Will the Egomaniac still be a champion?

Ethan Page claims to be the greatest North American to BE NXT North American Champion, but will Santino Marella still dethrone him? Or will there be no Milan Miracle in Orlando?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Jazmyn Nyx w/ The Fatal Influence VS Jaida Parker; Jaida wins.
• High Stakes Rematch: Charlie Dempsey VS Tavion Heights; Tavion wins and is free of the No Quarter Catch Crew.
• Fallon Henley w/ The Fatal Influence VS Lash Legend; Fallon wins.
• Je’Von Evans VS Wes Lee w/ The High Ryze; Evans wins.
• NXT North American Championship: Ethan Page VS Santino Marella; Ethan wins and retains the title.

PLAY BY PLAY

NXT mourns the loss of Hulk Hogan.

The entire roster is in the ring, including even Evolve and LFG, as Mike Rome says, “NXT would like to pay our respects to a true icon. A ten bell salute to honor the life and career of Terry Bolea, globally known as the Immortal Hulk Hogan.” The bell rings during this somber moment, and the video tribute plays. “A household name that became bigger than professional wrestling,” iconic to generations around the world, even as the Hollywood villain that led a New World Order. He is the foundation for everything we have in wrestling today, and we can really only say, #ThankYouHogan.

Jazmyn Nyx VS Jaida Parker!

The Fatal Influence is looking to clear out those who would be contenders to Jacy Jayne’s titles, and they walk ‘n’ talk as they head for gorilla. Jacy herself says, “Tonight is a big night for Fatal Influence. Jazmyn, you wanna call yourself a baddie? Well, now is your chance to prove it.” Jazmyn says she’s got this, and the music hits. If it takes a baddie to beat a baddie, will Jazmyn be able to score a goal? Or will Miss Parker prove she ain’t playing?

The bell rings, the two tie up, and Jaida puts Jazmyn in the ring. Jaida lets off, tells Jacy that her girl ain’t it. But then Jazmyn kicks low! And KICKS Jaida in the chest! And KICKS her in the back! And then the front again! Jazmyn runs up, but Jaida blocks the kick this time! Jaida spins Jazmyn, ROCKS her, then whips her. Jazmyn grabs ropes, ELBOWS her away, then FLYING CHUCKS! Cover, TWO! The fans rally behind Miss Parker but Jazmyn brings her up. Jaida fights the fisherman to GOURD BUSTER! And then BLOCKBUSTER! The fans fire up and Jaida covers, TWO! Jaida is annoyed but the fans are still behind her.

Jaida whips Jazmyn to a corner, runs in, but Jazmyn BOOTS her! Jazmyn kicks again but Jaida blocks! Jaida THROWS Jazmyn down and the fans fire up. Jaida tells Jacy that she’s next! Jaida whips, Jazmyn reverses, but Jaida ducks ‘n’ dodges, only for Jazmyn to CALF KICK her down! The fans rally but Jazmyn SMACKS Jaida off the mat! And again! And again! Jazmyn talks trash and pulls hair, to then HIP DROP Jaida down! Jazmyn facelocks for a CHANCERY! The fans rally as Jaida endures. Jaida pushes up, but Jazmyn rolls back to bring her around. Jaida fires body shots and then BACKDROPS Jazmyn away!

The fans fire up and Jaida storms up on Jazmyn. INVERTED SUPLEX, but Jazmyn lands out! Jazmyn ROCKS Jaida, Jaida ROCKS Jazmyn, repeat! The forearms go, but Jazmyn dodges to PELE! Cover, TWO! Jazmyn is shocked that her #NyxKick didn’t score! Jazmyn pie faces Jaida and talks trash, but Jaida BACKHANDS her! And CHOPS, CHOPS, CHOPS! Jaida whips, then ELBOWS Jazmyn down! Jazmyn staggers up, Jaida fireman’s carries, SAMOAN DROP! Jazmyn ends up in a corner, Jaida has the legs and puts them int he ropes! Jaida CHOPS Jazmyn, then runs side to side, TEARDROP! Jaida high steps it and the fans fire up!

Jaida then runs up to HIP-NOTIC!! Cover, Jaida wins!

Winner: Jaida Parker, by pinfall

A baddie did beat a baddie but it was Miss Parker who did it! #ClockIt! Will Fallon Henley have better luck with Lash Legend? Or will the Fatal Influence be falling apart?

Je’Von Evans is backstage.

The Young OG is feeling good and he says hey to Team Taker. Shiloh & Drake tell Je’Von, “You heard The Deadman last week.” Je’Von says that he did, that he did. But then High Ryze has to walk over and talk trash already! Je’Von tells them, “WAAAIT~! Y’all let Trick wear that goofy ass outfit last week and y’all didn’t have his back against The Deadman? Fellas, fellas, F for effort.” High Ryze is upset but then Je’Von spots Chase U. Kale Dixon is still working on his nerves while Mr. Chase says they’re working on getting a spot on the card. There’s talent from LFG, all coached by hall of famers, and they’re hungry.

Uriah Connors knows that, but he points out that they’re the only ones being coached by THE Mr. Chase. Je’Von says facts. Chase appreciates that. And he knows NXT is scary, that it can cause anxiety, but they have to meet that adversity head on. That is why it is time for Kale & Uriah to go up to the biggest dogs in the yard. Je’Von says teach is right, cuz that’s what Taker told him to do. In fact, he’s gonna go do that right about now. Je’Von shakes hands with Mr. Chase and Chase says that’s what he’s talking about. Then is the Young OG about to shoot his shot at the one and only NXT Champion, Oba Femi?

Je’Von Evans heads to the ring!

NXT returns and the fans fire up as The Young OG makes his way out. He gets the mic to say, “YURT~!” The fans echo, “YURT~!” Je’Von says, “Now look, gang, I ain’t gonna lie… Last week was crazy as hell, yo! Houston was on fire, the Young OG met The Undertaker. We talkin’ about a legend. We talkin’ about a Hall of Famer. And this Hall of Famer gave me some legendary advice, saying I should actually go after the biggest dog in the yard.” The fans like that idea. “Well guess what, gang? The Young OG in the ring, solo dolo. So we might as well go ahead and just do it, huh? What’s up-”

Wait, Trick Williams makes his way out here? The TNA World Champion says, “Woof woof, the big dog has finally arrived.” And Trick knows Je’Von was on his high horse talking to the Deadman and all, but here’s some advice from Trick. Three things you don’t do: Tug on Superman’s cape; Try Trick Williams; or try the biggest box office draw in TNA or NXT, which also just happens to be Trick Williams. The fans are a bit torn there, but Trick says look here, dawg. They did this dance before, we know how it went last time. And the crazy thing about it is, Trick’s hotter than ever! So mind your business while grown folks is talking!

The fans boo, but Je’Von tells Trick, “Slow down. You come down here with all this big dog energy, knowing damn well you just yo ass choke slammed by the Undertaker right back to hell.” The fans cheer that! Trick says hold on, that’s crazy, he didn’t deserve that. But yeah, he did get slammed. But the fact remains that he is THE TNA Champion. Hold on, he is still THE biggest thing in NXT! Hold on, he is still THE biggest thing in TNA! Hold on, the biggest thing you can do wrong is try Trick Williams, talk about it. Oh, oh, okay, Je’Von gets it now. He wasn’t talking about you, bro. He was talking about Oba Femi.

The fans cheer but Trick says there Je’Von goes, disrespecting him again. Je’Von could be calling out Oba Femi, but the truth is, Oba Femi wishes he was Trick Willy, talk about that. Oba had a lust in his eyes. He wishes he had the TNA title Trick has! And since Oba wants it so bad, Trick will just take what Oba has, and become a DOUBLE CHAMPION! Look out, Jacy Jayne, Trick Williams gonna be right next to you at the top. Je’Von says yeah, well, if that’s the case, then they have a problem. Because if Trick gets in Je’Von’s way of the NXT Championship, Je’Von will have no problems erasing Trick’s ass from the equation, and that’s facts.

But wait, The High Ryze makes their way out here now. Wes tells Trick to not let the “whipper snapper” get under his skin. And as crazy as it is for Wes to say this, Je’Von IS right. Je’Von should be calling out Oba. But that’s because Trick is on a whole different level. See, Taker gave the right advice, just to the wrong person. Je’Von still doesn’t understand what it takes to be a champion. Some have a very special connection to the WWE. They leave the crowd captivated every night! But then often times, they leave empty-handed. That is facts from the GREATEST North American Champion ever in Wes, and a three-time world champion in Trick.

Now, Je’Von will have a great journey towards a championship, but unfortunately, it is a long, long way’s away. And it won’t be with Trick because the High Ryze will stop Je’Von dead in his tracks. Je’Von says okay, he sees where this is going. But if he starts, he starts tonight. And he starts with Wes! Je’Von DECKS Wes, but he gets mugged by the rest! The fans boo this 4v1, but High Ryze sets Je’Von up for a CARDIAC KICK! Je’Von is down, and Wes says he’ll talk to Ava so they can get this set up for tonight. Then Wes can lay Je’Von out one more ‘gain. Will Wes ruin Je’Von’s journey to the top before it even begins? Or will he end up a stepping stone for the Young OG?

Kale Dixson & Uriah Connors go to the locker room.

They hype each other up about calling out some big dogs. And the biggest ones they can think of are the NXT Tag Team Champions, Hank ‘n’ Tank! Wait, they brought chairs? Kale asks if this is okay, and Uriah says of course. Everyone knows that if you beat down the champs, you get a title match within the next few weeks. Classic trope. Kale trusts those instincts. But then Uriah asks how they can confirm Hank ‘n’ Tank are in there. Uriah didn’t check!? Well he didn’t wanna give anything away! Kale backs up and Uriah cracks the door open. Hank ‘n’ Tank confirmed. But then Tank spots Uriah first! Aw crud!

Kale and Uriah coordinate, go on three. Or, well, wait, go on three? Or one, two, three, go? Okay, one, two, three, go! So one, two, three, GO! But then Hank ‘n’ Tank are already on guard! What’re they doing!? They uh, were gonna hit Hank ‘n’ Tank with chairs to get a title match! Why?! Cuz that’s how you go after the big dogs, y’know?! Hank says no, you don’t have to do that! You could just ask! Oh, really? Yes! Plus, they love Mr. Chase. If Kale & Uriah wanna get silly ‘n’ killy, then fine, let’s go. Oh, o-okay then. Good, they can talk to Ava and make it official for next week. No need for chairs. They shake on it, and Mr. Chase walks in.

The situation is explained, and Chase says he did not advise them to use chairs! Uriah says he did say go after big dogs. But not beat up people! Hank says it’s fine, they’ll just talk with Ava. And Kale says it worked out, they’ve got the title match for next week. Uriah says apparently, you can just ask. Chase takes a breath, and asks why he does this to himself. But now, can Chase shift gears and coach his guys to a title win?

High Stakes Rematch: Charlie Dempsey VS Tavion Heights!

Per Bubba Ray Dudley’s prompting, the No Quarter Catch Crew is going to run it back, and Wren Sinclair will just have to sit back and let what happens happen. Will Charlie keep the crew together by taking Tavion down? Or is this where Tavion finally reaches new heights?

The bell rings and the two tie up. They break, tie up again, then Dempsey headlocks. Tavion powers out, runs up, goes for a leg, but Dempsey slips away. They tie up, Dempsey waistlocks, Tavion switches, but Dempsey wrenches. Tavion rolls, arm-drags, and then drop toeholds. Tavion floats to a waistlock, Dempsey fights up, then Dempsey switches. Tavion breaks the hold to switch, but Dempsey wrenches to wristlock. Dempsey gets under Tavion to BACKDROP, but he holds onto the wristlock. Tavion endures and the fans rally up. Tavion reaches up to headscissor, Dempsey powers free, and the two reset.

Was that a flash of Joe Hendry? Dempsey headlocks Tavion, Tavion wrenches out, and Tavion powers to his own headlock. Dempsey powers out and ROCKS Tavion! Dempsey then hits a takeover, but Tavion rolls through to have the headlock himself! The fans rally up, Dempsey fights to his feet, and Dempsey powers out. Tavion RUNS Dempsey over! Things speed up, Dempsey drops down, jumps up, but Tavion catches him! Tavion SLAMS Dempsey down, has the legs, but Dempsey boots him away! Tavion rolls to jackknife and fireman’s carry! The fans fire up but Dempsey slips down to waistlock. But Tavion picks a leg and trips Dempsey!

Tavion drops down for a cover, TWO! Both men stand, Tavion dodges a lariat, and he CLOBBERS Dempsey! Tavion hits the takeover, the fans rally, and Dempsey fights the hold. Tavion denies the headscissors, Dempsey fights up. and Dempsey wrenches. Tavion clamps on tighter, the fans rally behind him, but Dempsey powers his way to a headlock. Tavion powers out, Dempsey ducks ‘n’ dodges, but DOUBLE CROSSBODIES collide! The fans cheer while both men are down, and NXT goes to break.

NXT returns and Dempsey has a double wristlock. Tavion endures, the fans rally as hard as they can, and Tavion rises up! Tavion powers Dempsey back but Dempsey cranks on the arm. Tavion powers up to EXPLODER! The fans are thunderous as Tavion SWEEPS the legs! Dempsey gets up but Tavion DROPKICKS him back down! Tavion runs and SLINGBLADES! The fans fire up with Tavion and he chases Dempsey to the outside. Wren is torn, Dempsey swings but Tavion counter punches! Dempsey stumbles to the steel steps, Tavion goes up the steps, but Tavion jumps the leg sweep! Tavion BOOTS Dempsey down!

The fans fire up, but then Dempsey gets up to SHOVE Tavion down! Tavion hobbles, comes back, but is sent into the steel steps! The knee bangs off the steel and the fans boo. Dempsey puts Tavion in the ring, has the leg, but Tavion has the ropes. Dempsey drags Tavion up, DRAGON SCREW! Then HALF CRAB! Dempsey sits deep on the leg but Tavion endures! Tavion fights his way forward, but Dempsey drags him away! Dempsey STOMPS the leg! Dempsey turns Tavion over again, HALF CRAB! Wren panics, but she has no towel! She goes looking, there isn’t one under the ring! But Tavion power sup, rolls, and he KICKS Dempsey away!

The fans fire up, Dempsey rushes up, Tavion cradle! TWO!! Dempsey escapes, swings, but misses! Tavion LEAPING LARIATS on the return! The fans fire up again and Tavion is feeding off it! SPINEBUSTER! Tavion runs, rolls, jackknife to the fireman’s carry! And even with the bad leg, DEATH VALLEY DRIVER!! Tavion pounds the mat, the fans fire up, and Tavion brings Dempsey up. But Dempsey kicks the bad leg! The fans boo but Dempsey underhooks! Tavion powers out to BELLY2BELLY!! Cover, TAVION WINS!!

Winner: Tavion Heights, by pinfall (free of the NQCC)

The fans cheer, and Tavion offers a handshake. A deal is a deal, and Dempsey shakes hands. Tavion is now his own man, but what is next for him? What is next for what is left of the NQCC?

Trick and High Ryze regroup backstage.

Trick complains that if there’s anyone who is the big dog around here, it is Trick Willy! And here’s what they’ll do. They can finish Je’Von off tonight so that Trick can become THE Two Belt Trick, let’s talk about it. Wes says yes, consider Je’Von out of the picture. But if Wes does this for Trick, Trick has to consider a favor: get TNA to give a tag title shot to Wes’s boys, Tyriek & Tyson. Of course, it is Trick’NA, let’s talk about it. But speaking of, Santino Marella walks in! And the TNA Director of Authority looks at Trick. Trick really thinks he has stroke in TNA, doesn’t he? Well let Santino tell you something, brother! He IS the stroke in TNA!

But worry not about his badge, because tonight, Santino is not acting as Director of Authority. Tonight, he is back to being a WWE superstar, and he is defending the people of North America from that “bunghole boy, Etan Pah-geh.” And as for Trick’s title… Trust you in this, don’t get too comfortable, because that title is coming home to TNA soon. Santino heads out, but Wes says not to worry about whatever that was. High Ryze is ready to do Trick’s dirty work, but will everything go their way? Or will the Young OG bounce back and get his lick back?

Blake Monroe is here!

The fans are torn as The Glamour goes to the ring and grabs the mic. Monroe says, “Booker T, darling, the name is Blake Monroe. So learn it, love it, and don’t ever do that again, unless you wanna end up in a medical facility, like Jordynne Grace.” Monroe then says she knows everyone is asking one question: Why Jordynne Grace? The answer is so simple: Jordynne isn’t good enough. That’s a feeling all the fans can relate to, but she’s seen protein shakes with more personality than JG. Jordynne just isn’t a superstar. She’s more a background player, or as others might say, an extra. Monroe adds to that insult by showing an old image of young Jordynne in the background of a bigger WWE moment.

But to get serious, Monroe says this is the deepest Women’s Division in all of wrestling. And in such a division, you can’t have a champion that looks like Jordynne! Monroe throws more shade by showing another picture of younger Jordynne. Monroe knows what we’re all thinking: Jordynne transformed herself since then! But Monroe knows when Jordynne is alone, looking in the mirror, she doesn’t see The Juggernaut, she sees the old Jordynne. And that is not championship material, that’s gym membership material. The fans boo but Monroe says this, her, this is star power! This is what you build a brand around!

WWE knew about her before she even decided to wrestle, and she influenced everyone into buying shirts just for looking like this. Monroe shows off her social media and says, “When you look this good, you don’t need to change a thing.” So she isn’t here to play nice, but to be the woman this brand revolves around. So you can all feel bad for JG the underdog. She can bench 300 pounds, but she can’t carry a division. But then Lola Vice makes her way out here! And Lola asks Monroe to do everyone a favor and callete la boca! Lola doesn’t get it. How is Monroe so beautiful on the outside, yet so ugly on the inside?

The fans cheer, Monroe is upset, but Lola says Monroe is right about something: NXT does have the deepest Women’s Division in wrestling. But Monroe isn’t going to be the champion of it. You wanna talk about star power? Mama, star power is flying across the world to represent WWE in AAA! It is not taking selfies backstage. Star power is making moments like Lola did dancing with Hall of Famer, Nikki Bella, at Evolution. So if there is anyone, and she means anyone- WAIT! Jaida Parker makes her way back out here. The fans cheer for Miss Parker as she says no one is trying to see all this, she promises.

It is crazy to Jaida because all she keeps hearing is “Evolution this, viral moment that.” Y’all love talking about your little moments about someone else making you relevant! Jaida doesn’t need no Bellas, no betrayals, and nobody else to make any type of noise. She is Jaida Parker, understand it! You saw what she just did to Jazmyn Nyx. She isn’t chasing clout, she is chasing championships. Monroe says oh dear, she had so much hope for them both. But Jaida and Lola are just being JG Juniors. WAIT, Jordynne’s music hits!? Monroe freaks out, is The Juggernaut really back?! Kelani Jordan says oops, guess she’s not the right Jordynne.

But always expect the unexpected here in NXT. At Evolution, NXT represented. But she won’t talk the past, she’ll talk the future. And you can’t talk the future of NXT without talking about Kelani Jordan. But for some reason, Monroe thinks she’s the hottest signee in sports entertainment? Well, how about you prove it against a former champion? The fans like the idea, but Kelani says even on Monroe’s best day, she can’t do it like Lani. The fans cheer, and Monroe says that is so cute. Kelani finally found her personality! How about next week, she puts this Jordan with the other Jordynne, in a medical facility! HEADBUTT!!

Jaida and Lola pop off, too! Monroe beats down Kelani, bumps her off buckles, but Kelani gives that back! The brawl is on, Lola SPIN KICKS Jaida and Kelani DROPKICKS Monroe! Miss Parker & The Glamour flounder, and Monroe clings to Jaida. Jaida shoves Monroe down, she doesn’t want hanger-ons! Monroe says fine, she didn’t want Jaida, either! But will neither of them want the heat Lola and Lani are bringing?

Tatum Paxley talks with Izzi Dame.

Tatum is so excited after last week’s Mixed 8 Tag win! Tatum pinned Zaria! That was the biggest win of her career! Now, not to get ahead of herself, but… Tatum wants to challenge Sol Ruca! Izzi says yeah, whoa, that’s big. Tatum got a big win, but she didn’t pin the champion. And usually, to get a title match, you gotta pin the champ like Izzi. But Shawn Spears & Niko Vance walk in, and The Chair Man says he’s still just as excited from last week’s win. Congrats to Tatum for getting that pin, she is truly an asset to The Culling. And because of that, they talked with Ava. Because Tatum got the pin, she gets an NXT Women’s North American Championship match next week!

Tatum asks, “Are you kidding me?” Spears is not kidding! Tatum is even more excited than before, and Izzi says she’s at a loss for words. Izzi says Sol got lucky at The Great American Bash, what with Zaria having her back. So next week, Tatum will have the entire Culling in her corner to make sure she brings that title back. Tatum says they’re the best! She hugs them all, and she vows to win for them all! The Culling heads out, Luca Crusifino steps in. The former Consigliere simply mutters, “No family lasts forever.” Does the Legal Eagle’s eagle eye see what happened to the D’Angelo Family in The Culling’s future?

Lash Legend walks ‘n’ talks.

“Hmm… Fatal Influence, one thing’s for certain, two things for sho’, that I am the most dominant woman in all the WWE, especially after eliminating Nikki Bella and Nia Jax in the battle royal. So, once I’m done with Fallon Henley, there will be a clear path to that NXT Women’s Championship.” The Bougie Bully is ready to ball, will she dunk the Toxic Cowgirl and make herself the top contender?

Fallon Henley w/ The Fatal Influence VS Lash Legend!

We saw Jazmyn fail to score a goal against Jaida Parker, but that’s just one contender aiming for Jacy’s two belts. Will Fallon be able to rope ‘n’ ride Lash right outta the title picture? Or will Lash’s legend begin here and now?

The bell rings and the fans rally up. Lash and Fallon circle, tie up, and Lash powers Fallon back. Fallon slips around, CLUBS Lash, then mocks her. Lash runs up but Fallon goes to the ropes for safety, only for Lash to CLUB away on her anyway! The ref counts, Fatal Influence protests, and Lash stops at 4. Lash brings Fallon up, scoops, but Fallon slips free. Fallon fires haymakers, then runs, but Lash fireman’s carries! Lash then military presses and SLAMS Fallon down! Lash runs to SPLASH DOWN! Cover, TWO! Fallon stays in this, we get another Joe Hendry shot, and Lash tells Fallon YEEHAW~ before the HIP DROP!

The fans cheer while Lash brings Fallon up. Lash fireman’s carries, Fallon sunset flips! Lash waves and stands back up. Lash YANKS Fallon up, Fallon dodges a boot, but Fallon runs right into a scoop! Lash dribbles Fallon in the ropes! The fans cheer but the ref reprimands and Fatal Influence protests! Lash stops at 4, and she SWINGING BACKBREAKERS! Fallon writhes, the fans fire up, and Lash runs in, only for miss int he corner. Fallon goes up, up, and BLOCKBUSTERS! Fatal Influence laughs at Lash now and Fallon stomps away. The ref counts and Fallon backs off at 4. Lash stands, Fallon hits the RUNNING FACEBUSTER! Cover, TWO!

Lash is tougher than that but Fallon argues the count. The fans rally up for Lash as Fallon clamps on with a chinlock. Lash fights up, has Fallon as a backpack, and RAMS her into a corner! Lash is free, blocks a kick, but Fallon CHOPS! Fallon runs up, springboard and wheelbarrow for the BULLDOG! Fallon keeps moving, FAM- NO, Lash gets up and under! Fallon fights that to RANA Lash! Fallon runs, Lash stops the facebuster to DECK Fallon! And DECK her again! The fans fire up with Lash and she whips Fallon to scoop and fire off KNEES! Then FALL AWAY SLAM! Lash kips up while Fatal Influence freaks out!

The fans fire up as Lash runs in, but Fallon ELBOWS her away! Fallon goes up, but Lash DECKS her to the floor! The fans fire up and Lash snarls. Lash goes outside, storms up on Fallon but Jazmyn gets in the way! Lash DECKS Jazmyn! Lash SMACKS Fallon off the apron but Jazmyn scurries into the ring! The ref is busy with Jazmyn, Jacy runs up, but Lash avoids the belt shot! Lash BOOTS Jacy down! But then NIA JAX CLOBBERS LASH!? The fans go nuts as the Irresistible Force returns to NXT, just to get even with Lash! Nia puts Lash in the ring for Fallon, FAMOUSER! Cover, Fallon wins!

Winner: Fallon Henley, by pinfall

Nia applauds, mostly because it was her handiwork that helped Fallon finish this off. But then Nia goes after Lash more! She puts Lash in the drop zone, climbs up, and A-NIA-LATOR!! Nia crushes Lash for rubbing in that Evolution elimination. Will nothing stop Nia from bulldozing the Bougie Bully?

Josh Briggs is seething backstage.

He is still upset about the loss in the Triple Threat title match last week. He says that was his only chance, and Inamura ruined it! Stacks walks by and says ouch, Briggs. He doesn’t have an ounce of honor on him, does he? Briggs says yeah, everyone knows that. But what matters is- Inamura storms in and shoves Briggs! Briggs shoves back, other superstars step in, and Briggs says opportunities like that don’t come around but once! Inamura was a fool for not taking advantage, but he wouldn’t get that, would he?! Briggs is dragged away, and Stacks calms Inamura down. Loyalty doesn’t last forever, and honor doesn’t exist in this business.

In the end, everyone gets theirs. Then Inamura SLAPS Stacks! Inamura says Stacks will see next week what honor is! Inamura storms off, Arianna Grace checks on Stacks. Will the former Underboss regret getting in The Great Rush’s business?

Je’Von Evans VS Wes Lee w/ The High Ryze!

The Young OG wanted the biggest dog in the yard, but he ended up getting the loudest ones instead. Trick’s ego is one thing, but will The Cardiac Kid add on to what we saw earlier tonight? Or can Je’Von use “The Greatest North American Champion Ever” as a launchpad towards The Ruler?

NXT returns and Trick is on commentary to watch this. Wes makes his entrance, and Je’Von DIVES onto him first! The fans fire up and the brawl is on! Je’Von ROCKS Wes, then fires hands! Tyriek & Tyson stay back but they do protest. Wes BODY BLOWS Je’Von, but Je’Von BODY BLOWS back! Je’Von puts Wes in the ring, then he fires hands! Je’Von wants Wes to get up, but the ref has him back off, this isn’t even a match yet! Wes manages to stand, the bell rings, and Je’Von runs in. Wes puts Je’Von on the apron but Je’Von ROCKS Wes! Je’Von springboards to FLYING LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Wes survives and High Ryze is heated.

Je’Von stalks Wes, brings Wes up, but Wes fires fast hands! Wes KICKS, snapmares, and basement DROPKICKS! Je’Von writhes and the fans boo, but Wes & High Ryze soak it up. Wes storms up to stomp Je’Von down. Wes then runs to SHOOTING STAR FLOP as Je’Von moves! The fans rally up, Je’Von rises, and Je’Von CHOPS! Then he bobs ‘n’ weaves to CHOP again! Je’Von bobs ‘n’ weaves again but Wes ROCKS him first! Wes runs, but Je’Von CHOPS Wes off his feet! Je’Von snarls, the fans fire up, and Je’Von puts Wes in the corner. Je’Von CHOPS, whips, but Wes reverses. Wes runs up, Je’Von dodges and CHOPS again!

The fans fire up while Wes is stinging! Je’Von huffs ‘n’ puffs but Wes ELBOWS low! Wes ROCKS Je’Von, then BODY BLOWS from behind! The fans boo the kidney shots but Je’Von flounders. Wes talks trash on Je’Von, Booker T is talking trash on Taker over their LFG rivalry, and Trick is smiling ear to ear! Wes ROCKS Je’Von, SMACKS him off buckles, then tells the ref to back off. The fans boo but Wes whips Je’Von corner to corner. Je’Von reverses, Wes reverses back, but Je’Von BOOTS Wes down! The fans fire up again and Je’Von calls his shot! Je’Von goes right up top, but High Ryze is there to talk trash!

The fans boo, Wes BLASTS Je’Von off the corner! Je’Von hits the floor, Wes builds speed, and Wes FLIES! Direct hit and down goes Je’Von! The Wes Side is back on top while NXT goes to break.

NXT returns and Wes has Je’Von in a facelock. The fans rally for Je’Von and he fights up, but Wes KNEES him low. Wes squeezes tight on the facelock, but Je’Von still rises up. The fans rally, but Wes jumps on with body scissors! Je’Von endures the Guillotine to power up and suplex! But Wes cradle counters! TWO, and Wes ROCKS Je’Von! And ROCKS him again! Wes fires fast hands, ELBOWS Je’Von, then runs, but Je’Von CHOPS! Wes is dizzy from that shot, and then Je’Von ROUNDHOUSES! Je’Von runs, low springboards to get around, SNAP GERMAN! The fans are thunderous while Wes staggers away to the far side!

The fans cheer on “YOUNG OG! YOUNG OG!” as hard as they can. Je’Von runs up, Wes dodges, then Wes blocks Je’Von’s boot. Wes throws the foot down, but Je’Von steps on Wes’s foot! Je’Von ROCKS Wes, BOOTS him, then runs to SUPERMAN PUNCH! Je’Von keeps going, handspring and RED DOT KICK! Cover, TWO!! Wes is still in this, but Je’Von puts him in a corner. Je’Von fires hands, the fans rally for “NXT! NXT!” Je’Von whips corner to corner, then runs in, but into a BOOT! ENZIGIRI! Wes runs up, tilt-o-whirl, DDT!! Je’Von staggers up, “This is Awesome!” as Wes suplexes, BRAINBUSTER!! Cover, TWO?!?!

The fans are thunderous again while Wes tries to understand what it’s going to take! Wes goes up, up, but Je’Von trips Wes up! Wes is in the Tree of Woe and Je’Von stomps a mudhole in! The ref counts, Je’Von goes to the far side, and the fans fire up for what’s coming! Je’Von climbs, aims, and he goes COAST2COAST SWANTON KICK?! The fans are losing their minds as Je’Von goes back up top! FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH!! Cover, TWO!?!?! HOW?!? Not even High Ryze can believe it! The fans want these two to “FIGHT FOREVER!” Je’Von waits on Wes, but Tyson gets on the apron! Je’Von chases Tyson off, but Wes runs up!

Je’Von ROCKS Wes first, aims, but Tyriek grabs Je’Von! Je’Von kicks Tyriek, he SUPERKICKS Tyson, then goes up and over Wes! Je’Von then builds speed to FLY!! Down go Tyson & Tyriek! Wes is stunned, but he snatches Je’Von in the ring! TWO!!! Je’Von escapes, and he BACKHANDS! Whip and- CARDIAC KICK OUTTA NOWHERE!! Cover, ROPEBREAK!!! Je’Von’s long legs save him! The fans are electric while Wes argues with the ref! Je’Von rolls Wes up, TWO! CUTTER OUTTA NOWHERE!! And then SUPER O G CUTTER!!! Cover, JE’VON WINS!!

Winner: Je’Von Evans, by pinfall

As if we didn’t know dat boi BOUNCY~, he managed to leap a skyscraper in a single bound! But just as Trick is holding up his TNA Championship, OBA FEMI is on the perch, holding up his NXT Championship! These three have met before, will they look to run it back to prove who is THE big dog in this yard?

Sit-down interview with Myles Borne.

Vic Joseph thanks Myles for taking the time to sit with him to catch up. They’ve talked about Myles’ hearing disability and how he didn’t let that hold him back. But now, they need to talk Lexis King. Vic already knows what that look on Myles’ face means, and he knows how it is when it comes to The Drama King. But the things Lexis has said and done, those have to sting just a little bit. Myles says Lexis just likes stirring the pot. Contrary to what Lexis believes, Myles is mostly deaf. Myles was born with Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension, and was medivac’d to a hospital in North Carolina. On that chopper flight, Myles flatlined twice.

With that, the doctors only gave Myles a 15% chance to live. His family took that into consideration, had him put on a machine to keep him alive, because as his mom has told him, nothing else was working. Now, the machine, by the grace of God, when it was turned off, Myles’ heart pumped on its own for the very first time. Now, that machine was a ventilator, and it had radiation. That radiation kept Myles alive, but it also took 90% of his hearing. So what does that mean? Basically, that 90% of hearing in both ears is just permanently gone. Growing up was difficult, and it is a struggle to communicate, but communicating isn’t really his thing.

Myles admits he self-taught himself how to read lips, and didn’t really speak himself until he was four years old. At that time, he would have to grab his parents’ faces to bring them around so he could read their lips. He would even need mirrors during driving. Reading lips was the cheat code, as were hand movements and body language. Vic says Myles has such a great perspective on everything in his life, and Myles asks, “What’d you say, Vic?” Hah, just kidding! Myles chooses to have fun with it. That’s how you gotta get through this life. There will always be a Lexis King, who “doesn’t get it” or “doesn’t believe you.”

But the truth is, you can’t let those people win, because then they have power of you. You gotta keep moving forward, block people like Lexis out. That’s what Myles did. Vic thanks Myles for sharing more of his story, and looks forward to Myles’ next match.

Ava talks with Robert Stone and Stevie Turner.

Stone has an update on Ricky Saints: Bruised sternum, but luckily nothing broken, so he’ll be back soon enough. Ava says good, but what about Jordynne Grace? Stevie says Grace definitely should thank Heaven for that strong neck of hers. The DDT to the chair put her in a neck brace, but she avoided some serious spinal injuries. But then in storms Lexis King! Lexis cannot believe this! They asks what he’s talking about, and he asks if they saw the Myles Borne interview. That sob story about being deaf and all that, but Lexis says we all know Myles is faking! Myles is a conman, a charlatan, a phony, and all you rubes are falling for it!

Ava is impressed at the big words Lexis just used. Lexis says if Myles was deaf, how can he wrestle? W-What? If Myles is deaf, then Lexis is blind as a bat. Ava sighs and says Lexis is certainly many things. But what Lexis is next is Myles’ next opponent. Myles VS Lexis next week to settle this. Good! Lexis can prove Myles is as much a fraud inside the ring as he is outside. Ava says sure, whatever. Lexis leaves, but will he see the truth that the only one deaf and dumb is him?

NXT Media catches up with The Fatal Influence.

The reporter asks how Jacy feels about tonight’s matches, and Jacy says obviously- Fallon interrupts and says they at least got one. Fallon handled her part, and Jacy says that’s technically true. But “baddie badass” Jazmyn couldn’t hold up her end. Jazmyn says Nia is the only reason Fallon won! Fallon says that is not true, and Jacy says Lash isn’t their concern anymore anyway. Speaking of Nia, she barges in and calls out Lash. “Lash, you just got your ass dropped, and that’s what happens when you think you’re the most dominant force in the WWE. And somebody next week can find out. Lash, you just don’t measure up.”

Nia storms off, will she A-Nia-Late everyone that even thinks they have what it takes?

NXT North American Championship: Ethan Page VS Santino Marella!

All Ego overcame The Absolute, though arguably with some help, and now declares himself the greatest North American to ever be North American Champion. Then he declared that Canada is the best part of North America, mostly because he himself is Canadian. In fact, the belt’s strap is now the Canadian flag! But will this egomaniac learn that pride comes before the fall? Or will he deny Santino his sequel to the Milan Miracle?

NXT returns and Ethan makes his entrance. The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who makes the bigger impact in NXT’s main event!

The bell rings and the fans change the “E-GoOoOo~!” chant into “A-HoOoOLE~!” Ethan and Santino circle, tie up, and Santino waistlocks to SLAM Ethan down. The fans cheer, Santino hits a crucifix takeover for the pin, TWO! Santino waistlocks, then facelocks to cradle, TWO! Ethan escapes, but Santino waistlocks to SLAM Ethan again! Then Oklahoma Roll, TWO! The fans cheer as Santino has Ethan on the ropes quite literally. The fans taunt “ETAN PAH-GEH!” and the champ applauds. Ethan and Santino tie up, Ethan wrenches, but Santino rolls, rolls, and handsprings to wrench! Ethan kicks low, then ROCKS Santino!

Another Joe Hendry image, is he here or not? Ethan BOOTS Santino in the corner, then CLUBS him down. Ethan says he won’t be embarrassed in his house! Ethan wrenches and whips corner to corner, Santino goes up and over and he arm-drags! And arm-drags! And covers, TWO! Ethan gets up, Santino TACKLES him for a jackknife bridge, TWO! Ethan bails out, the fans fire up, and Santino storms over. But Ethan HOTSHOTS Santino down! The fans boo, Ethan slides in, and he AX HANDLES! The fans rally for Santino but Ethan stomps him down at the ropes. The ref counts, Ethan steps off, and Ethan drags Santino up.

Ethan fires hands, ROCKS Santino, then whips. Santino sunset flips, TWO! Ethan BOOTS Santino down and the fans boo! Ethan huffs ‘n’ puffs, then he rains down fists! The fans boo more but Ethan drags Santino up to turn and NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Another cover, TWO! Ethan snarls, the fans chant “PAH-GEH SUCKS! PAH-GEH SUCKS!” Ethan clamps on a chinlock and grinds Santino down. Santino endures, fights up, and the fans rally! Santino fires body shots, he backs Ethan down, and he whips. Ethan reverses, runs up, but Santino dodges! Fireman’s carry and an AIRPLANE SPIN!

The fans fire up as Santino goes around ten times, DUMPS Ethan down, but then staggers and falls back! The fans rally up as Santino rises again! Santino runs for the FALLING HEAD- NO, Ethan dodges the headbutt! Ethan smiles, has the TWISTED- NO, Santino spins through, SANTINO STUNNER! Ethan falls, Santino staggers up, and he runs for the FALLING HEADBUTT! Cover, TWO! Ethan survives but the fans chant, “You Still Got It!” for Santino. Santino winds up, but Ethan ROUNDHOUSES! Cover, TWO! Ethan is annoyed, but the fans chant, “We Want Cobra!” Ethan wags his finger and drags Santino to a drop zone.

Ethan goes up, talks trash on the fans, and he talks trash on Santino. DIVING BODY PRESS, onto knees! The fans fire up and chant for “COBRA! COBRA!” Santino rises, and he blocks a shot to JAB! JAB! JAB! Santino ROCKS Ethan, then does the splits to HIP TOSS Ethan down! The fans fire up while Ethan tumbles out! Santino PLANCHAS!? The fans fire up as Santino roars! Santino puts Ethan in, then yes, he brings out the COBRA! Santino winds up, but Ethan uses the ref as a shield! Santino helps the ref step aside, but that lets Ethan poke Santino in the eyes! And then TWISTED GRIN!! Cover, Ethan wins!

Winner: Ethan Page, by pinfall (still NXT North American Champion)

The Egomaniac may have won, but he proved Santino right: no pride, no shame, no class! Ethan had to cheat Santino just to keep the belt, but will Ethan not care so long as he can keep winning?

Tony D’Angelo sits alone at the dinner table.

The waiter walks over and says, “Here you go, Don.” The waiter serves him wine, but Tony says things have changed. You don’t have to call him “The Don” anymore. Just “Tony D” is fine. Tony unrolls the napkin to have his silverware, but then someone steps in behind Tony. And then the screen goes to black!? Is Tony okay?! Or has he been hit by a smooth criminal?

My Thoughts:

A great NXT that really shines as main roster prepares for SummerSlam. The D’Angelo Family split has resulted in some rather interesting moves. I liked Luca watching Culling and predicting their downfall, which is going as I also predicted: Tatum gets the title shot instead of Izzi, Izzi is a bit conflicted about that, and maybe Izzi passive aggressively costs Tatum. Stacks gets in the business of Briggs and Inamura, which gets him smacked for it, but I thought it was cute that his IRL girlfriend, Arianna Grace, is the one to check on him. And then we just saw Tony have his Sopranos finale there. I don’t know if Tony is being called up or is the victim of a new Heel, but I like both possibilities.

Speaking of Tatum’s title match, next week’s NXT is a big one! I love the very early 2000s comedy movie vibes of Kale & Uriah, who are Faces, misunderstanding pro-wrestling tropes and trying to attack fellow Faces, Hank ‘n’ Tank. They get their tag title match because they listened to reason and asked instead of attacked. Those two title matches will be a lot of fun but I’m pretty sure status quo is kept considering it is just on TV. Same as for tonight, with that great main event from Santino and Ethan. Ethan did have to cheat, but Santino still looked great. I almost thought someone was going to come out and challenge Ethan after, but seems they didn’t have time for it and the Tony D Soprano scene.

Great stuff with Fatal Influence and Jacy’s challengers tonight. Well, mostly, because I don’t understand what keeps them from committing with Jaida. She beats Jazmyn straight up, but then gets involved in Blake Monroe’s story, which now brings in Lola and Kelani. Good promo from Monroe to use body-shaming and Jordynne’s self-esteem as her weapons against Jordynne Grace, but good parts from Lola, Jaida and Kelani. I feel like we could get a Fatal 4 Way to determine a contender to the top title, and Grace costs Monroe for their own story’s sake. Nia costing Lash against Fallon was a great surprise, and if Lash isn’t challenging for the title, a feud with Nia is a great alternative. I feel like Lash should win out to establish herself as a contender after all.

Great match from Dempsey VS Tavion in the rematch, and an awesome win for Tavion. Tavion is now on his own, maybe he gets in on the North American Championship story. Great interview promo from Myles to share more of his story while also building the feud with Lexis King. Lexis had a good promo himself, and they’ll have a very good match next week. Je’Von Evans was used as a great throughline tonight, with his talk backstage with quite a few stars. Good promo from Je’Von with Trick and High Ryze to set up Je’Von VS Wes, which was an AWESOME match to say the least. Naturally Je’Von wins, though High Ryze sure tried to screw him over.

Great scene of Trick, Je’Von and Oba all together again, but I wonder if they’re really going to redo the Stand & Deliver Triple Threat for both those titles, even though Joe Hendry was teasing himself all over the episode. Santino promised a TNA star would take the TNA title back, but Hendry and Santana each tried and failed, not sure where we go from here. But I will say this: Heatwave is NXT’s next event, and Je’Von’s first PLE was Heatwave 2024 in that title Fatal 4. Though, that event was July 7th, this next one would be August 24th, but still, that means Je’Von is entering his second year in NXT and it’d be pretty cool if he got THE NXT title off a Triple Threat.

My Score: 9/10