[intro music playing]
[Triple H] Then.
Now.
Forever.
Together.
♪ A million dollars from now… ♪
[Vic] On the heels of Raw on Netflix,
we are live in Atlanta, home of two Royal Rumbles, WrestleMania,
and tonight, the first time in seven years, the host of NXT.
-We are inside a loud… -[chanting] NXT!
…and sold-out Center Stage,
a historic venue,
looking to make more history tonight.
Welcome to NXT.
♪ I take a Xan' ♪
♪ I get a deal, then get some equity ♪
♪ When I get money then I'll buy some land ♪
♪ Yeah, I got G.O.A.T with me Know what I'm sayin'? ♪
[Vic] When it comes to tonight…
[crowd chanting] NXT! NXT!
[Vic] The NXT Universe is on their feet already,
because they know that the newest members of Monday Night Raw
are here as advertised.
The self-proclaimed favorite son of Atlanta, Austin Theory,
and Grayson Waller, A-Town Down,
they host NXT Champion Oba Femi on a special Grayson Waller Effect.
I can't wait to see how The Ruler handles the shenanigans.
Also, earlier today, the challengers arrived.
Lash Legend, Jakara Jackson set for the biggest match of their careers
as they're going to go up against Bianca Belair and Naomi.
The WWE Women's Tag Team Title will be defended in our main event tonight
as NXT takes Center Stage in Atlanta.
["Time Of Arrival" playing]
[bell dings]
[announcer] The following contest is a Tag Team Match scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, she is the NXT Women's Champion,
Giulia!
[Corey] WWE Universe, prepare to experience The Beautiful Madness,
the NXT Women's Champion has taken center stage.
[Vic] Well, to that point, it's the first time, Corey,
Guilia and Bayley have shared a ring together,
whether it's teammates or it's opponents.
[crowd chanting] Giulia! Giulia!
-["Role Model" playing] -[crowd cheering]
♪ Role Model ♪
[announcer] And her tag team partner,
Bayley!
[Vic] Guys, this is Bayley's first match on NXT
since 2020, when she was one half
of the WWE Women's Tag Team Champion.
[Corey] I spent some time with Bayley earlier,
and she could not stop talking, gushing even,
about how much tonight means to her, how excited she is…
-[crowd] Bayley! -…to be back where it all began.
And it sounds like the NXT Universe agrees.
[Booker T] It's buzzing, man. It's buzzing.
That's why Bayley's back. It feels good!
[Vic] Booker, we're in your old stomping grounds.
-Many WCW events out here. -[Booker T] Oh, man!
[Vic] You won your first
WCW Tag Team Titles right here in this building.
[Booker T] Yes, as well as I'm the king of WCW Saturday Night,
I'm the Television Champion.
And I'm gonna tell you, I remember it being just like this.
Oh, my God, man!
[Vic] Does this make NXT the new mothership?
[Booker T] This is it. This is it.
[Cora Jade] Welcome to the Generation of Jade.
["Generation Of Jade" playing]
[announcer] And their opponents,
the team of Cora Jade and Roxanne Perez!
[Vic] I know what Booker's gonna say.
-[Booker T] Stand up! -[Vic] Here we go.
[Booker T] Stand up for greatness.
It's Roxanne Perez, the prodigy,
along with Cora Jade,
one bad little sista!
-Oh, yeah! -[Vic] He still beat me to the punch.
Corey, do you agree with these two,
that this era of NXT has exceeded The Four Horsewomen?
[Corey] It's a tough call. We're talking about two different generations.
It's like comparing Babe Ruth and Shohei Ohtani.
I was here for the original Four Horsewoman,
the original women's evolution.
-But I've got to agree… -[bell dings]
[Corey] Top to bottom, NXT's women's division
might be stronger than it's ever been.
[Vic] Well, wasting no time are these four.
Book, I come to you, because unlike Perez and Cora Jade,
I hope you believe, Booker, Bayley…
that Bayley is back because she cares about these two.
[Booker T] You kidding me?
[Vic] I'm not. She cares about these two.
Like I said, because of the buzz,
she sees what's going on right here in NXT,
the strongest women division
in all professional sports, as well as the championship, Vic.
-This is about the championship. -[Vic] Backslide.
[Booker T] Here we go.
Near-fall-- Giulia looking for that knee counter,
Perez trying to get the NXT Women's Champion down.
And Giulia one step ahead, now looking for a submission.
-[Corey] Booker, I-- -[Vic] Cover by Giulia. Kick out.
[Corey] I can't necessarily disagree, Booker,
-but I'd like to draw attention-- -[Vic] Wait, cover by Perez.
-Beautiful pinning combination. -[Booker T] Oh, baby! Whoa!
[Vic] Countered into a submission. She counters,
that being Giulia into a pin, shoulder was up.
Go ahead, Corey.
[Corey] But the fact is, remember what Bayley created just a few years back.
Now still known as Damage CTRL,
Bayley pulled some of the top tier superstars from NXT,
to bring 'em to Raw, to SmackDown.
Bayley could be looking to build a new army.
[Vic] I think it was Giulia who said that Bayley changed the landscape of wrestling…
Into another cover, another near-fall. …was one of the reasons
she I wanted to come to the WWE.
And looking at Bayley as a role model
sounds like a path one of your prodigies followed.
[Booker T] Here comes Bayley.
Just a couple of months ago, Bayley was praising Roxanne Perez.
Now she's here in NXT, and trying to take it all away.
Vic, come on. Come on, man.
I don't say she's trying to take it away. Bayley loves NXT.
She's always said NXT is her home.
And this is the face-off that some have also been waiting for.
Cora not gonna like it. And look at Bayley right in.
[referee] One! Two!
[Vic] Talking about the WWE Women's Tag Team Titles,
once held by Bayley, those titles will be on the line in our main event.
Nice snapmare taking Cora Jade down.
And in comes Bayley with that big elbow to the spine.
Following up with a clothesline.
-Cover, center of the ring. -[crowd] One, two--
[Vic] Near-fall. Bayley declaring for the women's Royal Rumble.
Graves, you were there last year when she won.
[Corey] Bayley won it all last year. Very different game this year.
But Bayley had better only be thinking
about the women across the ring from her now,
Cora Jade and Roxanne Perez.
Else, she may not make it to the Royal Rumble.
[Vic] Cora with a go-behind, slithering like a snake,
-able to overpower Bayley. -[Booker T] Beautiful!
You see that work right there?
This is a different NXT than what Bayley is used to.
Bayley is the general in the middle of that squared circle.
But Roxanne Perez, she is truly the prodigy.
[Vic] Bayley looking to make history. No woman has won back-to-back Royal Rumbles.
Royal Rumble, this Saturday.
-The Road to WrestleMania-- -[Booker] Get out of there, Roxanne.
[Vic] …in Indianapolis, but Bayley is in control.
[Vic] Cora Jade not gonna like it 'cause Bayley taking it right to her as well.
Bayley has waited for this moment five years to return to an NXT ring.
And in comes her partner, the NXT women's champion, Giulia.
[Corey] The early moments of this match-up.
I'm very impressed by the tag team chemistry shown by Bayley and Giulia.
-[Booker] Oh, man! -[Corey] [indistinct] suplexes.
[Vic] They certainly are in control.
-Listen to the NXT Universe… -[Corey] Cover by Bayley!
[Vic] …as they almost saw this match-up come to a quick end,
courtesy of Bayley, who tags back in Giulia.
[Booker] Normally, you see the mentor come back and try to help the young guys.
But you see Bayley, she comes back and put herself
right in the middle of this match-up.
Come on. You guys agree with that?
Come on. Corey, you agree with that?
Gravy? Come on, man.
[Vic] I don't think anyone sides with you tonight,
-because we all see-- -[Corey] Look out!
-As Roxanne wiping out the champion. -[Booker] Uh-huh. Uh-huh.
Wiping out Bayley.
[Vic] Oh, Cora Jade wiping out as well.
And the books point.
Look who is standing tall
inside a sold-out center stage here in Atlanta.
[Corey] Cora Jade sacrificing herself to take out the opposition.
[Vic] Which team will stand tall?
[Booker] You're looking at them.
[crowd] One, two…
[Vic] Looking to end this, and a kick out.
-Right into the right hand by Perez. -[Booker] Oh, yeah.
[Vic] And what a tag team match-up this has been.
And, Corey, have Cora Jade and Roxanne Perez lost themselves
as we enter into the sold-out arena here in Atlanta?
[Corey] "Lost themselves"? I think you're out of your mind.
I think Roxanne is the former NXT women's champion
who wants to reach the top of the mountain again.
Cora Jade is on the same type of journey.
[Booker] Breach, gravy.
[Vic] If you two are on the same page, I know something's freezing over.
There is no smiling.
There is no more joy from Perez, from Cora Jade.
[Corey] Because jo doesn't win titles.
[Vic] Roxanne verbally sparred with Natalya, Bayley, CM Punk.
[Booker] How many times have I said--
[Vic] Like a broken record.
Bayley described them, though, as entitled attitudes,
and she's looking to silence both of them here.
Look at Perez holding on, Bayley able to kick her way free.
[Corey] I think when Bayley looks at Roxanne--
[Booker] Oh, baby!
[Corey] …she feels like she's looking in a mirror.
We've seen the evolution of Bayley for several years,
-and this is what set her apart. -[Booker] That's legal right there.
[Corey] It's not legal.
[Booker] Giulia is the reason why this is happening.
Come on, come on.
-She's gotta be smarter, Vic. -[Vic] That I will agree with.
And Bayley back in the wrong part of town here in this tag team match-up.
[Booker] Corey Gr-- uh, Corey…
-[Vic] Corey Graves. -[Booker] No, Corey…
-Uh, excuse me. -[Vic] It's all right. [indistinct]
[Booker] Cora Jade is finding her stride since coming off that knee injury.
In this matchup, she's looking great.
And she does sound a little bit like Corey Graves.
Corey, Cora…
[Vic] You know what else sounds great?
-[Booker] What? -[Vic] Corey Graves.
Cora Jade. I get what you're trying to do.
-I'll mend the fences for you. -[Booker] Thank you.
[Vic] Roxanne Perez taking down her former role model.
[Corey] Natural evolution of things.
You look up to somebody until you can overtake them.
That's what Perez is trying to do tonight.
[Vic] Oh, ho-ho! A little throwback action.
[Booker laughs]
[screams]
[Vic] She has got to pay.
The Prodigy going to pay for mocking Bayley.
And you bring up a great point, Corey, because it just proves how deep
the NXT women's division has gotten.
[Corey] No doubt about it.
But right now it's Bayley who needs a little help
from the current division in the form of its champion, Giulia.
Perez able to put the brakes on just in time.
[Booker] You don't want to play with somebody like Bayley.
She's a pro. She's a general inside that square circle. I give her that.
[Vic] Tag made. Cora Jade now legal for her team.
Cora Jade charging right in.
[Booker] Ooh! Beautiful.
[Vic] It is not looking great if you are Bayley.
Nice! Springboard moonsault, into it a cover for Jade.
-Hook of the leg, and near fall. -[screams]
[Booker] You best friends [indistinct] in the middle of this ring.
I'm talking about tag team…
Check this out. Check it out. Beautiful, beautiful moonsault.
[Vic] And Bayley right now in a world of trouble,
as Cora Jade…
You know, she's enjoying every inch of what she is doing to Bayley
in this moment in this match-up,
kicking us off tonight live on NXT from Atlanta.
Yuu can hear the NXT Universe behind us, trying to rally behind Bayley,
-who desperately needs to make a tag. -[Booker] Wow!
[Vic] And again, you talk about being friends, Book.
It was Perez and Jade who are former NXT women's tag team champions.
They do know how to get it done.
And that's smart strategy, Corey, to your point earlier.
But wait a minute!
Bayley-to-Belly.
[Corey] How smart was it, Vic?
[Vic] But so much taken out of Bayley.
[Booker] That was a big shot right there Bayley just landed, Vic.
[Vic] Bayley-to-Belly that Bayley has used
to great success over the years.
Tag made, Perez is in.
And here comes the NXT women's champion.
Giulia, a little matrix, and she fires right back.
[Booker] Chess match here, Vic.
Giulia's been waiting on the outside,
and again, it was Giulia who called her shots,
said she needed to prove herself, her worth.
She did that at New Year's Eve.
[Corey] How many times you been punched during a game of chess, Book?
[Booker] Depends on who you're playing with.
Beautiful!
[Booker and Corey laughing]
[Vic] Perez Right now in a world of hurt.
Much like Bayley was moments ago.
The tide has turned because of Giulia.
Perez charging in.
Oh, she got it caught right in the mush.
[Booker] Give it up Giulia, becoming the NXT women's champion.
A goal that she's been working on for quite some time.
Here we go!
-Beautiful! -[Vic] Drop kick connects.
-Into the cover. For the victory. -[crowd] One, two…
[Vic] Perez getting that right shoulder up.
And look, when it comes to Giulia,
and she does the media that she's been doing,
talking to all sorts of different outlets, talks about wanting to be champion.
A tag was made. Perez is legal.
Giulia now sensing it, realizing it.
Oh! Miscommunication. Champion from behind.
-[Booker] Oh, no, no, no. -[Vic] Still not enough.
Giulia's so happy to represent this brand.
Big knee under the jaw.
And we would represent it tonight with a big victory.
-And Perez breaking it up. -[Corey] Oh, ho-ho.
[Booker] Beautiful tag team work right there, Vic.
[Vic] And here comes Bayley. All four women in the ring.
Everything's starting to break down.
[Corey] Starting to look like last week.
[Vic] And the week before.
Especially when it comes to these four.
A lot of animosity.
[Corey] Flying first into the barricade Keep your eyes on Cora Jade.
[Vic] Looking for that DDT. Giulia trying to counter, she did.
Giulia big head butt right under the jaw, rocking--
[Booker] Cora Jade is confused right now.
[Vic] Jade is down. Is Jade out? Tag.
And you've seen Bayley on SmackDown deliver this time and time again, Graves.
[Corey] From the top, turnbuckle!
Flying elbow on the money.
-Cover… -[crowd] One, two, three.
-[Vic] Bayley, Giulia, stand tall tonight. -[bell dings]
["Role Model" playing]
[Vic] Here are your winners.
The team-up of the NXT women's champion, Giulia,
and Bayley!
I'll say it again. What a way to kick off NXT live tonight
here in Atlanta.
Perez not happy with the results of this one.
But back to this, Corey.
Picture perfect.
[Corey] The closing moments, Bayley doesn't miss.
An elbow right to the sternum of Cora Jade.
[bell dings]
And a big "W" for Bayley and Giulia.
[Vic] Well, Bayley is in the presence, remembering her past
and perhaps thinking about her future.
[Eddy] Like my people have for centuries,
I've been overlooked in NXT. But I chose to stand up,
and I forced my way into the NXT Championship picture,
and I proved that I belong.
I hear the sounds of my ancestors.
A great responsibility of any man
will exercise his mind with suffering,
subject his muscles and his bones to hard work,
and expose his body to hunger,
place obstacles in the paths of his deeds,
so as to stimulate his mind, harden his nature,
and improve wherever he is lost.
So, you can try to write Eddy Thorpe off,
but understand I didn't write back.
My destiny will not be a matter of chance.
I will make my mark in NXT.
And NXT will understand that Eddy Thorpe
cannot be broken.
[Vic] Well, from Monday Night Raw to NXT, A-Town Down Under is here.
And in moments, The Grayson Waller Effect returns to NXT
with the NXT Champion, Oba Femi.
It's live. It's next.
[Mike Rome] Ladies and gentlemen,
please welcome the host of The Grayson Waller Effect,
Austin Theory and Grayson Waller!
["Eye on the Prize" playing]
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to The Grayson Waller Effect.
[crowd booing]
Wow. I was gonna say, before we start,
what about a shoutout to Atlanta's favorite son, Austin Theory?
[crowd cheering]
Hey!
[crowd chanting]
Yes, sir! Yes, sir!
Hey, last night, we were partying with Quavo and 2 Chainz.
But tonight, the party continues.
-[crowd cheering] -A-Town down!
Under!
Hey, ATL, 'cause they can't spell the full word.
But that's okay tonight. My guest…
[crowd booing]
Everyone's talking about him. The WWE Universe is talking about him.
The boys backstage keep talking about him.
Let's meet him. He's the new NXT Champion.
He is The Ruler.
He is Oba Femi!
["Hands of Fate" playing]
[Vic] Booker, this is someone you tapped, the first time you saw him,
as the ruler, the dominator,
the NXT Champion, that he would take it all over.
[Booker T] I didn't doubt it. I said this guy could be champion in any era.
I don't care if it's the '70s, the '80s, '90s, 2000s and above,
this guy is truly The Ruler, the conqueror,
Oba Femi!
Oh, yes, man!
-[screaming] -[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting] Oba! Oba! Oba!
[Booker T] Oh, man, dawg. Oh, man.
Welcome, Champ.
-[crowd cheering] -Yeah, give him the applause.
He's got a funny little dance. It's pretty nice.
[cheering continues]
Just don't get too excited. You know, the fans in Atlanta aren't that smart.
-[crowd booing] -Whoa, whoa, whoa. Sorry. Sorry. Sorry.
Less than two years on NXT, already the NXT Champion.
Never mind the fact,
you're the longest-reigning North American Champion in history.
You must be used to having that championship on your shoulder, lad.
Oh, no. Yes, I am very used to it.
The NXT Championship is exactly where it needs to be.
-[crowd chanting] Austin Theory! -You guys want me to talk?
[crowd cheering]
Hey, this man right here started NXT at 24 years old.
And ever since then, he has been taking over.
[crowd cheering]
Hey, which kind of reminds me of someone.
But coming from the youngest United States Champion of all time…
[crowd cheering]
…everyone in here, man, they see you as a main eventer on the main roster.
-[crowd cheering] -It's true, it's true.
But the thing is,
is there's two guys right here that do not see that at all.
[crowd jeering]
So… so, that's why you invited me here.
You invited me on your show to tell me you don't see my potential.
That's very funny, because, uh,
I never saw either of you as an NXT Champion.
[crowd exclaiming]
And I was right.
Because neither of you have ever been NXT Champion.
I think it's safe to say that, in two years,
I've accomplished more than the both of you in NXT, combined.
[crowd exclaiming]
Hey, don't get it twisted over, okay?
I understand what you've done here. You've done a lot of things on NXT.
But you're here tonight because I wanna see it for myself.
I wanna know if the hype is real. Yeah?
'Cause there's levels to this game. And, yeah, you're the NXT Champion.
But Wrestlemania XL, A-Town Down Under,
standing on top of a ladder, WWE Tag Team Champions,
while you're in the suite with your little NXT jacket on,
sipping on a juice box, hoping, wishing, and praying
that one day, you'll do what we can do.
[crowd jeering]
Hey, Oba, I want you to think about this one.
When the ink was drying on your NXT contract,
Austin Theory had already competed in three WrestleManias.
Actually… Actually, four, but who's counting, you know?
But let's talk about you, man. You went to a great high school.
You had a full ride from Alabama.
-And, now, you are the NXT Champion. -[grunts]
But me and Grayson Waller aren't in NXT.
We're on Monday Night Raw.
And when it comes to Monday Night Raw, or SmackDown,
that's the big leagues.
And a guy like you, we've seen it a million times.
A top draft pick, someone like you ends up in catering,
and six months later, your ass is on the indies trying to sell T-shirts.
But, meanwhile--
-[crowd chanting] Turn on Grayson! -Hey, hold on here.
[crowd continues chanting] Turn on Grayson!
[Theory] You guys ready?
-You guys ready? Here-- -Don't turn on me!
Hey! Don't turn on me, dude! Don't turn on me!
-[crowd jeering] -Hey.
All I'm saying to you is, is A-Town Down Under,
we've traveled all around the world,
and all me and him do is create unforgettable moments.
Moments.
So you guys have all this talk about being champions
and climbing the ladder at WrestleMania.
But after everything is said and done, I don't see no titles.
[crowd booing]
And that's your problem. That's exactly why the both of you
are where you are right now because of your big mouths,
your lips, especially you, Waller, especially you, your lips
keep trying to write checks that your hands can't cash.
Do you think I got here…
Do you think I got to where I am by running my mouth?
I'm building a dynasty here, brick by brick.
-[crowd] Hoo! -Trust me,
-it will be built. -[crowd] Hoo!
Well, you know what?
You like moments?
You like PLEs?
You like title opportunities?
Here's one for you.
Two weeks, Washington, D.C.
February 15, Vengeance Day.
[crowd cheering]
Now the question is, which one of you will step up?
[crowd cheering]
Ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay.
I don't speak for my boy Theory,
but you got to understand something, Oba.
I've stood in front of the best, Cena, Owens, Rhodes
and I've never taken a step back.
I want that NXT championship life.
I want that. Let's do it. I'm not stressing it--
Hey.
Hey, who's this?
Okay, okay.
Hold on.
Let's dial back before things get too out of hand.
I just wanted to come out here
to remind you again, Oba,
that as much as you would love to,
you don't make the matches around here,
I do.
[crowd booing]
-So-- -["Locked In" playing]
[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting "Whoop that, Trick"]
-Trick, what are you doing? -That title's mine and you know it.
[crowd continues chanting]
[Booker T] Uh-huh.
[inaudible]
[Booker T] That's right.
Oh, yeah.
[crowd continues chanting]
[crowd cheering]
[Joseph] Oh, Trick not playing around.
Just wiped out Theory.
[Graves] A-Town Down Under, trying to get a jump on Trick Williams there,
sent to the outside.
-[Joseph] Wait a minute. -[Booker T] Oh, baby!
[Joseph] A thunderous Fall From Grace.
[Booker T] Oh, man, dawg!
[Joseph] And Trick Williams is supposed to compete against Wes Lee,
not later tonight.
Guys, he's supposed to compete against Wes Lee, next.
[crowd chants "Hoo!"]
Izzi Dame, the WWE Universe wants to know
what is going on between you and the D'Angelo Family.
Specifically Tony D'Angelo.
Oh, Sarah I'm sure you and everyone
does want to know what's going on between me and Tony.
But sorry to say, there's nothing going on.
Honestly, me and Tony aren't even friends.
We just share a common enemy in Shawn Spears.
Long story short, Tony came to my defense when Spears was stalking me.
So I made sure he got to keep that title a little longer.
Bada bing bada boom, that's it. Good night, the end--
Whoa, whoa. Hang on a minute.
[crowd booing]
What do you mean there's nothing going on?
Izzi, you're a liar.
Liar?
I should be standing here
The North American Champion, but I'm not
all because you've got this weird situation going on
and look at you standing there with that smirk on your face
-like a real-- -Ay, ay, ay, ay, ay.
Tough guy, we got a problem here, huh?
You don't talk to a lady like that.
Shut your mouth. Listen.
I don't want to talk to Tony Ds lackey, okay?
Why don't you go shine his shoes,
or keep the car warm and get out of my face.
I'm warming up this hand… [inaudible]
[crosstalk]
[Joseph] Things getting very interesting to our left.
Officials are there, but also the officials
are are here ringside, checking on Trick Williams
because Trick Williams again was scheduled for a match
against Wes Lee here in moments and throughout the break,
he was telling the officials, Corey, he's fine.
He still wants to compete and here comes his opponent.
[Graves] I think Trick may be a little too tough for his own good tonight.
["Assemble" playing]
[bell dings]
[ring announcer] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, accompanied by Tyson Dupont,
and Tyriek Igwe, Wes Lee.
[Graves] Wes Lee is smiling like a butcher's dog right now.
[Joseph] Would you be smiling, Corey? I mean, he's got to be confident.
Trick Williams just got dropped.
I mean, what the hell, Booker, was Trick thinking?
[Booker T] How many times have I said it, Vic?
Concern yourself with business that concerns you.
That's what Trick Williams should have done.
[Joseph] And look at that dropkick.
And, Corey, notice Trick right now off the power bomb, that as well.
Trick is not 100%
[Graves] When you're driven from as high up as Trick Williams was
by a man as powerful as Oba Femi,
It's going to do serious damage to your back to your ribs
and your ability to breathe. Wes Lee knows that,
and Wes is gonna enjoy the spoils.
[Joseph] Well, these two on a collision course.
One, two, three…
[Joseph] Since we were in Saint Louis, Booker, last October,
remember, it was Lee who called out Trick Williams,
Trick was champion at the time.
Didn't like being interrupted.
Both have championship dreams as Trick's trying to fight back.
[Booker T] He is trying to fight back, and like you said, it was inevitable,
these two beating in the middle of this ring.
I mean, it was unfortunate that Wes Lee went down
with that back injury, and Trick Williams
just slid right in that back door and became champion.
There's some animosity.
[Joseph] Now, Trick firing away.
[Graves] Trick Williams, teeing off
on the much-fresher Wes Lee, but, Book, think about this,
when Wes Lee went down with back surgery, all he had to do
was sit at home and think, to re-strategize,
to replant his career trajectory.
Wes Lee came back hungrier and sharper than ever.
It may have been a blessing in disguise.
[Booker T] They say, time off, is your worst enemy.
-Hold on, hold on- -[Joseph] Cover, hook or leg.
And that's a great point, because if anyone knows
what back pain feels like, It's Wes Lee.
Wes Lee saw what happened. He's been targeting the back.
He's been targeting the ribs of Trick Williams
since this matchup began.
[Booker T] Yeah, with that time off, it seemed to have motivated Wes Lee
because this is a different Wes Lee that we are used to seeing, Vic.
[Joseph] When it comes to Trick, we've talked about the emotion, Book,
and you were okay with that aggressive side.
Coming out in Trick, but it doesn't seem to be paying off here tonight.
[Booker T] No, I think sometimes you can definitely put yourself
in a bad position, I always say,
you put yourself in a position, something can happen.
Just like what happened here tonight, with Oba Femi.
[Graves] Wes Lee, perched on the top turnbuckle, target acquired.
-[Joseph] Oh, Trick. -[Graves] Wow!
[Joseph] Showcasing some strength, and oh, right to the ribs.
-Look at Wes Lee. -[Booker T] That's smart.
That's smart, Vic.
[Joseph] Corey, I want to come off something that Booker just said,
who gained an aggressive side while they were out,
while they were recouping for back injury. It was Wes Lee.
He's much more dangerous, and more dangerous than ever--
-[Graves] Cover here. And a nearfall. -[Joseph] Hook of the leg.
[Graves] I agree with you.
I think this is the best Wes Lee we have ever seen.
Wes has his eye on the top of the mountain,
and he knows that path runs right through the former NXT champion, Trick Williams.
[Booker] A much more calculated, Wes Lee seems like
he's thinking about everything he's doing. Hold on.
[Vic] Trick's starting to get angry.
Back to his feet. Big right hand, fired back with another one. Trying to get back.
And he just slapped Wes again!
He slapped Wes so hard there was a welt on Lee's face.
Even two-time Grammy nominee Redman gave him a count out.
But right back to the lower back, look out.
[Corey] Things are about to go from bad to worse
-for Trick Williams -[Vic] You could say that one more time.
[all exclaiming]
Right here on our damn laps.
-Get it back in the ring! -[Corey] Look in that man's eyes, Vic.
Look at that man's eyes. Wes Lee means business.
[Vic] Trick Williams is in dangerous territory right now.
Wes Lee has been dominating Trick, focusing on the lower
back of Trick Williams with a multitude of submissions
moves right now the single-leg grab.
But somehow, some way Trick Williams not giving up.
But that roundhouse kick moments ago almost put the lights out
for Trick Williams.
[Corey] Fortunately, almost only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades
as the old saying goes. Trick Williams still in this fight somehow.
Again, Wes Lee, we've talked about the documented back injury,
the surgery, knows all about back pain and really, relishes
in hurting others in the same way.
Maybe looking for that knockout blow, Trick Williams going back to the body,
going one more time, throwing some--
-[Vic] Upper-cut! Just wracked Wes Lee! -[Booker] What a shot!
What a shot from Trick Williams trying to mount a comeback. Beautiful clothesline.
[Vic] Williams, right back in, hoisting up, body slam!
Somehow is blocking out the pain and Graves,
you know, adrenaline will make a man do crazy things.
[Corey] Trick Williams will go to the ends of the Earth
to regain the NXT Championship someday.
Tonight, that means surviving and getting through Wes Lee.
Williams staggering right back over to Lee.
Look on the outside. Tyson and Tarek
looking on as we've seen this in the past. Trick hoisting up
and dropping Wes Lee and now Lee, almost lifeless, center of the ring.
Williams, calling his shot, looking for the knockout blow.
Looking for the big win here tonight.
[crowd booing]
[Vic] Tyson and Tarek
coming to the aid of Wes Lee. Trick not playing around.
Put Wes right back into the ring.
And hey, wait a minute.
Felix Fernandez!
Our official's got his hands full now.
Because Trick don't give a damn who you are.
He is swinging for everybody!
[indistinct shouting]
[all exclaiming]
[Corey] Wes Lee just launched into orbit by Trick Williams.
[Vic] Well, maybe that aggression is paying off right now, Book. Take a look.
[Booker] Take aggression over passive any day of the week.
-Oh, yeah, baby! -[Vic] Trick flying through the air!
[Corey] Trick Williams, like a man possessed.
[Vic] Trick laying it all on the line here tonight
because he just heard about his championship that he wanted.
He's got getting an opportunity.
Ava made a decision. Trick right now, right back in, throwing rights,
throwing lefts.
[Booker] Don't get disqualified, Trick.
[Vic] Where are all these bodies coming from?
The official's got to get some control Trick right now becoming unleashed.
Trick! That's going to cost him. That's gonna cost Trick big time.
[bell dinging]
[Booker] I called it.
[crowd groaning]
[Vic] Trick's emotions, getting the better of him.
Okay, now, get out of there, Felix.
[announcer] Here's your winner as a result of a disqualification, Wes Lee!
[Vic] Did not listen to our official, Felix Fernandez.
Fernandez had had no other alternative.
He had to call for the disqualification,
and some will say Lee didn't beat Trick tonight.
It was William's own emotions that did.
Oh, it's you, don't bother knocking.
No problem.
-Looks like you have a problem. -I have quite a ffew problems, actually.
I don't know how many times I have to keep telling you.
I make matches around here.
Not you. Stop trying to overstep me.
If you make decisions around here, why don't you make them?
Who am I facing that Vengeance day?
At Vengeance day it's you versus Grayson Waller--
Good. Grayson. Perfect.
Oba, I wasn't done talking.
At Vengeance Day,
It's you versus Grayson Waller versus Austin Theory
in a triple threat.
-Both? -Both.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go have a chat
with a former champ.
[Corey] If the Trick wasn't irate before, he's certainly going to be now.
But when it comes to championships, we've got one on the line in moments.
There's the Challenger, Shotzi,
there's the champion, Fallon Henley with
Jacy Jayne and Jazmyn Nyx,
the Women's North American title on the line, live, next.
-Where's Trick? -Men's locker.
What the hell has gotten into you? This week?
Last week? What are you doing?
That's what happens when you lose your title.
Everybody did a match except you.
It's a consequesce of your own actions, huh? At Vengeance Day,
It's Waller, Theory and Oba in a triple threat, not you.
What the hell did they do to deserve a shot?
-You think they don't? -No!
You know what?
Prove it. You can have them in a tag match next week.
Your partner? The man you're chasing after, Oba Femi.
[Corey] Road has got a little rockier for Trick Williams.
Yeah! That's right!
[Vic] Guys, we are set for the first championship match
of the night here, live on NXT.
We know Fallon Henley would love to have her name in the lights.
Can she carry the title?
Into our next premium live event, which is February 15,
Vengeance Day in Washington, D.C.
But things getting bigger and bigger.
The announcement today NXT TV will take place, live from Cincinnati.
And you've got to imagine that all the superstars of NXT,
when they hear that sort of announcement,
it fires them up no more than Shotzi wants to prove herself.
[Corey] The fact that WWE is as red hot globally
as it is right now should be all the motivation
each and every one of these guys and girls need
to take it to the next level
to prove that they belong on the biggest card,
that they belong in the ring with the biggest and best superstars.
NXT right now is red hot.
And everybody on RAW and Smackdown should have their eyes on everybody.
[Booker T] Oh, oh, I'm so disappointed.
I'm so disappointed in both of you guys.
Please. Please, for one minute,
give the professional her props.
Fallon Henley, the champion.
-[bell dings] -Can we do that?
Can we do that, please, for God's sake?
The following content scheduled for one fall is for
the NXT Women's North American championship!
Introducing the challenger from Oakland, California,
Shotzi!
And her opponent, representing Fatal Influence,
she is the NXT Women's North American champion,
Fallon Henley!
[Corey] Well, Booker, to your point, NXT is red hot,
if you ask Fallon Henley,
Jazmyn Nyx, Jacy Jayne,
it's red hot because of Fatal Influence.
[Booker T] You know, I mean, they are hot.
They're the hottest stable in all of professional wrestling right now.
Fallon Henley is leading the pack with that North American strap…
-[bell dings] -…around her waist.
[Vic] So more than Roxanne and Cora?
[Booker T] I mean, they do their part as well.
Okay, let's just say that. But right now, we're focusing
on the North American champ who has earned this position.
Nobody gave it to her. She earned this position, Vic.
[Vic] Shotzi right now, charging right in
on the champion and the winner knows Stephanie Vaquer,
The Dark Angel is waiting.
She promised to keep a close eye on this match-up.
So Fatal Influence won't influence the match-up.
And look at Shotzi, right back in…
-[Booker T] Whoa! Wow. -…dropping the champion face first. Look.
[Corey] An extremely unique, chaotic offensive.
Shotzi, here she comes.
[Vic] Corey, Shotzi has pinned the champion.
Does that give her any momentum heading into this match-up?
[Corey] Definitely got to give Shotzi a bit of confidence.
But now we're gonna find out what Fallon Henley
is truly made of as a champion.
Did being pinned deflate her? Did it defeat her desire to be the best?
[Vic] Good point, and there's no numbers advantage
also here tonight for Fatal Influence.
Fallon's going to have to earn this victory as--
-From the top! Shotzi… -[Corey] Oh!
…has never meant a risk she didn't want to take.
And that one paid off in a huge way.
Remember, the Women's North American Championship is on the line
and going to the top and look at-- Oh.
There they are. Fatal Influence.
But they might not like what they see.
[Booker T] Oh, no! Oh, no!
[Vic] Shotzi wiping out the field.
[Corey] Shotzi understands the opportunity at hand right now.
Shotzi looking to prove a point
that the entire NXT roster, to the entire game.
[Vic] There's Tatum.
There's Gigi Dolin fighting off the other members of Fatal Influence.
[Booker T] What the hell?
-[Corey] Look out, guys. -[Vic] And now the playing field is even.
Oh! Did you hear that?
-Corey, did you hear that? -[Corey] Oh, my God!
[Vic] And a chop block from behind.
[screams in pain]
Oh, our referee's got to check out Shotzi.
Championship's on the line.
Can Shotzi even continue?
I always…
[Vic] Women's North American Championship is on the line.
Fallon Henley right now. No Fatal Influence.
Gigi Dolin, she was sent to the back as she fought in the back, I should say,
along with Tatum, Paxley.
Shotzi out here, she doesn't mind being by herself.
She's used to it. As there you see the challengers
for the tag team title coming up in our main event.
But the challenger here and now taking it to the champion.
Shotzi, trying to put gold around her waist.
Fallon Henley is approaching 100 days as champion,
may not see another day,
because Shotzi is three seconds away from winning.
[Booker T] I can tell you this.
She has a golden opportunity to cash in right here,
tonight, here in Atlanta, Georgia, become the champion.
Here we go. Here we go.
[Vic] Shotzi doing her best to try to block the pain out.
It was before the break, so to speak, several minutes ago,
that she went right in to the steel post…
-[Booker T] Wow! -…shin first.
And she seems to be blocking it out right now.
[Corey] This is a smart decision by Fallon to roll to the outside of the ring.
Champion's advantage dictates that the end of the match
-has to happen inside the ring. -[Vic] Oh, and again into the post.
This time, spine first.
It was a nasty landing, I think, on that same ankle.
[Corey] I don't know how much more Shotzi's leg can take.
-Wow! -[Booker T] Beautiful shot there.
To your point there, Corey, I mean,
Fallon, she don't have to win the championship.
She just don't have to lose it.
Here we go. Here we go.
-Oh, yes, man! Oh, yes! -[Vic] Shin first.
[Corey] Right across the cowl of the announce table.
[Vic] Referee using a little bit discretion, of course,
Shotzi has to get Fallon Henley back into the ring to win the championship.
But Fallon right now, is taking it to the challenger.
[Corey] Fallon is sending a message to the entire NXT women's roster,
to all of WWE right now.
-Cover here by the champion to retain. -[Vic] Is this gonna be enough?
[Vic] Shotzi got that left shoulder just off the mat.
I don't think Fallon Henley should be frustrated in this moment.
She's in control.
[Corey] Fallon Henley, to my point, is making a statement.
She wants to look dominant tonight.
Look at this. Possible stretch muffler submission applied beautifully
by Fallon Henley.
Fallon wants to send a message to the whole roster.
[Vic] Oh, cover.
-Nice counter to bring the title. -[Booker T] Oh, man! So close.
[Vic] Perhaps none more so than Stephanie Vaquer.
Well, Vaquer is looking on going back to that injured leg.
Fallon Henley. Henley got countered.
Shotzi turning right around. Big forearm under the jaw.
And Shotzi right now, not afraid to risk her own well-being.
I have no doubt she will continue to push the middle of this match-up.
Maybe sliced bread. Is it gonna be enough?
Getting into the cover is Shotzi.
Hooking the legs.
[Booker T] Bam! Let me tell you something.
I'm gonna go on a limb, guys.
I'm gonna say this might be-- No, this is gonna be Shotzi's night.
Shotzi's gonna walk out tonight
the new North American champion.
I can feel it in my bones.
[crowd cheering] This is awesome!
[Vic] Sold out in Atlanta.
This certainly is, and it's for the women's North American Championship.
But Shotzi not at 100%.
Couldn't get to the top as fast as she typically would.
And that opened the door for the champion, Fallon Henley.
[Corey] Henley looking to capitalize right now.
[Booker T] Wasting a lot of time, though.
[Corey] Looking for maybe a suplex.
-Counter by Shotzi. Oh! -[Booker T] Oh!
[Corey] That's a heck of a counter to the top. Look where she's at.
[all exclaim]
And she got all of that set for the title.
-Fallon Henley… -[Booker T] You've got to be kidding me!
[Corey] I don't know how. I have no earthly idea, Booker.
Nor does Shotzi. The challenger was all but certain.
She had the NXT North American Title.
[Vic] Can we see this? Hold on. Look at this.
-I mean, that was-- My! -[Corey] Brutal!
We could not land that any more impactfully than Shotzi just did.
[Vic] But credit Fallon Henley for fighting through and surviving.
[Corey] We talked about getting all of it. Shotzi got all of it.
And then some as Fallon…
-Got countered again. -[Vic] Another side cradle.
Still not enough. Fallon able to kick out.
But Fallon even taking an extra second to try to get in this.
[Booker T] Shotzi's one step ahead.
Shotzi's one step ahead.
This could be-- Whoa!
[Vic] Oh, that time it was countered.
Fallon Henley right now, right back on that knee.
Shotzi's leg is tied up in the top turnbuckle.
Fallon stomping right through the challenger.
And now, tossing Shotzi.
Modified Exploder Suplex by the champion.
Fallon is rolling.
Henley hitting a hoedown and the cover.
[bell rings]
[Vic] Fallon survives.
[Mike] Your winner and still
the NXT Women's North American Champion,
Fallon Henley!
[Vic] What a match-up.
Shotzi and Fallan listen both brought it. We thought this would be the end.
That was a turning point for the majority of the match
somehow Shotzi was able to fight through the pain,
fight through the agony, especially on one good leg.
But In the end, Fallon Henley delivers the goods
and retains the North American Championship.
-[rock music playing] -[crowd cheering]
[Vic] We knew Vaquer was waiting.
It is official we just got word.
Vengeance Day, the Women's North American title
will be defended.
-Kelani, it's so nice to see you. -Good to see you too.
Hey, I wanna say, thank you so much for last week.
-You're such a god friend. -What?
What about last week?
The match with Jada.
-You remember? -Ohh.
I see what's happening.
You really think I went out there for you?
Well, yeah. I didn't. I did it for me. Shocker, right?
I don't like Jada and that's that.
But I see what everyone has been talking about.
It's clear these delusions of yours have nothing to do with Ashante.
-I didn't even mean it like that-- -Karmen, listen to Jada, don't.
Listen to me, don't. It doesn't matter.
It's only a matter of time before he leaves your ass.
[scoffs] What a…
[Vic] I don't think anyone wants to get in the middle of those two.
And here's a man nobody wants to see.
[Corey] Speak for yourself, Vic.
[bell rings]
[Mike] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first…
All Ego Ethan Page!
[Vic] With everything that's going on the last month or so,
this man should be locked up.
It's Ethan Page. One-on-one with Cedric Alexander, live next.
Ava, next week's main event is Grayson Waller and Austin Theory
versus Oba Femi and Trick Williams.
That's right. Look, I don't know what's gotten into Trick,
but I hope he gets over it soon, because I'm sick of dealing with it.
What can we expect for Vengeance Day?
Vengeance Day, like I said, is gonna be Triple Threat,
in the NXT Championship. But on a more positive note,
NXT has the best women's division in the world.
I want to find Giulia the best competitor.
So at Vengeance Day she is going to defend her--
Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Best competitor?
You're gonna make it Bayley versus Giulia. I haven't even gotten my rematch yet.
No. If you would have let me finish--
You're going to try to pin the blame on me, Cora got pinned, not me.
Anyways, what I was going to say,
was that Vengeance Day
it's Giulia versus Bayley versus you in a Triple Threat.
Okay, good.
No, we're not good. Wait.
Wait. Cora, I didn't mean it like that. Cora.
♪ A million dollars from now ♪
[Vic] The stars are out. NXT is the brand you want to see live.
There's Killer Mike, four-time Grammy award winning rapper and actor.
Killer Mike in NXT.
[Corey] And NXT is All Ego.
[Mike] And his opponent, Cedric Alexander!
[Vic] You see Cedric Alexander's left wrist
still heavily taped up. Let's go back to the final NXT of 2024.
This is why he shouldn't be laughed at.
Not only broke the jaw, he broke the hand of Alexander.
This match-up not taking any time. Cedric Alexander has been angry,
he's been pissed off since that day and rightly so.
[Corey] Cedric Alexander had a little time away to light the fire inside.
An opportunity to show the entire WWE universe what he's made of.
[Vic] He was recently cleared after his fingers were slammed in that toolbox.
We do have an update on Je'Von Evans.
He's still not medically cleared to compete.
[Vic] Corey, but doesn't somebody just need to stand up?
[Corey] That's what Cedric Alexander is doing right now.
He's letting that anger, letting that frustration…
He's trying to prove a point to the man you both call All Ego.
[Corey] This reminds me of Cedric Alexander
that competed way back in the cruiserweight class.
A guy who has so much fire inside,
the WWE couldn't help but sign the guy.
[Vic] Championship main event coming up.
WWE women's Tag Team Titles will be defended.
Cedric Alexander right now might have had that fire relit.
[Corey] I'm going to take issue with how you're describing Ethan Page.
-[groans] -[crowd exclaims]
[Corey] I once stepped in the ring with him when he was 19 years old.
I've watched the evolution of All Ego Ethan Page to the man he is today.
He's doing what he has to do to get the attention of the WWE.
He will break rule, he'll break fingers.
-He will break jaws. Yes, sir. -[Booker T] Corey, I agree with you.
I agree with you. He showed up and he changed the whole name of the game.
Here in NXT. And…
The thing is, what I like about Ethan Page,
he's a guy that has no problem going up there
and taking you out just like he did with Cedric.
Just like he did with The Young OG.
This guy right here is truly the real deal.
[Vic] From Cedric Alexander who is trying to remind people
that he's the real deal, former Champion in the WWE.
[Booker T] Cedric's too nice.
[Vic] Doesn't look nice now. He's talking smack. He is angry.
He is angry but that's part of Ethan Page's game plan.
If Ethan can get his opponents seeing red he's already one step ahead.
Gotta take a look at that drop kick again.
[Vic] Cedric Alexander really doing this with one hand,
that wrist still taped, getting it smashed several weeks ago in that toolbox.
[exclaiming, shouting]
[Corey] This is what Cedric Alexander said he was going to do to Page.
He told that to Evans last week here on NXT. Instead of going for the cover,
Cedric Alexander right in just to beat the hell out of him.
[Booker T] This is what Cedric needs right here. He needs to go out here,
just stay on the gas, think about getting his hand smashed,
have that mentality throughout this whole match.
[Vic] Uh-oh! Uh-oh!
And right to the injured part of the body goes Ethan Page.
And Page now in control just that quick.
[Corey] One tiny mistake is all it takes
to allow Ethan Page to take control of a match-up.
That's exactly what we just saw.
Cedric got a little bit ahead of himself.
His anger got the best of him.
Look at that. Back to the wrist for a submission.
[Booker T] He's a pro. This guy's a pro. He's going to that injured wing.
And right now Cedric is feeling it.
But he's trying to fight back.
[Vic] Cedric Alexander, we know from the past,
has dynamite in his fists.
Just ask Ethan Page right now.
[Corey] It was Ethan Page, Booker, who claimed
he came to the realization he was willing to walk away
until Evans came out of a lull and gave him life advice.
He said he hadn't smiled in weeks until he broke Je'Von Evans' jaw.
I don't see him smiling right now.
[Booker T] That reminds me of something my mama used to say to me.
"Keep your mouth shut when grown folks is talking."
I think that was the issue.
[Vic] They may be coming over here all night long.
Wait a minute. Page!
[Booker T] Yes, man!
[Vic] …goes Alexander.
And now Ethan.
Oh, yeah, he's not only egotistical, he's diabolical.
And he's trying to rip off the protective cast off the wrist.
The official can't even step in.
-[Corey] It's not illegal. -[Vic] Nothing wrong, I know.
There's a bull's eye on Alexander,
and Alexander now has to fight a little bit harder.
[Corey] A big right hand by Alexander connects.
And Alexander-- Oh!
Shoulder first into the steel goes Cedric.
[Booker T] Talk about diabolical. That's Ethan Page.
-[Vic] I just said that. -[Booker T] Exactly my point.
-I'm agreeing with you. -[Vic] Oh, no, the head.
Alexander went head-first into the post.
[groaning]
[Vic] This match continuing.
And it's Ethan Page who is systematically dissecting Cedric Alexander.
And you start to wonder, when will the officials step in
to save Cedric Alexander from himself.
[Booker T] Are you talking about the referee having the wherewithal,
understanding and know-how to step in and just stop it?
Are you talking about that?
[Vic] Yes, that's what I was bringing up.
Because Cedric Alexander right now is,
I don't want to say he's defenseless, but he's getting close.
[Corey] Cedric Alexander still has one fist and two good feet
at his disposal to stay in this fight.
This is Cedric Alexander, a man who has been a champion here in WWE.
Cedric, who's one of the most captivating athletes in NXT.
Cedric would rather drop dead than have the referee stop a fight.
[Vic] And Page swung, he missed.
[Corey exclaims]
[Vic] Suplex from Cedric Alexander.
[Corey] You can't count Cedric out.
[Vic] Alexander trying to get feeling into the hand,
feeling into the left wrist, also trying to rally,
feed off the energy in front of the NXT arena
sold out here in Atlanta.
So much taken out of Alexander by Page. Nobody home?
Combination.
[Corey] This is what makes Cedric so special,
finding that last gear.
Finding the ability to fight through the pain.
To summon the will to continue.
And right now, Alexander closing in on vengeance.
[Vic] Maybe looking for another German suplex.
[Booker T] Couldn't do it.
[Vic] Big forearm right under the jaw.
Page, who was enjoying… Michinoku Driver. This could be it.
Cover! Two!
Page just getting that inside shoulder up.
[Booker T] Cedric Alexander,
once upon a time, so prolific inside of that squared circle.
See if he can try to recreate that moment one time-- One, two, three!
Check it out! Beautiful.
[Vic] That could be just the opportunity--
Now stomping on the hand of Page to see how he likes it.
Brainbuster-esque.
Cover on the float-over.
But Page still able to kick out.
But look at Alexander right now.
Transitioning quickly. Looking for a submission.
[Corey] Modified Koji Clutch cinched in.
[Booker T] Hard to get out.
[Corey] If he can't get locked in because of the hand.
It's locked in well enough.
Cedric has a grip on his own wrist.
[Vic] Page is fading right now.
Worry about Page, ripping back at the digits.
[screaming]
And one more time.
And no choice but Alexander having to relinquish the hold
and to continue this fight.
Again just another perfect example
of how ring awareness makes all the difference
and how All Ego Ethan Page has it in abundance.
We knew this would break down into a fight
with the animosity between these two men.
[Booker T] Just got one hand. Alexander is fighting with a disability.
But he's trying to mount a comeback.
Here we go. Can he do it?
[Vic] That's what Corey said, he's got one fist.
[all exclaim]
That was into the other hand.
Page right now, turning Alexander right around.
And he looks to steal another smile tonight
here in Atlanta.
[bell rings]
[music playing]
[Mike] Here's your winner,
All Ego Ethan Page!
[Vic] Don't have to like it, but you better accept it.
All Ego is here to stay.
The match is over.
[grunts]
When's enough enough though, Corey, Booker?
It's enough when All Ego-- Uh-oh.
♪ Bouncy ♪
["Who Want It" playing]
[Vic] Evans is here.
But again, he's not medically cleared.
[Corey] I don't think Je'Von cares about being cleared.
He's here to throw hands.
-[Booker T] Oh, wow! -[Corey] What a right.
Evans has been waiting for this moment to not just get himself a piece,
he wants all of Ethan Page.
["Who Want It" playing]
Issues between Ethan Page and Je'von Evans far, far from over.
Because I can't get one second to celebrate retaining my title.
-Can I? -No.
Can I? No.
Well, congratulations, Stephanie. You're next in line.
-But I'll tell you something. -I'll tell you something.
You don't disrespect
and take the North American Champion's moment like that.
And don't think for one second that I forgot about you attacking me
in that makeup chair two weeks ago.
Come Vengeance Day, Fallon is going to show La Primera
that you don't cross Fatal Influence.
Exactly.
And if Eva approves this,
next week, Jacy Jane is going to make you pay
for what you did to her and us.
-Yeah, you got this, Jace. -Yes, you do.
Yeah. I'll see you next week, Stephanie.
[Vic] Well, we'll see if that one gets made official,
because this one is.
NXT Champion Oba Femi will team with Trick Williams
to face A-Town Down Under,
who will face Oba Femi at Vengeance Day,
a match Trick thinks he deserves.
Combustible elements, Corey, set to explode.
next Tuesday.
[Corey] You want to talk about combustible elements,
look no further than how we kicked off the evening tonight,
as next week, Bayley, Roxanne Perez,
and NXT women's champion Giulia
will meet in a Vengeance Day Summit.
[Vic] That will be quite the altercation.
We saw an altercation earlier tonight
between these two after weeks of awkwardness.
Kelani Jordan, the standout, will face Karmen Petrovic,
who will stand tall in this competitive women's division match-up
next week live on NXT.
And we got some breaking news right now.
After they went face-to-face earlier tonight,
The Underboss will go one-on-one with Ridge Holland.
It's Holland and Stacks next week live on NXT.
Guys, it is main event time here tonight in Atlanta.
Challengers are ready to possibly, finally wear gold in the WWE.
To do so, they've got to beat the savvy, the confident champions
Bianca Belair and Naomi.
Who's going to leave Atlanta WWE Women's Tag-Team champions,
we find out live, we find out next.
You know, when I went to Japan for the N1 Victory tournament,
you welcomed me into your home.
You made my experience with Pro Wrestling NOAH
one of the best experiences of my entire career.
So to show my appreciation, I got you something special.
Wow, wow, wow.
-So cool! -Very cool.
Yeah.
[Briggs] Now that you're in America,
I just want to welcome you into my home.
Briggs, this means a lot to me.
We got to look like a tag team right?
Yeah, I love it.
Good, good. I know…
you came to NXT to become a champion.
So one way or another, we are going to get to Axiom and Frazer.
Briggs, before you came to Japan, you wanted to be on your own.
But you helped take me in.
I promise you will become a champion again.
Axiom and Nathan cannot dodge us forever.
-[Briggs] I like that. -Yeah.
-Looks good, man. -Thank you.
[Vic] A lot of big news tonight as it surrounds February the 15th.
These three women will have a summit next week on NXT.
And we also saw Cora Jade was not very happy with this announcement,
but it is official.
It'll be a Triple Threat in the nation's capital
for the NXT Women's Championship.
It's going down at Vengeance Day.
[Corey] There's going to be a lot of gold on the line at Vengeance Day
including the NXT Women's North American Championship
as the current champion, Fallon Henley, defends against the number one contender,
Stephanie Vaquer.
[Vic] When it comes to championships,
Oba Femi has never been afraid
of running away and showcasing his dominance.
He's going to have a chance to do it in D.C.
when he faces Grayson Waller and Austin Perry in a Triple Threat Match,
a match he doesn't need to be factored in to lose his title.
But it is main event time,
here, sold out, in Atlanta.
[cheers and applause]
The magnitude of this opportunity for the Meta girls cannot be overstated.
And I'm not only talking about tag team glory or individual glory.
I'm talking about NXT as a whole.
We heard earlier tonight,
Theory and Waller told Oba Femi, RAW and SmackDown are the big leagues.
So what's Oba gonna do? Oba's gonna fight to prove them wrong.
The Meta girls have the same exact opportunity here tonight,
to show Bianca and Naomi that NXT is not less there…
NXT doesn't need to be RAW or SmackDown
to be the big leagues.
-We have the best… -[woman] N…
…superstars in the game,
-A… O… -…and this is where it all goes down.
M… I.
[laughs]
♪ Let's go! ♪
[Vic] And The Glow is back at NXT.
♪ And make 'em go insane! ♪
♪ My head is in the game… ♪
Oh, Booker, sit down.
-[Booker T laughs] -["Watch Me Shine" playing]
♪ I'm on my own ♪
♪ Against the wall ♪
♪ The pressure's building, but no I'll never fall ♪
♪ Instead of crying ♪
♪ They hear me roar… ♪
[Vic] Hey Corey, you bring up a lot of good points.
Because someone like Bianca Belair
started from the ground up here at NXT.
She's had the Wrestlemania main event, she's done it all.
She's back here tonight,
but something that's very, important to remember about this match-up,
this brand has not had a pair of Women's Tag Team Champions
since the summer of '23.
-[Booker T] Oh. -[Vic] Sol Ruca and Zaria
reminded the challengers about that.
There's a lot of pressure on the shoulders of the challengers tonight.
[Corey] No doubt about it. I can speak from experience.
Sometime when you get to the top of the game,
you forget where you came from.
You forget what made you you.
I hope Bianca remembers, and I hope Naomi knows.
Because it is going to be an all-out battle
for the Women's Tag Team title in a matter of moments.
-[bell rings] -[Vic] Let's go up to Mike Rome.
[Mike] The following contest scheduled for one fall
is for the WWE Women's
Tag Team Championship!
[audience cheering]
Introducing the challengers,
representing Meta-Four,
Lash Legend and Jakara Jackson!
[audience cheering]
And their opponents.
They are the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions,
Naomi and Bianca Belair!
[Vic] Booker, for the Champions they competed 24 hours ago on RAW on Netflix.
They have a big weekend.
They're both going to be in the Royal Rumble
this Saturday in Indianapolis.
Is the moment right for Meta-Four to catch them off guard?
[Booker T] You might be right. Get to them at the right time
and the right place. And what they've gotta think about here,
Jakara Jackson and Lash Legend, this is home field advantage.
-[bell rings] -This is NXT. This is their backyard.
Let's see if they can defend it.
[Vic] Not only that, Lash back home here in Atlanta, hoping for,
uh, well, maybe a better result than what happened last time,
brought in your buddy Xavier Woods…
I'd rather not talk about Woods, he's been humiliated enough recently.
It's really unfair how The New Day have been treated.
Jakara Jackson stepping up in the moment, here, right now.
[audience cheer and applaud]
Early feeling-out process here between these two teams.
And you know, Corey, do you agree with
the champions that the challengers
have been putting in a lot of work lately, over the last six months.
[Corey] When I was calling Friday Night SmackDown,
I saw Lash Legend and Jakara Jackson challenge Biance Belair and J. Cargill
at the time.
And they were incredibly impressive. Cover here by Naomi.
[Vic] Kick-out.
[Corey] They absolutely made the most of their opportunity.
Yes, they came up short, but this is a different environment.
You're dealing with Naomi. Maybe that's the missing ingredient.
Maybe they can get the best of Naomi.
[Vic] Another cover.
Very interesting predicament there for Jakara and Naomi.
Taking down the challenger.
Floating over.
-[Corey] Whoa! -[Vic] And a kick-out.
You know, Booker, we were there ringside
to see Meta-Four beat The Unholy Union for this opportunity.
They have been striving for greatness for some time.
[Booker T] Meta-Four has been shining up.
More than anything, in a match-up like this,
-it's a home field advantage-- -[Vic] Back.
[Booker T] …you go out there and you lay it all on the line,
because this could be that one shot.
That one shot.
And Corey talked about that invaluable experience Meta-Four's had,
so it's going to be good.
[Vic] Cover for Belair, and a kick-out.
Bianca, a former winner of the Women's Royal Rumble match,
back here tonight competing.
And look at the power on display.
Jakara slide her down, made the tag,
and when we talk about power…
-[laughing] -[Booker T chuckles]
[Vic] Get ready!
I like this.
[Corey] Yeah!
[Booker T] Here we go.
[Vic] You just feel the tension rising right now here inside center stage
for Lash Legend and Bianca Belair.
[Corey] Bianca Belair extremely unfamiliar with being overpowered by anyone.
That's exactly what Lash Legend's looking to do here.
Bianca right now. Whoa!
-[Booker] Oh! Yeah. -[Corey] Showcase of power
that we have come to find from the former women's champion.
There's that athleticism standing,
moonsault into the cover, hook and leg
and a kick out by Lash.
[Corey] Listen, I think, I hope that Lash Legend and Jakara Jackson
are approaching this matchup differently than their previous opportunities.
I hope they realize that title matches don't grow on trees.
They're not just handed out around here.
Especially as the competition continues to get bigger,
better, faster, stronger!
[Vic] Bianca charging right in and, oh, got caught.
-And, Booker, Lash brings the size. -[Booker] Whoa!
[Vic] She brings the power…
And right now trying to overpower Bianca Belair.
And look at these knees.
[Booker] Yes. We've seen that…
-[Vic] Oh! -…that natural power
from Lash Legend before.
She could get a cover right here.
-What is she waiting on? -[Vic] Off that back breaker.
She knows she's got to do a little bit more here tonight.
Maybe showcase…
[all exclaiming]
[Vic] Are you kidding me?
[Corey] Moonsault by Lash, and another nearfall in this matchup.
[Booker] Wow!
[Corey] We're usually talking about Jakara with the athleticism.
Lash Legend.
Take another look.
[Vic] This is what it's gonna take.
New wrinkles to your game.
New dimension to what you do in the ring.
Lash Legend just left all of our jaws on the floor.
[crowd chanting indistinctly]
And a little bit of a stalemate between these two.
Oh!
[Booker] That's that playbook I always talk about
adding more to the repertoire. Oh, yeah!
[Vic] Who is walking out of Atlanta with the WWE Women's Tag Team titles?
[crowd cheering]
Main event time here on NXT.
The challengers, the Meta-Girls,
in control of this matchup, taking it to Bianca and Naomi.
The WWE Women's Tag Team titles are on the line.
Lash, looking to win the titles in her hometown of Atlanta.
Bianca, Naomi, trying to pick up a victory,
build some momentum heading into this weekend.
The Royal Rumble in Indianapolis.
During the break, though, Corey,
these two teams went back and forth, because it's really the turning point.
[Corey] Absolutely wicked snake eyes.
And then Lash Legend would turn her attention
to Bianca Belair on the outside.
But as I was saying, moments ago, I cautioned Lash Legend
to spend too much time worrying about Bianca,
who's not the legal opponent at the moment.
You can't take your eyes off of someone as dangerous as Naomi.
Oh, as this matchup continuing…
Ava, I need to speak to you. Get over here and speak to me, right now!
We need to have a word.
[Vic] Blockbuster!
Yeah. Thanks.
[Vic] Well, of course, Jade obviously not very happy with what she heard earlier
from our General Manager as it pertains to the NXT Women's Championship.
But right now, we've got a championship matchup.
It's on the line. It's the WWE Women's Tag Team titles.
Naomi trying to reach out for Bianca. Jakara has made her way into the matchup.
Two fresh superstars.
But it's Bianca who's overpowering,
who's running over, who is deep-cleaning Jakara Jackson.
[Booker] She's fresh, too, right now.
Fresh as a daisy. And right now, Bianca Belair
is on the move.
[Vic] And you talk about the Tag Team titles.
Will we have NXT representing the Women's Tag Team titles
when we roll in to Cincinnati, Ohio, Tuesday, February 25?
The final Tuesday of February, NXT will be live
from the Andrew J. Brady Music Center.
But playing some music here in Atlanta is Bianca Belair.
[Booker] There, Bianca Belair looking like she's ready to finish it, man.
-We say take it all! -[Vic] And Bianca,
so wise, already had her eyes in the back of her head,
seeing Lash charging in.
And now she's looking for a two on one.
[Corey] And what we're seeing right now is big game, big match experience! Period.
Bianca Belair has the physical capability to do what she so pleases.
But Bianca also has the experience.
She's been to the biggest dances,
and, right now, she is overpowering Jakara.
Wham!
[crowd chanting] BSB! BSB! BSB!
Bianca, feeding off the energy, hitting another moonsault.
Picture perfect for the titles to retain.
And Jakara, left shoulder just getting off the mat.
We're now in that deep water, Booker.
And these are the moments
you've been talking about Meta-Four has been trying to get ready for.
As you see the power from Bianca,
overpowering Jakara.
But right now, what's the mindset?
Has to be the challengers.
-And Jakara just got rocked… -[Corey] Cover goes. Naomi!
And Lash Legend holds things up.
[Booker T] You know how they say,
"Everybody's got a plan until they get hit in the mouth."
I think that's what is happening right now.
Bianca Belair just letting it all hang out.
Supernatural strength.
Here we go.
[Vic] Lash trying to hold on was able to counter for a moment.
And the referee here looking around everyone in the ring.
[Corey] Feel bad for the official. And what a forearm!
[Vic] And now Jakara,
last call in the play.
[Corey exclaims]
[Vic] Jakara executing it perfectly.
[Corey] Miss Jackson taking it high risk.
[Vic] Bianca's been wiped out.
[Corey] Oh, and what a big kick from Naomi who just wiped out Lash.
-Jakara right now. -[Vic] And across the top rope.
Jakara charging right back in,
taking on Naomi.
She's a legal superstar for her team.
Tag. Lash Legend's now legal.
Trying to look around. I don't know, Bianca is still down.
The Meta-Girls right now!
-[Booker] So close. So close, Vic. -[Vic] Closing in
on becoming the brand-new WWE Women's Tag Team champions!
[Corey] There it is! They're gonna do it.
-[Vic] Lash is legal. -[Corey] They're gonna do it.
-[crowd] One, two… -[Corey] Oh!
[Vic] Bianca just saved the titles for her team.
[Corey] Unbelievable.
Credit to Belair for understanding the situation
and being able to bail her partner out at the last millisecond.
Speared by Bianca.
[Vic] This is our main event.
The WWE Women's Tag Team title's on the line.
Lash's hoisting up Bianca Belair.
Belair has been wiped out.
Lash is legal for her team, as is Naomi.
Those are the two legal superstars in this matchup.
If you're trying to keep track at home because…
Oh, my God, that was countered. X-factor from Naomi.
All four women down.
[Corey] I think you're right, Vic.
I think Naomi was able to shift her weight
at the last possible second to mitigate her own landing.
That doesn't mean it was comfortable.
[Vic] It certainly was not.
But this allowed Bianca to get back to her feet,
trying to make a tag. Lash trying to not allow that to happen.
Trying to overpower Naomi.
And that's one way to certainly wipe out Bianca for a moment.
And Naomi, picking up steam!
Caught with a pump kick.
Titles are on the line.
And once again, the Meta-Girls are in control.
[Booker] Oh. I'm talking about they're looking good.
Goes back to the schedule of the champions, man.
Maybe too much work.
Too much time in the ring. But right now, in a lot of trouble.
[Vic] Naomi's been in these deep waters before.
Had it scouted.
Lash all the way to the outside.
A little assist from Bianca, and Lash…
[Corey] Smart move, trying to take out the powerhouse of the team.
[Vic] But remember, Jakara Jackson, who is legal.
Jakara right now going from behind.
Shoulders down…
[all exclaiming]
[Booker] Oh!
[Vic] Countered. Kick out! Tag!
[Corey] I don't know if I like that.
[Booker] I don't know either.
[Vic] Jakara just got caught.
We can talk about the officials later.
Look at Bianca.
Look at Naomi.
Champions in control.
Dropping Jakara.
-[Booker] Come on! -[Vic] Bianca into the cover…
-To retain the gold. -[bell dinging]
["Watch Me Shine" playing]
[Mike] Here are your winners and still
WWE Women's Tag Team champions,
Naomi and Bianca Belair!
[Vic] I don't think Derek Sanders is a Kansas City Chief official,
but he is here tonight.
A lot of people are going to be questioning that.
But in the end, what a main event.
Congratulations to the WWE Women's Tag Team champions. f official,