[intro music playing]
[Triple H] Then.
Now.
Forever.
Together.
[Vic] Welcome to NXT.
The NXT universe is fired up for the final NXT
before Saturday's Vengeance Day premium live event
coming to you live from our nation's capital of Washington, DC.
Tonight, not one but two championship matches are on the line.
There is our North American champion and his family, The Don,
ready for his steel cage main event against this man,
the remorseless, Ridge Holland.
Can Holland finally wear singles gold for the first time?
Steel cage Main Event tonight on NXT.
-["Role Model" playing] -[crowd cheering]
[crowd cheering]
[bell dings]
[Mike] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, from San Jose, California, Bayley!
[Vic] The Role Model qualified for the Women's Elimination Chamber last night.
And Graves, when was the last time you saw Bayley as focused as she is now?
[Corey] As long as I have known Bayley,
I don't know that I have ever seen her as locked in as she is right now.
Bayley eager to fight the entire world if she has to,
as long as there is gold at the end of the journey.
Whether that be the NXT Women's Championship this Saturday
at Vengeance Day, or possibly the Elimination Chamber.
She could end up "Bayley Two Straps" again.
[Vic] Oh. Could happen. She could take all the gold here in the WWE.
["Generation Of Jade" playing]
[Mike] And her opponent, from Chicago, Illinois, Cora Jade.
[Vic] It's a big week for Bayley.
Not everything we just talked about
but also she will be part of the NBA Celebrity All-Star Game this Friday.
But this is a big match and a big moment for Cora Jade.
Graves, though, is the excuse factory filling up for Jade?
[Corey] It's put up or shut up right now for Cora Jade.
This potentially could be something of a trap game for Bayley.
Jade coming out of the gate
-flinging a kendo stick. -[Booker T] Here we go.
[Vic] And there goes Bayley, right to work.
Booker, how much did it feel for Bayley,
facing somebody that she knows once upon a time looked up to her?
[Booker T] Do you really think Bayley is back here thinking that? Come on.
Bayley wants it and she wants it all, man.
I'm talking about championship, I'm talking about the big checks.
You know, Victor. Come on, man.
[Vic] Well, Jade posted on X, "When your idols become your rivals."
Last night, Bayley took on Lyra Valkyria,
another woman who was inspired by The Role Model.
Bayley responded by the way, on social media,
saying that she did the same thing once upon a time with Trish Stratus.
But Corey, do you think in ways it bothers Bayley
to see how Cora and Roxanne Perez act now that has driven her to this matchup?
[Corey] No, honestly, I don't.
I think Bayley's respect for this game, for this business,
for this Women's Division is such that Bayley understands
that you gotta break some eggs if you wanna make an omelet.
Poor Jade is simply doing what she can
-to capture the attention of those who-- -[Vic] Oh!
[Corey] …she wants to, to get their attention.
[Vic] Certainly got Cora's attention right there, was Bayley.
-[Booker T] Oh, baby. -[Vic] Hey!
[Booker T] Oh, baby.
Come on, let's keep it legal, man.
Let's keep it legal.
[Vic] Nothing illegal about what she did, Booker.
Now shooting the half into the cover, hook to the leg and a near fall.
Remember, it was The Role Model herself
who said she was here to help Cora and protect Roxanne Perez.
And there is the NXT Women's Champion Giulia looking on.
It is back to live action, top part of your screen.
Another pinning predicament, another kickout.
And think about this too, Book.
Bayley had to travel from Raw.
She had to come from Nashville this morning to prepare for this matchup.
[Booker T laughs] Yeah, she came because she knows
that the championship is here.
She knows she is here to try to take over everything that Roxanne Perez has built.
That's why she is here. Tell it like it is, come on.
[Corey] If we're gonna tell it like it is, Bayley is here because
she is not afraid of the grind. Bayley loves the grind.
Bayley is here because she knows her presence elevates the--
[Booker T] What are you talking about? The grind is the main roster,
a place she went nine years ago.
Why is she here? Why is she here? Come on.
[Vic] Well, Roxanne Perez believes it's because
she wants to be NXT Women's Champion once again.
And you were there, Corey, when Bayley won the women's title.
TakeOver: Brooklyn, you were ringside.
[Corey] One of the most incredible moments I have ever experienced at ringside
-cover here by The Role Model-- -[Vic] And a kickout.
And listen, there's a part of Bayley
that would love to capture that sort of past glory.
There is an intimacy to NXT.
The fans are the most passionate, the fans care about every little detail,
and that still resonates with Bayley after all these years.
There is something special happening down here right now.
-The Role Model wants to be a part of it. -[Corey] Another big knee.
Bayley back in control Saturday--
[Corey] Wait a minute.
[Vic] Countered from behind and a near fall.
I was getting ready to say Saturday a defining moment for this brand.
Three eras of the NXT Women's Division.
Bayley who laid the groundwork,
Roxanne Perez who pushed the evolution forward,
and Giulia who now sits atop the best Women's Division in wrestling
as Bayley wiping out Jade.
She shoots, she scores.
And can she score a victory tonight like last night?
And… oh. Take that momentum into Saturday but Cora Jade…
[Booker T] One bad, bad little sister.
Let me tell you something.
Only thing Cora Jade is looking for is an opportunity, Vic.
'Cause you know why? She helped build NXT.
You feel me? You feel me?
[Vic] Right now… oh! Bayley certainly felt the top rope across the throat.
And now some vicious knee strikes from Cora Jade.
[Booker T] One big win, one big win for Cora Jade
and she is back in title contention.
[Vic] Cora jade just laid out Bayley.
Can The Role Model bounce back here on NXT?
[Vic] Bayley, 24 hours ago qualified for the elimination chamber
joining Liv Morgan, Alexa Bliss, Bianca Belair for the elimination chamber.
set for March 1st. Traveled today from Nashville,
and now competing in the opening contest here against Cora Jade.
And what a battle this has been.
Because of course, triple threat for the women's title this Saturday in DC
Vengeance Day. Bayley, Perez, Giulia.
[crowd booing]
And these two now swinging for the fences.
[Booker T] Here we go. Here we go, baby.
Fight just broke out.
-[crowd chanting] Let's go Bayley. -[Corey] Bayley has it hooked.
-Bayley to Belly! -[Vic] Cover.
[crowd] One, two--
[Vic] And Jade just got that right shoulder up.
[Booker T] Usually that would be a one, two, three.
That's what I'm talking about right there.
[Vic] Listen, we gotta give Cora Jade her flowers
as we look once again at the Bayley to Belly,
the maneuver that has brought Bayley so much success throughout her career.
But kudos to Cora for hanging in this brawl this long.
[crowd chanting] Bayley! Bayley! Bayley!
[Vic] Bayley feeding off the NXT Universe.
And now maybe trying to put the finishing touches
on someone who once looked up to her.
Cora Jade, who wanted to become a professional wrestler…
-[Booker T] Oh! -[Vic] …because of the Role Model.
Double knees, driving the air from the lungs.
-Another suplex connects Bayley quickly. -[Booker T] Beautiful timing.
-[Vic] Feeling the urgency. -[Booker T] That's it. Whoa!
See what I'm saying, Corey?
That's exactly what I'm talking about.
We're talking about a Grand Slam winner.
We're talking about a Triple Crown winner.
All those wars, all those battles, is it gonna come to tonight?
-Whoa! Whoa! -[Corey] Oh. Bayley lost her grip.
-Cover by Cora! -[Booker T] That's it.
[Vic] Shifting weight, and just able to kick out was Bayley.
And Jade has watched a lot of matches featuring the Role Model.
She has everything scouted.
She knows where Bayley wants to go.
Now she connects, gutwrench suplex, hits in the center of the ring.
Cora Jade has just turned this match-up inside out.
Into another cover, and a kick out this time by Bayley.
[Booker T] I'm loving it right now.
We're in those deep waters.
[indistinct] swim right now.
[Vic] And that goes back, Corey, to what you said for Cora Jade.
This is a moment for her in her career.
[Corey] No doubt about it.
Cora Jade could be the name on everyone's lips tomorrow,
if she's the one to knock off Bayley.
[Vic] Oh!
Gnarly landing for a moment.
-[Booker T] Oh! -[Corey] Too high!
[Booker T] Uh-uh!
[Vic] Got caught, got hoisted, got…
planted!
[Corey] Down, hook of the leg.
[Vic] Is it enough?
And again, Jade able to kick out.
What a way to kick off the final NXT
before this Saturday's Vengeance Day premium live event.
And we've seen the Role Model…
-go to the-- -["Turn It Up" playing]
-[Vic] …top before -[Corey] You know this music.
This is…
[laughs] Oh, my God.
This is brilliant, is what this is.
Roxanne Perez dressed like classic Bayley.
[Vic] Bayley from the top, did connect.
-Into the cover. -[crowd] One, two…
[Vic] But that momentary distraction might have just cost Bayley.
And now Bayley is enraged.
[Corey] Booker, these type of [indistinct] have to make you proud.
[Booker T] It's brilliant. It's brilliant.
[Corey] But Bayley took her eye off the ball for a moment…
[Vic] This match-up continuing.
But now it's a two-on-one.
[Corey] Oh, no!
On the floor, skull first.
[Vic] Double underhook DDT connected.
And for Cora Jade, following it right up
-with a [indistinct]. -[Booker T] Yeah! Yeah!
[crowd] One, two…
three.
-[bell dings] -[Vic] And that is a statement victory
-in the career of Cora Jane. -["Generation Of Jade" playing]
[Booker T] Beautiful work.
[Mike Rome] Here is your winner, Cora Jade!
[Corey] Well, Bayley made the fatal mistake, as we look--
[Vic] That's our general manager talking to the NXT women's champion.
But back to what we were talking about.
Big win for Cora Jade.
Thanks to Roxanne Perez, who came out here dressed as old-school Bayley.
[Corey] Got under Bayley's skin deep enough
that Cora Jane was able to capitalize in punishing fashion.
Double-Arm DDT on the floor.
Another for insurance in the center of the ring.
And Cora Jane just knocked
one of the biggest wins of her career over Bayley.
[inaudible conversation]
Cora, congratulations on the biggest win of your career thus far.
But all of this is getting settled on Saturday.
Because now all three of you have a chance to walk out of Vengeance Day
as the new NXT women's champion.
Because that Triple Threat is now a Fatal 4-Way.
Good luck, ladies.
[Vic] Wow! Roxanne Perez in disbelief.
[Corey] A huge announcement.
[Vic] Bayley is shocked.
Cora Jade glowing.
What must Giulia be thinking?
And there's Bayley.
Bayley proving a point to Perez.
But it's no longer a Triple Threat.
It's a Fatal 4-Way for the NXT women's championship.
It's going down Saturday at Vengeance Day.
["Role Model" playing]
[crowd chanting] Bayley! Bayley!
But you see, we won last week because we were doing things my way.
And we need to keep this thing going.
We have Lash and Jakara next week in a tag match.
So I was thinking, what if we did a little
training session this weekend at the beach?
Fine, but we're gonna do it my way.
-I don't know about that. -[Nikkita speaks indistinctly]
Excuse me, what'd you just say?
Because we're not talking to you.
I said, you'll two at the beach… [scoffs]
Imagine me at the beach.
-What do you even mean? -No, I'm good.
You know what? How about you touch some grass instead of sand?
And, you know, one win does not make you a tag team…
And also, Zaria,
I really think Sol's actually holding you back.
Oh! No, that's where we stop it there.
Sol is the most athletic woman in this division,
and we just came off a victory last week,
and that's more than you can say, Nikkita.
Hmm. Okay, how about you step in the ring
with Big Cat Kita tonight, and you can find out.
[sighs] Who the hell does she think she is?
[Vic] I'm still shocked at Ava's announcement moments ago.
But there is The Ruler. He addresses his kingdom.
We hear from our NXT champion, Oma Femi, next.
There is a challenger, Ridge Holland, to the North American Championship.
Mentally, physically preparing
for our steel cage championship main event tonight on NXT.
["Hands Of Fate" playing]
[announcer] Ladies and gentlemen,
please welcome the NXT champion,
Oba Femi!
[Corey] WWE Universe, behold The Ruler.
The personification dominance.
And Oba Femi may be backed by destiny,
but Femi doesn't need to be factored in the decision to lose his title.
Triple Threat for the NXT championship in DC, Saturday.
The date is set this Saturday at Vengeance Day.
Obert Femi will be defending his NXT championship
against Grayson Waller and Austin Theory
in a Triple Threat match.
But let's be real.
That's a handicap match.
Because it's going to be Oba Femi versus A-Town Down Under.
Because in their minds,
they're going to gang up and get rid of The Ruler.
But then what?
And then after that, I'll tell you what.
Their egos
will become their greatest downfall,
because don't get it messed up.
After everything's said and done,
it's only one man for themselves when it comes to this NXT Championship.
♪ A-Town Down ♪
-Now -♪ Let's go ♪
♪ A-Town Down! Screaming out loud ♪
♪ A-Town Down! The future's right now ♪
♪ A-Town Down! Tearin' the place down ♪
♪ A-Town Down! Like my next sound ♪
♪ Hey ♪
Hey, overrated, it's too late, lad.
You're starting to feel the pressure.
You're about to get in the ring with some real stars.
But trying to turn us on each other, I thought better of you.
So much better, man.
Honestly, this whole thing right here is pathetic.
Do you not realize that you gotta face Grayson Waller on Saturday?
A man that has not received his flowers here in NXT.
He's jumped off ladders.
[crowd exclaiming]
Hey, hey, you're gonna listen to this.
My boy has jumped off ladders,
he has hit elbows through tables, nearly risked his career
every time he has been in here.
But you know who gets all the credit?
Carmelo Hayes, Tony D'Angelo, and Bron Breakker.
But all three of those guys and everybody in here forget that my man Grayson Waller
right here is a pillar that helped shape NXT to what it is today.
And with that same help, he's gonna help me become
the NXT champion this Saturday.
[crowd cheering]
Yeah, you're fighting Austin Theory.
He's wanted to be a WWE superstar his whole life, and he did it easy.
And here in NXT, he was riding shotgun with some little flop called Gargano.
And on Saturday, he can ride shotgun one more time
with the new NXT champion, Grayson Waller.
Well, hold on, hold on, hold on.
So what you are telling me is that both of you will become NXT champion?
Ooh. Ooh.
I just want you to know, That that title means a lot to me.
-[man] Oh, no. -Do you know how sick I get?
Hearing Bron Breakker's name, hearing Carmelo Hayes name,
hearing Trick Williams name.
Just because they had that, despite the fact that I gave everything
to have a chance at it and I was this close.
So I wanna let you know that I will do whatever it takes.
-And that includes-- -Includes what, man?
Includes what?
I've never had the NXT championship.
I've been the United States champion.
And you've beaten John Cena. We get it, dude.
I'm so sick of hearing that story. Guess what?
No one cares.
[crowd cheering]
Let me tell you something, Grayson.
That accomplishment is a very rare accomplishment.
But I get someone like you not understanding
because you've never had a singles title on your own anyway.
[crowd cheering]
Hey, he's not wrong, but you know what else I remember?
I remember WrestleMania 40 when I was standing on top of the ladder
holding the WWE Tag Team Championships and you were on the bottom rung
like a little cheerleader.
If anything, you should be saying thank you, Grayson.
You saved my career after WrestleMania 39.
-Saved? -Saved.
You think I need to be saved? I'm just getting started.
And when it comes to this triple threat on Saturday,
I will do whatever, whatever it takes to become the NXT champion.
Okay, like what? What are you gonna do? Huh?
What am I gonna do?
How about we start with this dummy right here
and we put him through that announce table.
Hey, how about we hit him with some chairs?
That sounds pretty fun.
How about we throw everything we can on top of him and then throw
the announcer table right on top of his ass.
Hey, and then we can decide who the new NXT champion is gonna be.
-Which is A-Town Down… -Under.
I understand you came in with a plan tonight, but it did not work.
But I promise you one thing on Saturday, there is nothing and there is nobody
who's gonna stop me from getting that championship.
Nobody.
Oh, no.
[imperceptible]
What are you doing? Swing, dog, swing on me, swing on me, dog.
Oh! Lawler just tattooed Oba.
And now it's Waller taking it to the NXT champion.
Hey, you wanna do this?
With a trap on Lawler.
A preview of what could happen in DC Saturday.
I fear that perhaps for the first time in his career, maybe outgunned.
-Wow. -Look at the power.
A-Town Down.
Hit it!
And Waller following it up.
And just when you think the bond has been broken,
these two change the game just that fast.
-["A-Town Down" playing] -Both looking at the gold.
There's three men, but one title.
It will be every man for themselves.
Who's gonna walk out of Vengeance Day with the NXT title?
Trick Williams, the face of NXT,
continuously handed opportunity…
[bell dinging]
after opportunity.
All I wanted was one chance to prove myself,
and I tried to do things the right way.
But time after time, I was disregarded
by Ava, by Shawn Michaels,
even by the WWE Universe.
So Trick, you think you've been screwed over?
Those people chant your name while they scoff at mine.
Vengeance is the only thing that I seek now.
For me.
For my people.
I'll leave my mark one way or another.
So what do you say, Trigger?
At Vengeance Day, if you're man enough to accept the challenge,
I'll finish what I started here…
in a strap match.
A vengeful Eddie Thorpe looking for his own type of vengeance
to be felt Saturday.
[bell dinging]
[announcer] The following contest is a Triple Threat Tag Team match
scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first Hank Walker, Tank Ledger,
Hank and Tim!
Well guys, the landscape of the Tag Team division will be shifted in moments.
What up, folks?
The Triple Threat Tag Team match live,
next on NXT.
["Burn This Engine Out" playing]
[crowd jeering]
You want the real me?
This is the real me!
-[crowd exclaiming] -[tense instrumental music]
This is the real me, Je'Von!
[Cohen] After extensive examination of Je'Von Evans' jaw over the past month,
I have concluded that, following reconstructive surgery,
and several weeks of recovery, Je'Von's jaw is healing on schedule.
Understanding the timeline for this match that Je'Von desperately wants,
we have worked to expedite the process,
to which I can say, Je'Von is cleared for in-ring action on Saturday.
However, I would be remiss if I did not express
I have concerns for re-injury
if Je'Von takes any severe trauma to that part of the jaw.
In the case of another fracture,
he would be sidelined for an extended period of time.
We would be looking at a minimum of six months,
and the possibility that he would be medically disqualified
from ever stepping inside a ring again.
Give me a smile now, Je'Von!
As of this moment, it is Je'Von's decision on what he wants to do.
I have my concerns, but I am clearing Je'Von
to return to action to compete in a match against Ethan Page at Vengeance Day.
-All right, you heard that, right? -Yes.
Cool, I got cleared. So, I'll go against Ethan at Vengeance Day, do I not?
-Je'Von, did you hear-- -No, that was the deal.
Did you hear the part where he said you risk extensive--
Ava, I'm not… I ain't worried about that, all right?
He won't touch me. He won't have a chance to.
Okay, I'm worried about that. And what if Ethan does?
Well, that's a risk I'm willing to take.
-All right? -Je'Von--
-You heard what he said, I'm clear. -You leave me no choice, then.
I need you to sign this.
And what's that?
This states that, if you compete at Vengeance Day,
it waives WWE of any liability if you get hurt.
That means it's on you.
Just think about it, please.
All right, I'll think about it.
I thought about it.
[Vic] The waiver is signed.
Je'Von has his chance for vengeance this Saturday.
["Substance Over Style" playing]
[announcer] Next, representing No Quarter Catch Crew,
Myles Borne and Tavion Heights!
-[crowd cheering] -["Substance Over Style" continues]
[Vic] Borne and Heights looking to build on 2024,
and it starts tonight.
["Journey Ahead" playing]
[announcer] And their opponents, the team of
Yoshiki Inamura and Josh Briggs!
[Vic] Graves, do you agree with this duo that the NXT Tag Team Champions
are dodging them?
[Corey] We'll find out soon in this Triple Threat Match-Up.
I am extremely curious to see what this duo brings to tag team action.
You know, Josh Briggs has had some trust issues
after how his last tag team ended up unfolding.
So, this is a chance for a fresh start,
a fresh start between two of the hardest-hitting individuals
-in the game. -[Booker T] Trust. Trust.
He left his partner high and dry,
we know that.
[Vic] Well, let's…
Let's talk about the team we see here, Booker.
We know that they bonded this summer in Japan,
that being Briggs and Inamura.
Look at Inamura going right in.
[Booker T] Oh, Inamura is a tough customer.
I've seen this kid before.
Like you said, Japan, Europe. He's done it all over the world.
Now, he's in NXT. He's trying to make his mark.
[Corey] And now, Inamura utilizing his sumo background
with those heavy sumo strikes to the chest.
[Vic] It was the champions last week.
I did say, if Briggs and Inamura win, they deserve a championship opportunity.
But there's Hank, there's Tank,
and that's a duo, Booker, you have gotten to know.
[Booker T] Let me tell you, was I a believer in the beginning?
-[Vic] No. -[Booker T] No. But they've grown on me
week by week, Vic.
They've figured it out. Big shot by Tavion Heights.
[Vic] That's someone who's also figured out
-from his time over in Japan, as well. -[Booker T] Oh!
[Corey] You talk about strength.
-[Vic] Incredible power from Heights. -[Corey] Borne's in.
[Vic] We were talking about the tag team champions,
Fraxiom, Axiom, Nathan Frazer.
Need to note that they successfully defended those titles last week in TNA.
Into the cover. Hook of the leg. And a kick-out.
Now, 160 days as champion during this current reign.
[Booker T] Did you say "Fraxiom"--
[Vic] If I didn't, the last time, you yelled at me.
-[Booker T] He's ducking somebody. -[Vic] I didn't say.
[Booker T] Are we talking about our tag team champions?
That the reigning tag team champions didn't seize history?
[Vic] I asked Graves, and he thought that was the case
because Briggs and Inamura have been saying that.
As the tag was made, and Tank is back into the match.
Looking for a big slam. Borne able to slide down.
Looking for a sleeper, into the corner. A tag was made.
Inamura's back in and legal.
-Oh, my! -[Corey] Wicked strikes!
[Booker T] Oh, baby. You know what? I like this Inamura.
[Vic] Tag was made to Briggs,
who just dropped Heights.
[Corey] Booker, Inamura told me earlier, he's a longtime protege
of someone you know very well, WWE Hall of Famer, The Great Muta.
[Booker T] I tell you, one of the greatest of all times. Oh!
[Vic] Briggs just left his feet!
And following up again.
Briggs and Inamura are destroying and dropping the competition.
-[Corey] There goes Tank. -[crowd cheers]
-That was unique. -[Booker T] Oh!
And right back in, a little two-for-one.
Tank taking over!
[Booker T] Can I say it? Honk! Honk! Honk! I love it bad!
[Vic] You gonna add that to your shucky duck, quack-quack?
[Corey] Turned into a goose or a Mack Truck? What was that? Not sure.
There you see Briggs, looking for the clothesline. Nobody there!
[Vic] Look at the action of this triple threat match.
Tag team division,
right now, is cooking.
Tag was made. Tavion Heights is legal,
who just caught a boot. Tag was made.
Now, it's Hank that is legal.
And Tank just put Hank into Tavion!
[crowd cheering]
I feel bad for the official. Hard enough for us to keep track of this.
[Booker T] Calm down, man!
You made me miss the whole court, damn it!
[Vic] I… I didn't make you miss anything, Booker.
They broke it up.
[Corey] Briggs launched himself off the apron, while there's mayhem
out in front of our table.
[Vic] I haven't seen Booker that excited since Sexyy Red.
It's now Hank, Tank setting it up. Here you go, Book.
[Booker T] Honk! Honk! Yeah!
-[Vic] Myles Borne got caught. -[Booker T] Beautiful work.
[Vic] Who's walking out of this triple threat match?
The bodies hitting the floor.
Tavion just caught…
Bam! Belly-to-belly overhead toss! Quickly now, into the cover.
Hook of the leg, center of the ring. And… Ooh.
Just able to kick-out, was Big Hank.
Hank, Corey, if you didn't know,
was a security guard here turned Superstar.
Well, there's the champions, Axiom-Frazer,
-looking down on the competition. -[Corey] Cover.
[Vic] Triple threat continuing. Kick-out by Hank!
Who's walking out with a victory?
[crowd clamoring]
[Vic] No Quarter Catch Crew in control.
When we think of the NQCC, we think about the Heritage Cup.
The Heritage Cup featuring new rules when it's defended here tonight.
Gone are the rounds. It's one fall to a finish.
That's the same rules, one fall to a finish,
here in this triple threat match!
But what a job by Tavion Heights.
[Corey] Incredible situational awareness from Heights. But here comes Inamura!
[Vic] What do you think about Hank making the tag to Inamura?
He's now checked out of the match.
[Corey] I think it was a desperate scenario.
I think he needed to make a tag to anybody, any willing competitor
that happened to be in Amora.
Look at this power.
Yes!
Nearly put Myles through the ring.
[Vic] Inamura and Briggs, who were trying to find an opponent for tonight
ended up finding not one but two.
The champions who are out here looking on, chuckle,
'cause it sounded familiar, two men on different pages
but they're one team, and right now they're working in unity.
-[Corey] I love it. -[Vic] Briggs, coming in.
-[Booker T] Oh, baby! -[Vic] Slam, slam, slam, slam.
[Booker T] We've seen that before.
[Vic] We certainly have. And, Corey, everyone's flying around the ring.
I believe Myles Borne and Briggs are legal.
[Corey] Your guess is as good as mine.
And hopefully the official knows right now.
Big dropkick right in the mug.
[Vic] And that now brings in Hank.
Hank is legal, and he just got caught and snapped around by Myles Borne.
The tag was made, Heights is in.
In comes Tank, and Tank meeting Myles,
but they fell right on top of Tank.
-And Hank-- -[Booker T] Whoa!
[Vic] And saving it up is Inamura and Briggs.
[Corey] It doesn't get any closer than that without the bell ringing.
And let 'em hear it.
[crowd chanting "NXT"]
Collision course dropped Tank into Hank.
And saving things,
Briggs and Inamura right here pacing on the outside.
He wants to get in his match--
[Booker T] But everybody's just letting it all hang out.
Vic, like you said, everybody's jockeying for position.
Who's gonna get the victory right here?
Somebody's moving up tonight.
[Vic] Still to think as Heights…
swings away with Hank,
the NXT Tag Team Champions
-are getting a view of this matchup. -[Booker T] Oh yeah!
[Vic] Looking at their potential challengers.
-[Corey] Oh, my goodness. -[Vic] Oh, Big Boot.
[Corey] Briggs, I think, made the tag.
[Vic] Certainly did. Briggs is legal.
Heights didn't realize it.
Briggs just tagged Hank.
[Booker T] Whoa!
[Vic] Now he just tagged Heights.
Answering back with a pump kick and clothesline.
Hank's down, Heights is rocked.
Briggs is standing, Briggs is charging.
Big Boot.
What a match!
What a night it's been, the final NXT
before Saturday's Vengeance Day.
[Corey] The man of mayhem…
[commentators exclaim]
[Vic] Cover, count and… Oh!
Think about that,
Hank tried to counter as Tank flying through the air.
Hank tried to counter with what looked like a hurricanrana,
but the counter was countered, but somehow he's on his feet.
[Corey] This is nuts and if Hank were any brighter,
I suggest he think twice, but to hell with it.
[Vic] Let it fly, man.
[Booker T] Here we go.
Here we go.
[Corey] Everybody's down.
[Vic] And remember who's legal.
It's Briggs.
It's Hank.
Both men back into the ring.
Wow!
-[Booker T] Here we go. This is it. -[Vic] This could be it.
[Booker T] This is it. The biggest win of their career.
[Vic] Oh! Near fall,
as this Triple Threat Match continues.
[Corey] Who knows that Josh Briggs, for having the will to continue.
Let's take another look at Hank throwing caution
and himself to the win,
but could not finish the task.
Hats off to all three of these teams.
This has been wild from the very get-go.
[crowd chants "This is awesome"]
[Booker T] What a moment this would be for Hank and Tank
if they could pull it off, guys.
[Corey] NXT Universe has been in a fever pitch since the beginning.
But where in the heck is Briggs going?
[Vic] Oh, no.
[Corey] To the winner's circle, if you ask him.
[Vic] Hank for the second time, able to counter that chokeslam
and it looks like he's going to fly once more.
Nobody home, tag was made, Inamura's legal.
[Corey] Boom!
Forty-five seventy… Inamura!
[Vic] Big splash.
And Briggs and Inamura did what they set out to do tonight.
[ring announcer] Here are your winners.
The team of Josh Briggs
and Yoshiki Inamura
[Vic] You love a good tag-team match, Booker.
[Booker T] What a match, man. What a match. All that [indistinct]
[Corey] What an incredible effort by all three teams--
[Frazer] All right, all right.
Hey. [chuckles] Hey, that's what I'm talking about, lads.
Congrats on the win.
[Axiom] Yeah, well, Briggs, you're one of the most underrated guys here in NXT.
I mean that.
Inamura, we can see what all the hype was about.
All the noise you created in Japan.
But after tonight, I think you two deserve a chance at these titles.
Yeah, well, you wanted it.
The problem now is that you've got it.
So with that being said,
we will see you at Vengeance Day and more.
[crowd cheering]
[crosstalk]
[Vic] More gold on the line, Saturday at Vengeance Day.
[Corey] Well, Axiom better pack a lunch
'cause Briggs and Inamura are looking for a fight.
Well, when it comes to championships,
there is some championship on the line in a moment.
JDC crossed the line last week,
issued the challenge which was accepted.
Lexis King is going to put his Heritage Cup Championship
on the line under his rules, next.
…big night for the don.
-Yeah, he always steps up. -He does.
Yeah, speaking of stepping up…
See, look, we've been on the different pages
these last few weeks, and I'm sorry.
I guess I've just been in my head a little bit.
Thinking about taking care of business on my own, like you said, you know,
I know you don't wanna do it without the family.
-You want us out there to help-- -Whoa, whoa, whoa, relax, relax.
You're good.
Listen, I meant what I said though.
It's a cage match.
I'm gonna have to do it alone.
But look, Luca knew, Rizzo knows,
-even Izzi Dame know. -I know.
You're good.
Look, what do we always say?
"Forget about it," right? All right.
Yeah. I'm gonna forget about it. All right.
-We'll be all right. -Go take care of it.
[chuckles]
[Vic] Steel Cage Championship main event still to come.
[The System Theme Song playing]
[Vic] Well, Graves, here is someone that you are very familiar with.
[Corey] And I am very ready to get weird.
JDC representing The System
from TNA Wrestling.
[crowd chants "JDC"]
["King" playing]
My way, my life
[Vic] Well, the theme really spells it out.
"My way, my life."
And as we learned last week here on NXT,
It's no longer just the Heritage Cup.
It's now the Heritage Cup Championship.
That Lexis King is turning around,
letting members of the NXT Universe kiss.
And that Heritage Cup will now be defended under his rules.
Gone are the rounds.
There's no rounds, one fall to a finish, sudden death
if you will, winner takes the cup.
[Corey] I think this is a great decision by Lexis King.
I think it legitimizes the championship
that he so proudly holds, and I think we are
about to get another taste of greatness.
Let's go up to Mike Rome.
[Mike] The following contest,
scheduled for one fall, is for the NXT Heritage Cup Championship!
Introducing the Challenger
from Boston, Massachusetts, weighing in at 230 pounds,
representing the system of TNA,
JDC.
And his opponent from Cincinnati, Ohio,
weighing in at 225 pounds,
he is the NXT Heritage Cup
champion, Lexis King!
[Vic] Corey kind of hit it on the head, Booker.
But I'd love to get your thoughts on the new Heritage Cup rules
that go into effect here tonight.
[Booker T] I'm a one fall to a finish type of guy, you know, that's my wheelhouse.
I'm not one of these marathon type of guys.
-[bell dinging] -So I like the new rules.
[Vic] I wonder what the purists think of the Heritage Cup rules.
Former champions like Dar, Tyler Bate,
Nathan Frazer, Charlie Dempsey, who we saw earlier.
So rich in history, carrying on the tradition,
of European wrestling as these two have a little bit of a stalemate.
[Corey] All those names are former champions,
so they're probably thinking they should have done better.
Maybe they should have put their own rules into effect.
[Vic] I see what you're saying now, Graves as King right now in control,
trying to out wrestle JDC--
[Booker T] Beautiful work there by the star of our television.
-[Corey] Don't. It's too early-- -[Booker T] That's that man! Come on!
[Corey] I wonder who will be holding the cup the next time,
NXT is on the road, NXT of course, live in Cincinnati.
Two weeks from tonight.
[Vic] Which is Lexis King's own little backyard.
But JDC in the ring, he really took a waltz down memory lane last week.
Former NXT Tag Team Champion, victory at Wrestlemania, he's found a new purpose
in TNA with The System.
[Corey] JDC is arguably the most focused and serious he has ever been in
his 25-year career, originally trained by the
legendary killer Kowalski, JDC has forgotten as much
about this business as most people know.
[Vic] Has not competed in an NXT ring since 2021,
and Graves, we could actually see some history tonight.
A TNA wrestler
winning a WWE NXT Championship.
It only takes three seconds.
[Corey] Think about the repercussions of that.
Vic, look, back slide here by JDC
[Vic] Shoulders down, rolled right through goes King.
Not only in NXT, but for TNA and the entire wrestling industry.
That's unheard of.
[Corey] That certainly would throw a wrench in the system.
But right now, Lexis King, there's no corner man.
There's no rounds.
-You get away with all that-- -[Booker T] He's checking himself.
He's checking himself.
[Vic] He better check himself, JDC from behind,
looking to take the cup and a kick out.
[Corey] Old habits die hard and King sent spilling into the outside of the ring.
[Vic] Almost got his beard paint knocked off.
JDC! Up and over.
That's not natural.
[Corey] Absolutely not.
[Booker T] You guys seem to be sleeping on Lexis King
and what he's done lately.
Come on, damn it!
[Vic] Who's walking out with the Heritage Cup Championship here on NXT?
Heritage Cup championship on the line under Lexis King rules. Sudden death.
One fall to a finish, out of the rounds, out is the time, out is the break
and the King crowning himself in the center of the ring.
And I will say I do agree with Lexis King on one thing, Book.
The cup hasn't been treated in the way it should be.
Presented as such, so prestigious.
[Booker T] I disagree with that. I mean, if you go back to Noam Dar,
he's the guy who made this cup what it is,
four-time Heritage Cup winner, a guy that's done it all.
He brought the cup here, Vic, come on.
[Vic] Right now you're adding one reign there and he did not necessarily
bring the cup here, but we'll talk about that later.
Chopped by JDC in control of Lexis King, now.
-[Booker T] Beautiful work. -[Corey] Come on, Vic.
Don't let the facts get in the way of a good story.
-[Booker T] Exactly. -[Corey] Rolling right through!
Lance Storm-esque single leg crab applied middle of the ring.
JDC is in trouble.
[Vic] Is JDC going to tap out?
Again, it's one fall to a finish.
The referee is in great position right now, taking a look at JDC from TNA.
And he really would throw a a wrench in the system,
if he was able to become victorious tonight
and become the first TNA wrestler to hold a WWE NXT championship as King
trying to kick JDC back into position.
[Corey] Why would he want to throw a wrench in his own system, Vic.
[Vic] He was throwing a wrench in the system.
-Meaning a TNA wrestler-- -[Corey] Our system?
Yes, that's how I was trying to do a play--
[Booker T] Guys, guys.
[Corey] What Book, are you trying to be the voice of reason?
[Booker T] What I'm saying is JDC right now is in dire straits.
Let's talk about that.
Let's talk about the work that Lexis King is doing right now.
I'm talking about overtime right now, on the job training for JDC and--
[Vic] Booker, you don't think it was sad to hear the things King
was saying about those that helped him?
That he turned his back on everyone that started to believe in him.
The universe, the locker room, friends, family.
[Booker T] Vic, how many times have the friends,
family and locker room taking you to a championship?
You gotta do that on your own.
Lexis King knows that.
[Vic] Tide turner for JDC.
[Corey] He might want some moral support in this moment
because JDC just rocked Lexis King.
[Vic] What good are friends if you can't
use their backs to further your own career?
[Booker T] Exactly, exactly, Vic.
[Vic] You said, turn your back on the friends.
You don't need friends. That's what you said.
Alexis King should do. You're not agreeing with--
[Booker T] Use them like Corey said.
[Vic] Corey, can you help me here with him?
[Booker T] No!
[Corey laughing] JDC Russian leg sweep, again, it's one fall to a finish.
[Vic] I need to call in Chet Lemon for that job.
[Corey] Definitely so, Black Snow shows up,
we're in a lot of trouble.
As JDC front face lock. Looking for the suplex.
-[Vic] Falcon Arrow! -[Corey] Is it enough?
[Vic] Cover!
[Corey] Ooh! Who will be the Heritage Cup champion
when we make our way to Cincinnati
two weeks from tonight?
JDC looking to fly!
[Corey] Taking it high risk! JDC going for broke.
[Vic] And there is the Cup Championship.
Hanging in the balance.
Typically, we would have rounds,
we would may be in the fifth or sixth round.
[Corey] We know JDC loves to hit this!
That's gonna do it. We're gonna have a new champion.
Has been, no! I thought it was made.
That was close! and absolutely beautiful.
[Booker T] Kid got on instinct right there, Vic.
[Vic] An absolutely beautiful leg drop.
For the top rope, right on the money.
That was beautiful, Bobby-esque.
You got to think right now, JDC is looking for a second.
If he can hit a second leg drop.
This for sure is over.
[Corey] But JDC sees King stirring, great wherewithal
by Lexis King. King turning the game around.
And here we go, Booker, take it home.
[Booker T] Rock-a-bye…
Rock-a-bye…
-Rock-a-bye, baby. -[Corey] King with a coronation.
With a little extra oomph into the cover,
and King continues to control the cup.
[Mike] Here is your winner and still the NXT
Heritage Cup champion Lexis King!
[Vic] Kudos to JDC
for bringing his A-game tonight.
Here we see him throwing everything and then some at Lexus King.
But ultimately,
the Heritage Cup Champion, Lexis King with The Coronation.
-Thanks for coming, JDC. -[crowd] One, two, three!
-[Corey] And, still… -[bell dings]
[Vic] Well, for Lexis King, when it comes to the Heritage Cup Championship,
it's his way, it's his rules.
You're doing your job and doing me a favor.
-I got my hands-- -Ava!
-What? -You kidding me?
You just cut my chances of becoming an NXT Women's Champion again.
A Fatal-4 Way? Seriously?
Maybe you should've thought of that before you went out there.
Yeah, maybe you should've thought about-- Is that all she does?
-Complain-- -You have no idea.
Look, regardless, I'm gonna go to Vengeance Day
and become a record breaking three-time NXT Women's Champion.
Okay, good luck with that.
And I really like this. This is the best you ever looked, you ugly idiot!
-[stifles laugh] -[crowd exclaims]
Uh, I'm sorry.
What was that?
Uh, nothing. I was just saying that there's gonna be
a new champion on Saturday.
Yeah, you're right. And it's gonna be me.
I mean, you said it yourself. It's finally my turn to win a championship.
And I'll make sure you're right there to see it.
Yeah, right.
Over my dead body.
["The Lyoness" playing]
[Vic] Well, I cannot wait for Saturday.
[bell dings]
[announcer] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, from Los Angeles, California,
Nikkita Lyons!
[Corey] I don't know if you can hear it, but Booker is purring.
-Nikkita Lyons in action, live, next. -[Booker T growls]
-But there's also strength in numbers. -True.
I mean, honestly, I don't think Stephanie has any friends.
I mean, maybe Giulia, but she'll have her hands full on Saturday.
-I thought I'd find you guys here. -[all groan]
If you keep that on Saturday, I want another title shot.
That's cute and all, Kelani. But you already had your rematch, remember?
Well, Fallon, you haven't faced this version of Kelani Jordan.
Shouldn't you be more worried about Jaida Parker?
-No, I shouldn't-- -Jaida Parker. I know that's right, baby.
Appreciate you. And that's facts, because Kelani stays thinking about me
24/7.
-I don't think about you at all. -Don't bother yourself, baby.
It's okay. But unfortunately for Miss Thing,
I ain't got time to be worried about you or focus on you.
-But what I am focused on is that title. -Mm-hmm.
So best believe I got next.
-No, it's me. -[scoffs] Pause.
-Ew. Where you coming from? -Rewind.
-That way? -My girl beat you and you.
So, the only one who deserves a title shot is the Gold-Blooded Queen, Karmen.
You know what? I don't have time for this crap.
-How about you guys figure it out? -Oh, we gonna figure it out.
[indistinct arguing]
["Tortured Minds" playing]
[announcer] And her opponent, accompanied by Sol Ruca,
from Adelaide, South Australia,
Zaria!
[Vic] We heard the chatter earlier from the locker room.
Graves, do you believe, honestly,
is Sol Ruca holding Zaria back?
[Corey] Absolutely not.
I think the sky truly is the limit for Sol Ruca.
I think it's going to take some time, like any duo,
to get on the exact same page to develop true team chemistry.
Sure, they're from two totally different worlds.
Sol Ruca spends all her time on the beach,
Zaria came from somewhere beyond Thunderdome.
We've never seen destruction like she's brought.
But in time, I think this duo will figure it out.
Well, Booker, it's really hard to stand out
in such a crowded women's division,
and that is what Zaria and Sol Ruca are really trying to do.
[Booker T] I'm gonna tell it like it is. I'm not gonna sugarcoat it or anything.
Zaria is the real deal, she's a powerhouse,
and I don't agree with this tag team thing. It's spoils the friendship thing.
-You know me, Vic. -[Vic] I do.
And, certainly, friendships will be tested because now it is a Fatal 4-Way
for the NXT Women's Championship, Saturday at Vengeance Day.
Big news earlier tonight, Cora Jade, joining the field of that match-up.
Roxanne Perez, Giulia, and of course, from Monday Night Raw, Bayley.
And Zaria in control early on in this match-up.
And it was good to see Zaria, by the way,
so quickly come to her teammate's defense earlier.
-[Booker T] Vic, you going there again. -[Vic] Wow! I am.
But look at Nikkita Lyons right now.
[Booker T] Nikkita Lyons.
You're talking about Big Cat Kita.
-Here we go! -[yells]
[Vic] Well, Nikkita just got caught by Zaria.
[Booker T] Come on. Come on, Big Cat, come on.
[Vic] Zaria… showcasing that power.
Looking for a power-- Wow.
Very impressive agility from Lyons.
[Booker T] You can huff, you can puff, but you can't blow that house down, Vic.
-[Vic] German suplex connects. -[Booker T] Whoa!
-Oh, man, here we go. -[Corey] Zaria would beg to differ.
[Vic] Both women are down, pivotal point maybe, early on in this match-up.
Booker, I'm sure you can imagine Lyons at the beach like she said earlier.
[Booker T laughs] Let me tell you something.
Nikkita Lyons is back, and she's back with a purpose.
And what a match to do it.
What a match to go out there and get a big victory
-on Zaria. -[Vic] Oh!
Well, Zaria, I believe, starting to gain some footing with her teammate, Sol Ruca,
but she just lost her footing after that kick.
-[Booker T] Educated, V. -[Vic] Cover!
And a near-fall.
And now you see a…
also a sigh of relief from Sol Ruca.
Is now right on the back, looking for a submission.
We know the martial arts background of Nikkita Lyons,
trying to lock in a camel clutch, and is sitting in deep.
[Corey] Look at this.
-Executing the split. -[Booker T] Oh, baby!
-You see that? -[Corey] That is incredible pressure.
[Vic] Zaria trying, and finally
able to get back to a little bit of a vertical base.
[Booker T] Man, look at the strength.
[Vic] You know that both these women with championship dreams.
You know, Zaria, where she's come from to make it all the way here at NXT.
We found out on Raw that Rhea Ripley will defend the Women's World Tile
against IYO SKY at the Raw After Elimination Chamber.
But that might have been a knockout blow from Nikkita.
[Corey] I think it might have been, Vic, look out!
-[Vic] Lyons! A little bit too far out. -[Booker T] Nobody home.
[Vic] Zaria, now, big spear!
And she's looking for a big win before her and Sol Ruca
head out and face the Meta Girls.
What goes up comes crashing down.
[Booker T] You gotta kick out.
You gotta kick out, Nikkita.
-You gotta do it quick. -[crowd] One, two, three!
-[bell dings] -[Booker T] Man!
-["Tortured Minds" playing] -[Booker T] What the hell!
[announcer] Here's your winner,
Zaria!
[Vic] What a victory, what a showcase of power…
[Booker T] Man!
-[Vic] …from Zaria. -[Booker T] I didn't see that coming, Vic.
[Corey] There's the aforementioned power
driving Lyons face-first in the center of the ring.
Big win for Zaria, who continues to dominate,
and shift momentum on the side of herself and Sol Ruca.
["Tortured Minds" continues]
I've been told Je'Von Evans is medically cleared
for our match this Saturday at Vengeance Day.
I can't say I'm surprised. You're pretty resilient.
But you lead with your heart…
and not your head.
You have a long career ahead of you.
Multiple championship title reigns, potential of being the face of NXT.
Maybe even all of WWE.
But you can't help yourself, can you, Je'Von?
You're willing to risk it all just to get your hands on me, kid.
You've got a million dollar smile.
And a ten cent brain.
What's about to happen to you?
It's not my fault.
[music playing]
You've got a giant bull's eye on your jaw.
And this time I'm not gonna break it.
Je'Von I'm gonna shatter it.
You thought Low mass was back,
this Saturday,
will be 10 times worse and worse.
Je'Von, you're looking for vengeance?
After Saturday, the only thing you'll be looking for is a new career.
Because I plan to end yours.
[music playing]
[crowd chanting]
[Sarah] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome,
Trick Williams
Trick.
Eddie challenged you to a strap match
at Vengeance day, Ava said.
It's your call.
So what's your response?
Eddie Thorne,
you want this strap match that Vengeance day?
You got it.
You cost me my NHC title.
You're out here running your mouth, and that's cool.
That's what we're gonna do about it.
You and me. We're gonna have this draft match.
You have to look me. Eye to eye, face to face, man to man.
And then I'm gonna whoop that ass.
[crowd cheering]
Well, you heard it. It is official this Saturday
at Vengeance Day, Eddie Thorpe
and Trick Williams
in a strap match.
[Corey] Well, that's gonna happen at Vengeance day.
The news keeps dropping here tonight,
but you never know what to believe with the challengers.
What we do know, the champion doesn't even fast.
Every decision, to lose the title.
Who will walk out of engines Day Saturday?
NXT champion.
[Vic] And then there were four.
The NXT women's championship is on the line
as Giulia defends against Roxanne Perez.
Bailey and as of tonight, Cora Jade.
-[Corey] We learn most next-- -[Ricky] Oh this feels right.
[Corey] Official--
[Ricky] This feels real good right about now.
[Corey] What the hell?
[crowd cheering]
[Corey] Holy crap.
[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting]
It's obvious you know who I am.
[crowd cheering]
If NXT is the future,
of professional wrestling.
Well, guess what,
you need an absolute superstar of the future.
[crowd cheering]
If this is the hottest brand.
Well, you need the hottest free agent right now, baby.
[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting]
Do not let the handsome face
and expensive fragrance fool you.
I am here to turn this place upside down.
[crowd cheering]
And everybody's been begging the question.
When will the revolution be televised again?
And well.
I'm here, ain't I?
[crowd cheering]
[NXT theme playing]
[Corey] We do know who that is.
Everyone wants to be part of NXT.
And the future is brighter than ever.
♪ A million dollars from now ♪
♪ I won't remember you ♪
♪ Soon as I land, they come with a bag ♪
Good luck on Saturday.
Thank you, my friend.
Same to you.
After I win the North American title.
There is only one place left to go.
[Corey] I'm still shocked what we just witnessed.
But there is the challenger.
To the North American Championship.
And there is the champion.
Again expect the unexpected on Tuesday nights.
But we've got a steel cage main event.
Next.
You gotta be you.
Mister Chase.
I gotta put it there, come on.
That's what I'm talking about. How are you doing, brother?
You know how it goes, man, What's going on here?
This is a pre-game. It's about to get way more lit.
Before we go, there's someone you gotta meet.
Hey, you're Uriah Connors.
-Mister Chase. -Mister Chase.
Nice to finally meet.
You heard a lot of great things. Sounds like you know how to have fun.
You want to come out with us?
Come on, let's go.
Uriah very nice to meet you,
but I can't do it on a school Night.
School?
What school?
Dawg, I thought you said that Chase you was dead.
And he keeps saying over and over and over,
No this, well, he's right.
Chase you is dead.
I guess old habits just that hard.
I told you.
We'll see.
[Corey] Also processing everything that has gone on.
But we learned moments ago that this is official
vengeance will be felt on many levels.
Trick Williams meets Eddie Thorpe in a strap match Saturday,
in our nation's capital.
[music playing]
And there's more gold on the line.
We're talking NXT e Women's North American Championship
as Fallon Henley defense against Stephanie Vaquer.
[Vic] Saturday is about vengeance, but also revenge.
Je'Von Evans medically cleared and signed a liability waiver.
Ethan Page, looking to end Evan's career,
Evans willing to destroy himself.
To destroy Page.
It goes down Saturday at vengeance day.
[Corey] And after winning a Tag team triple threat match earlier tonight,
Josh Briggs and Yoshiki Tamora
have earned themselves an opportunity.
To become NXT e tag team champions.
But they got to get past prexy.
[Vic] Social media guys is blowing up,
after what happened moments ago here live on NXT.
If this is the hottest brand.
Well, you need the hottest free agent right now, baby.
[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting]
Do not let the handsome face and expensive fragrance fool you.
I am here to turn this place upside down.
[crowd cheering]
And everybody's been begging the question.
When will the revolution be televised again and well.
I'm here, ain't I?
[crowd cheering]
[Corey] Wrestling world is buzzing.
As its main event time on the final NXT.
Before Vengeance Day.
[Ridge theme playing]
[Vic] Ridge Holland looking at the solid steel cage.
This, by the way, the second Steel Cage Match
ever for the North American title.
You have to go back to 2021. Bronson Reed beat Johnny Gargano
for the championship.
[rock music playing]
[Vic] And there's the champion with family.
They talked earlier but Tony D'Angelo knows he has to go at it alone.
And Graves it was the challenger who said,
"If I get a true one-on-one match,
I will become the new North American champion."
Do you believe Ridge Holland?
[Corey] I have an extremely difficult time doubting anything that Ridge Holland says.
I believe Ridge Holland should, for all intents and purposes,
already be North American champion
and I think Ridge take that massive leap tonight inside of a steel cage.
Nowhere to run, nowhere to hide. Just buckle up.
[Vic] Booker, you have been a fan of this version of Ridge Holland.
We saw Andre Chase earlier. Says Ridge destroyed Chase.
[Booker T] This is the opportunity of a lifetime.
Ridge Holland has been waiting for this moment and now it's here.
The is no one to blame.
He has no one to blame. It is a Steel Cage Match.
One man will walk out
the North-- Excuse me. The NXT champion. Oh, yeah!
[Vic] NXT North American Champion. You got it right the first time.
We're all excited Booker. It's main event time
here on the final NXT before Vengeance Day.
Let's go to our ring announcer, Mike Rome.
[bell dings]
[Mike] The following contest is a Steel Cage Match!
And it is for the NXT
North American Championship.
In this match, there are no count outs, no disqualifications.
The only way to win is by pinfall or submission.
Introducing first, the challenger
from Yorkshire, England.
Weighing in at 253 pounds,
Ridge Holland!
And his opponent,
representing the D'Angelo family.
He is the NXT North American champion,
The Don of NXT,
Tony D'Angelo!
[Vic] I want to remind everyone how we got here.
Let's not forget it was Izzi Dame who suggested
a cage match last week it was Izzi Dame who helped The Don
retain the title several weeks ago
Corey, which you're eluding to, that Ridge Holland should already be
the North American Champion.
[Corey] I just hope that The Don is singularly focused tonight.
He needs to focus on defending his championship
against an incredibly dangerous human being
-in Ridge Holland. -[bell rings]
[Vic] Here we go. Booker, you have been in plenty of cage matches.
You know this match will not only bruise your body
it's gonna bruise someone's ego.
[Booker T] Yeah. One thing about matches like this,
nobody leaves unscathed.
You just have to get in there and let it all hang out.
You know what it's all about.
[Vic] Only, Oba Femi has more championship wins since 2024
Tony D'Angelo is number two.
As you heard the rules, pinfall or submission only. No escape.
Steel cage, some similarities with the Elimination Chamber.
Of course, coming up March 1st, road to Wrestlemania goes through Toronto.
But to that point about the cage, Corey,
who does the stipulation favor, champion or challenger?
[Corey] It is not favor anybody.
To your point, nobody gets out of the Steel Cage Match unscathed.
It's who's still able to put their opponent down for three
or make them submit. There is no favoritism inside the cage.
The steel doesn't care.
Nice Suplex by the champion.
-[Booker T] I think it will come down… -[Vic] And the cover, hook and near fall.
[Booker T] It'll come down to who utilizes that cage
in the most effective way. I think…
I always hated being in matches like this.
[Vic] You start thinking about who wins this match tonight.
Whoever the champion is has a clear path to Wrestlemania Stand and Deliver.
Wrestlemania…
NXT literally taking over.
[Booker T] Yeah.
I really think Ridge Holland has not reached his full potential.
A match like this can definitely catapult him to that spot, Vic.
Look at this.
[all exclaim]
[Vic] This is brilliant. Great decision by Ridge Holland.
There are no rules .inside the Steel.
[Corey] Cage Match. Wanted to finish that off.
[Booker T] Whoa!
[Vic] Ridge. Again, another point.
Corey, you and I talked about it before we began.
The family is here ringside. They cannot get in to help Tony D'Angelo.
Tony D said he didn't need the family to get the job done.
Who will survive the Steel Cage Match?
Who walks out the North American champion?
It has been all Ridge Holland
who really has been in control of this Steel Cage main event.
This for the North American championship.
The final NXT before this weekend's WWE Vengeance Day.
Corey, let's go back to some of the action during the matchup.
[Corey] This is how Ridge Holland initially ripped control of the match away
from the champion. Going for the eyes.
I actually enjoy the strategy that Holland is employing.
He's utilizing a simple hold
to continue to wear The Don down.
That way Ridge will not make any mistakes.
He's not worried about the environment, he's not thinking about the cage.
He's thinking about defeating his opponent.
[Booker T] Yes. I like it. He's keeping it real close to the body right now.
Just leaning on him right there.
Making him use every ounce of energy in his body.
[Vic] A little bit of separation created. Charging right back in.
That separation was quick. Holland into the cover.
For the title. And near fall.
And this match continuing.
Look at Ridge Holland quickly pouncing back on.
[Corey] How can you not be impressed thus far by Ridge Holland?
The Don has looked almost toothless.
-It has been all Ridge all the time. -[Booker T] Ridge is going up top.
[Corey] I don't know if I agree with this. Unnecessary risk.
[Vic] Uh-oh. And the risk had no reward for Ridge Holland. There is no escape.
Pinfall submission only. Centre of this court circle.
[Booker T] High risk! High risk!
[Vic] And no one there.
This could be the turning point for Tony D'Angelo.
Big mistake, possibly for Ridge.
What's the family talking about?
[Booker T] They're giving instructions. They're coaching.
We don't need any coaching right now in a match-up like this.
[Vic] The NXT universe providing a little boost to The Don
who is now ram running Holland
back and forth around the ring off the steel.
[Corey] And it's welts now forming on the body of the challenger
as The Don cinching in, belly to belly.
[Booker T] Man, that was a hard landing, right there.
[Vic] Looking for another.
And it's not often, Booker, we've seen Ridge Holland
-get tossed around like this. -[Booker T] Yeah.
But, you're talking about The Don, who's got in really, really good shape.
You look at his body, you can tell he's been in the gym.
-[Vic] Cover! -[Booker T] He's been training. He's got…
Oh! No!
[Vic] We were half a second away
from a successful retention by the champion.
[Booker T] So close.
[Vic] But now that Don looks locked in on the task at hand.
Ridge Holland, all out of sorts.
To steal one of your quotes, Corey,
"Tony, target acquired."
[Corey] Oh, man!
[Vic] And a pump kick for your troubles.
[Booker T] Ran right into it a little bit, momentum too.
Here we go!
-[Vic] Snow Plow! -[Booker T] That'll be it.
[Vic] And…
Not enough!
And, man, you could have slid a piece of paper
under the official's hands.
So, so close.
[Corey] Not close enough for Ridge Holland,
who right now is letting the frustration creep in.
Big pump kick takes down D'Angelo,
followed immediately by the Snow Plow.
Two and nine-tenths on this cover.
But right here is where I'm questioning Ridge's decision.
He got caught up in the emotion of it, and he took his foot off the gas pedal.
[Vic] Ridge said that if he had a one-on-one opportunity,
he would become the North American champion.
He has it here under the main event lights of NXT…
[referee] Come on.
[Vic] …inside a solid steel cage.
Can Ridge Holland defeat The Don of NXT
-and… Whoa! -[Booker T] Oh!
[Vic] I think D'Angelo was trying to avoid the clothesline.
There was incidental contact,
but I still think D'Angelo avoided most of it.
Here we go!
[Corey] Ridge Holland cannot avoid that Powerbomb,
and he slid down the cage like a piece of cheese on a grate.
-[Booker T] Wow! -[Vic] Charging in with a spear!
Crushing the rims, breaking the spirit. Into the cover…
And The Don didn't retain!
Holy hell!
[Corey] Holland is still in this,
and nobody is more shocked than the North American champion.
[Vic] And Izzi Dame made her way out here.
-It was Izzi Dame… -[Corey] What the… with a crowbar.
[Booker T] What the hell?
[indistinct shouting]
Help him. I'm trying to help him.
[Vic] I heard what Stacks said. She's not part of the family.
But The Don also said he wanted to do it himself.
[indistinct shouting]
[Vic] The crowbar now into play.
No disqualification.
[Corey] It's totally legal for either superstar to use.
We've got a tug of war over the crowbar.
[Vic] And Derek Sanders, the official, can't do anything about it.
[Corey] Oh, my God! That's it.
To the body goes Holland!
[Vic] To the back goes… and down goes D'Angelo.
[Corey] To the victor goes the spoils.
Ridge Holland is about to be your new North American champion.
Good night!
-[Booker T] Wow! -[Vic] The knockout blow for Ridge Holland
to conquer The Don.
-[Corey] No! -[Booker T] What?
-[Corey] What the hell is The Don made of? -[Booker T] What?
[Vic] Another near fall.
Hollande is beside himself.
This is your main event.
The North American Championship is on the line.
Izzi Dame is down here now along with the family,
crowbar is in play.
Ridge Howland now, looking for the exclamation point.
[screaming]
[Vic] And back to the eye.
This time, It's D'Angelo.
[Corey] Fight fire with fire.
[Vic] Eye for an eye! Spinebuster!
Cover, count…
-The Don retains! -[bell dinging]
[theme music playing]
[Mike] Here is the winner
and still the NXT North American champion,
Tony D'Angelo!
[Corey] Well, the vino will be flowing tonight
for good reason.
What a battle,
and what a win for The Don and the whole family.
Come on!
[Vic] The family excited on their feet.
[Corey] Holland just blasted Stacks.
[Vic] How did Ridge Holland get back to his feet?
[Corey] I have no earthly idea.
I don't know what this man's made of.
Adamantium!
[Vic] Ridge, obviously, realizes that that crowbar came into play
because of Stacks.
But now it's two-on-one.
Thankfully, the family was out here
so that The Don can properly celebrate
his North American championship victory
here, inside this steel cage.
Stay away from him!
[Corey] Spears and his goon squad.
[indistinct shouting]
[Corey] Oh, my God!
[Vic] What the hell?
[groaning]
[Vic] Izzi Dame!
[Corey] Get out of there Rizzo.
[Vic] Rizzo…
-[Corey] Oh, my goodness! -[Vic] …pays for her troubles.
What is this?
[Corey] Niko Vance locking him back in the cage.
The Don's a sitting duck.
Jansen and Vance just teeing off.
[Vic] This is sick.
[Booker T] Man!
[Vic] Oh, no.
[Corey] This is diabolical.
[indistinct shouting]
Jensen and Vance are just doing the bidding of Spears.
-[Booker T] Oh, yeah. -[Vic] They all wanna get themselves
a pound of flesh from The Don.
[crowd jeering]
[crowd cheering]
[Vic] The family trying to get back in.
[Corey] Oh! Stacks may have had his fingers crushed.
[Vic] The days latched. It's locked.
They can't do a damn thing.
Spears knows it.
Izzi knows it.
[Booker T] They're gonna watch it. Oh!
[crowd jeering]
Come on, Tony! That's your Don!
[indistinct shouting]
[theme music playing]
[Vic] I can't believe what we just witnessed
as four of the most vengeful individuals have come together,
ahead of this Saturday's Vengeance Day.
[Corey] It's our Valentine's Day alternative.
[man] We're not doing love tonight. We are doing vengeance.
[Vic] We are on the road to raise the bar once again.
This is Vengeance Day.
[narrator] From unforgettable matches…
[Vic] And history guaranteed to be made.
[narrator] …to historic debuts.
Let me talk to you. It's LA Knight. Yeah.
[narrator] Vengeance Day has become a showcase
for WWE's future.
[Vic] Each superstar looking to steal the show.
[narrator] It's a proving ground for NXT's top champions…
[Wade] Careers will be permanently altered tonight.
[narrator] …and a stage upon which vengeance can lead to superstardom.
♪ And you really think That I was gonna let it go… ♪
[narrator] A new crop of champions have earned their place atop NXT.
Vengeance Day, I'll show Grayson Walla and Austin Theory
that they don't belong in the ring with me.
[narrator] But as familiar faces return…
[woman] I know exactly why you're here.
[narrator] …and fresh challengers emerge.
You've been looking at that NXT Women's championship.
[narrator] The balance of power may shift once again
at Vengeance Day.
♪ I need revenge ♪
[narrator] This Saturday,
new rivals will seek their ultimate vengeance.
This Saturday, live from Washington, D.C.,
we write the next chapter of NXT history.
This Saturday, vengeance…
rules the day.
[eerie music playing] ce…