but this is too much! Chase says he appreciates and values their opinions, but Chase U was built on taking risks. Like taking a risk on a smug Aussie when no one else would trust him, and that man became MVP. Or how about a young lady who became a grown-ass woman? Or even a prospect from the UK that now soars with the highest of fliers? Bring it in.

Chase U huddles up, and Mr. Chase says they’ve been through it all, and together. He won’t let anyone or anything break them up. As far as Chase personally, he’s never had an NXT Championship match. Next week, Chase gets that opportunity. And then Chase U will ride the highest of highs, just trust him. Mr. Chase heads out, and Duke says this could end up the lowest of lows. Riley says Chase is gambling with their future, again. Thea is speechless as she shakes her head. But will the gamble pay off? Or will Ridge ruin what little Andre Chase has left?

Zaria speaks.

“Some say I’m a mystery. From where I’m standing, there is no mystery. I’m a fearless warrior, a destructive force, that has come to NXT to rip and tear. Iron Survivor Challenger. Five superstars entrenched in combat to see who is left standing when the clock runs out. My kind of fun. I enjoy inciting chaos. I thrive in carnage! And after Deadline, there will be no more mystery to who is Zaria.” The Agent of Change is ready to earn a spot, will she go all the way to earn a title shot against Roxanne Perez?

2024 Men’s Iron Survivor Challenge Qualifier: Je’Von Evans VS Lexis King!

The Young OG was hoping Unc was gonna make it through, but Wes Lee had different plans. Will Je’Von get even with Wes by also qualifying? Or will the Drama King finally head for the throne of NXT?

NXT returns and Lexis makes his entrance. The bell rings and the two tie up. Lexis rolls Je’Von, ONE, but Je’Von sunset flips! TWO, and Lexis goes for an arm. Lexis wrenches, wristlocks, but Je’Von rolls, kips up, cartwheels, handsprings, and wrenches back to wristlock. Lexis fights up, rolls, cartwheels, then rolls, and KICKS Je’Von! The fans cheer, then things speed up. Lexis drops down, hurdles, but Je’Von leaps over. Then Je’Von springboards to roll Lexis up. TWO, and Lexis dodges. Lexis drops onto the drop down, O’Conner! TWO, and Je’Von trips Lexis! Cover, ONE! Lexis sweeps and covers, ONE!

The two reset and the fans cheer this technical exchange. They tie up. Je’Von headlocks, but Lexis pulls hair a bit. Lexis powers up and out, but Je’Von runs him over. Cover, TWO! Je’Von keeps moving, he handsprings over but Lexis RAMS low. Lexis waistlocks, Je’Von slips around to facelock, then he goes and BOUNCY RANAS! Lexis staggers up into a DROPKICK! Lexis bails out, the fans fire up, and Je’Von builds speed! Je’Von DIVES! Down goes Lexis at the ramp and the fans fire up more! Je’Von puts Lexis in, then springboards, but Lexis ducks under! Lexis wrenches, whips, but Je’Von reverses.

Lexis goes up and over, keeps moving, but Je’Von jumps, just not enough! Lexis accidently gets Je’Von in the OGs. Lexis wants to cover off the mishap, but the good guy in him says no, that’s not fair. Lexis lets Je’Von catch his breath while NXT goes to break.

NXT returns again and Lexis has Je’Von in a HALF CRAB! The fans rally for Je’Von as he endures, and he fights to turn over. Je’Von kicks at Lexis with his free leg, and Lexis staggers back. Je”von swings, Lexis gets around to back supelx. Je’Von lands out to CHOP! And CHOP! And whip! Lexis reverses, Je’Von LARIATS! The fans fir eup as Je’Von rallies with elbows, then goe sMatrix to STUNNER! Je’Von holnds on to then turn and suplex! Kip up and the fans fire up! Je’Von goes to the corner, to the apron, and he springboards back in, FLYING CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Lexis survives but Je’Von stays focused.

Je’Von goes up a corner, takes aim, and he MOON- NO, he has to roll through as Lexis moves! Lexis SUPERKICKS! Cover, TWO!! Je’Von survives that shot and Lexis taunts him, “Who’s the best now?!” Lexis SLAPS Je’Von, so Je’Von SLAPS back! The fans rally as they fire forearms back and forth. Lexis CHOPS, Je’Von SUPER PUNCHES! Lexis BOOTS Je’Von, but Je’Von REBOUND ENZIGIRIS! The fans fire up as Je’Von goes up and up and FIVE STAR FROG SPLASHES!! Cover, TWO!! Je’Von hurries to bring Lexis up! Leixs wrenches, hops on, BACKSTABBER! Then Lexis half nelsons, fisherman, BUSTER!! Cover, TWO!!!

The fans fire up as Je’Von survives! Lexis grows frustrated but the fans love “NXT! NXT!” making this the match. Lexis runs up, into a SUPERKICK from Je’Von! Je’Von goes up, up and SKY TWISTER! Cover, Je’Von wins!

Winner: Je’Von Evans, by pinfall (advances to the Iron Survivor Challenge)

A standing ovation for The Young OG and Drama King, but better than this match is Je’Von showing Lexis respect. Lexis shows it back and the two hug it out. Will Je’Von make sure to bounce his way right to the top of NXT with Deadline?

Nathan Frazer & Axiom are watching backstage.

The NXT Tag Team Champions have to admit, that was good. Wes Lee and Je’Von Evans are the first two into the Iron Survivor Challenge, that match is shaping up. Plus, Ava had her talk with the tag division so- Frazer says that is down the line. Maybe now is a good a time as any to say… Frazer talked with Ava, he’s got a qualifier! Pretty cool, right? Axiom asks, “What?!” Uh, what does he mean, “What?” Frazer’s gonna win his way into the Iron Survivor, win the Iron Survivor, then win the NXT Championship. Axiom can’t believe this is happening again! Every team in NXT is breathing down their neck and Frazer wants to be in the Iron Survivor!?

Frazer wants Axiom to calm down. It’s not like they won’t be working out together. Plus, Axiom has been in that match before, so maybe he could give Frazer some tips. Axiom has a headache. Well, take a deep breath and think about it. Frazer leaves before Axiom can say more, and OTM steps in. His tag partner’s after singles gold now? Is everything good? That doesn’t sit right with Price & Nima. But Stacks & Luca step in to say OTM should mind their own business. Worry about yourselves! Refs hurry in before this goes from arguing to fighting, but will OTM and The Family be first to fight for a title shot?

Adonis and Dion talk backstage.

This Mixed Tag thing… Did Dion tell Karmen about Megan, Kesha and Samantha, did he? No! See? That’s why he’s Adonis’ boy. Oh, so now they’re boys again? Adonis says don’t even worry about that, let’s go. Dion follows Adonis, and Lexis storms in with some frustration. Another loss… But Hank ‘n’ Tank walk over to say Lexis did good out there. Dante Chen walks in, too, and says that was indeed honorable. Lexis chose honor over glory, and that’s what matters. Just keep your head up. Lexis thanks the guys for saying that, but Gallus walks in. Wolfgang says they’re handing out pats on the back for losses now, eh? Pathetic.

With that attitude, Gallus has one less team to worry about. Oh, one less? No, Hank ‘n’ Tank are the team to worry about. They stepped up to The Good Brothers, they can step up to this. Lexis has everyone settle down, but the tag division is at a boiling point. Who gets burned while the other ones head for gold?

NXT Women’s North American Championship: Fallon Henley w/ The Fatal Influence VS Kelani Jordan!

It literally took all three of them to take this title at Halloween Havoc, and it seems Jacy & Jazmyn are more than happy to make it all three of them again to keep it. Will Kelani be able to stand out and take back what was taken from her? Or is there no stopping the Fatal Influence?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see whose influence is stronger!

The bell rings and the two tie up. They go around, end up on ropes, and then end up in a corner. Fallon powers up but Kelani throws her down. They stay tied up, stand again, and now Fallon throws Kelani. The collar ‘n’ elbow is in there tight, and Kelani puts Fallon back on ropes. The ref counts, both women let go, but then they tie up again! Kelani arm-drags, leg sweeps, covers, ONE! Fallon arm-drags, but Kelani avoids a sweep! Fallon CHOPS, but that just pisses Kelani off! The fans rally up while the two argue. Fallon shoves, then dodges to headlock, Kelani powers up and out, CLOBBERS Fallon, and fans fire up again!

Kelani runs up, slingshot arm-drags, then DROP- NO, Fallon dodges! Fallon stands Kelani up to RAM her into the corner! And RAM her again! And again! The ref counts, Fallon stops, and then Fallon whips corner to corner. Kelani goes up but Fallon catches her, only for Kelani to swing and RANA! Fallon staggers up, into a DROPKICK! Fallon bails out, the fans rally for Kelani, and Kelani storms right up to ropes. Fallon moves as Kelani slingshots, so Kelani lands safe on the apron. But Fallon YANKS Kelani down, and SMACKS her off the desk! The fans boo but Kelani blocks the next bump to BACK HAND Fallon!

Kelani hops up onto the desk, to QUEBRADA Fallon down! The fans fire up and Kelani rises again. Kelani vows to get that belt back, and NXT goes to break.

NXT returns and Kelani fights a headlock. Kelani fires body shots, then arm-drags free. Fallon runs up, Kelani dodges and comes back, DOUBLE FACEBUSTERS bring them both down! The fans fire up while both women rise. Fallon ROCKS Kelani, Kelani ROCKS Fallon! Wait, a quick picture in picture shows Ty & Ty are now brawling with Myles & Heights! Forearms and haymakers everywhere, and back in the ring, Kelani has the edge! Kelani whips, then LARIATS! And LARIATS again! Cartwheel and BACK ELBOW! The fans fire up while both women are down, and then Kelani kips up! Jacy is mad but Kelani gets moving!

Kelani hits some ROLLING THUNDER SHOOTING STAR! Cover, TWO! Jacy is furious that Kelani hit that at all, but Kelani puts Fallon in a drop zone. But Fallon YANKS Kelani off the corner! Then Fallon goes up, up, and BLOCKBUSTERS! Fallon keeps moving, FACEBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Kelani toughs it out but Fallon drags her up. Fallon goes to suplex but Kelani RAMS her into a corner! Kelani puts Fallon up top, then she climbs to fire forearms! The fans fire up but Fallon shoves Kelani back. Kelani hurries to GAMANGIRI! Fallon wobbles, Kelani climbs! Kelani has Fallon up top for a SUPER SPANISH FLY! Cover, TWO!!

Fallon survives and Jacy can breathe again. Kelani shrugs it off, goes back up, and she 450- NO, Kelani rolls through as Fallon moves! Fallon then body scissor cradles! TWO!! Kelani escapes, Fallon hurries to her feet. Kelani wrenches Fallon around and around, ANGLE SLAM! Fallon is in a drop zone, Kelani hits the ONE OF A KIND SAULT! Cover, Jacy gives Fallon the ROPEBREAK!! The fans boo, only the ref missed that one! Kelani knows it, too! So she WRECKS Jacy with a dropkick! Jazmyn gets up, Kelani DUMPS her down! And SUPERKICKS! Fallon runs up, Kelani waistlocks! O’Conner Roll, TWO!

Kelani runs into Jacy’s ROLLING ELBOW!! Another cheat! FALLON FAMOUSER!! Cover, Fallon wins!

Winner: Fallon Henley, by pinfall (still NXT Women’s North American Champion)

They warned Kelani and then followed through, ALL THREE Influencers got involved to keep this title from Kelani! And if that’s how they operate, then- Wait, OTM snatch the mics. They tell Frazer, go ahead and try the Iron Survivor, because Price & Nima are gonna take those tag titles! A warning to the rest of this division: They’re not easy to find. Speaking of, Luca & Stacks go right after them! The fans fire up as this brawl happens right by the desk, and Price SLAMS Luca on the desk! But Luca’s right up to throw more hands! Cameramen get knocked over as GALLUS now joins in, incensed by OTM’s words! And here come Hank ‘n’ Tank!

The fans are fired up as the tag division brawls all over the desk and ringside area! Refs and security rush out here but fans want to “LET THEM FIGHT! LET THEM FIGHT!” And fight is what they’re all doing! Who rises up from the chaos to go for gold?

My Thoughts:

A great NXT to start towards Deadline, all thriller, no filler. Giulia & Vaquer VS Lash & Jakara was a great opening tag match, but naturally it was Giulia & Vaquer winning. They’re both getting Iron Survivor Challenge qualifiers, so I’m pretty sure they’re both getting in on that match. Great match from Sol and Cora, and it’s actually a little surprising Cora lost. At the same time, Sol’s been the go-to for big matches, she’ll make a solid part of this match. Good promo from Jaida to call Sol and pretty much everyone else out, and it feels like she’s also a shoe-in for entering the match. Then Zaria and her promo, she’s a shoe-in for the fifth, and this is going to be the best Iron Survivor match period.

The men’s match is still shaping up, though, with Wes and Je’Von bringing their grudge into the match. Great matches from Wes VS Cedric and Je’Von VS Lexis, especially with Lexis adding to his Face turn. Refusing to jump on an accidental low blow was a great touch, and I appreciated other superstars, such as past rival, Dante Chen, seeing the change Lexis is trying to make. Briggs bringing in Yoshiki Inamura from NOAH is cool, I’m sure we’ll see great things from Inamura. Eddy Thorpe getting an Iron Survivor qualifier, sadly feels like he might just be putting someone else over but I guess we’ll wait and see.

The D’Angelo Family was really busy tonight. Not only the tag division stuff, but Tony was properly confronted by Spears & Jensen tonight. That was definitely an interesting move for Spears to say Jensen gets the title shot, but obviously that’s because Spears still wants to be THE NXT Champion. And now with this “Nico” guy, Spears’ group could grow into a full faction with even a tag team and a female member to spread across the divisions. Rizzo VS Lyons was a really good match, but of course Lyons won the match for being that much bigger and stronger. Rizzo getting Lyons with the crowbar after was a great touch, though.

Great stuff in the tag division. Fraxiom has dysfunction again as Frazer still wants to try and grab singles gold. This has to be the time that costs them the gold and their friendship, they’ve dragged this out long enough. That tag brawl to end the show was awesome, I wonder if this leads to a gauntlet to win the title match. Or maybe a tournament? We did see teams kinda pair off and pick on each other, so those are easy first round match-ups right there. This can go the three weeks we have left so that it goes from 8 to 4 to 2, the finals being on the go-home and the winners immediately turning around to face Fraxiom on Saturday, December 7th.

Speaking of the closing, very good main event from Kelani and Fallon, but of course Jacy & Jazmyn influence the outcome. This is kind of textbook for any group Jacy’s ever been in, and unless we’re talking Zaria or another powerhouse, I don’t see someone taking this title from the Influence for some time. Well, either that or we get the Face flipside and have women who stick together to counter the Fatal Influence. Maybe Karmen and Brinley can try that, provided this story with Adonis doesn’t tear everyone apart. The Mixed Tag will be a good match, but I feel like Karmen and Adonis will be very dysfunctional and Dion & Brin win.

And really good stuff in this NXT Championship story. Trick wanting to give Chase a match is noble of him, but Ridge does have a point that Chase hasn’t exactly earned it when he always loses “the big one.” Chase putting the university, aka the faction, on the line is definitely big stuff. I can’t believe this could be the end of the honestly most entertaining group in NXT probably ever, a real silver-lining during NXT 2.0 and the nonsense Vince shoved into it. But maybe there will be a new silver lining that, should Chase lose, the members can break out and go for titles on their own, such as Duke for the NXT North American should Spears actually get that title off Tony.

My Score: 8.9/10

The Japanese Young Punk takes on the Mad Man!

NJPW visits Lowell Memorial Auditorium to have a battle of young stars! Will Gabe Kidd be NJPW Strong? Or will Kosei Fujita rename this all NJPW Mighty?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Kickoff – Strong Survivor Match: Matt Vandagriff VS Seabass Finn; Vandagriff wins.
• David Finlay VS Kevin Knight; Finlay wins.
• NJPW Strong Openweight Tag Team Championships: Shane Haste & Mikey Nicholls VS Grizzled Young Veterans; Grizzled Young Veterans win and become the new NJPW Strong Openweight Tag Team Champions.
• Lio Rush VS Mustafa Ali; Lio wins.
• Best 2 Out of 3 Tag Match: Fred Rosser & Tom Lawlor VS West Coast Wrecking Crew; WCWC wins.
• NJPW Strong Women’s Championship #1 Contender’s Fatal 4 Way: Anna Jay VS Trish Adora VS Hazuki VS Koguma; Hazuki wins and will challenge Mercedes Mone for the title.
• Shingo Takagi & Yota Tsuji VS The Kingdom; Takagi & Tsuij win.
• Ryohei Oiwa VS KENTA; Ryohei wins.
• Zack Sabre Jr. & Bad Dude Tito VS Shota Umino & Tomohiro Ishii; Shota & Ishii win.
• AEW International Championship: Konosuke Takeshita VS TJP; Konosuke wins and retains.
• NJPW Strong Openweight Championship: Gabe Kidd VS Kosei Fujita; Gabe wins and retains.

PLAY BY PLAY

Grizzled Young Veterans speak.

James Drake says, “On November 8th, NJPW Strong comes to Lowell, Massachusetts. And the match is set. It’s gonna be the Grizzled Young Veterans VS TMDK for the Openweight Tag Team titles.” Zack Gibson says, “In this job, perception is reality. The wrestling world is oh so very fickle. And without tag titles around your waist, it is almost impossible to get any respect in this job. TMDK, you have something that we want, and quite frankly at this point in our career, we need. On November 8th, those titles are coming home with us.”

So when GYV take those titles and expose TMDK for what they really are, the question is: How long is Zack Sabre gonna wanna hang out with you? After all, he’s got GYV’s numbers. Mr. Mayhem & Liverpool’s Number One want to tear The Mighty down, but will they find that The Mighty Don’t Kneel?

NJPW Strong Openweight Tag Team Championships: Shane Haste & Mikey Nicholls VS Grizzled Young Veterans!

If tag titles bring respect, then TMDK already lost some respect at Power Struggle. Will they lose all respect if they drop the blue belts tonight? Or will Hysterical Haste & Mad Mikey be mightier than the grizzled Gibson & Drake?

The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and time to #GritYourTeeth!

The teams sort out and Shane starts against Gibson. The fans rally up as the two circle. They tie up, Shane waistlocks, then spins Gibson to a headlock. Gibson rolls to a cover, ONE, and Shane holds the headlock. Gibson wrenches and arm-drags Shane to an armlock. Shane endures the grind but Gibson bends fingers! Shane fights up, reaches for ropes, but Gibson keeps him back. Shane rolls, kips up, breaks free and snapmares Gibson for a basement dropkick! The fans fire up while Shane flexes. Shane wrenches Gibson, tags Mikey, and TMDK double wrench to RAM Gibson down! Then they split the wishbone!

Mikey brings Gibson up, bumps him off buckles, then CHOPS! Mikey bumps Gibson off more buckles, CHOPS again, then brings Gibson out. But Gibson fires a forearm! Mikey fights back, they go back and forth, and then Mikey CHOPS Gibson off his feet! Gibson is frustrated but Mikey snapmares him into a chinlock. Gibson endures, fights up, but Shane tags in. TMDK whips Gibson to the corner, Shane runs up to UPPERCUT! Mikey runs up but Gibson puts him on the apron! Gibson BOOTS Shane, ELBOWS Mikey, then runs up on Shane. Shane dodges a shot to CHOP! Gibson still headlocks, Drake tags in as Shane powers out.

Gibson whips Shane to drop down, Darke sweeps the legs! Gibson basement dropkicks! Shane bails out, Gibson fetches him, Drake slingshots! PLANCHA BACKBREAKER COMBO! The fans fire up and Drake clamps onto Shane. Drake RAMS him into railing! The fans rally while Drake shoves Shane down. The ring count starts, Drake drags Shane up and puts him on the apron. Drake CLUBS Shane, then slides in. Drake stomps Shane’s arms, then stomps him on the back. Shane fires body shots but Drake CLUBS Shane down. Drake drags Shane back iup, whips him to an open corner, and LARIATS! BULLDOG!

Drake taunts Mikey, then drags Shane over to tag Gibson. GYV double whip Shane to a corner, then Drake ELBOWS him! Gibson LARIATS Shane then feeds him to the WHEEL KICK! The fans fire up while Gibson brings Shane back up. Gibson short arm LARIATS, then covers, TWO! Mikey is a half second behind but he still stomps Gibson! The ref reprimands, Gibson protests, but the fans rally up. Gibson clamps onto Shane and grinds him down with a headlock. Shane endures as Gibson pushes up with his legs. Gibson grinds the hold but Shane still fights up. Shane fires body shots, but Gibson fires forearms.

Gibson reels Shane in, but Shane fights the suplex! Gibson still tries but Shane suplexes Gibson up and over! The fans fire up while both men are down! Gibson crawls, hot tag to Drake! Drake slips around Shane to stand in his way, only for Shane to DROPKICK him down! The fans fire up and Shane crawls around. Drake grabs a foot, but Shane kicks him away! Tag to Mikey! DOUBLE LARIATS on GYV! Mikey LARIATS Drake in a corner, LARIATS Gibson in the other! Drake runs up, is sent into Gibson, and Mikey DOUBLE LARIATS again! Mikey fireman’s carries Drake but Drake slips down. Drake ducks an elbow but ends up in a DDT!

Mikey BLASTS Gibson off the apron! Mikey hurries to SLIDING LARIAT Drake! Cover, TWO! Drake survives but the fans rally up. Mikey says time to blow it up! MIKEY- NO, Drake slips free to ENZIGIRI! Mikey staggers back, Shane tags in! Drake fireman’s carries Mikey, but Mikey slips free! Feed to the UPPERCUT, then the BACK SUPLEX NECKBREAKER COMBO! Cover, TWO! Shane hurries to FALCON ARROW! Cover, TWO! Drake survives and the fans rally up again. Shane hurries to bring Drake around but Gibson YANKS Mikey down! Shane grabs at Gibson, but Drake rolls him up! TWO!

Shane KICKS Drake, BOOTS him, and hits an INVERTED EXPLODER! The fans fire up as Shane aims from a corner. Drake blocks the Shane-ing Wizard! DRAGON SCREW! Tag to Gibson and GYV get Shane up. Drake reels Shane into a dragon sleeper, and then Gibson suplexes Drake?! ASSISTED STUNNER! And then BACKSTABBER! Cover, MIKEY BREAKS IT! The fans fire up but Drake ROCKS and TOSSES Mikey! Gibson snarls, and he vows to end this. Tag to Drake and GYV drag Shane up again. They mug Shane with shots to the face, and even talk trash, before Drake BOOTS Shane down!

Gibson talks trash on the fans, they boo him but Gibson tags back in. Gibson lifts Shane while Drake climbs, but Mikey makes the save! TMDK shoves Gibson, Drake leaps over, but into the POWERBOMB URENAGE COMBO! AKA the Power Bottom! Gibson runs up but into a scoop! TANK BUSTER!! Cover, TWO?!? Gibson survives and TMDK says they’ll just up the ante! The fans fire up as Mikey scoops and Shane climbs. Gibson slips free, shoves Mikey at Shane but Shane leaps over! Shane’s knee jams! And Drake drags Mikey outta the ring! But Shane cradle counters Gibson! TWO!! Gibson escapes but Shane fireman’s carries!

Gibson scrambles free, shoves Shane, but Shane BOOTS back! But now Drake grabs Shane! Gibson distracts the ref while Drake CHOKES Shane with a towel! Drake HOTSHOTS Shane for good measure! The fans boo but Drake storms in. Gibson & Drake set up, GRIT YOUR TEETH!! Cover, GYV WIN!!!

Winners: Grizzled Young Veterans, by pinfall (NEW NJPW Strong Openweight Tag Team Champions)

Is this truly the TMDK Era? Hard to say now that Shane & Mikey have lost all their belts going into World Tag League season! But then, will NJPW now belong to GYV?

Best 2 Out of 3 Tag Match: Fred Rosser & Tom Lawlor VS West Coast Wrecking Crew!

The name is a bit of a misnomer. Think of this as more a Three Stages of Hell Tag Match, because every fall escalates the violence! This first fall is a TABLES Tag Match, first team to break a table with just one of their opponents takes it. The second fall is a Submission Tag Match, meaning only tap outs, no pins. And if need be, the third fall will be a rather unique combination of LAST MAN STANDING STRAP MATCH!! What won’t Team Dirty Work do to end this with Royce Isaacs & Jorel Nelson?

The fans rally for “FILTHY! FILTHY!” even before the bell, and then the brawl is on! The fans fire up as Lawlor has Nelson and Rosser has Isaacs. Lawlor stomps Nelson into a corner while Rosser CLUBS and TOSSES Isaacs. Lawlor does the same with Nelson then Dirty Work goes out after them. The brawl continues, the fans rally up, and Rosser gives Isaacs SNAKE EYES off the railing! Lawlor CHOPS Nelson down and the fans fire up. Lawlor whips Nelson into railing, but Isaacs ROCKS Rosser back. Isaacs CLUBS Rosser while Lawlor sends Nelson into more railing! But now Isaacs sends Rosser into railing!

Nelson hits Lawlor back and sends him into railing! Isaacs fires knees, and Nelson brings out a table! Rosser is sent into more railing, then Isaacs stomps him down. Nelson JAMS Lawlor with the table, then stands it up near the stairs. Lawlor hurries up those stairs to go to the ramp. Nelson follows, but Lawlor CHOPS! The fans on this upper deck fire up as the action comes closer, and Nelson SUPERKICKS Lawlor! Nelson tells fans to move, even this poor old lady! The fans do move, and Nelson BOWLS Lawlor into chairs! Rosser ELBOWS Isaacs in the head, but Nelson runs into the ring to then WRECK Rosser with a dropkick!

WCWC regroup, and the fans rally for “OLD LADY! OLD LADY!” to encourage the nice old lady who stood up to Nelson. Wait, Nelson takes a camera to film Rosser’s pain up close. Isaacs sets up another table! Nelson stomps Rosser but Rosser hits back! Isaacs CLOBBERS Rosser! Nelson CATAPULTS Rosser to Isaacs, but Rosser CLOBBERS Isaacs back! Rosser BOOTS Nelson, LOW BLOWS Isaacs, and the fans fire up! Rosser trips Isaacs, then CATAPULTS Isaacs into the POST! The fans cheer as Rosser goes back for Nelson. They’re on the apron, APRON BACK SUPLEX! Then BACK SUPLEX to the floor for Isaacs!

The fans fire up as Rosser has wrecked the wrecking crew, but is not done with them! Rosser brings Nelson to his table by the ramp! Rosser CLUBS Nelson, puts him on the table, and Lawlor wants a high-five from the nice old lady. She tentatively gives one, and the fans cheer! Lawlor then DIVING FOREARM SMASHES Nelson through the table! First fall goes to Team Dirty Work!

Dirty Work: 1; WCWC: 0

The fans fire up as Lawlor & Rosser get in the ring, ready for round 2! Isaacs fetches Nelson out of the wreckage and the fans rally up. WCWC get in the ring, and the bell rings on the submission match! Rosser fires forearms and CHOPS on Isaacs, whips him to ropes, but Isaacs reverses. Rosser CLOBBERS Isaacs, snapmares him, then drops a leg! And then another leg! Cover but Rosser forgot, this is submissions only. So Rosser clamps on a chicken wing! Isaacs fights off the crossface but Lawlor waistlocks. Isaacs switches, Lawlor switches, Rosser runs in, SHOULDER TACKLE RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP COMBO!

The fans rally up as Dirty Work work together. Lawlor sends Rosser at Nelson, HIP ATTACK in the corner! Lawlor RAMS Isaacs, Rosser LARIATS! They bring Isaacs out to DOUBLE FUJIWARA ARMBAR!! Isaacs is caught, but Nelson grabs at Rosser. Nelson drags Rosser from the ring to send him into railing! Lawlor lets off of Isaacs to go for Nelson, but Nelson slides in! Nelson builds speed, but then stops just to flip everyone off. Lawlor slides back in, but then right back out, he tricks Nelson! Nelson runs away from Lawlor, and the cat ‘n’ mouse game leads Lawlor into a  POUNCE from Lawlor! Lawlor hits railing!

The fans boo as Isaacs roars, but Nelson puts Rosser in the ring to beat on him! Nelson HEADBUTTS Rosser, Isaac stomps Rosser, and WCWC have Rosser isolated. They get Rosser up for more mugging, and then they double wrench. They double atomic drop, then Nelson dropkicks a leg out! Isaacs deadlift GERMAN SUPLEXES! The fans boo but WCWC decide on what holds to use. Nelson grabs a leg, ANKLE LOCK! Isaacs plays defense as Lawlor stirs, but Rosser BOOTS Nelson away! Isaacs hurries to hoist Rosser up, SPINEBUSTER! Isaacs rains down forearms, and only stops when his arm gets tired!

The ref checks Rosser, and Rosser is busted open! And busted open something fierce, that crimson mask is quickly becoming a sleeve of red down Rosser’s arm! Isaacs shows no mercy as he stomps Rosser now! Isaacs hammers away on that bloody wound! The fans that aren’t in shock are booing WCWC hard. Rosser sputters from behind his own crimson mask, and WCWC drag him up. Isaacs whips Rosser to a corner, then he sends Nelson in. Rosser BOOTS Nelson! Isaacs runs up, but he blocks the boots! Isaacs ties up Rosser’s legs, YANKS him from the corner, and turns over, TEXAS CLOVERLEAF! Nelson adds a CROSSFACE!!

The fans freak out as Rosser is stuck in a double submission!! But Lawlor jumps onto Isaacs for a SLEEPER! Isaacs RAMS Lawlor into a corner, and Nelson lets off Rosser to run in. Lawlor puts Nelson on the apron and ELBOWS him down! Lawlor has Isaacs for a TACKLE and FALLING HAMMER! Lawlor staggers while the ref checks Rosser. The fans rally for Dirty Work as Lawlor climbs up. Lawlor has Nelson, HEADBUTTS him, then brings him up with a wristlock! They go to the very top, SUPER ROLLING KEYLOCK! And then a roll through for the KIMURA!! Nelson endures, clasps hands, but Rosser has Isaacs! CROSSFACE CHICKEN WING!

Isaacs fights Rosser’s hold, and he breaks free to switch things around! DEATHLOCK STF!! Lawlor SLAPS away on Nelson, but Rosser is sputtering from all the blood coming out of his forehead!! Lawlor pulls on Nelson’s arm, but he sees Rosser is fading! Lawlor lets Nelson go to STOP Rosser’s hand from hitting the mat!! Lawlor won’t let Rosser give up, but Nelson SHOTGUNS Rosser down!! The ref checks Rosser again, Rosser is OUT, WCWC scores the second fall!

Dirty Work: 1; WCWC: 1

The fans boo, but now we’re all tied up. That means that for the first time in NJPW, and perhaps anywhere in wrestling, we’re about to see a Last Man Standing Strap Match! But Rosser can barely stand as it is! The refs won’t let this start until Rosser is up, but WCWC isn’t waiting any longer! They push the extra refs aside, Nelson beats up on Lawlor while Isaacs stomps Rosser! The fans boo, the main referee reprimands, but WCWC keep beating Team Dirty Work! Isaacs LASHES Lawlor, only because he’s not strapped to Rosser. Speaking of, Rosser runs up to CLOBBER Isaacs! Isaacs CHOKES Rosser with the strap! Nelson adds his boot!

Lawlor runs up but he just gets another LASHING and STOMPING! Isaacs CHOKES Rosser, Nelson drags Lawlor out of the ring to beat on him, and then Isaacs CLOBBERS Rosser! Nelson CHOKES Lawlor on the apron! Isaacs adds on! The ref reprimands, this fall can’t actually start if Isaacs isn’t attached to Rosser! Isaacs doesn’t care, he LASHES Lawlor again! The fans boo, the rest of the refs reprimand, but then Nelson LARIATS Lawlor down! Rosser grabs at Nelson but Isaacs LASHES Rosser down! Isaacs CHOKES Rosser with the strap, and then Nelson LASHES Lawlor. The fans boo as Nelson hops the railing to YANK Lawlor into it!

WCWC stand Lawlor up so Isaacs can LASH him! Rosser CLOBBERS Isaacs again! Isaacs comes back to CLOBBER Rosser! Nelson hops back over the railing and he drags Lawlor into the ring. Isaacs joins Nelson so that they can bring Lawlor up. Rosser flounders but WCWC LASH Lawlor, then PILE- NO, Lawlor fights the lift! Lawlor ELBOWS Isaacs, ROCKS Nelson, then whips Nelson into Isaacs! The fans fire up as WCWC is down! Rosser is back, he pounds the mat, and the fans rally! Rosser ROCKS Nelson, LARIATS Isaacs, repeat! Rosser has new life and the fans are thunderous! Rosser grabs the strap from Isaacs to ROLLING ELBOW!

Rosser is finally secured in the strap, and NOW this fall can begin! The fans fire up as Dirty Work fires off hands on WCWC! They DECK WCWC, then put them in corners for CHOPS and LARIATS over and over! Then Dirty Work sends WCWC at each other for a major meeting of the minds! Lawlor fireman’s carries Nelson, DEATH VALLEY DRIVER! Rosser has Isaacs, GUT CHECK!! Both Isaacs and Nelson are down so a count can begin! The fans count along, WCWC is down at 5 of 10! Rosser and Lawlor lean on ropes as they watch, and Nelson stirs. Nelson and Isaacs are both down at 8, but they stand at 9!

Lawlor goes after Nelson to STRAP COBRA CLUTCH! Rosser has Isaacs for the same! The fans fire up as WCWC suffers! Lawlor & Rosser let go to DOUBLE ROLLING ELBOW! And then a KNEE for Nelson! Fireman’s carry and a DEATH VALLEY DRIVER for Isaacs! The fans are fired up again as WCWC is down! The count begins again, we pass 5 of 10 again, and only Nelson is stirring. We hit 7, then 8! 9! But then Nelson rolls out of the ring! He stands so that saves Isaacs, too! Isaac rolls out, Rosser BOOTS him! Lawlor PENALTY KICKS Nelson! The fans rally about the table, and Lawlor says sure, why not.

Rosser CHOKES Isaacs on the mat, Nelson and Lawlor brawl on the apron edge. Nelson BOOTS Lawlor, then brings him around. Nelson hoists Lawlor up top, cravat hold, but Lawlor uses the STRAP COBRA CLUTCH!! The fans fire up as Nelson flails! Isaacs gets away from Rosser to CHOKE Lawlor! Rosser tries to pry Isaacs away! Isaacs lets go, and ends up in the CROSSFACE CHICKEN WING! But Nelson fires elbows on Lawlor! No more cobra clutch, but now it’s Isaacs suffering! Nelson uses the strap to bring Lawlor around, and SUPER CUTTER down through the table!! The fans lose their minds over that one!

A standing count starts on Nelson and Lawlor, and Rosser realizes what happened! Rosser lets Isaacs go to try and help Lawlor, but Isaacs anchors Rosser with the strap! They tug-o-war, with Rosser gaining ground inch by inc. But we’re at 8 of 10! NINE! NELSON STANDS, LAWLOR DOESN’T! Lawlor is ELIMINATED! Rosser shouts to Lawlor, but Nelson LOW BLOWS him! The fans boo, but Rosser has to now fight on his own. WCWC are bloody, hard to tell if it’s theirs or Rosser’s. Nelson goes looking under the ring while Isaacs stomps away on Rosser. Nelson brings out chair after chair and puts those in the ring!

But Rosser NUT CLAWS Isaacs! But Nelson SMACKS Rosser with the chair!! As if Rosser wasn’t in a bad way before… Isaacs lifts Rosser and Nelson goes up. FULL METAL BIG MONEY!! That piledriver drops Rosser and the count begins. The fans boo but Rosser is down at 5 of 10! And at 7! WCWC nod to each other, they feel it’s done! Rosser is down at 8! At 9! TEN!! WCWC wins!!

Winners: West Coast Wrecking Crew, 2-1 falls

The fans boo but the “Three Stages of Strong” truly pushed all four men to their limits. Nelson takes the mic to say, “G Y V!! GYV, bring yo asses to the stage right now!” The fans boo as WCWC is already calling out the new champions! Gibson & Drake walk out, rather annoyed by this. But Nelson tells them, “Nice to meet you.” This is the West Coast Wrecking Crew, and now, officially, according to them… Wait, the mic cuts out. The fans chant, “We Can’t Hear You!” Nelson is pissed so he grabs a new mic. “Just like NJPW to put the Wrecking Crew down! Just like NJPW to give us a mic that don’t work!”

The fans boo harder but Nelson seethes. Nelson says this noise means nothing to them. But those tag team championships mean everything! That is what they live for, breathe for, and just ended the careers of Rosser and Lawlor tonight! Nothing personally, but GYV has what WCWC want. And so on December 15th, Long Beach, California, those belts WILL belong to the West Coast! The fans boo but GYV says challenge accepted. Will Isaacs & Nelson show Gibson & Drake that Strong Style has evolved? Or will they just have to grit their teeth?

Mercedes Mone speaks.

Via video message, she says, “When you’re Two Belts Mone, you’ve got a target on your back. And when you’re The CEO, everyone wants to get rich and jump on the Money Train. Koguma, Hazuki, Anna Jay, Trish Adora, all want the opportunity to face me at NJPW Strong Style Evolved, December 15th, in Long Beach, California~! So you better say hello to The CEO, because one of you ladies will get the opportunity at the NJPW Strong Women’s Championship. And when you step into the ring with me, well, you become a star. Because money always changes everything.”

As if the title wasn’t motivation enough, will Mone’s message fire up The Queenslayer, The AfroPunk, The Wildheart and The Little Bear in this Fatal 4?

NJPW Strong Women’s Championship #1 Contender’s Fatal 4 Way: Anna Jay VS Trish Adora VS Hazuki VS Koguma!

The bell rings and the fans rally up. The four approach, feel things out as they circle, and then Koguma dodges to do her bear ear pose. The fans cheer, Adora and Anna shrug, and the four reset. Then Koguma dodges again! It’s #KumaTime all the time! The fans cheer “KUMA! KUMA!” Koguma gets Anna to join in? Adora and then Adora shrugs and gives in! They all “Kuma! Kuma!” around Hazuki, who knows all about this being Koguma’s tag partner. Hazuki sits down to say no with the X arms but the others all bear ear pose! Anna & Adora stomp Hazuki for being a sore sport! They whip, and use Koguma to DROPKICK Hazuki!

Then Anna & Adora DOUBLE SUPLEX! They DOUBLE MOTORCYCLE STRETCH Koguma! Hazuki runs in, Adora ROCKS her! Now we get STEREO MOTORCYCLE STRETCHES! Hazuki & Koguma endure, crawl forward, and DOUBLE ROPEBREAK! The fans cheer as Anna & Adora let go. Anna & Adora whip Hazuki & Koguma to corners,  then run up, but Hazuki & Koguma dodge! They STEREO SPLASH, then send Anna & Adora to center. Hazuki & Koguma both climb up, and the fans fire up for the MISSILE DROPKICK and CROSSBODY! Team Fukuoka W Crazy puts Anna & Adora on ropes and the fans rally up.

FWC stand on Anna & Adora, then scrub and scrub and scrub! They both run, and they both BOOT WASH! The fans fire up while Adora flops out of the ring. FWC double whip Anna to DOUBLE ELBOW her down, then stand her back up for another whip! Drop toehold, SENTON, and SPLASH! The fans fire up as FWC surround Anna. They run back up, but Anna dodges! Dropkicks cancel out, and then Anna DOUBLE DROPKICKS them! Anna whips Hazuki to a corner, then whips Koguma into her. Adora is back, Anna ROCKS her and sends her in! TRIPLE LEG LARIAT! The fans fire up as Anna has Koguma up top!

Anna DANGEROUS JAY KICKS, then ICONOCLASMS! Cover, TWO! Koguma survives but Anna drags her up. Anna has the Gory Especial, but Koguma sunset flips! TWO, and Anna hurries after Koguma. Anna whips, Koguma slides out, and Adora slides in! Alabama Lift, and the Air Raid STRETCH! Anna endures #FUBAR and the fans fire up! Anna fights free, Adora wrenches and reels her in, SWINGING BACKBREAKER! Cover, but Koguma is up top! DIVING SPLASH breaks it up! Koguma covers Anna, but Hazuki is up top! Koguma moves as Hazuki SUPER SENTONS! Anna takes the hit and the fans fire up!

Hazuki and Koguma now stare down as teammates. They run up, Koguma dodges, and then runs back in! But now Hazuki dodges! Hazuki victory rolls but Koguma rolls, and they roll, roll, roll! Koguma has the cover, ONE!! Hazuki is up fast and the fans rally up. The two reset, stare down, and Hazuki fires a forearm! Koguma fires a forearm back! Koguma eggs Hazuki on and the fans rally. Hazuki storms up to ROCK Koguma! Hazuki eggs Koguma on now, and Koguma comes back to ROCK Hazuki! The forearms go back and forth, Koguma gets the edge! Koguma runs, but Hazuki BOOTS her down! The fans fire up with Hazuki!

Hazuki drags Koguma up, runs, but Koguma dodges to CUTTER! Hazuki staggers up, and both women swing! They both ROCK each other! Adora is in, DOUBLE LARIAT TUBMAN!! The fans fire up as Adora scoops Koguma to the fireman’s carry. Koguma fights to the apron but Adora DECKS her! Koguma falls on Anna Jay! Hazuki rolls Adora up, TWO!! Adora hurries to haul Hazuki up, REVERSE NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO!! Hazuki survives and Adora can’t believe it! The fans rally up, Adora rises, and she drags Hazuki up to her feet. But Hazuki fires forearms! The fans fire up as Hazuki HAMMERS away on Adora!

The ref wants Hazuki to stop so he can check Adora. Adora is still conscious but Hazuki roars and runs. But Adora gets her in the BASEMENT GERMAN SUPLEX! But Hazuki rises?! So Adora HIGH ANGLE GERMANS! Bridging cover, TWO!! Hazuki survives, but Adora pumps up! LARIAT- NO, Hazuki slips around to sunset flip, high stack, roll through! LA MAGISTROL! HAZUKI WINS!!

Winner: Hazuki, by pinfall (NEW #1 Contender to the NJPW Strong Women’s Championship)

The High Speed Genius takes this fast ‘n’ furious victory for her own! Adora can’t believe it, and neither can Hazuki’s teammate. But will Hazuki kick it up a notch when she meets Mone? Wait, speaking of, Mone is here! Her video message was a diversion, because The CEO walks out in person! The fans fire up for their Massachusetts Mercedes as she goes right to the ring. Mone grabs a mic and the fans cheer more. Mone dances as they chant, and then says, “We can’t have NJPW in Lowell without the NJPW Strong Women’s Champion, Mercedes Mone! It’s been awhile since I’ve been in Lowell. So Lowellllll~! Thank you for saying hello to your C E O.”

The fans cheer more, and Mone tells Hazuki, “That was one hell of a win, wasn’t it? You just beat three of the very best. But on December 15th at Strong Style Evolved, you’re gonna get the greatest of all time.” Hazuki snatches the mic! Hazuki tells Mone, “This belt will be mine!” Then she shoves the mic back at Mone! The fans fire up for that! Mone says, “You think so, huh? You think this belt’s gonna be yours? Well, Lowell, maybe I should show her a little preview of December 15th!” Mone swings on Hazuki and Hazuki hits back, the fans fire up for this bonus brawl! The forearms keep going, but then Mone spins Hazuki for a BACKSTABBER!

Mone throws off her jacket and wags her finger. Mone holds up her NJPW Strong Women’s Championship, and has been wearing her TBS Championship the entire time! Will Mone make it through 2024 with all her gold? Or will her busy schedule (Full Gear on November 23rd, Strong Style Evolved on December 15th) catch up to her?

After Shingo Takagi & Yota Tsuji VS The Kingdom…

The Rampaging Dragon & Gene Blast got quite the fight out of Matt Taven & Mike Bennett, but everything was tranquilo after Los Ingobernables de Japon took the win. Respect was shown, everyone was heading out, but then the lights turn off! Tsuji looks around, this seems to be about him. Someone’s in the metal shop, forging a blade…? Tsuji is their target as they STAB a picture of him! And when the lights come back on, JACK PERRY ATTACKS! The Scapegoat is back in NJPW and he’s beating up on Tsuji! What’s this about?! The fans boo as Jack POSTS Tsuji! The fans tell Jack off as he SMACKS Tsuji around some more!

Jack gets a mic, pushes Tsuji into the ring, and then aims from a corner. Tsuji rises up, into the GLASS JAW BREAKER!! Jack finally picks up the mic to say, “I didn’t come here for these people, I came here for you. Now, I’ve got a lot on my plate coming up, but there’s a very special day that I’ve put aside on my calendar, just for you. And that day… is January 5th! In the Tokyo Dome! I challenge you at WrestleDynasty!” The fans are torn, but Tsuji grins! So Jack takes aim again! But here comes Shingo Takagi! Jack goes from Scapegoat to chicken as he runs away. The fans mock Jack for that, but he splashes them with water.

Jack soaks up the heat as he makes his exit, but will he even be the Face of TNT come the New Year? Or will the sins he’s committed catch up to this false prophet of pro-wrestling?

AEW International Championship: Konosuke Takeshita VS TJP!

While this match is taking place in the USA, this is still an international crossover as The Alpha returns to NJWP! Will Konosuke become the Alpha of the world? Or will he be conquered by The United Empire?

Wait, the lights go out? Konosuke looks to the ramp, but when they come up, ASWANG TJP is here! Konosuke turns around, into the BLOOD MIST!! TJP DROPKICKS Konosuke out of the ring, then he WRECKS Konosuke with another dropkick! TJP aims from the apron, and he CANNONBALLS Konosuke down! The fans fire up and TJP drags Konosuke up. TJP puts Konosuke in, climbs up, and the bell rings! Konosuke staggers to his feet, for a CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Konosuke goes to a corner, TJP runs in to KNEE him down! TJP scrubs Konosuke’s face while the fans rally up! TJP runs side to side, but Konosuke bails out!

TJP slows down and waits on Konosuke. Konosuke is furious but he waits before storming back in. TJP storms up but Konosuke bails back out. The fans taunt Konosuke with “F DON CALLIS!” The ring count starts, Konosuke slides in, but then slides back out. Konosuke dares TJP to come get him. TJP slides out, Konosuke slides in, but TJP hurries to the apron. Konosuke ROCKS TJP, goes to ram TJP, but TJP catches him into a ROPE OCTOPUS! The ref counts, TJP lets go at 4, and then he slingshots to sunset flip! Konosuke stays up, drags TJP up by his neck, and he SLAMS TJP down! TJP flounders to ropes, but Konosuke brings him up.

Konosuke whips, but TJP goes Spider-Man! Konosuke runs in, TJP slides under and trips Konosuke up! TJP ties up the legs, the fans rally up, and TJP SNAP locks the legs! And SNAP LOCKS again! TJP then shifts around and grabs Konosuke’s hand to BITE the fingers! The ref reprimands, TJP stops to shift around, and he traps one arm to pull on the other. But Konosuke powers out! TJP runs up, Konosuke dodges him, and POP-UP POWERBOMBS! Cover, TWO! TJP survives and Konosuke grows frustrated. Konosuke wipes his eyes, still stinging from the mist, and he SLAMS TJP into the drop zone.

Konosuke climbs up the corner, the fans fire up, and he SUPER SENTONS! Cover, TWO! TJP stays in this but Konosuke just gets more upset. Konosuke drags TJP up, wrenches and whips him hard into a corner, and TJP falls in a heap! Konosuke storms back up, brings TJP to his feet, and CHOKES him in the corner! The ref reprimands, but Konosuke stops to then smother TJP with elbows! The fans boo but Konosuke whips TJP to ropes. Konosuke ELBOWS TJP, then covers, TWO! Konosuke clamps onto TJP’s arm and grinds it down. The fans rally and TJP fights up. Konosuke wrenches and wristlocks but TJP rolls and wrenches.

TJP cartwheels, drops, and TWISTING HEADSCISSORS! But Konosuke headscissors back! TJP handstands, bridges, and pops free to have a cover. ONE and Konosuke deadlifts TJP to the Canadian Rack, and shifts it into a GORY STRETCH! TJP endures but Konosuke throws him down! The fans fire up while Konosuke paces. Konosuke drags TJP up, puts him in a corner, and then whips corner to corner again. TJP hits buckles so hard, he goes up, out and to the floor! Konosuke goes out to fetch TJP, and RAM him into railing! Commentary braces for more but Konosuke puts TJP back in the ring.

Konosuke stalks TJP, stand him up, then ROCKS him in the back! TJP goes to a corner, Konosuke whips him corner to corner, but TJP goes up and over! TJP waistlocks, Konosuke switches and back suplexes, but TJP lands on his feet! TJP grabs Konosuke with a dragon sleeper, FINAL CUT! Both men are down and the fans fire up! The fans rally up and TJP rises. Konosuke goes to ropes, TJP runs up to atomic drop! And then a whip, only for Konosuke to reverses. TJP jumps onto ropes, but feels unsteady so he hops back down to UPPERCUT Konosuke down! The fans rally as TJP hurries to bring Konosuke back up.

TJP whips Konosuke to a corner, runs in and ELBOWS! TJP sits Konosuke down, and he does some more scrubbing! The fans rally as TJP goes corner to corner, for the BOOT WASH! The fans are torn, Lowell has a lot of AEW fans, but TJP stands Konosuke up. TJP turns Konosuke for a NECKBREAKER! TJP then hurries to a corner and climbs up. MAMBA- NO, Konosuke moves! TJP lands out, Konosuke waistlocks, but TJP wrenches to MAGISTROL DRIVER!! Cover, TWO!! Konosuke survives but TJP stays calm. The fans duel as TJP aims. TJP starts up the “CATCH! 2/2!” and then runs in, but Konosuke ducks!

TJP blocks a boot, but not the second BOOT! Konosuke reels TJP in to SNAP GERMAN! TJP is up in a corner, he goes up and over Konosuke! TORNADO DDT! Both men are down and the fans fire up! TJP stirs and Konosuke reaches for ropes. The fans rally up and Konosuke sits up. TJP also rises, and they go forehead to forehead. Then they go forearm for forearm! Konosuke stands TJP up, ROCKS him again and again, but TJP holds the wristlock. Konosuke ROCKS TJP again, fires boxing elbows, then ROLLING- TJP BOOTS and SUPERKICKS! But Konosuke reels TJP in! BLUE THUNDER BOMB! Cover, TWO!!

The fans fire up as TJP survives! Konosuke pounds the mat in frustration, then he stalks TJP to ropes. Konosuke drags TJP up, reels him in, and lifts, for a LAST- RANA!! Cover, TWO! Konosuke has the cover, TJP shove the ref! MORE BLOODY MIST!! The fans boo as TJP resorts to an extra sneaky move, but TJP takes aim! HIDDEN BLADE?!? Cover, TWO!!! Konosuke survives but TJP hurries to a corner! TJP climbs, aims, MAMBA SPLASH!! Cover, TWO!! Konosuke survives and TJP can’t believe it! The fans fire up while TJP goes back to a corner. TJP watches Konosuke rise and reach out blindly.

The fans rally up, TJP runs in, ONE BY- LARIAT!! Konosuke hits TJP first! Konosuke clears his eyes, brings TJP up, and RAGING- NO, TJP knees free! TJP ducks ‘n’ dodges, tilt-o-whirls, but Konosuke powers TJP into the tuck! BASTARD DRIVER!! And then wheelbarrow- NO, TJP victory rolls! TWO!! Konosuke escapes, TJP SOBATS! TJP runs, into a BOOT! Konosuke runs, into a THESZ PRESS! Cover, TWO!! Konosuke escapes and TJP is beside himself! The fans fire up again as Konosuke runs up. TJP goes up and over, but no tornado this time! ALPHA ELBOW! TJP drops to his knees, and Konosuke brings him to the corner.

Konosuke hops up the ropes, drags TJP up to join him, and the fans fire up in anticipation! SUPER RAGING FIRE!! Cover, Konosuke wins!

Winner: Konosuke Takeshita, by pinfall (still AEW International Champion)

TJP tried to take down part of The Don Callis Family on behalf of Will Ospreay, but he just couldn’t stop The Alpha’s power. Konosuke stands tall with the title, ready to compete anywhere and everywhere. Konosuke grabs the mic as the fans cheer him on, and he says, “SHUT UP!” Konosuke says in Japanese, then English, that he is the GREATEST International Champion already! Konosuke wants to defend this title in the Tokyo Dome! The fans like the sound of that! So, who’s next? The fans mockingly reply, “GOLD~BERG!” but Konosuke asks the locker room, who is next!?
“Come and take it! Who’s next!?”

No response, so Konosuke says NJPW has a bunch of cowards. WAIT! Shingo Takagi makes his way out here! The fans fire up as the NEVER Openweight Champion makes his way back to ringside to meet Konosuke face to face. The fans tell Konosuke he messed up, and Takagi has the mic to say in Japanese, “Allow me to interrupt. Takeshita… That was one hell of a match. It looks like you’re very much in top form. You wanna do this? Interesting. I’m game! The AEW International Champion or NEVER Openweight Champion, let’s find out who’s stronger!” The fans seem to understand enough of that to like it!

And so Takagi says January 4th, Tokyo Dome, WRESTLEKINGDOM! Wait, not Dynasty? Takagi wants to do this on the even BIGGER show in the Tokyo Dome?! There are more questions than answers now, such as, will this end up Winner Takes All with both belts on the line? And what about Strong Style Evolved? WAIT! Tomohiro Ishii makes his way out here! He seems to stare down both Takeshita and Takagi, could the Stone Pitbull be getting greedy? Will he want the AEW International, NEVER Openweight, and even Chris Jericho’s ROH World Championships all before the year is out?

NJPW Strong Openweight Championship: Gabe Kidd VS Kosei Fujita!

The champion will tell you himself, he’s a Mad Man! But The Japanese Young Punk doesn’t sweat it, he’s just crazy enough to challenge him! Will this War Dog show Fujita is NOT #WarReady? Or will Fujita show that no matter what, The Mighty Don’t Kneel?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see how strong you have to be to be NJPW Strong!

The bell rings and the two get forehead to forehead. The fans fire up already as “Gabe-senpai” talks a lot of trash on his kohai, Fujita. Gabe pushes Fujita, Fujita pushes back, and the two tie up. They go around on ropes, the ref counts, and Fujita lets off slowly. Fujita CHOPS, and he eggs Gabe on. Gabe brushes that off to tie up with Fujita. Gabe puts Fujita on ropes, the ref counts, and Gabe lets off slowly. Gabe talks more trash, and he SLAPS Fujita! And then CHOSP! And CHOPS! Gabe suplexes, Fujita wrenches out and CHOPS! Gabe swings, Fujita dodges, and the CHOPS fly! Gabe suplexes again, but Fujita slips free.

Fujita spins Gabe around to DOUBLE CHOP! Fujita whips, Gabe reverses, but Fujita ducks ‘n’ dodges! RAN- NO! Gabe brings Fujita up, but Fujita slips out the back! Fujita runs and SHOTGUNS Gabe down! The fans fire up with Fujita as he watches Gabe bail out. Fujita builds speed, but Gabe hurries away. Fujita hops out to the apron to PENALTY KICK Gabe down! The fans fire up again and Fujita wants Gabe to stand. Fujita QUEBRADAS! Gabe lets that bounce off him, and he BRAINBUSTERS Fujita to the floor! The ref checks Fujita while he writhes, and Gabe isn’t much better. The fans lose their minds as Gabe sits up with a snarl.

The ring count starts but Gabe drags Fujita up. The count is 8 of 20, but Gabe CHOPS Fujita. Gabe then stands Fujita up, UPPERCUTS, and we hit 12. Gabe refreshes the count at 13, then tells people to move! Gabe brings Fujita over, CLUBS away on him, then CHOPS him against post! The timekeeper and even commentary have to move, as Gabe TOSSES Fujita over railing! Fujita tumbles over the table and into some chairs! The fans boo but Gabe soaks up the heat. Gabe then grabs a mic so he can talk trash. He tells off the people of Lowell, mocks the Massachusetts accent, then insults everyone’s moms.

Gabe says Fujita can F off, too. Ref, count him out! The fans boo while Gabe mockingly yawns. The count starts, the fans boo, but Gabe soaks it all up. Fujita stirs at 6 of 20, crawls out from behind a desk at 10, and goes to the railing. Fujita flops over the railing at 13, but is down again at 15. Fujita rises at 16, flounders at 18, and springs in at 19! Gabe is on Fujita with CHOPS and LARIATS at the ropes! Gabe runs to CLOBBER Fujita, SENTONS, cover, TWO! Fujita survives but Gabe snarls. Gabe goes out to grab the mic again?! Gabe says one more thing: F KENNY OMEGA! He slapped Omega around, made him look like a b*tch!

The fans boo but Gabe mocks Omega’s finger gun, to make it a middle finger. Gabe stomps Fujita around, scuffs him with kicks, but the fans rally for Fujita. Gabe SLAPS Fujita, but Fujita stands up. Fujita fires forearms but Gabe just eggs him on. Fujita fires a flurry, but Gabe ROCKS Fujita with just one! Fujita sits back but the fans rally up again. Gabe is annoyed by that, but Fujita returns fire! Gable UPPERCUTS Fujita! Fujita rebounds to CHOP! The fans fire up, but Gabe fires a forearm! Fujita CHOPS! Forearm! CHOP! Repeat! The fans rally as these two pick up speed! They just go back and forth and the fans are thunderous!

Gabe finally backs off from the stinging in his chest, but then he comes back to CHOP Fujita! Fujita shakes his head, Gabe eggs him on, and Fujita CHOPS! And CHOPS! Gabe grimaces, but he CHOPS Fujita off his feet! The fans rally, Gabe KICKS Fujita in the side! Gabe demands Fujita stands up. This is NJPW! What was all that time in the dojo for? Fujita stands to CHOP! And CHOP! And CHOP! Gabe ends up in a corner, so Fujita CHOPS, SLAPS, and repeat! Then CHOP!! Fujita roars, the fans are with him, but Gabe BITES Fujita’s face!! The ref reprimands, the fans boo, but Gabe scoops and SLAMS Fujita!

Gabe flips everyone off, but now he has to steady himself. The fans tell Gabe off in return but he just brushes it off. Gabe goes back to Fujita, scuffs him again, the fans insult Gabe’s boots. Gabe says Fujita should’ve stayed in the dojo. Gabe CHOPS Fujita on the back! Gabe tells Fujita to unleash that fighting spirit! Gabe DOUBLE CHOPS Fujita on the back! That just pisses Fujita off! Gabe SLAPS Fujita, but Fujita stares him down! Gabe SLAPS, then SPITS! Fujita DECKS Gabe!! The fans are thunderous as Gabe sputters to a corner! Fujita KICKS and stomps away on Gabe in the corner! Gabe puts up his guard, the ref tries to back Fujita down, but Fujita SHOVES the ref!

Fujita fires off on Gabe, the ref tells Fujita to stop! Fujita shoves the ref down again! Gabe runs up, Fujita gets around to GERMAN SUPLEX! Gabe rises, takes a swing, but Fujita GERMAN SUPELXES again! Bridging cover, TWO! But Fujita holds on! Fujita deadlifts Gabe, but Gabe fires elbows! Fujita still holds on, and he deadlifts for the GERMAN SUPLEX!! Bridging cover, TWO!! Gabe survives and Fujita is furious, but the fans are thunderous! Fujita drags Gabe up to suplex, but Gabe blocks it! Fujita fires body shots, then tries another suplex. Gabe still fights, so Fujita SLAPS him! Fujita reels Gabe back in, but Gabe still fights the supelx!

Gabe SLAPS, HEADBUTTS, but Fujita ducks the lariat! Gabe comes back to SLAP Fujita, SLAP him again, but Fujita fires forearms! And a CHOP! Gabe rebounds, Fujita dodges, but the SOUTHPAW LARIAT hits! Fujita gets folded up! High stack cover, TWO!!! Fujita lives and the fans are thunderous! Gabe drags Fujita up, SLAPS Fujita again, but Fujita slaps back. There’s nothing there, and Gabe SLAPS again. Fujita still throws hands but Gabe just SLAPS him again! Fujita throws more shots, but Gabe ROCKS him, and FACEBUSTER! Then SAIDO!! Gabe brings down the kneepad to show his Oni tattoo!

Gabe runs up, but Fujita LARIATS!! Gabe is flipped inside-out and the fans are thunderous! Fujita roars, he brings Gabe up, but Gabe suplexes! BRAINBUSTER!! “I’m a MAD MAN, y’know!” But Fujita says ABANDON HOPE!! Both men are down and the fans are thunderous again! Fujita and Gabe stir, and the fans rally for “FU-JI-TA! FU-JI-TA!” The Japanese Young Punk roars and goes back to Gabe. Gabe throws weak chops now, and Fujita hits back with palm strikes! Fujita roars, runs, but Gabe LARIATS! Gabe runs but into a GAMANGIRI! Gabe flops out of the ring, but Fujita goes to the apron! QUEBRADA!

The fans fire up as Gabe falls down this time! Fujita puts Gabe back in, then aims from the apron. Springboard, MISSILE DROPKICK! Gabe flounders around, Fujita suplexes, ABANDON HOPE!! Cover, ROPEBREAK!! Gabe survives by a literal foot! Fujita snarls, drags Gabe up, and he hoists Gabe to the top rope. Fujita CLUBS Gabe and the fans rally again. Fujita waistlocks but Gabe holds ropes! Gabe fires elbows, but Fujita still tries! Gabe REAR HEADBUTTS! Fujita falls back but Gabe wobbles up top. Gabe steadies himself, stands on the top rope, and he MOONSAULTS BUT FLOPS as Fujita moves!

Fujita runs in, GAMANGIRI! Then the facelock, but Gabe powers up to POP-UP POWERBOMB! High stack, ONE?!?! Gabe is stunned as Fujita says F YOU! Gabe O-KNEES Fujita down!! Cover, TWO!!! Fujita rises, but into a PILEDRIVER!!! Cover, TWO?!?!? Gabe is seething but this is what he wanted out of Fujita! Gabe drags Fujita up, and JUMPING PILEDRIVER!!! Cover, TWO!?!?!? Is Fujita even human!? Gabe MADMAN BOMBS!!! Cover, Gabe wins!!

Winner: Gabe Kidd, by pinfall (still NJPW Strong Openweight Champion)

Gabe seethes, but this was him bringing out the best in Fujita like he wanted to see. And yet, Gabe still overcomes that fighting spirit and… Wait, he drags Fujita back up! The fans boo, but here comes RYOHEI! The Mullet fires hands with the Mad Man! ROLLING ELBOW! Gabe flounders away, he wants mercy from Ryohei, but wait! KENTA slithers out here to CLOBBER Ryohei! The Fang is furious over his loss earlier, and now he stomps away on Ryohei! Gabe & Kenta beat up on TMDK’s young punks! Bullet Club double whips but Ryohei KICKS Kenta, ELBOWS Gabe away, and LARIATS Kenta up and out! Then Gabe gets THE GRIP!!

Ryohei gets the mic to tell Gabe in Japanese, “You think I’m gonna sit on the sidelines when you go after one of ours?” Gabe says speak English! Oh, English? Okay! Ryohei says he’s the next challenger, mother effer! Gabe’s shocked but he did ask for that. Ryohei says he’s next because TMDK is his team, and The Mighty Don’t Kneel! The fans cheer that! Will The Mullet succeed where the Japanese Young Punk fell short? Or will no one be #WarReady for The Mad Man?

My Thoughts:

A great night for NJPW, but I wish I had more time for it. Them doing these NJPW Strong shows on Fridays is always rough given there’s WWE SmackDown and AEW Rampage. Speaking of Rampage, we got more overlapping between NJPW and AEW: The Kingdom lose to LIJ here while winning a Triple Threat on Rampage, and then Lio Rush wins two matches on the same night. But at least they planned ahead with Mone so that she didn’t have an appearance on Rampage while she was here to go after Hazuki. Great Fatal 4 Way to determine a contender, and I figured it would be a Stardom wrestler, not an AEW wrestler, that won here. While Mone is more likely dropping the NJPW title than she is the TBS title at this point, I don’t see her losing to Hazuki.

While I didn’t cover it, great showing from Kevin Knight against David Finlay, but of course Finlay won. Finlay is still Global Heavyweight Champion, set to face Tsuji for that belt. Apparently Tsuji’s gonna be real busy, with Jack Perry showing up to attack and set up a match with him. I feel like Garcia should win the title off Jack first. If Jack faces Tsuji while still TNT Champion, it heavily tips their match in Jack’s favor. But if Jack isn’t a champion, then Tsuij can win and he won’t be owed a title match or anything.

The Three Stages of Strong was wild, I couldn’t help but want that one on record. And at one point, Veda Scott on commentary said just what I was thinking, they really subverted expectations in those first two falls. WCWC are big buff boys who should’ve won the Tables match, but didn’t. And both Rosser and Lawlor have submission finishers, but they lose the submission match. A tag team Last Man Standing match is a rather big brain stipulation, not sure they needed straps. Rosser got busted open hard way and certainly not planned, but it added a lot of drama to how that match finished, and it was a big win for WCWC.

WCWC then calling out the Strong Tag Champs was a fitting move. GYV VS TMDK was great stuff, and a great win for GYV. I suppose Shane & Mikey losing the IWGP Tag titles did open the way for them to lose more belts, and it’s fine since GYV have been stateside and can defend the Strong titles more often. Shane & Mikey will be in World Tag League for sure, and might win out to get their rematch. At the same time, look at how big they’re doing the Junior Heavyweight Tag title scene where former champs get a rematch anyway.

TMDK got a lot of other stuff tonight, though Bad Dude Tito was of course taking that loss. That builds Shota up as he and ZSJ are going to battle over the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship next. And then Ryohei got a great win over Kenta that also played out later. Awesome title matches to close, but I figured the status quos would be kept there. Konosuke VS Takagi is going to be awesome no matter what titles are on the line, and it seems like Ishii wants to at least face the winner. Gabe VS Fujita was great, and Ryohei coming after Gabe was also good stuff. Feels like Gabe & Kenta VS Ryohei & Fujita is a tune-up tag match waiting to happen, and who knows how Ryohei VS Gabe goes when it happens.

My Score: 9/10