[theme music playing]
[narrator] Then.
-[Ric Flair] Whoo! -[Rock] If you smell…
-[bell tolls] -[narrator] Now.
[Roman] Acknowledge me!
-[Lemmy] The King of Kings. -[John] You can't see me.
[narrator] Forever.
Together.
[Vic] Our superstars gonna make their first impressions on 2024.
Welcome to NXT!
[Booker] It's New Year's Evil.
The glue of the D'Angelo family.
Adriana. Rachel.
-How are you doing? -Hey, how you doing?
Next week, the men's Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic
will begin.
[Vic] And we're kicking things off
with two women with one goal. The NXT women's title.
Lyra, I witnessed your rise, but I'll be the reason as to why you fall.
-[Booker] Oh! -[Vic] Falcon arrow from the top.
I want this title because I wanna be the best.
[Vic] Valkyria retains.
[Booker] Let them loose.
[Vic] Hall of life was about to execute that championship contract.
As long as you're still champion, all is right in the world.
[Vic] How cool is this?
-Carlito! -[audience chanting] Carlito!
Oh, Joaquin Wilde got launched.
[Booker] It's New Year's Evil!
[Vic] Stratton Henley, big stakes.
Nothing would thrill me
more than to make Tiffany my ranch hand for the day.
[Vic] Oh, my God!
Fallon Henley has herself a new ranch hand.
[audience cheering]
[Vic] Who is gonna earn themselves a guaranteed championship contract?
Oba Femi, the Men's Breakout Tournament winner.
Dragunov not clear to compete.
Our new main event has championship implications.
Williams, Waller, who will be the next to face Ilja Dragunov?
A stipulation that was added by Carmelo Hayes.
Hey, man, that's a layer. Just don't miss.
[Vic] Shawn Michaels tweeting out that a former NXT champion is stopping by.
[Booker] Buckle up, this is it.
[screaming]
[Vic] Melo was asked to stay in the locker room.
Holy! Kevin Owens!
Williams remains the Number 1 Contender.
[audience cheering]
[Vic] Trick Williams cannot be denied.
[audience chanting]
[audience chanting] NXT!
[Vic] NXT universe ready to continue the New Year
with the start of the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic.
Here tonight, welcome to NXT.
Welcome in ringside, Vic Joseph,
alongside with the two-time WWE Hall of Famer, Booker T.
And, Booker, we quickly got to get to something that happened moments ago.
[rumbling]
[Vic] Nikkita Lyons was arriving to the arena
and was blindsided by Blair Davenport.
These two are to meet here tonight.
-Come on, break it up. Stop. -Get away.
-[Vic] And everything… Oh, Book. Look up! -[Booker] Oh.
These two haven't stopped in the last 15 or 20 minutes.
-[Booker] No tricks. -[Vic] There's no control.
[Booker] There's no tricks. Didn't work this time, Vic.
Nikkita Lyons ready for this one.
[audience chanting] Nikkita!
[Vic] Listen to the NXT universe.
[inaudible]
[Vic] And the official just, Booker, the official just rang the bell.
This matchup wasn't supposed to happen until later tonight.
[Booker] Good kick there, Vic. Whoa, man.
[Vic] These two picking up with the brutality
that Cody and Shinsuke ended RAW with
and take a look at the power of Nikkita Lyons.
And you can't blame Lyons for her actions last week.
You can't blame her for the actions tonight
or even the looks in her eyes right now.
[Booker] No, Vic. Let me tell you something.
It's one thing getting injured and sitting on the shelf.
But when you get, took outta the game, it was a hit.
That was a hit by Blair Davenport.
And I'm sure Nikkita Lyons wants some payback, man.
-Look at that double… Good catch! -Oh, wow.
[Vic] But that connect, that catch, she got all of it.
Covered and a near-fall early on in this matchup.
[Booker] Both of them in the velocity with that kick right there.
The entry looking good now. She is holding up.
[Vic] Well, Nikkita Lyons said she didn't want to stoop to Davenport's level.
She didn't wanna have a sneak impact.
She wanted to punch Davenport right in the face.
Oh, no. Right into the steel post. Shoulder first goes Lyons.
Now Davenport smelling the blood in the water, measuring.
And right down across the back.
[Booker] Good shot right there. You're talking about stooping to one's level.
I don't agree with that right there
because Nikkita Lyons had a wounded Blair Davenport, could have pounced.
I would have taken that shot, man.
My mama said, you big enough to pass the leg. You big enough to take it.
[Vic] Off the top. Right at the back of that knee. Buckled on Nikkita Lyons.
And Davenport now right back in. And Davenport has Lyons on the back foot.
And think about this. These two showed up tonight,
specifically Lyons, getting ready for this matchup.
They go in the parking lot while she's attacked.
She's jumped again by Blair Davenport.
They're separated. They go to their separate locker rooms.
They get ready for the matchup. They go through.
They get everything ready. And then they start fighting
right before they get through.
These two have no love lost with one another.
[Booker] Vic, Did you see how that knee broke over? My thing is this here.
Nikkita Lyons, she's going to look good early in this matchup.
But we talk about those deep waters.
We talk about those late rounds. How she's gonna do with that knee?
Come on, Vic. That knee was surgically repaired, man.
[Vic] And that's why I go back to maybe she didn't get a warm-up properly.
She gets attacked in the parking lot. She's in her locker room getting ready,
going through her final and mental preparations
and they start brawling again in the hallway
all the way through the entry ramp.
I mean, there is no control between these two.
[Booker] I noticed that Nikkita Lyons took a big shot
at Blair Davenport on this.
[Booker] I don't know if you saw that [inaudible], you know, tweet.
[Vic] It was nasty. I did see it, yes.
[Booker] It was gnarly. It was gnarly, man.
That right there, that's got to affect her right now, Vic.
[Vic] You got to think as well when it comes to Nikkita Lyons.
She was attacked. Sol Ruca was attacked.
And you take a look at Blair Davenport, who just got dropped.
Will she regret that being Davenport, her decisions of the past?
[Booker] What are you talking about regret?
When you got a vulnerable opponent like everybody that Davenport attacked.
They are all vulnerable now. Look at Nikkita Lyons right now.
[Vic] You say vulnerable, but Nikkita Lyons and Sol Ruca
and the rest of the NXT women's locker room,
They have been looking, waiting, almost planning for Blair Davenport.
She has made more enemies than friends in the locker room.
And Lyons is the first one to come back.
[Booker] This is about, Vic, it's not about making friends or anything.
It's about making money. CM Punk told you that, didn't he?
-Did he tell you that? -[Vic] He did.
-[Booker] Didn't CM Punk tell you that? -[Vic] He certainly did.
So not one ounce of you feels bad for someone like Nikkita Lyons?
[Booker] Yeah, I feel bad. But Nikkita Lyons…
[Vic] She lost a year of her career, Punk.
[Booker] Oh, well, big shot there. This is the business. It's very fluid.
Sometimes you could be on top of the world
and sometimes you could be watching the world go by, man.
-That's the way it is. Oh, wow! -[Vic] What a German suplex.
And you take a look at the eyes one more time of Nikkita Lyons.
I come back to you, Booker.
How would you feel when you finally would get your hands on a person
who cost you a year of your career?
A year of your money. You always talk about money.
-[Booker] Yeah. -[Vic] Making money.
That's what it's all about.
-What would you do? -[Booker] No, I would feel…
[Vic] Into the cover, hook of the leg. Is it gonna be enough? And a near-fall.
Go back to some of the action in this matchup, Booker.
This nasty German suplex, might come back to you.
[Booker] No, that's just the way I would feel right there.
Just like Nikkita Lyons laying it on and laying it on thick.
It's about redemption, it's about redeeming yourself.
And the worst way, man, I'm talking about pain.
[Vic] Take a look. Maybe looking for that knockout knee.
Nice counter. Nice kick.
We know the background of Nikkita Lyons.
But, Book, you see the knee brace on the right knee.
That's the past injury.
You keep looking, and Nikkita Lyons continues to go down to that left knee,
the knee you noticed that buckled early on in the matchup.
[Booker] Not just the knee brace.
That's a bullseye with a laser sight on it.
I'll tell you now, if Blair Davenport gets one shot at it, she's gonna do it--
-[Booker] Oh, no! There it is. -[Vic] Oh, no!
That could be that shot.
[Vic] That's the injured knee, the previously injured knee of Nikkita
that sidelined her for a year.
[Booker] Yeah, but she's fighting through the pain now.
The adrenaline right now has got to be flowing.
Flowing very thick at this point in the matchup.
[Vic] Well, adrenaline can make you do crazy things inside the squared circle
as getting back in, and… A vicious chop block.
[Booker] Man.
[Vic] And Davenport now sizing up Lyons with another knee strike under the jaw,
into the cover, and Davenport silences the roar.
[Alicia] Here is your winner, Blair Davenport!
[Vic] Composing myself for a moment.
This started 15, 20 minutes ago in the parking lot
and it ends with a chop block
going low to the bullseye on the body bam, of Nikkita Lyons
and then that knocked out blow from Blair Davenport.
And I did say she silenced the roar, but maybe for just now.
As Blair begins the night with a win,
our Tag Teams begin their journey towards greatness.
[narrator] NXT, the Ellis Island of sports entertainment.
Where fresh new talent grows into superstars.
Where familiar faces go for a shot in the arm.
Tonight, this cutting-edge brand turns the page to a familiar chapter.
A Tag Team tournament rich in tradition, prestige, and honor.
The Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic.
The art of tag team wrestling is about to take center stage.
Culminating in Clarksville, Tennessee, at Vengeance Day.
Eight teams are about to embark on a journey,
but only one will survive.
Earn a future tag team title match and the privilege of having their names
engraved on the Dusty Cup forever.
This tournament represents the man it's named after.
The hunger, the drive, the dream.
To be remembered forever in the annals of time.
For these eight teams, it's not about finishing the story.
It is about creating their own.
[audience chanting] Dusty!
[Vic] It is time for the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic to get started.
A team that has competed in this very tournament in the past.
Dallas preparing for, well, the unknown. Bron Breakker, and Corbin.
It's our very first opening round match next.
Yeah, Imma holler at him right now.
Hey, yo, Trick. I got some good news for us, bro.
Look, bro, I don't even know if I wanna hear it.
I mean, you might tell me one thing and do something totally different
just like you did last week.
Yeah, look, I know last week I said I was gonna stay back here,
but I saw HBK putting out a tweet
talking about we got a former NXT champion coming through
and, man, I'm just thinking, look, I take championships.
-I don't take chances. -I feel you.
All right, thankfully, you got the job done
and you beat Waller all by yourself like you said you would.
-Right. -But I want you to understand something.
-What's up? -You asked for my help.
So, it's my responsibility to make sure that you succeed.
-So, let me holler at you about something. -Yeah.
-I mean, I feel where you're coming from. -Mm-hmm.
-I did get the dub. -You did.
-What you got for me? -All right.
We don't know how long Ilja's gonna be out, right?
No, I have no idea.
-All I know is, I'm gonna be ready. -Yes, you will.
So while we wait, I figured I'd pull some strings.
And I got your boys the last fight in the Dusty Cup Classic.
Let's talk about it.
[chuckles]
I don't miss.
I don't know, bro.
I think I need to stay locked in for this match with Ilja.
Okay. But this is gonna keep you locked in.
That way we stay focused and we stay prepared, man.
-I don't know, bro. -Good news. I do know.
I know that we gonna take this whole thing,
we gonna win the Dusty Cup, we gonna win them tag team championships,
and Melo's gonna be a Triple Crown champ
and they gonna start calling you two-title Trick.
Because that's all it is.
-Two-Title Trick, huh? -That's right.
-And that's all it's gonna be. -[both laugh]
-This one's for the people. -They'll love this.
It's the new trick-Melo game [inaudible]. We back, baby.
[Vic] Book. Sounds like they're on the same page and we got our final team.
[audience cheering]
I like it.
[inaudible]
[bell ringing]
[Alicia] The following is a first-round match
in the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic.
Introducing first, accompanied by Joe Coffey,
the team of Mark Coffey and Wolfgang.
Gallus!
[Vic] It's the first of two first-round matches.
Of course, as we learned, the finals will take place
at the Invention State Premium Live Event on February the 4th.
Here is the bracket.
You can see the field we just found out Carmelo Hayes, Trick Williams.
It is official. They have entered, but that is the field.
Those are the teams.
And one of these teams will host and have their name etched
into the prestigious Dusty Cup.
["Burn The Ships" music playing]
[barking]
["Destined For Greatness" music playing]
[Alicia] And their opponents,
the team of Baron Corbin,
and Bron Breakker.
[Vic] Look, I hate to ask the obvious, but--
[Booker] Hold on, man. Wait a minute.
-[Vic] Here we go. -[Booker] Before you say anything,
please, let me get it out there.
This is that man. Oh, yes.
No bread. No water. Just meat!
That's Bron Breakker, along with Baron Corbin,
ready to do damage inside the squared circle.
Oh, man. I'm ready for some action. I'm excited. Goosebumps, man.
Goosebumps going all down the spine.
Go ahead. Go ahead, Vic. What's your question?
[Vic] Do you have a meet-and-greet this weekend?
Sell 20 Combos? What are you all excited for?
[Booker] No, man. This matchup.
Gallus Boys versus Bron Breakker, Baron Corbin.
-[Vic] It's the start of the Dusty Cup. -[Booker] What do we call this guys?
Destruction? What do we call him? Mayhem? What do we call him?
[Vic] I was gonna ask you
if you thought it was gonna be difficult for them to get on the same page
with everything that's gone on in their past.
[Booker] You know, I do expect for it not to be such a smooth transition,
but two men sharing one common cause and that's winning this Dusty Cup,
solidifying themselves as the best tag team in NXT.
[Booker] Close enough tag team champs.
[Vic] Baron Corbin has said he's got unfinished business in NXT.
If you go back to the first ever Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic,
it was established in August of 2015.
Baron Corbin was actually in the finals of the original tournament
with another superstar who had perfected the spear.
And now, at that point, he was being shown the ropes.
Now, he thinks he's leading the charge with Bron Breakker.
How times have changed.
[Brooker] I don't think Bron Breakker thinks that.
I think Bron's thinking he is the leader of the camp.
Oh, wow. The captain hooked his crewman.
but I do think they can be a formidable team
if they could get on, like you said, the same page, Vic.
[Vic] That was a tag, the first one between these two, and we will find out.
You're talking about being on the same page.
It seems early on, they certainly are.
And what will the formula have to be for Bron and Baron to be successful?
I mean, like I said, you know, Vic, a lotta people go out there
and try to figure out how we can get on the same page, try to find continuity,
try to figure out what it's gonna take to become championship material.
[Vic] Into the Coffey to advance and a quick kick out by Corbin.
What must Gallus be thinking right now?
I mean, they're taking a look at Bron Breakker,
a former multi-time NXT champion, and Baron Corbin, someone who's been,
who's competed at WrestleMania as Money in the Bank
and United States titles.
The list goes on, and they're not facing a normal team.
[Booker] Yeah, they're not a normal team,
but you got to think about the Gallus Boys.
These guys have been together for quite some time,
more than five years together as a tag team,
has gone through those trials and tribulations,
-as well as former tag team champions… -[Vic] Oh.
…and running the new day clean out of NXT.
You got to get those guys the props.
[Vic] Nasty landing for Corbin and Breakker--
[Booker] Oh, yes, I like. See what I'm talking about?
[Vic] It's the same fate, center of the ring
and look who is standing tall.
It is certainly the Gallus Boys on top.
[inaudible]
[Vic] Who's moving on to the next round of the Dusty Cup?
[Booker] Oh, yeah.
[grunts]
[Vic] Dusty Classic first round matchup.
Breakker, Corbin taking on Gallus as you saw through the commercial break.
Really a 50-50 matchup between these two teams.
And, Booker, in your opinion, what makes a good team?
[Booker] I mean, I look at both of these teams right here,
and the one thing I always think about is…
A big shot. Big shot. Wait a minute. Wait a minute.
[Vic] Into the cover to advance to the second round.
And Wolfgang breaks it up.
[Booker] That right there, you know, having that trust.
Without a doubt, Vic, you're trusting your partner
to do his job and make the right decisions.
Just like that right there with that.
-[Vic] Oh, wow. -[Booker] Four superstars in the ring.
[Vic] Referee starting to lose a little bit of control in this matchup.
I asked you about tag teams. I mean, Book, you won gold.
Wait a minute. Deep Six. You won gold with four different partners.
We're gonna see some unique pairings,
and we've seen some unique pairings work in the past.
Could that be Corbin and Breakker?
[Booker] No, I wouldn't even call these guys an odd couple.
Like I said, Vic, if they are to jail for a minute,
if they are to get on the same page for one second,
they can run through this tournament with the greatest of ease.
I really truly believe that.
[Vic] There you see the Dusty Cup. The finals at Vengeance Day.
February the 4th. Tickets at ticketmaster.com.
Our next premium live event.
This is the first of two opening round matchups.
Breakker now taking out Wolfgang.
[Booker] Yeah, normally Wolfgang is the biggest guy in that square circle,
but today he's in there with a couple of bona fide heavyweights, man.
[audience chanting]
[Vic] Taking a look around. Take a look at the field right now though, Book.
Baron and Bron are the two that are standing.
[Vic] And Corbin muscling up Coffey.
[Brooker] What a shot. What a shot, right?
Look at the confidence on the face of Baron Corbin right now, Vic.
[audience cheering]
[Vic] Corbin's fired up, and some would've believed
that it was all in Wolfgang saving Mark Coffey for the moment.
[Booker] I'm talking about great tag team continuity right there.
If I can call it a timeout for a second.
[Vic] And wait a minute, wait a minute. Oh.
Baron just punched that post!
And just like that, Booker, Gallus has taken this match over.
And could be punching their ticket to round two.
[Booker] Baron Corbin, he threw that right hand
like he was back in the Golden Gloves tournament or something like that.
He could have a broken hand, Vic.
[inaudible]
-Four! -[Vic] I just peered up. Look at it.
Bron Breakker. A look of worry on Breakker's face.
And, of course, Gallus would love to add the Dusty Cup
to their list of accomplishments.
But take another look. Baron Corbin, nothing but post.
[audience chanting]
[Vic] NXT universe letting Joe Coffey hear it on the outside
who's been screaming just give us the trophy.
You gonna have to earn it.
This is the first matchup in the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic.
-Right now it is all Gallus. -[Booker] Yes, man.
I think about Gallus and this is just seems to be another obstacle.
And you know about obstacles, Vic. Over, around, under.
But now, Gallus Boys is going through this tag team of Breakker and Corbin.
[Vic] And this is where many believe that Gallus will have the advantage
in this opening round matchup that they are a tag team
as you pointed out earlier.
That they've been in these deep waters of tag team matchups.
[Booker] Yes, indeed. I always know what you're pointing…
-[Vic] And a tag though. -[Booker] Brothers to the bone.
Oh, here we go. Here we go. Here comes Breakker.
[Vic] And in comes Bron. The badass is here.
And he's had a lot to think about. Gutbuster takes out Wolfgang.
Turning his attention right to Mark Coffey.
-Coffey just got caught. -[Booker] What the…
[Vic] An up and over look like a stutter.
I don't necessarily know what Bron did, but it was effective.
-They get your stopwatch ready. -[Booker] Oh, man.
You see the quickness. The movement of this young man.
[Vic] You saw the quickness.
You saw the speed. And you saw the sudden impact.
[audience barking]
-[Booker] No, he's not gonna do that. -[Vic] No way.
[Booker] No way. Wow.
[audience cheering]
[Booker] Listen to the people. What the hell is going on here?
[audience chanting]
It's over!
[Vic] Oh, Corbin.
[audience chanting]
[Vic] Corbin tagged in. Corbin's legal.
Spear from Breakker takes out Wolfgang.
End of days to Mark Coffey.
And it's the end of Dallas and the Dusty Cup.
[bell ringing]
[Alicia] Here are your winners,
the team of Bron Breakker and Baron Corbin!
[Vic] You're the Tag Team specialists.
You're the multi-time champion.
What do you make of Bron Breakker and Baron Corbin?
[Brooker] Sometimes they keep you in jail. Check this out.
Look at the strength of Bron Breakker.
Two for the price of one, a little action to beat.
[Vic] Oh, this was off a blind tag. Baron Corbin tagged himself in.
Bron Breakker took one for the team,
saving Baron Corbin away from the Wolfgang.
And then in the end, Baron Corbin was able to punch their ticket
to the next round.
And we have an updated look at the Dusty Rhodes Classic.
The first team to advance, Bron and Baron.
[upbeat music playing]
[Vic] And how good it must feel.
Will their names be the ones etched into the prestigious Dusty Cup?
But what a way to kick off the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic.
Still one more Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic matchup
to come here tonight.
But we wanna talk about something else that took place last week,
'cause it's certainly been some hard times for Tiffany Stratton.
[upbeat music playing]
Any sign of her yet, guys?
-Oh, nothing here. -I don't see here.
Late as I expected, which is why I got to work early this morning.
But today, little Miss Tiff Tiff is gonna get some dirt
-under her fingernails. -[woman] Yeah, she is.
[horse neighing]
Oh, look, there she is now.
[upbeat music playing]
-You're late. -I know.
I had to make sure I had the perfect outfit.
You're not wearing that, are you?
Tiffany, I had clothes for you.
Ew! I'm not wearing that!
Just because I got stuck in this disgusting situation
does not mean I can't look good doing it.
-I'm good. -Fine by me. Let's get to work.
Ouch.
What is wrong? We are just walking. Real work hasn't even started yet.
Oh, me? I'm perfect.
Right. Okay, anyways, there's a lotta work that we have to do.
We're gonna muck the stalls, feed the horses.
I'm sorry.
[horse neighs]
I don't speak ranch.
What does muck mean?
Muck means clean. It's okay, we'll get to it.
Eventually, we'll clean the saddles and the bridles.
We'll wash the horses.
-If you see any horse dumping-- -Horse dumping?
Horse dumpings.
Horse dropping. Horse poop.
Yeah, horse [bleep]. If you see it, pick it up.
Okay.
[horse neighing]
Let's go.
[Vic] A little bit of hard work will be good for her.
But there's a superstar who's not afraid to get her hands dirty.
We'll hear from the NXT Women's Champion, Lyra Valkyria,
next live on NXT.
[upbeat music playing]
Well, you guys all saw at the start of the show,
Blair and I kicked the crap outta each other at New Year's Evil.
[audience cheering]
But despite being in the deepest women's division that WWE has to offer,
I'm pretty confident that I'm gonna finish 2024 just as I started it
as your NXT Women's Champion.
[audience cheering]
The thing about Blair is, I know she's not going anywhere.
I know wherever this title goes, she will follow.
But the question for now is,
who am I gonna face in four weeks time at Vengeance Day?
Well, we're all gonna find out next week.
Because I spoke to Ava today.
And she told me that we are gonna have ourselves
a 20-Woman battle royal.
With a twist.
Because when that battle royal comes down to the final four competitors,
it becomes a Fatal 4-Way.
And it's the winner of that Fatal 4-Way that will go on to meet me
for the NXT Women's Championship at Vengeance Day.
["Triumph" song playing]
[Lola Vice] Lyra Valkyria.
Lyra Valkyria.
You're only standing in this ring
because your real old friend Tatum Paxley saved your ass last week.
We are not friends.
Unfortunately, for you, I still have my contract.
Which means I can cash this baby in whenever I want.
[speaking Spanish]
Yeah, okay, whenever you want, anytime you want.
Lola, I get it, okay?
But what happened?
I really thought when you came in here with your MMA background,
and all the hype you had coming in the door,
that you were gonna be the one to turn this place upside down.
And all I ever see you do is talk, and talk, and talk,
and talk about what you're gonna do.
So what is it, Lola?
Maybe you're confused. Maybe you're not sure what I'm here to do.
Let me tell you, I'm not here to watch you shake your arse on Instagram, okay?
[audience cheering]
I am here because I wanna fight
Lola Vice, the Caged Fighter.
See these people? Some of them don't like you.
A lotta them do like you.
But I think one thing we can all agree on is that
everybody wants to see this match happen.
[audience cheering]
-[speaking Spanish] -[chuckles]
Everyone loves me. I can't help it.
These people are like sheep. They follow my every move.
[audience booing]
Pero I can't blame them. They love my Latina heat.
Oh. Oh, you're Latina heat.
Where is it? Because the only Latina heat I see is coming from Elektra Lopez.
La Madrina.
The woman that held Legado del Fantasma together.
Actually, I'm just wondering,
when is it you plan on breaking it to your bestie here
that you have no intention of using that contract
to gain yourself a tag team title match?
[applauding]
Do you know what, Lola? I'll make it easy for you.
Let's just have us a title match right here, right now.
Demi and referee out here. Let's do this.
[Vic] I don't hear any argument from you, Book.
[Booker] Shucky ducky quack quack.
[Vic] And here comes our first show. And what a right hand.
And Lopez, Vice.
[grunting]
[Vic] All by herself is the NXT Women's Champion.
-It's a two-on-one assault. -[Booker] Yeah, Vic, this is…
[Vic] Paxley… Wait a minute, Tana Paxley!
-[Booker] What? What's she doing here? -[Vic] Paxley is out to even the odds.
[audience cheering]
-[Vic] It has been chaotic all night long. -You two against us two any time.
-Yes, any time! -[inaudible]
We're ready for you. You wanna go?
-Let's go! -[inaudible] and me,
we'll take you two on any time!
[Vic] Well, these two may be facing each other in the future,
but for metaphor, their future became their present.
We're meant to be together!
-[woman 1] Oh, no. -[man] Oh, God.
[man] Wait, wait, wait. Look at this, look at this.
-[woman 1] Just like that. -You've to follow orders.
-[inaudible] -Listen to this thing.
They break up, we cake up.
-We love cake! -Let's do this [inaudible].
That's a really cute one, guys. I like it. What about me?
-Hi, Josh. -Sorry you had to see that, Josh Briggs.
You know, the group that triggered Josh's breakup.
You think we broke up because of you guys?
-Of course! Absolutely! -That's completely wrong.
Be honest. This is a safe space. Lay it on, mate.
You need to get your head outta your ass, because we all had different goals,
and mine was to become a champion.
And if it wasn't for Captain Sidekick right there,
-I would be the Heritage Cup Champion. -Don't touch the cup.
You know what? I think I deserve a rematch.
-[woman 2] A rematch? -Absolutely.
Josh! Josh, a rematch! You lost. You got disqualified.
-So, back in the line. -Is that a [inaudible]?
-Who are you calling a sidekick? -That would be you.
-Me. -You got a problem with it?
-We can handle it tonight. -Oh, yes, I have a problem.
Look, Ava. The evidence clearly shows my foot underneath the ropes.
And per the WWE bylaws, this constitutes as a rope break.
Luca, I'm not a ref. There's nothing I can do about it.
I'm waiting for someone right now,
but I promise, I'll pass your concerns along.
-Fair enough. -Ava.
-Dragon. -Que pasa?
-How are you? -I'm good. Hey, I'm sorry about last week.
-Oh, that's okay. -But I saw LWO took care of things.
And my visa issues are all done. I'm back, ready to go.
That's great. I was happy to have you back.
Well, well, well. That is great.
And I'm assuming, since no mas visa issues,
that means open challenges are back on the table.
-Am I wrong? -I was gonna discuss that.
You know, Dragon Lee is always ready.
Yeah, well, I'm always ready, too, amigo.
I'm so ready, in fact, I had this contract drafted up,
so you don't have to go out there and wait for a challenger.
All you gotta do is sign.
[speaking Spanish]
-And that's gonna start tonight. -I guess it's a done deal, then.
-I guess so. -Well, see you tonight, cabron.
-What did he just call me? -Don't worry about it.
[Vic] Booker, it looks like we have another championship match here tonight.
[upbeat music playing]
Thank you, [inaudible]. We're gonna thank you.
[bell ringing]
[Alicia] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Representing Meta-Four, Oro Mensah!
[upbeat music playing]
[Booker] Did you get that? Did you get that thing?
-Did you get it? No, no, no, no, no. -[Vic] He thought he had it for a while.
[Booker] Did you get that, Meta-Four? Do you feel it?
[Vic] You are on another level here tonight.
-[Booker laughs] -[bell ringing]
[Vic] What we might be getting out of Josh Briggs
is maybe a turning point in his career,
because it's another solo opportunity right now for Briggs.
-[Booker] Show me some. -[Vic] And you have an eye for talent.
Can Briggs break through like he did at Deadline?
[Vic] He showed you something there?
[Booker] I wanna see this kid show me something.
He has something, Vic. He definitely passes that airport test.
He doesn't look like he's gonna a hoedown or anything tonight,
so it looks like he means business. I like it.
[Vic] I wanna go back to some other business.
We always talk about the Czechs Championships.
Does Briggs deserve another opportunity at the Heritage Cup,
currently held by Noam Dar?
[Booker] No. When you lose a match, a fair and square,
why should you get a rematch, another opportunity?
-No, no, no. -[Vic] It wasn't fare and square.
[Booker] You go to the back of the line and start all over again,
just like Noam Dar said.
Oh, look at the strength. Boom. Nasty landing.
[Vic] And it is official, as we saw moments ago.
North American Championship will be defended tonight.
[Vic] Dragon Lee, Lexis King in our main event.
-[Booker] I like that. -[Vic] Oh!
And I'm certainly certain that you like that kick
because of Noam Dar on the outside, the referee distracted,
Meta-Four doing Meta-Four things.
-Cutting corners. -[Booker] Main man Mensah, he's capable.
And he's gonna go out here tonight and stop, I'm talking about stymie,
the momentum of one Josh Briggs.
[Vic] Well, now into the cover again. Shoulders down near-fall.
Maybe Mensah should follow in Briggs' footsteps.
-[Booker] What are you talking about? -[Vic] Branch out a little bit.
What's wrong with having some goals? Individual goals.
-[Booker] Why would you wanna be making… -[Vic] Individual championships.
…history with one of the greatest factions of all time, Meta-Four.
-What are you thinking? -[Vic] You wanna be a Meta-Four.
-You wanna have Meta-Five. -[Booker] I'd love to be apart of that.
[Vic] Another cover this time. Mensah with the leg and a kick out by Briggs.
Mora Mensah has been on top of his game in this matchup.
Jackson looking on with the Lash Legend.
Lash Legend, excuse me, the aforementioned Noam Dar.
[Booker] Mensah under the…
[Vic] One more time into a cover, kick out.
[Booker] Under the expert tutelage of one Noam Dar.
I mean, you couldn't have a better teacher.
[Vic] It's pretty braggadocious though, Meta-Four, to think that Briggs,
Jensen, and Fallon Henley broke up because of him.
[Booker] Can I ask you a question, Vic? Do you know why they broke up?
[Vic] Yes, they did agree to go on their separate ways for individual goals.
[Booker] That's what you hard.
-That's what they tell me. -[Vic] That's what they said.
You got to believe what they said.
[Booker] Maybe it's exactly what Meta-Four was talking about.
[Vic] He's talking about checks and championships, right?
That's what they're looking for, checks, championships,
and all three of them will be a happy little family.
Look, [inaudible] good job.
Get their names right. Yeah, it ain't working well when you screw up, does it?
Off the top goes Mensah, into the cover. Hook of the leg, and another near-fall.
[Booker] Jensen feel the same.
I'm saying, Jensen, do you feel the same way?
-Do you feel the same way? -[Vic] Obviously, he does, yes.
[Booker] You can see the look in his eye like a little, pretty puppy
seeing his master leave the house every week.
He's wondering, is he ever going to come back home?
That's what he's thinking.
[Vic] Right now Oro Mensah might wanna rethink his strategy
because all he has done is anger Josh Briggs.
[Booker] I like it.
This kid has all the tools to be a great singles champion.
[Vic] Jackson, Noam Dar, the official distracted one more time,
doesn't pay off for Mensah.
-Who gets planted? Steamroll by Briggs. -One, two, three.
-[audience cheering] -[bell ringing]
[Alicia] Here is your winner, Josh Briggs.
[Vic] Briggs called Mensah, Noam Dar's sidekick earlier tonight.
Oro didn't like the nickname.
Surely, didn't like the closing moments, and did not like that chokeslam,
which really was a turning point for Briggs.
Referee was distracted. Second time not the charm for Meta-Four.
Bam! Crash and burn, and boom!
Briggs planting Oro Mensah here tonight
and staring a hole through the Heritage Cup Champion, Noam Dar.
And one thing for sure, Briggs is no one's sidekick.
[upbeat music playing]
[Vic] OTM looking to add gold to their waists here tonight.
Huge championship opportunity in moments,
but to do so, they're gonna have to beat the champs,
the family, defensive tag team titles, live next on NXT.
[whimsical music playing]
[horse neighing]
Ugh.
I'm done now. Can we go sit down? My feet are killing me in these heels.
No, that was only task number one.
Here, Fallon, the horse of the thing again.
So we're gonna need a washer.
That's all you, Buttercup.
Ew. Don't call me Buttercup.
I didn't. That's the horse's name.
Buttercup.
I am not doing that. I am so not doing that.
[purring]
Tiffany meet Buttercup.
Have fun.
-Be good to me, please. -[purring]
[upbeat music playing]
[horse neighing]
Okay, now I'm done. I need a shower, new clothes,
and I need to be disinfected.
So, thank you very much, Fallon. I hope you enjoyed the show.
I hope it was a thrill of a lifetime.
It's been a long day, hasn't it?
But you can't put a clean horse in a dirty stall, can you?
I don't see why not.
They're filthy animals to begin with,
and they sleep on the hay that I just moved, right?
Time to muck some stalls.
Time to muck some stalls?
Muck this. Muck that.
What is that smell? Look, it's pink, just for you.
You're almost done. Get to mucking.
[gasps]
-[buzzing] -[gasps]
[Vic] Oh, Book, she's certainly getting those stalls
in tip-top, tippy shape, isn't she?
[Booker] I don't like that. Come on.
-[Vic] Well, you do like this then. -[Booker] Oh, yes.
You do like Bronco Nima.
-[Booker] Nima. -[Vic] Lucian Price.
-Price. -[Vic] SCRYPTS.
Are they ready though for this match?
[Booker] Oh, jeez, man, oh, jeez.
Look to make a name for themselves.
Look to have a moment here tonight. You say, oh, they're ready.
You're not gonna know that, there's time until it happens.
And with SCRYPTS at the end, Vic, anything can happen, man.
I like this trio.
[inaudible]
["Strictly Business" music playing]
[Vic] Well, here comes another trio that the NXT universe is behind.
But I wanna talk about the duo of D'Angelo, of Stacks.
I think it's safe to say, Booker,
that the family has not faced a duo quite like OTM--
[Booker] There's a trio now though, Vic. There's a trio.
Let's not forget about Adriana Rizzo from the block. Oh, yeah.
[Vic] I just said they're a trio that everyone likes,
but I wanna talk about the duo who has yet to face something like OTM.
-[Booker] Hey, man. -[Vic] Never mind.
[Booker] No, no, both of these teams are from the streets.
They know what it takes to make it out of the mud, so to speak.
Oh, yes.
[Vic] Tag team titles on the line here live on NXT.
[bell ringing]
[Alicia] The following contest scheduled for one fall
is for the NXT Tag Team Championship.
Introducing first the challengers, accompanied by SCRYPTS,
the team of Lucien Price and Bronco Nima.
OTM.
And their opponents, accompanied by Adriana Rizzo,
they are the NXT Tag Team Champions,
Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo,
and The Don of NXT,
Tony D'Angelo.
[audience cheering]
[Vic] Big matchup, of course,
this is the first of two championship matchups here tonight
because Dragon Lee will defend
the North American Championship later on tonight
against Lexis King in our main event.
And it's really been about the tag team competition here at NXT,
the start of the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic.
And I really wanna bring that up when it comes to the family.
Are they gonna be occupied, Booker, do you think,
by the ongoing Dusty Cup, which, again, we saw Bron Breakker, Baron Corbin,
first team to advance.
[Booker] I like the family staying sharp,
not sitting idle by, just waiting for the next opponent.
You got to go out there and you got to stay ready in order to be ready.
Oh, big shot there by Bronco Nima.
[Vic] Nima now throwing a right hand. Stacks able to counter for a moment.
Stacks trying to fight back. Able to sidestep Nima for a moment.
Gets caught.
This is the power advantage that OTM is gonna have in this matchup.
As a tag was made, D'Angelo's now legal. And caught in no man's land was Bronco.
[Booker] A little inexperienced there. Got caught on the wrong side of town.
But Nima, he can fix that because look at this guy.
He's a monster, Vic. Look at the muscle on this guy.
[Vic] Somehow, some way, D'Angelo did not go down.
A tag was made. Stacks now legal. Look for the two-for-one.
-Finally, taking the big fella down. -[Booker] Just inexperienced there.
Just inexperienced on these two young up-and-comers.
But here comes Lucien Price.
[Vic] Price tagging in all four superstars in the ring.
Referee might be losing a little bit of control in this match.
And the power again coming in for the challengers.
And you saw SCRYPTS on the outside.
How has SCRYPTS flipped the script for OTM?
[Booker] You need that legitimizer, Vic.
You need that someone to guide you in the right direction.
SCRYPTS, he's been there.
He knows what it's like to work at the next level.
[Vic] He certainly does. But right now, he's also taking a look
at a two-for-one on the other side.
And the family knows this is gonna be unlike any challenge
they've faced here in NXT,
especially since becoming the NXT Tag Team Champions.
Into the cover, maybe goes D'Angelo. Hook of the leg, titles on the line.
And a quick kickout.
Want to go back and talk about the family, because you see on the outside,
you see what they call the glue, Rizzo.
She certainly has been beneficial for the family,
but now getting first-hand look at the tag team champions
as up high and crashing down goes Stacks.
Into another cover, another count, and another near-fall
with the titles on the line.
How beneficial can she be for the tag team champions?
[Booker] You're talking about checks and balances, Vic.
You need somebody in your corner that can make sure everything is right.
And that's like Rizzo from the block, Vic.
Never underestimate the power of the female.
Don't do it, man.
Oh, wow. Wow.
[Vic] Well, Stacks thought it was a cheap shot.
Turning back around, and now Stacks trying to turn things around for his team.
He's got to remember though,
he is not legal superstar, that being Price.
It is Bronco Nima. Oh, and Nima hoisting up Stacks.
-And that is gonna be a nasty landing. -[audience booing]
[screaming]
Tag team titles on the line.
It's over with. It's over with.
[Vic] Back live on NXT, the NXT Tag Team titles on the line.
The champions right now being rocked by the challengers,
and Nima with a cheap shot taking out Toni D'Angelo.
And Stacks is in a bad way right now as it has been all OTM.
And during the break, they just continue
to apply the offensive pressure with some unique offense.
SCRYPTS, all smiles.
And OTM has been doing all the dirty work in this matchup.
Take a look at these shots from Price.
[Booker] Those clubbing forearmed shots remind me of one big Van Vader.
God rest his soul.
I'm sure he'd be proud of those forearms right there, Vic.
[Vic] Stacks doing his best to try to fight over to his corner,
but a long way from his partner.
And these are two teams who certainly come from two different sets of streaks.
[Booker] Yeah, I'm looking at the growth of Nima and Price,
but also you got to look at Stacks and D'Angelo.
Both of these teams are looking for greatness,
but I tell you, Nima and Price,
what Stacks and D'Angelo have, that's tag team gold, Vic.
[Vic] And Stacks able to navigate his way free,
because that would have been disastrous for the tag team champions.
This is Stacks' moment. Stacks so close.
[Booker] We're talking about those moments, Vic.
Be there in a second thing he'd be gone.
[Vic] He got there. And in comes the boss.
And the boss has heard from the challengers.
He said they are coming for what's left.
Not tonight, says Tony D.
[Booker] Beautiful. The belly suplex just right there on Nima
Absolutely Price.
[Vic] Picking up some speed. Nima's gonna get a little bit too.
Goes up, goes over. Look at the athleticism.
And going to the body. Big gut punches. From the top.
[Booker] That's just pure power right there by The Don, Vic.
-[Vic] Following it up with a spinebuster. -Oh, beautify.
-Beautify. -[Vic] He's fired up.
Into the cover to retain. And a near-fall.
Family was a half second away.
And when we talk about the power of OTM,
Tony D'Angelo just showed us we can't talk about power
if we're not talking about the boss.
[Booker] The Don came up on the street the hard way, Vic.
He's got it done. He just did, you know, fined his way to this position.
He earned this position, Vic.
[Vic] And The Don trying to get back into it. Nice counter.
And making a tag is the underboss. These two work so well as a team.
We've seen both superstars…
able to have this uncanny ability
to be in the right spot at the right time.
Will it happen again here tonight?
-[Booker] Oh, beautiful. -[Vic] Oh, no.
Whoa. Great tag team action by the young bloods.
OTM is taking control of this matchup.
[inaudible]
[Vic] When we talk about Stacks,
always able to get just in the right spot at the right time.
The same can be said for OTM
who could be in the right spot here tonight to put gold around their waist.
-[Booker] Wow. Wow. -[Vic] And a near-fall.
[Booker] All instinct right there on that kick out, Vic.
-[Vic] Barely was… -[Booker] That was it. That was it.
[Vic] The Don just able to get up, the underboss toss to the outside.
And you got a feel here for The Don.
Oh, and you really got a feel for him now. Another power. Will it be enough?
-And Stacks again. -[Booker] Wow.
The Don able to kick out.
[Booker] Nima and Price did everything right right there.
Still didn't get the one, two, three, on Tony D, man.
[Vic] And, you know, we've seen Stack sacrifice himself time and time again.
He's struggling. He's trying to get in there for Tony D'Angelo.
D'Angelo's been doing it by himself. And in this moment, finally.
-[Booker] Wow. Big shot there, big shot. -[Vic] Stacks back in.
D'Angelo goes around. Shoulders down near-fall.
[Booker] You can't hold the big guy, Lucien Price down like that, man.
[Vic] Stronger than most, but look at The Don.
-Stacks, let's go. Let's go, baby. -[Vic] Able to sidestep.
-Barking at Stacks. -Get back!
[Vic] And we've seen this in the past.
-Family… -[Booker] Wow. Wow.
[Vic] …fighting for one another here tonight to retain the titles.
Is this gonna be enough in the moment?
Looking for that bada-boom, bada-bing.
Don into the cover. Hook of the leg, and, no.
[Booker] Wow.
Nima just able to get back to his feet, but SCRYPTS just ran in front of us.
I didn't see it, but I think SCRYPTS went over there,
and helped Nima get back to his feet.
[Booker] What was he supposed to do? He's there for a reason, Vic.
He's their leader for a reason, Vic. Come on.
[Vic] Fair point, Book, actually.
And right now, you hear the NXT universe for both these teams,
and this is starting to break down. This is turning into a slugfest.
[Booker] Bada-boom, bada-bing, is probably over right now.
Price and Nima has a chance.
Whoa. Wait. Look at SCRYPTS.
[audience cheering]
[Vic] SCRYPTS didn't connect. Rizzo.
Paying dividends.
Stacks flying high.
-And Tony D'Angelo, forget about it. -[Booker] Man! Got him hooked.
-The family retains. -[bell ringing]
["Strictly Business" music playing]
[Alicia] Here are your winners and still the NXT Tag Team Champions,
Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo and Tony D'Angelo.
[Vic] If not for Rizzo, this could have gone a different way.
The glue of the family keeps the title stuck…
to D'Angelo and Stacks.
["Strictly Business" music playing]
And still, baby! And still!
[murmuring]
Guys, we're good. Jaycee has a plan. Let's go.
Look, we all know Jaycee was in crisis mode right now.
Attendance is down and this place is going under fast.
I get you guys and the entire student body
have been trying to come up with the money,
-but it's just not good enough. -Yeah.
But I have an idea that'll save the university from debt.
But I need you guys to do exactly what I say.
And we'll be up and running and back on our feet in no time.
-Okay? -Check this out.
-That's you. This is gonna be you. -Yeah.
Oba Femi, congratulations on winning the Men's Breakout Tournament.
Now, I know that it's only been a week, but do you know when you wanna use
this contract for a title match?
This contract means that I could become an NXT champion whenever I want.
And just like the Men's Breakout Tournament,
every superstar will crumble under my feet.
And because I'm backed by destiny, I could cash in at Stand & Deliver.
-I could cash in-- -Well, well, well.
Congrats on the contract, my friend. I'm proud of you. I really am.
But we all know if it wasn't for Trey Bearhill,
it would have been you and me in the finals of that tournament.
And, well, who knows, right?
All that matters is that you earned your title shot
by winning that tournament.
And I got my title shot with this, against Dragon Lee tonight.
So keep doing your thing. Keep plugging away.
Because I think I'm looking at the future NXT champion, Oba Femi.
And you're looking at the next North American champion,
Lexis King, the face of Tuesday nights.
And after I win my title match tonight, drinks on me, Kel.
[clicks tongue]
-That match is the main event tonight? -Yeah.
♪ Welcome to the generation of Jade… ♪
[Vic] Lexis King certainly loves himself some Lexis King.
And I like the little bob.
-[audience cheering] -[bell ringing]
[Alicia] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first Cora Jade.
[Vic] Here is another superstar that cares only about herself.
Can Gigi Dolin beat some respect into Cora Jade?
This two go one-on-one, it's live, it's next on NXT.
It shouldn't be happening to us. Shouldn't be happening to us.
Hey, hey, hey! Oh, you've roughed yourself up, okay?
The game is gone. We couldn't have prepared for Day 2, okay?
Oh, family man.
Ridge Holland.
I seen your interview last week. Very touchy. You poured your heart out.
Don't worry about me, Joe. You should be worried about them.
What's wrong?
Don't know how to act when someone's not scared of you,
I'm not scared. I've got no fear.
In fact, you should be afraid of what I'm capable of doing to you, son.
Joe, I know how tough you are, okay?
But look into my eyes. There's no fear in these.
Do you know what you should have stuck to doing?
Being a brawling brute.
Because now you're back in NXT, I don't know how long you'll survive.
We'll take care of that. Won't we, boys?
Let's bolt.
Take it easy, boy. Take it easy.
I'll be seeing you.
["Watch Me Now" music playing]
[Alicia] Making her way to the ring, Gigi Dolin.
[Vic] Well, tonight is the opportunity
that Gigi Dolin has been waiting for several weeks
when it comes to Cora Jade.
-Look, let's talk about Jade for a second. -[Booker] Oh, Jade, buckle up.
-[Vic] Jade's rude. -[Booker] Yes!
-[Vic] She's crass. -[Booker] Uh-huh.
-She's unapologetic… -[Vic] Yes!
…and she's ruffed feathers
-including everyone in the locker room. -[Booker] And you know why, Vic?
[Booker] Because Cora Jade feel like she had a big, big part in building NXT.
I'm talking about from the mortar to the brick to just about everything,
-and now she's back. -[Vic] We'll take a look at Gigi Dolin.
Dolin an accomplished superstar here in NXT as well,
and she's not gonna be pushed around by anyone,
-that includes Cora Jade. -[Booker] No, no.
Gigi Dolin, she's not gonna be pushed around.
I mean, she came up the hard way in her first round of defences.
-Fight, throw hands. I like it, man. -[Vic] That's very true.
Maybe looking for that jaded DDT that was countered though, by Dolin.
And we have seen Dolin deal with her issues
this way in the past into a quick cover and a quick kickout.
Dolin went on to say that this is not the same Cora Jade
that she once knew when they both arrived to the Performance Center.
[Booker] It's not the same Cora Jade.
Cora Jade wants to ascend to that number one spot,
something that has been evading her.
-But now she's in prime position, Vic. -[Vic] Jade able to turn things around.
There's no denying Cora Jade's current momentum since her return.
You can even look at it, and she actually pinned
the NXT Women's Champion in a tag team match several weeks ago.
[Booker] She's definitely come back, and she's on that fast track to the top.
You know, to the… What do you call it? The tippy top.
But she's definitely on that fast track, Vic.
[Vic] Cora Jade, a superstar who just loves to steal the spotlight from anyone.
[Vic] What are you talking about steal the spotlight?
[Vic] What do you mean what am I talking about?
[Booker] Look here.
[Vic] Go back to the last premium live event.
NXT Women's Championship is over.
Who comes out to steal the spotlight from Lyra Valkyria?
[Booker] What are you supposed to do, Vic?
You're supposed to steal the spotlight.
You're supposed to think about me, me, me.
This is not soccer. This is not football. This is not basketball.
This is a me-type sport.
[Vic] Big takedown by Jade. Well, I'll bring it to you.
You're talking about the me.
Then what gives Jade the right as there isn't a championship around her waist
to believe that she runs the NXT women's locker room.
[Booker] But think about it. Cora Jade left for a minute.
She comes back, somebody has taken her locker room.
[Vic] A minute? Months!
[Booker] Somebody has taken her locker room.
How disrespectful is that, Vic? These young kids needs to know.
[Vic] Jade turning things around again in this matchup,
continuing to apply the offensive pressure right to Gigi Dolin.
And the goal for Dolin tonight was to beat respect into Jade
for what you talked about, coming back into the locker
after several months and kicking Petrovic out of her locker.
Into the cover, inside leg hook, and a kickout by Dolin.
[Booker] It's not gonna be easy, Vic. I mean, look at Cora Jade.
Don't look like she's missing step. Look at this one.
-[Vic] Bam. -[Booker] Back, [inaudible].
[Booker] Was it to the snout or was it to the jaw? [inaudible].
[Vic] Looked like to the jaw to me.
-What did you see? -[Booker] I thought it was the snout.
[Vic] Gigi Dolin believes that Cora Jade lacks an authenticity about her.
I think she is the resident mean girl of NXT.
There's nothing that Cora Jade… She says what she means.
That's one thing I will agree with you on, Booker,
is she came back with a purpose.
[Booker] Yeah, you believe a snake when he says he's gonna bite you, Vic.
That's Cora Jade. She's not playing any game.
She's not trying to hide her real feelings or anything about people.
Tells you like it is, man.
[Vic] Both these superstars hoping to be part of the battle royal next week
to challenge Lyra Valkyria down the line for the NXT Women's Championship.
But Gigi Dolin, what she's not worried about next week,
not worried about a championship.
She's worried about the here. She's worried about the now.
And she's trying to just chop down Cora Jade.
Big clothesline by Dolin.
[Booker] I talk about that time off being the worst ending, Vic,
especially in those late rounds, especially in those deep waters.
Oh, right now, Gigi Dolin is looking great, man.
[Vic] Nasty dropkick by Dolin, who is fired up. She's motivated.
And, Booker, what's wrong with Dolin
wanting to stick up for the women's locker room?
-Looking for that crucifix bomb. And… -[Booker] She doesn't get it.
-[Vic] Holding out the official was Jade. -[Booker] There you go again.
You ain't got time to be thinking about the women's locker room.
You got to be thinking about… Oh, no. Oh, no.
[Vic] Still got time to be thinking about much with Cora Jade
continuing her jaded ways here in NXT.
[Alicia] Here is your winner, Cora Jade.
[Vic] You were getting lost in a thought.
Cora Jade came right in and, bam, dropped Gigi Dolin…
-[Booker] You gonna think I'll [inaudible] -[Vic] for a big momentum win.
[Booker] That thought was always looking at her.
[Vic] When we talk about stars, you see one on your screen
for the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic coming up in moments.
It's the second opening round matchup of the night.
Which of these two teams will advance? We find out next.
We just got played back there, bro.
We shouldn't even be leaving without them titles.
Hey, Big Dog, bro, you got to do something, bro.
-[inaudible]. -Nah, for real, my boy, for real.
Oh, Miss Parker, Miss Parker.
[audience cheering]
-There ain't [inaudible] -We ain't trying to hear that.
Man, look, this is their environment.
-Y'all need to open your minds up. -That's what you said.
Where I come from, we see that coming from a mile away.
And y'all really fell for that? Y'all are better than that.
[inaudible]
I know I'm right. So first things first, who's got Riz?
-[inaudible] -That's what I thought.
Y'all need pressure where you can't apply it.
And I'm saying, Jaida Parker's your missing piece.
So what's up?
-What's up, dude? -I don't know what up.
-Let's talk business. -Perfect.
-You like them? -I like them.
[Booker] [laughs] I like that.
New diamond, we gotta add to the forces, Jaida Parker.
[Vic] Oh, my God, man.
[bell ringing]
[Alicia] The following contest is a first round match
in the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic.
Introducing first the team of Hank Walker and Tank Ledger.
[Vic] It's the second opening round matchup of the night for the Dusty Cup.
Who will advance? Who's eliminated?
♪ Never so done ♪
[upbeat music playing]
[audience cheering]
[Alicia] And the opponents, the team of Nathan Frazer, and Axiom.
[Vic] Talk about Baron Corbin, Bron Breakker advancing earlier.
This isn't double elimination. This is one-and-done.
This is speed versus power here.
-What are you laughing at? -[Booker] Wait a minute.
Are those cutoffs? Hank and Tank got on.
Are those cutoffs?
-[Vic] Yeah, what do they look like, Book? -[Booker] What the hell?
[Vic] It's not the first time they've worn these, Book.
Now you're just catching on?
[Booker] This is a professional match here.
These guys look like bums. I mean, come on, Vic.
[Vic] Well, I wonder if any of these two teams were watching earlier tonight
in that first matchup of the evening when it came to the Dusty Cup,
because right now you're taking a look at two teams with a lot to prove.
All four of these superstars wanting to make their mark.
And there's the power game.
Right off the rip in favor of Hank and Tank.
[Booker] I wanna like Hank and Tank.
I really do. I really wanna like these guys.
These guys that brought perhaps the greatest team in this tournament,
but they couldn't catch like me in the bottom.
They couldn't get that wave and catapult up to that position.
I would love to see that, but just trying to get your wardrobe like that.
[Vic] Nice dropkick there by Axiom.
I don't know, he didn't pick up such a wardrobe release, all of a sudden.
And now Nathan Frazier tagging into the matchup.
Look, all four of these superstars, we talked to them earlier today.
Talked about Dusty Rhodes' pictures all around the Performance Center.
You know, Dusty Rhodes' fingerprints all over NXT.
What would it mean for you to be competing in this sort of match,
this sort of tournament, this Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic?
[Booker] I can only imagine a young Harlem Heat
being in a tournament like this.
Not just being in a tournament like this,
but winning a historical tournament like this.
In the memory of Dusty Rhodes, it'd be a highlight reel for the crew.
Trust me on that.
[Vic] Pass is a pass for both these teams because both of these superstars
have fought their partners, and it doesn't necessarily know
if that strategy has worked out for everyone.
What's worked out for these two teams,
shooting a half into the cover and a kick out.
Both these teams know each other so well as far as being teams.
We talked about that unique pairing earlier tonight
with Bron Breakker and Baron Corbin.
We're not gonna have that so much in this match
because Axiom and Frazier bonded over comics.
You talk to Hank and Tank, they bonded over food.
[Booker] You know, styles make fights big, and I look at Axiom and Frazier.
These two guys, they definitely have somewhat similar same styles,
definitely on the same page as well as they're good friends.
[Vic] Axiom got caught, and then gets dropped over the top turnbuckle,
turns right back around.
[Booker] Hank Walker looking real, real rowdy right now, man.
[Vic] And Hank and Tank, man, they are still an unknown team.
This could be their breakout moment this tournament.
[Booker] These guys are green as goose poop,
but I'm gonna tell you right now, Vic,
like I say, they could catch them green and catapult them
to the [inaudible] Cup in a heartbeat. Check it out.
-Check it out. -[Vic] Hank's splash into the cover.
Wise hooks both legs, and Axiom able to pick up.
[Booker] They're my tank legend, both legs.
[Vic] All these teams know what it would mean
to etch their name on the prestigious Dusty Cup,
to get an opportunity down the line at the NXT Tag Team titles.
Past winners of the cup include the recently returning Authors of Pain…
-[Booker] Whoa. -…who we saw back at action on SmackDown--
[Booker] Those guys haven't missed any meals.
They look like two monsters making their return.
[Vic] Here comes Frazier coming in.
A lot on the line, Booker, for both these teams.
Swing it away.
Boom!
[Booker] Man, Ledger was setting up for a big form, got caught, though.
[Vic] Can't hit what you can't catch.
And look at Frazier, who says he'll never slow down.
Right back to the head.
Frazier quick to the top. Bam, missile dropkick.
-[Booker] Right on the money. -[Vic] Into the cover.
And Hank in the right spot at the right time again.
[Booker] These guys after going out there and fighting each other,
it seemed like that did a little bit of something.
I'm talking about Hank and Tank. Oh, wow!
[Vic] That's what I'm saying. The strategy doesn't necessarily work out for everyone,
but it's worked out for these two teams,
who are fighting in this opening round matchup of the Dusty Cup
to possibly punch their ticket to the finals
down the line at Vengeance Day,
but you gotta get through the first round, and Frazier just got that shoulder up.
Of course,Vengeance Day, our next premium live event Sunday,
February the 4th. Tickets available, ticketmaster.com.
[Vic] I'm looking at what they call the kinetic energy between Hank and Tank.
These guys got something, Vic. They just need to hold it, man.
They just need to hold it just a little bit. Wow.
[Vic] Oh, Axiom just wiped out Tank. Now he's looking to wipe out Hank.
Didn't take the big fill off his feet. Whoa.
[audience cheering]
-[Vic] Speed flying all around us, Booker. -[Booker] Yeah, right there to speed--
-[Vic] They're not stopping. -[Booker] Frazier.
-[Vic] They're not slowing down. -[Booker] Oh, God, man.
[Vic] Axiom and Frazier, they're in the driver's seat.
Axiom climbing to the top. Looking to fly.
Able to get up and over. Hank saw it coming.
Hank right back in
-and just depleted Axiom. -[Booker] Great inside by Walker.
[Vic] It's a cradle. It's a cradle. Shoulders down.
Not able to advance. He's able to get up.
Oh, Hank, he just got caught with that knee.
[Booker] Man, Axiom is quick as a cat right there.
Frazier's going up to the top. He's gonna try to finish it.
[Vic] Axiom just wiped out Tank.
-Up to the top. -[Booker] Wow!
Connects. Cover. Count.
And our second team has advanced.
[Alicia] Here are your winners, the team of Nathan Frazier and Axiom.
[Vic] Nathan Frazier said he finally learned his lesson.
He tried to keep his thoughts to himself.
And here tonight, he came in with a game plan with Axiom. Bam!
And the high flying pays off for Axiom and Frazier here tonight.
Two first round matches. Two winners. There's who's advanced to the next round.
And you take a look at the other side of the bracket.
The four other teams who are still in this tournament
to etch their name on the prestigious Dusty Cup.
Congratulations, Axiom and Frazier.
Vamos, boy. Vamos.
You got this, Tiffany. [laughs]
You got this, Tiffany. Come on. I will never talk about this ever again.
I'm gonna erase every smell from this day.
Every memory.
Every disgusting moment. I'm gonna erase it from my memory.
[exhales]
-Yikes. -Yeah.
I don't know if she realizes she's gonna have to move that.
I know, but that's what she gets for stepping to you.
-Yes, it is. -Look how dirty she is.
-I know. There's a lot in there, too. -I know.
She ain't doing too bad.
I mean, she did last longer than I thought she was going to.
It's true.
-Yeah, it wouldn't be a bad addition. -I can add her on.
[all laugh]
You are Tiffany Stratton. You can do this.
I'm gonna erase this day from my memory.
I am Tiffany Stratton.
[retches]
-[sobs] -[all laugh]
Well, Tiffany, it looks like you're all done.
How did it feel to eat your words and actually do some real work for once?
This was not real work, Fallon. This was hell.
It was the worst day of my life.
Because for one day, I got to feel what it was like to be you.
Smell like your disgusting horses and live your repulsive life?
I actually pity you because you actually enjoy this crap.
Literally.
Something is seriously wrong with you if you think this is any way to live.
[inhales & exhales]
But I am finished.
And I did everything you asked of me against every fiber of my body.
-But, Tiffany… -But nothing, Fallon.
I'm leaving. Toodle.
-[screams] -[water splashes]
No! No!
I was gonna say you missed a spot, but you're free to go.
Help me!
Fallon, help me!
No! No! No!
[Vic] You feel bad for her, don't you? She got what she deserved.
["Control The Empire" song playing]
[Vic] Well, it is main event time as we try to move on
from what we witnessed all night for Tiffany Stratton.
Dragon Lee is here.
Dragon Lee is set to defend the North American Championship.
He's always ready for a challenge.
And any challenger that may step up.
The future of Lucha Libre is here to continue to prove this path
to becoming possibly one of the greatest North American champions ever.
Lee-King for the North American title. It's live. It's next on NXT.
Are you ready for this, man? It's like Christmas for us.
-I was telling you. -Man, next week can't come fast enough.
Our role on this Dusty Classic is just getting started.
We gonna get our names on that cup.
And, you know, last year we had a lotta starts and stops.
But this year, we're starting, and I know we ain't stopping.
But you know what's crazy?
Everybody seems to just keep on talking about our opponents, Trick and Melo.
And that's cool. That's real cool.
They've been the talk of NXT this past year.
But next week, you and I, we put an end to that.
Come on, man. Give me some.
Everybody already knows that they're not even on the same page.
-But you and me, we're in the same book. -Same book.
Yeah, we've been friends just as long as Trick and Melo.
But get this. Check this out.
I know exactly what we need to turn our careers around.
And this, this is it.
Guys, guys, guys, guys. Who's ready to change their lives?
-Okay, Brinley Reece, but not, though. -Oh, yeah.
You guys want to, but will you? Will you?
Your face is giving me no vibes, but I think you want it.
Let's get started with some stretches. We're gonna bring the energy.
We're gonna start with some right arm right across.
Let's go. Come on. Up, up. Come on. You got it, too.
Yeah. Because, guys, when you stay active and burn active,
you guys are gonna have six packs, just like that.
I don't mean to cut you off right there, Brinley,
but when it comes to six packs, I think we are.
Oh. Okay, okay, okay. I'm impressed, but if you guys need a program,
-I'm your girl. Hit me up, okay? -Yeah.
[Vic] Blade and Enofe, they're gonna have their chance next week
with another pair of first-round matches
that'll take place in this year's Dusty Cup.
Four teams, two spots. Who's heading to the semifinals?
Who will advance? We find out next week, live on NXT.
And the women's division will fill the ring
and toss each other over the top rope
with the last four women competing in a Fatal 4-Way matchup.
The winner will compete for the NXT women's title against Lyra Valkyria.
High stakes next week on NXT.
[Lexis] My way, my life.
["King" music playing]
[Vic] But it is a high stakes main event.
Yes, Dragon Lee's North American title is on the line.
And there is the man who referred to himself
as the face of truth.
-Did you hear him say that, Book? -[Booker] Yeah, yeah.
-[Vic] The face of truth. -[Booker] I'm gonna say this.
Since Lexis King made his debut, you can't question the ratings boost.
I mean, one of the highest-rated shows in NXT's history
when this man debuted.
You can't take that away from him. No way you can do that.
[Vic] Should be moments away from being called North American champion.
[bell ringing]
[Alicia] The following contest scheduled for one fall
is for the NXT North American Championship.
Introducing first, the challenger…
Lexis King.
[audience cheering]
And his opponent,
he is the NXT North American champion,
Dragon Lee.
[Booker] Vic, Lexis is feeling something.
You can tell he's draped out in gold.
He's expecting to walk away a new North American champ tonight.
[Vic] Well, it's hard to argue that.
Lexis King not trying to take center stage,
so to speak, here in NXT.
It's pretty interesting that he had a contract nicely typed
-in a nice folder, ready to go. -[Booker] What's up with the headband?
What's up with the headband?
[Vic] You like the guy, you don't like the guy.
What's up with you and fashion tonight, all of a sudden?
[Booker] I like the guy, but I'm just wondering,
what's up with the headband?
I mean, is he giving him some kinda extra added advantage or what?
I don't know. I'm just wondering.
[Vic] We'll get back into the match because the future Lucha Libre,
there's no way that Dragon Lee is afraid of Lexis King.
Didn't seem to even blink an eye.
[Booker] You know what? That's a Jedi mind trick, man.
You tell a man what he needs to hear to fight him inside that square circle.
This is a main event. A main event for Lexis King
to become the new North American champ.
[Vic] Lee coming right in. Lee was absolutely devastated.
He wasn't able to be here for New Year's Evil,
but he did come through with his promise.
He promised us a surprise, and out came Carlito.
[Booker] What a surprise. You know what?
I was happy to see Carlito back inside the square circle doing what he does best,
but I'm definitely glad to see Dragon Lee get over those visa issues,
and now he's back in play.
[Vic] And he's back in action here tonight.
Remember, when he defended the title in a Triple Threat match?
We talked about not blinking, not being afraid of anyone.
That's Dragon Lee. He said he was gonna be a fighting champion,
and he's proven to be just that, a fighting champion.
[Booker] He said it once. This kid is extraordinary. Talent.
He's like the wind. You can feel him, but you can't touch him.
But you know he's there every time he can get a win that--
-[Vic] Shoulders down. -[Booker] Oh, wow.
[Vic] And a quick kick out. Almost a stalemate situation,
but King staying right on top.
And how about this matchup? This matchup made official for next week.
We will have Tag Team action with the NXT Women's Champion in action,
Valkyria Paxley, taking on Vice and Lopez.
When we talk about next week,
we have a championship main event here tonight.
Next week on RAW, title will be on the line as well.
Seth "Freakin'" Rollins defending the world title against Jinder Mahal.
Two superstars who met in the finals to crown the first ever NXT champion.
[Booker] Yes, indeed. Jinder Mahal has been looking great as a player.
You can see that matchup right there.
Lexis King trying to cash in on the big win.
[Vic] I'm talking about looking great. That is Dragon Lee.
Dragon Lee now sight set charges in.
Oh, got caught by King. And King now big dropkick. Nasty spill.
-[Booker] Athleticism. -[Vic] Gnarly landing for the champion.
Challenger trying to take advantage. He got tied up. He got caught.
As I don't think he liked what he saw. Trey Bearhill, Bearhill's got an issue.
-Wait a minute. Lee up and over. -[Booker] Big, wise Bearhill…
[Vic] …North American Championship on the line.
[referee] Two…
[audience cheering and chanting]
[Vic] Back live on NXT.
This is our main event,
NXT North American Championship on the line.
It has been all the challenger, all Lexis King,
who could be closing in on his first reign as champion here in NXT.
[Booker] I'm just wondering, why was Trey Bearhill out here? I mean, trying to…
Oh, shoulders down. Kick out.
Don't… This man know the importance of a championship match like this?
I mean, come on, man.
[Vic] Did you forget when King cracked the steel chair
across the back of Bearhill taking him out of the Breakout Tournament?
[Booker] Why are you talking about old stuff?
[Vic] Because that's why he was out here.
[Booker] This official needs to do his job.
Had well with all the understanding and know-how
that this is a big deal right here tonight for one man, Lexis King.
[Vic] Much like on that night, it is Lexis King
who is like a snake slithered into this championship matchup.
[Booker] Why you gotta talk like that, Vic.
Why you gotta call a man a stink?
[Vic] He's a man who loves drama to certain degrees,
and he's not loving what Dragon Lee's doing now
because Lee, second win in this matchup, firing back on the Challenger.
Can you imagine Lexis King with gold around his waist here in NXT?
[Booker] Of course, I can. I can see the ratings going up as we speak.
I can see merchandise sales going up.
I can see lights, camera, action. Oh, yes, man.
[Vic] Lee should be looking in on the future of Lucha Libre,
that being Dragon Lee. Oh!
Dragon Lee, what a kick that connected
with a little turnbuckle assistance, up and over,
back into the turnbuckle goes the challenger.
Champions rocking, champions rolling. Lexis King.
[Booker] Wow, double kick there. Wow, triple.
[Vic] Add a couple more. Bam.
Right to the face, or as you would say, the snout.
[Booker] That was right there. That was the precision timing
by this young man, Dragon Lee. He's looking great, Vic.
[Vic] Dragon Lee setting his sights right back in and the champion out.
Closing it out possibly another successful defense and a near-fall.
Able to kick out is King, but take a look at Dragon Lee.
Talking about that pinpoint.
First one, then following it right back up with another.
[Booker] Yeah, but what about the resilience of Lexis King,
that big kick out after all of those combinations, Vic?
-[thuds] -[audience booing]
Man up, man up.
[audience jeering]
-[Booker] Oh, yeah. -[audience] Yeah.
-[audience] Yeah! Yeah! -[thuds]
[Booker] Who's gonna blink, Vic? Who's gonna blink?
[Vic] King just got kicked. King, got caught.
Turned around, Lee back on his feet. Taken down by King.
Lexis King trying to turn over into that single crab.
Counted one more time. Up under the jaw.
Superkick. Big knee under the jaw of King.
King's rock. Coming right back in, up and over, big clothesline.
Buckling the knees of the champion. The challenger now.
-Oh, boom. -[grunts]
Could this be it?
Do we have a new champion and Lee kicking out.
-[Booker] Wow, that shot that Lexis… -[Vic] What a sequence, but look at King.
King holding on to the ankle.
[Booker] Yes, he's holding on,
but that shot that he landed to the back of the head and dragging Lee,
that could be the turning point, Vic.
[Vic] The back on fire.
Lee out of desperation, finding his way one more time out of the submission.
What a sequence between these two, both men.
Blow after blow and another superkick under the jaw.
[Booker] He just walked into that big shot by Dragon Lee.
[Vic] Dragon Lee connects. Into the cover.
-Into the count. -[Booker] Wow.
[Vic] And Lee retains tonight.
[Alicia] Here is your winner, and still,
the NXT North America Champion, Dragon Lee!
[Vic] Operation Dragon still in full effect
for our North American Champion.
Back in some of the action.
This was the closing moments for Dragon Lee.
Up, over, big victory. Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!
Booker!
[Booker laughs]
-Oba Femi! With an official! -[Booker] Oba Femi!
-Right now. Yes, right now. -Now?
[Alicia] Ladies and gentlemen,
Oba Femi is executing his Breakout Tournament contract
for the NXT North American Championship!
[Vic] We knew Femi had his eyes on the title on this main event.
-[Booker] Wow, this is big, Vic. -[Vic] And look at Dragon Lee.
There's no way Dragon Lee was ready for this sort of challenge.
There's the bell. It's official. Title's on the line.
Oba Femi, the Breakout Tournament winner, has executed his contract,
his right, at any moment. He picked his spot here tonight,
but Lee's already been through one battle, Booker.
His mind's gotta be moving a mile a minute,
and he's in there with a monster of a man.
-[Booker] [inaudible] -[Vic] Whoa!
[Booker] Oh, my God! Oh, my God!
[Vic] This is Dragon Lee's second title match of the night.
[audience shouting]
NXT universe on their feet.
Femi's looking for the coup d'etat, Vic.
[Vic] Oba Femi got caught!
And they're still fighting Dragon Lee. I don't know where Lee's getting it from.
I don't know how Lee's on his feet.
Looking for a little assistance. Tornado DDT connects.
Champion now desperately crawling into the cover for two…
Oh, no!
[Booker] Didn't quite get all of that DDT.
Didn't swing out far enough, but the hope was up.
Hope was up first.
[Vic] Somehow, some way, but look, Dragon Lee looking for one more time.
Goes up. Gets overpowered.
Femi looking to plant the champion.
-Femi's into the cover. -[audience] One, two, three!
-[Vic] Oba Femi has shocked us all. -[Booker] What?
[Alicia] Here is your winner,
and the new NXT North America Champion,
Oba Femi!
[Vic] From Breakout Star to champion.
Just look at the power of Oba Femi.
This was after Dragon Lee had already successfully defended his title
against Lexis King.
This was Dragon Lee's best opportunity to retain for the second time tonight
that Tornado DDT, but as fresh as Oba Femi was,
was able to kick out, Lee was looking to go up, go around,
but instead found himself going up and then getting planted
by the monstrous Oba Femi.
And just like that, in one week,
he executes his contract to win some gold.
And a fortune teller in Nigeria told him he would dominate.
He would dominate an industry in the future.
And, Book, the future is now for Oba Femi.
[audience cheering]
It's Oba time!
Subtitles: Ed Boon