‣ ...And we're back! We are welcome to the show by Vic Joseph, who sits between "Bad News" Wade Barrett and "The Glamazon" Beth Phoenix. We are promised a night full of action with six confirmed matches, but before he can run down the card, the fans spring to life as the NXT North American Champion, Bronson Reed, makes his presence felt in the Capitol Wrestling Performance Center without even stepping out from the curtain.
"War Ready" plays out as Reed comes roaring out from behind the curtain, dressed for action and ready for whatever the NXT Champion has to throw at him. Phoenix reminds those who didn't catch "What's NeXT" that the General Manager, William Regal, had granted Karrion Kross' request to permit him to choose Reed's opponent. Barrett suggests that this is only fair considering that Regal had ambushed "The Herald of Doomsday" with the announcement that he would be defending his title against Reed at NXT: End of the Line.
ALICIA TAYLOR
"The following non-title match is scheduled for one fall. Introducing to the ring first, from Black Forest, South Australia, weighing 330 pounds.... he is the NXT North American Champion...BRONSON REED!"
He's war-ready, he's battle-tested and the crowd is behind him ahead of this non-title bout, hammering on the Plexiglas. Reed stands in the center of the ring and raises the title but his concentration is broken by the familiar sounds of "Dead Silence".
The picture turns black and white, smoke begins to pillow from the entrance stage, much to the annoyance of the no-nonsense number one contender in the ring. Reed gestures for Kross to come down to the ring, clearly not interested in the theatrics. The lights flicker, and we see just the silhouette of a veiled Scarlett standing at the top of the entrance, the crowd then jeers at Kross, who steps in front of her. "The Devil of Monterrey" stares coldly down at Reed, who remains unphased. Scarlett throws off her veil and reveals a microphone, which she hands to the champion before they begin to approach the squared circle.
Kross halts just before the steel steps, with Scarlett draping her arm over him. Kross looks around the crowd and then back to "The Colossal". Joseph wonders what the champion has in store before being hushed by Barrett.
KARRION KROSS
"I won't keep you, Mr. Reed. I know that you've been waiting for this, and I know you're looking to add another piece of gold around your waist. The problem is Mr. Reed, no matter how hard you hit tonight, no matter the damage you inflict upon your opponent, you - like so many before you - will never hit hard enough to knock me off my throne. I don't care what the outcome of this match is because we..." he gestures to both himself and Scarlett. "...already the outcome. We're already several steps ahead of you. You can call this your 'test', you can think of this as a 'gauntlet' but when it came down to it, I made my decision based on who could hurt you the most. You might seek validation, but I brought CHAOS" he pauses. "And sure, you're a behemoth, you're "The Colossal" and with that in mind...I chose "The Beast"...."
The camera zooms in on Scarlett who gestures towards the entrance stage, holding out her hand and unveiling the 'poison' or rather "The Beast". A piercing scream is let out across the PA system as "Darkness Past" by Def Revel plays out.
Killian Dain charges out from the curtain, thumping his chest in a display of dominance. Barrett commends the NXT Champion on his decision to pick Dain, pointing out that he is a close match in terms of weight and towers above the North American Champion. Vic says that it's only been a few weeks since we've seen Dain in action but his demeanor is remarkably different.
ALICIA TAYLOR
"His opponent, weighing in at 321 pounds...."THE BEAST OF BELFAST"...KILLIAN DAIN!"
Dain makes his way towards the ring, Kross turns, the two men give each other a knowing glance. Scarlett points towards the ring, with the Northern Irish native obliging, hammering on the ring apron. The two big men's eyes meet for the first time, Kross stopping and looking back with a grin. Joseph indicates that Kross wants to watch the violence unfold in front of him.
‣ BRONSON REED © vs. KILLIAN DAIN | PICK YOUR POISON MATCH
Reed hands his North American Championship over to Darryl Sharma, the momentary distraction providing all the opportunity a re-energized Killian Dain needed to attempt to sneak attack "Aus-Zilla". Reed catches the attempt with a strike that sends the former Big Damo back, stopping him in his tracks. Dain checks for blood and looks around the crowd, who seem in full support of Reed, prompting tensions to escalate as the two men go nose-to-nose. Karrion Kross and Scarlett look on from the outside.
Neither man backs down, Dain shoves Reed, prompting the two to then grapple. Joseph once again reminds us that these two men are evenly matched, much to the chagrin of Wade Barrett. Reed tries to wrestle Dain into the ropes and throw him off - and just like that, he does it. "The Beast of Belfast" comes off the ropes with a shoulder block, but this only sends Reed stumbling back. Dain challenges the North American Champion to try and knock him down, but Reed's attempt only achieves the same result with Dain failing to fall this time. Dain takes his chance, but the two men are at a stalemate once more. Phoenix argues with the logic of the two men trying to outdo each other rather than trying to win the match. Reed looks around the crowd, who clap and cheer as he runs the ropes but this time he's caught completely off guard by a crossbody from Dain! (also known as The Divide).
ONE...
TW...
Barely a two-count, frustrating Killian Dain, who wipes his brow and plans his next move. Barrett commends "The Beast" on luring the North American Champion in and suggests his combination of speed and power made him an easy choice for Karrion Kross, who is giving nothing away with his expression right now. Dain whips Reed into the corner (Irish style) and hits an uppercut, which sends Reed stumbling into the neighboring turnbuckle. Dain wallops Reed with an elbow before backing up in the opposite corner and hurdling towards the number one contender like a steam train! Kross begins to smile again on the outside...BUT BRONSON MOVES OUT OF THE WAY! Reed this time quickly follows up with a splash to Dain in the corner as the crowd once again begin to get onside.
Bronson Reed roars again, looking over to Dain, who is now seated in the corner...RUNNING HIP ATTACK! The North American champion drags Kain away from the ropes.
ONE...
TWO...
NO!
Dain manages to get the shoulder up before making a hasty exit from the ring. Darryl Sharma initiates the ten count but before Dain can turn around...SHADES OF STAN HANSEN...A SHOULDER BLOCK FROM THE APRON!... BUT DAIN MOVES OUT THE WAY! We pick up the thud of the champion's shoulder hitting the floor. Kross slowly begins to walk down the aisle, he tells Dain to stay back while Sharma warns the NXT Champion not to get involved. Kross drags Reed to his feet and begins to whisper "Embrace it. Just give in to it!" (which is just about audible). Kross backs away, which allows Dain to hit a Barn River Boot! He rolls into the ring and backs out again to break the count, it seems that the violence the champion was looking for was about to ensue.
The referee restarts the count, which gives allows Dain time to hit a running senton. Dain laughs maniacally as Reed tries to get to his feet and tries balancing against a conspicuous part of the guard rail that features no attendees......DAIN LOOKS TO CANNONBALL REED!.... HE CHARGES...BUT REED MOVES OUT THE WAY AS DAIN GOES THROUGH THE GUARD RAIL. Commentary is flabbergasted and Kross begins to look panicked.
Bronson Reed is back on his feet, he grabs Dain by the hair and drags him back towards the ring, rolling his opponent back into the ring. Reed makes the cover...
ONE...
TWO...
IT'S OVER...
NO, IT'S NOT!
Reed looks out to Kross before looking at the wreckage of his opponent in the ring. Dragging Killian back to his feet, the two men go nose to nose once more. Reverting to the initial sequence of the match, Reed goes for a shoulder tackle but still, Dain doesn't go down. Dain, slightly dishevelled then goes to do the same but this time it's the Black Forest native who has used his wits and catches the Irish man with a LARIAT! Reed begins to climb the ropes, the crowd is cheering as once more he looks to the NXT Champion and signals for the belt.....
TSUNAMI!
FLESH COLLIDES WITH FLESH AS THE TWO 300+ POUNDERS COLLIDE! Reed makes the cover.
ONE...
TWO...
NOW IT'S OVER!
Sharma calls for the bell as Reed stumbles back to his feet, favoring his shoulder after several collisions in this battle of the behemoths. Reunited with the North American title.
ALICIA TAYLOR
"Here is your winner, the NXT North American Champion.....BRONSON REED!"
Reed raises his championship slowly and turns to Kross, who snarls and backs away. Vic Joseph reminds us that the two champions will meet at NXT: End of the Line in just two weeks, where we could crown a new champion. Beth states that Kross may have finally met his match but Barrett rubbishes these claims and says that Kross' mission was accomplished (about the fact that Reed could be hurt just mere weeks before his title opportunity) but Beth jibes that his face says otherwise.
‣ Backstage, we see all four members of The Way walking and talking. Johnny Gargano looks to be trying to hype up Austin Theory, who appears excited at their chances in tonight's main event.
JOHNNY GARGANO
"It pains me that the final few weeks of William Regal's NXT have to be filled with perma-tan Peter Dunne and his footman acting like they're something from Game of Thrones. Does Peter think he's flying with the eagles? Well, tonight it's hunting season - Gargano style!"
AUSTIN THEORY
"I bet they're feeling pretty pumped after Oney beat Leon Ruff last week."
JOHNNY GARGANO
"Yes, I'm sure Oney will mark that as one of his career highlights." he scoffs. "I mean, name a person who hasn't beat Leon Ruff around here?"
INDI HARTWELL
"I haven't."
A deflated Indi Hartwell raises her hand as she looks to the floor. Candice LeRae nudges her co-champion, looking to her husband for some inspirational speech.
JOHNNY GARGANO
"Uh right, but the point is you could."
CANDICE LERAE
"And isn't that what really matters?"
Indi looks confused for a moment before smiling and nodding along, having seen 'the way'.
INDI HARTWELL
"Actually, yeah it does! I feel a lot better now."
JOHNNY GARGANO
"Besides, your champions!" he points to the straps across Indi and Candice's shoulders. "You're the crème de la crème of the NXT women's locker room. Now I didn't want to put too much pressure on you tonight Austin, because I know how overwhelming it can be tagged with Mr. NXT sometimes." Austin shakes his head in agreement. "But after we're done with that miserable Brit and his nodding dog - how about you and I start aiming for the NXT Tag Team Championships?"
Theory's eyes light up, he can't help but beam a smile of excitement. "Johnny Wrestling" tries to keep him in place as Austin bursts into a cheer, like a kid at Christmas.
AUSTIN THEORY
"You mean it!?"
Johnny looks back at Candice, who holds her hands together like a proud mother. Turning to Austin, he simply nods, with the latter throwing his arms around his mentor.
JOHNNY GARGANO
"Hey! No need to thank me just yet, we've still got to get through tonight and we're not going to be winning any matches by standing around shooting the breeze."
AUSTIN THEORY
"Tyler?"
JOHNNY GARGANO
"What? No. Forget about him, we've got work to do. C'mon!"
Gargano herds his 'family' as a new face in the form of Persia Pirotta catches the eye of an old friend.
INDI HARTWELL
"Persia!?
The other three stop while Indi grabs Persia's hand and the two make some sort of inaudible screaming to each other, hugging and jumping around. Indi catches herself for a moment.
INDI HARTWELL
"This is Persia...." there's an awkward silence. "You know, Persia from Skype!?"
AUSTIN THEORY
"Does anyone even use that anymore?"
Johnny gives Austin a light clip across the ear.
JOHNNY GARGANO
"Persia, it's a pleasure but Austin and I must really get on!"
Johnny leads Austin away, Candice goes to follow but Indi drags her tag team partner back. Mrs. LeRae rolls her eyes but feigns a smile to the former Steph De Lander.
INDI HARTWELL
"No, you can't go! Persia is literally my best friend....other than you of course."
CANDICE LERAE
"It's nice to meet you, Portia. I'm sure Indi's told me a lot about you."
PERSIA PIROTTA
"I mean, it's Persia but that's fine, maybe I misheard you and actually we've met a bunch of times." Persia picks up on Candice's vacant expression. "It was on Skype, I saw you in the background and said hi...." LeRae's expression remains the same. "It's totally fine, it was probably a bad signal or something."
Before Candice can respond, Indi jumps into the conversation throwing her arms around each of her friends.
INDI HARTWELL
"I can't tell you how happy I am to see my two besties getting along so well but that doesn't mean you're off the hook Persia! I can't believe you came all this way and never mentioned anything? You know I hate surprises."
PERSIA PIROTTA
"I know, I know but everything happened so fast. I put my name forward for a try-out here and they just phoned and asked if I could make my way down, so I thought why not!?"
CANDICE LERAE
"So you came all this way for a match!?"
PERSIA PIROTTA
"Sure did. I don't even know what time zone I'm in right now, but you know, I just wanted this so much, I couldn't say no.
INDI HARTWELL
"That's fantastic, Persia! You're going to be amazing." she turns to Candice. "Persia is like super strong. "Show us the guns, Pers." Indi tries to get Persia to flex. "So, who are you facing?"
PERSIA PIROTTA
"Xia Li."
The atmosphere changes. Indi distances herself from Persia slightly. Candice can't help but wince, but Pirotta seems unaware of this.
INDI HARTWELL
"Oh Xia, wow. Intense. That's amazing...I'm really happy for you..."
CANDICE LERAE
"You are going to be just fine out there, Portia. Good luck!"
PERSIA PIROTTA
"Umm, thanks? Anyway, I better get out there fast. I don't want to make a bad first impression and I wanna make sure I remember every moment! I'll catch you guys after the match?
INDI HARTWELL
"Definitely!"
Indi gives an awkward thumbs up and pats her fellow Aussie on the back. Persia departs, preparing for the match (coming up next). Candice exhales loudly, giving a knowing glance to Indi.
CANDICE LERAE
"Oh, she's going to remember every moment alright."
Commentary plug that Xia Li will take on the debuting Persia Pirotta before reminding us that tonight's main event will feature The Way against Pete Dunne and Oney Lorcan. We then cut to the commercial break.
‣ Heading back from the commercial, commentary reminds us of Xia Li's dominating performance against Mercedes Martinez at NXT Takeover: In Your House. Vic Joseph quips that Li has been unstoppable under the guidance of Mei Ying and aligning with Tian Sha. Beth adds that Martinez is a veteran and defeating her was no easy feat. Wade says that if anything was last week to go by, Xia may already have the NXT Women's Champion in her sights after watching Raquel González last week and advises that the champion needs to keep one eye on her back at all times.
The lights are lower, we can only see the flame effects on the LED panels that surround the Capitol Performance Center. The cameras zoom in on the disheveled face of Mei Ying, who is seated at her throne, guarded by Boa.
ALICIA TAYLOR
"The following contest is scheduled for one fall. Introducing first, from Chongqing, China, accompanied by Tian Sha and weighing 136 pounds...XIA LI!"
Boa looks down upon his guardian, almost as if he's bowing before her. Xia Li then steps out, donning her Weimao and making her way down the aisle with Boa following behind her. Li bows her head, allowing Boa to remove the Weimao and unveil Xia's expression - one of ill intent. If Persia Pirotta wasn't intimidated before, then she soon would be as Xia performs her combat ritual before angrily stepping into the ring and staring across at her opponent.
ALICIA TAYLOR
"And her opponent, already in the ring, from Sydney, Australia. Weighing in at 187 pounds...PERSIA PIROTTA!"
Barrett advises that Persia should've stayed at home as the crowd gives a small cheer to the plucky talent, who eagerly waits for her debut match.
‣ PERSIA PIROTTA vs. XIA LI w/ TIAN SHA
Jessika Carr calls for the bell, the two women step in front of each other and Li immediately slaps the face of Persia, who Beth notes has at least 40 pounds on her. Barrett shoots "The Glamazon" down and says that Xia has been conditioned by Mei Ying to accept nothing less than victory and that weight means nothing in this instance.
Persia holds her face, looking back round as she attempts to strike with a forearm but Li catches the arm and sweeps the leg to floor her opponent. Xia bends the knee and licks the palm of her hand, smiling with bad intentions...TORNADO KICK!
ONE...
TWO...
But Persia gets the shoulder up! The camera focuses on an angered Mei Ying. Meanwhile, Xia lifts Persia to her feet and begins with a series of knee strikes, each one more thunderous than the last. Li then backs away, creating some distance for an elegantly set up SPINNING HEEL KICK! But Persia catches the heel and lifts Xia! The crowd is cheering as Persia psyches herself up, Li is in Gorilla Press territory. Beth puts over the strength of the Aussie native as backstage we see Indi Hartwell excitedly tap on Candice's shoulder, trying to get her to watch the match (but LeRea seems far from interested).
Barrett is cautious that Persia still has Xia lifted and hasn't followed up and it seems his fears are confirmed when Xia manages to drop down and land on her feet. Persia, now hesitant to turn around, slowly shuffles and is met with a vicious Spinning Heel Kick!
ONE...
...
TWO...
....
THREE!
ALICIA TAYLOR
"Here is your winner, by pinfall, Xia Li!"
Xia Li gets back to her feet, looking down at Pirotta who could be knocked out cold. Jessika Carr checks on her but it seems Mei Ying has other ideas. Almost like Caesar himself, Ying raises her arm and gives a thumbs down. Li then shoves Carr aside and immediately begins the assault.
The bell is ringing out, but thankfully Persia has connections in the back. NXT Women's Tag Team Champion, Indi Hartwell, comes sprinting out - initially. Candice LeRae reluctantly tows along, Hartwell dragging her friend and mentor, and they both climb into the ring while Ying and Boa watch on.
Li greets Hartwell with a roundhouse kick, causing Candice to stop in her steps and attempt a peaceful retreat. As Candice turns, Xia grabs "The Pixie" and drags her back through the ropes looking for an exploder suplex. LeRae manages to break out of the move but Li's knee strike connects.
Ying holds her thumbs down again, Li goes to drag Candice up but the crowd pop now as "Big Mami Cool" comes hurtling towards the ring, throwing her title on the floor as she rolls in to meet Xia.
VIC JOSEPH
"Business is picking up!"
WADE BARRETT
"Candice LeRae was about 0.2 seconds away from grave danger. Raquel González has shown up in the nick of time."
González chases after Li and the two immediately begin to hammer away at each other. Ying's thumb slowly turns downwards as she sits at her throne. The NXT Women's Champion looks to get the upper hand, managing to grab the throat of Xia and looking for a chokeslam....but Boa from the outside grabs Raquel's leg...SPINNING HEEL KICK! Noticing Indi and Persia getting back to their feet, Xia makes the getaway but not before she is presented the championship by Boa.
The crowd is on their feet again and this time Dakota Kai comes storming out from behind the curtain! Rather than clearinghouse, she instead stares down Mei Ying and approaches Xia and Bo. Kai treads delicately as she holds her hand out to receive the title, Xia obliges and the title is snatched back. Xia Li and Boa begin to back out as "Fighting Spirit" plays. Indi, Persia, and Candice look perturbed at why Dakota didn't do more to help while Raquel checks her nose and jaw.
‣ We are shown a clip of The Grizzled Young Veterans' victory over Breezango last week, hitting the Ticket to Mayhem on Fandango to score the three-count. Backstage, Zack Gibson and James Drake are alone in the interview pit, staring down the barrel of the camera.
ZACK GIBSON
"For decades, James and I have put blood, sweat, and tears into this industry. You see, growing up in Liverpool, I think it's fair to say that not many dreams have come true. We've fought for bookings, we've scraped our way up the pecking order to prove that we are the best that the United Kingdom..."
The footage then transitions to MSK in action, who remain unbeaten in regular tag team action.
ZACK GIBSON
"Over here, however, you don't have to put in the work, the time, or the effort. You can simply show up and get opportunities handed to you on a plate - just like our resident Cheech and Chong. The last of the three stooges." he looks to Drake, who cracks a smile. "Everybody's rantin' and ravin' about your match weeks ago when we've put on five-star matches ever since we arrived here. When exactly did either of you boys wrestle, eh?"
???
"Good point!"
The camera pans across to show the NXT Tag Team Champions standing by. Wes Lee turns to Nash Carter, both look bemused by what they've heard.
WES LEE
"You two don't need to worry about us, we're good."
NASH CARTER
"Sorry to interrupt, we just couldn't help but overhear your Cinderella story..."
WES LEE
"We get it, you're talented guys but I think you're one thing."
Both men hold up their titles, much to the annoyance of Gibson and Drake. Nash Carter steps forward.
NASH CARTER
"So are we!"
Where Carter steps forward, "Liverpool's Number One" holds his hand up to create some distance between the four men. Drake steps up, staring down Wes Lee.
ZACK GIBSON
Isn't ironic how we're here talking about how the two of you prance around here like you own the place and here you are, taking up OUR time. There's a thing called respect and I suggest you fellas start to learn it."
WES LEE
"Respect? We've got it in spades. It seems like you're the ones that like to talk trash"
NASH CARTER
"Or at least one of you does, anyway..."
Drake picks up on the insult and goes for the attack but Gibson steps in to calm him down.
ZACK GIBSON
"James doesn't need to speak, he prefers his actions to do the talkin'. You see, the pair of us are REAL wrestlers, not glorified circus acts."
WES LEE
"Circus act? Dude, the only clowns I see are right here in front of me. We haven't forgotten how to wrestle..."
NASH CARTER
"And if you think we have, maybe the two of you could tune in next week. We've spoken to William Regal and we've got ourselves a match next week. Perhaps you could see what you have in store for you at End of the Line?"
The Grizzled Young Veterans look to each other, confused at what Carter is implying.
WES LEE
"Oh, you thought we would run away and hide from you? We're the champions. We don't back down from a challenge and if it shuts you both up - even better. So prepare yourselves, because at NXT: End of The Line - IT'S ON!"
The champions smile before making their exit. Gibson and Drake look slightly taken aback, having expected a harder fight to make the match happen. Nonetheless, now they were the official challengers to the NXT Tag Team Championship and just one battle away from being the first team to hold the NXT tag titles on both sides of the pond.
Commentary announces that next week MSK will face Imperium in non-title action. Coming up next, Kyle O'Reilly battles the rising star, Asher Hale. NEXT!
‣ Back to the action, Alicia Taylor introduces Asher Hale, who is already standing by in the ring and receives a small pop. Hale is 2-1 in his last 3 matches, looking to make it a third but his opponent has his point to prove after a trialing few weeks.
Last week on NXT, Adam Cole used former Undisputed Era teammate, Bobby Fish, as a pawn in his rivalry with O'Reilly:
"Axe and Smash" begin to play, and the fans begin to stir for the arrival of "The Martial Artist". Vic Joseph continues to show the highlights (or should that be lowlights?) from O'Reilly's week.
Days later on 205 Live, Kyle finds himself alone:
ALICIA TAYLOR
"...And his opponent, weighing 200 pounds, from Vancouver, British Columbia...KYLE O'REILLY!"
"Cool Kyle" limbers up on the entrance stage before throwing his hood down and making his way down the ramp. Hale prepares in the ring, looking out at the former NXT Tag Team Champion. O'Reilly begins to display his confidence, rocking out to his theme music, much to the enjoyment of the crowd. Beth says that the WWE Universe is watching but none so more intently than Adam Cole. Vic hopes that the "Panama City Playboy" won't go out of his way to get himself involved.
Kyle steps to the second rope and poses before the pumped crowd. Jumping off, O'Reilly comes face to face with his hungry opponent.
‣ KYLE O'REILLY vs. ASHER HALE
The bell tolls and both men immediately lock up, Hale manages to get O'Reilly into the ropes as the referee, Jason Ayres, begins to make the count to give. Hale breaks the hold at three, backing off and allowing his opponent some breathing space. Hale attempts to get a kick to the mid-section but KOR catches the boot and throws it down, greeting the former Workhorseman with a stiff forearm instead. Rather than following up, O'Reilly this time allows Hale room to get back up and the men begin to circle each other around the ring.
Hale tries to shake off the forearm, re-thinking his tactics, though goes back to first base and competes with Kyle in another lock-up. O'Reilly manages to get Hale into the ropes, to reverse the fortunes of the previous sequence. This time, the referee counts, and O'Reilly backs off before hitting a second forearm. The two men begin to exchange fists around the ring. Joseph mentions that much like the previous match, these two men are evenly matched with their backgrounds in MMA. Barrett agrees that Hale may be new to NXT but on the independent circuit he's known as "The Patron Saint of Wrestling".
The crowd responds to the exchange in the middle of the ring, Hale throws another fist, and O'Reilly throws his but this time he adds in a kick to send Hale backward. Kyle runs the ropes but Hale drops to the mat, O'Reilly registers this and hops over before flooring Hale with another boot. Hale gets back to his feet and mirrors the offense to take Kyle down. Both men immediately get up and take each other down with stereo running boots!
O'Reilly retreats into the corner. Meanwhile, Hale is knelt on the floor checking his mouth for blood. Beth picks up on the increased aggression in Kyle's performance tonight and hypothesizes that "Cool Kyle" may be projecting. Kyle takes a run at Asher, who dodges the oncoming attack and hits a dropkick. Cover:
ONE...
Nowhere near enough to take O'Reilly out. Barrett explains that it takes a lot of energy to kick out of a pinning attempt and with O'Reilly controlling the match so far, this could be a tactic by Hale to wear his opponent out. Kyle gets over to the turnbuckle and gets back to his feet but "The 5 Star King" connects with a boot to the midsection, followed by a chop to the chest. Kyle tries to escape by walking to the other corner but is hit with another chop. Hale lifts O'Reilly and hits a sidewalk slam for a two count. Hale tries to slow down the match with a side headlock but the crowd rally around Kyle O'Reilly, giving him the momentum, he needs to get enough shots to the midsection and escape.
O'Reilly runs the ropes again but Hale hits a low dropkick, taking "The Violent Artist" out by the knee. O'Reilly tries to get to his feet using the ropes but Hale, identifying a weak spot, kicks the back of the knee and tries to whip O'Reilly across the ring but the move is reversed! O'Reilly instead outpowers Hale to throw him into the turnbuckle, but Hale tries to backflip out of danger....O'REILLY DUCKS BEHIND AND KICKS HALE RIGHT IN THE GUT! STRIKE ACROSS THE FACE AND A HIGH KNEE JUST FOR GOOD MEASURE! Hale is dazed so "The Martial Artist" throws another kick, this time to the chest, and sweeps Hale's feet to finally ground him.
Hale tries to get to the corner but O'Reilly meets him there and begins to stomp mudholes into him, causing Ayres to initiate another count, to which O'Reilly stops before he can reach five. O'Reilly lifts Hale back to his feet: one knee to the midsection...a second knee to the midsection! Throwing him into the ropes, KOR nails a third knee!
Awaiting his opponent to get to his feet, Kyle hits a hard running lariat and makes the cover...
ONE...
TWO...
KICK-OUT!
O'Reilly looks shocked and sits Hale up, this time he runs the ropes and delivers a kick to the face. Again, he goes for a cover...
ONE...
TWO...
...
ANOTHER KICK-OUT!
How is Hale staying in this!? There's barely any time to focus, Kyle whips Hale up and hits a big-time BRAINBUSTER! Joseph urges him to make the cover but Kyle instead locks in a CROSS-ARM BREAKER! Hale almost immediately taps his time as the bell rings and the crowd erupts into cheers.
ALICIA TAYLOR
"Your winner, via submission. KYLE.O.REILLY!"
Kyle struggles back up to his feet, selling the attack to the knee from earlier in the match as his hand is raised in victory. The referee checks on Asher Hale, who writes in pain on the mat. O'Reilly looks to the entrance, almost anticipating what is going to happen next but rather than waiting, he asks for the microphone and directs his focus at the entrance ramp.
KYLE O'REILLY
"Come on Adam, I know you're back there..." he looks around the live crowd. "...or maybe you're out here? Wherever you are, I know you're watching and I'm sick and tired of it. I'm sick and tired of never being able to have anything for myself, an NXT title shot, a victory, without you standing behind my back and trying to take the credit for it or stealing it away from me. You ruined our friendship, you continue to ruin my friendships, friendships that started when you weren't even on the pecking order. You ruined my chance at becoming NXT Champion, so why don't you come out here and we'll settle what we started last week? Because I don't play mind games, Adam if you have something to say. MEET ME IN THIS RING!"
O'Reilly pants heavily, lowering the microphone from himself, the sweat dripping off of him. The crowd waits expectantly when...
Almost immediately the fans begin to boo when they see the decorated Adam Cole make his way out from backstage. Cole takes a few paces down the entrance ramp but doesn't meet his former friend in the ring as requested. Cole asks for a microphone of his own to respond to KOR's demands.
ADAM COLE
"Kyle, Kyle, Kyle! Congratulations on your victory." he feigns applause. "Now before you start getting an ego, I thought I best make one thing clear: Adam Cole isn't here because you ordered him to be, Adam Cole is here to set the record straight. You talk about all these opportunities I've ruined, when wasn't I the one that brought you and Bobby here all those years ago? You talk about a pecking order when in all our years of knowing each other, however far down I was, you were always a few rungs behind me and now you dare to make me the villain of this narrative? You bled me dry. You couldn't be happy just being the tag guy, could you? You had to try and step on my toes. All these weeks, I've had people over Twitter asking me why I killed the Undisputed Era, but the blood of the UE is on your hands Kyle!" he points, his tone becoming more pointed. "You think that I want to claim your successes as mine because you know it's true, without me there would be no Undisputed Era and without that, no one would know your name. So, excuse me if I feel a little bit saddened, a little bit hurt by your betrayal Kyle. What happened last week with Bobby, was petty, I admit. I'm man enough to hold my hands up to that but at least it opened his eyes up to the fact that all this time, he had been teaming up with an ungrateful little snake."
Kyle looks around the crowd for validation. He wipes his face and chortles at being called a snake by perhaps the biggest serpent in NXT.
KYLE O'REILLY
"Are you done?" The crowd popped. "Adam, I don't care if you think I'm a snake or a shark or a koala bear. Everything you said just there, was nothing more than 'Adam Cole BS...BAY-BAY!'. For years now, we've all had to stand back and listen to you rationalize everything to make yourself sound like you're one step ahead of the rest of us. I didn't step on your toes Adam, I overtook you and I'm happy to admit that you've had a good run, you have a career that many in NXT will never get a chance to replicate but I won't be one of those guys. Bobby said it last week, it's time to prove who the better man is once and for all. If you're not going to step in this ring and face me like a man...I guess I'll just have to come to you!"
Kyle throws the microphone on the floor and begins to make his way out of the ring. It would appear that this time, Adam is ready to ring the right but...
The fans in attendance cheer to see the departing NXT General Manager, William Regal. Regal is already armed with a microphone and begins to approach O'Reilly and Cole, who have not yet laid a finger on each other, though the Brit cautiously stands between them.
WILLIAM REGAL
"Didn't we go through this already last week? Aren't the two of you sick to the back teeth of all of this by now? Because I certainly am. Gentlemen, I wish we could've done this under calmer circumstances but as you know, my time in NXT is drawing to a close and while I was far from entertained by last week's display, it would seem that I was not the only one." he pauses. "My successor, who shall remain anonymous for now, contacted me after NXT went off the air last week, and let's just say this person likes things to be wrapped up neatly. I gave you both a chance at each other at Takeover, but give this carry-on keeps happening each week, my hands are tied. The new General Manager of NXT has asked me to book you both in a match at NXT: End of the Line...."
Kyle looks pleased with the announcement while the crowd cheer. Cole's reaction doesn't indicate whether he's happy with the news or not, but Regal has more to say.
WILLIAM REGAL
"But unfortunately, gentlemen, given that you can't seem to co-exist, the new General Manager wants to do something about it. Now, I of course have the power until End of the Line to make changes to the booking of the event, but it would be unprofessional of me to ignore the suggestions of my successor. It is therefore up to me to propose to you at NXT: End of the Line - Adam Cole versus Kyle O'Reilly in an "I QUIT MATCH!"
Once again, the crowd gives a cheer. "The Violent Artist" nods in confidence that he has what it takes to defeat his former stablemate. Cole's face still gives nothing away, but again, Regal has more to say.
WILLIAM REGAL
"...and while it pains me to say it because I believe that you are both incredibly gifted at what you do. However, the new General Manager wants to create a positive atmosphere, therefore the rules of the match would dictate that whoever quits during the match, would have their contact TERMINATED with immediate effect.
VIC JOSEPH
"Did he just say terminated!?"
WADE BARRETT
"A masterstroke by our new General Manager, whoever they may be, this is a genius move!"
VIC JOSEPH
"The stakes have never been higher, but will they accept?
Meanwhile, Regal continues...
WILLIAM REGAL
"Now I know all too well that big career moves aren't something you can just make without careful thought, so I'm going to give both of you gentlemen a week. There WILL be a match at NXT: End of the Line between the two of you, but whether you feel you have what it takes to gamble your career is up to...."
Before Mr. Regal can even finish his sentence, O'Reilly lifts the microphone and declares.
KYLE O'REILLY
"I ACCEPT"
There's a major pop for Kyle. Regal slowly turns his head to the right at one Adam Cole.
WILLIAM REGAL
"Very well. Mr. Cole, would you like to respond now, or do you need more time?"
All eyes are on Adam Cole, the anticipation is almost too much. Slowly, Cole raises his microphone.
ADAM COLE
"I'll be in touch."
The hissing of the microphone being thrown on the floor blares across the Capitol Performance Center for a moment, but it is soon drowned out by the booing of the crowd. Cole's music plays him out, while Regal looks to O'Reilly, who watches his enemy depart. It now seems that William Regal may not be the only man walking out of NXT: End of the Line unemployed.
‣ Returning from commercial, commentary gives us a replay of William Regal announcing Adam Cole vs. Kyle O'Reilly for NXT: End of the Line, followed by the proposed stipulation (as per the impending NXT General Manager) that both men put their careers on the line to end the grudge once and for all. We then turn backstage, where McKenzie Mitchell is standing by with Zoey Stark and Sarray.
MCKENZIE MITCHELL
"What a proposition we heard before the break but joining me now is Zoey Stark and Sarray. Sarray, I understand you had requested a match tonight with Toni Storm that went unanswered. What do you have to say?"
SARRAY
"Toni Storm, I am confused. You attack Zoey and me, but you don't answer?"
ZOEY STARK
"You seem to think that we're good enough to sneak attack but not important enough to face in the ring. I don't know what's gotten into you, Toni. I don't care what's gotten into you. Maybe you thought you'd come into NXT and the division would bow to you, but I have news - since you've been overseas, the division has stepped up. Sarray and I, we're just two examples of..."
There's some commotion in the interview pit, the camera turns to see Franky Monet, with Aliyah and Jessi Kamea in tow. Robert Stone is also in the back holding Monet's beloved pooch, Presley, in a dog carrier.
FRANKY MONET
"Ladies, I'm sorry to interrupt but NEWSFLASH: Toni isn't listening. The only reason I'm listening is that I'm standing here wondering why on earth McKenzie Mitchell would ask you for an interview and not us!"
Aliyah and Jessi Kamea fold their arms like petulant children, while Robert Stone fights for TV time.
ZOEY STARK
"Franky, this is none of your business!"
Zoey turns back to Sarray and McKenzie, but Frankie firmly places her hand on her shoulder.
FRANKY MONET
"When you're on my time, it is my business. Zoey, I wouldn't expect you to know star quality when you see it but the two of you moaning about Toni Storm when you're in the presence of "The Vision" - quite frankly it's insulting."
Stark looks to Sarray, letting her know she can handle the situation.
ZOEY STARK
"Funny, all I've seen is you and your lapdogs lounging around the place."
"Lounging!?" Kamea and Aliyah can be heard saying in a fluster. Stone tries to calm them down but all it takes is for Mont to raise her hand to make them stop.
FRANKY MONET
"I don't know what you think you saw but if you want me to remind you of what The Brand can do..."
Stone shuffles forward for a moment, just enough to be heard on the mic.
ROBERT STONE
"That's 'The Robert Stone Brand'."
Franky turns to Stone, who immediately flinches, holding the dog carrier up to protect him. Monet silently turns back around to face Sarray and Stark.
FRANKY MONET
"As I was saying if you want to be reminded of what The Brand can do...."
Monet is interrupted a second time as Sarray boldly takes a step forward.
SARRAY
"If Toni won't fight me. Maybe you will"?
Franky pauses for a moment. Stark raises an eyebrow, impressed by Sarray's fearlessness. McKenzie leans the microphone in further, anticipating a response but is instead met with a cackle. Picking up on the vibe, The Robert Stone Brand members all begin joining in, laughing and dismissing Sarray's request.
FRANKY MONET
"Aww, honey...." she notices that "The Warrior of the Sun" isn't joking. "Oh, you're being serious!? Oh that's so flattering that you want to face me, but I don't think that you're quite in my league." she looks to Zoey. "Either of you. However, as I was saying before I was rudely interrupted, if you want to be reminded of what we can do - Jessi will take Toni's place tonight."
JESSI KAMEA
"I...will?"
Jessi looks over to Robert Stone, hoping he can find some sort of clause to get her out of this. However, if the power shift wasn't apparent before, it certainly was now as he simply shrugs. Aliyah meanwhile looks slightly relieved as she tries to support her tag team partner.
FRANKY MONET
"You will. Now come along, we've got to go and get ready. We'll see you out there ladies!"
Franky snaps her fingers, leading The Robert Stone brand away. Sarray looks hopeful, looking to assert herself as a legitimate threat in the women's division.
‣ We see a clip from last week's 205 Live, the start of the NXT Cruiserweight Championship Open Challenge. Commentary put over Alex Shelley's efforts as he battled his training partner in a close-fought affair. The champion, Kushida, is now backstage with William Regal.
WILLIAM REGAL
"In all the chaos, I must say, it's a refreshing change to have a low-maintenance champion on the roster."
Kushida smiles and nods, appreciating the compliment.
WILLIAM REGAL
"Now I know you're dubious about why you're here. I've been upfront with you about my expectations for this open challenge and while traditionally, you're not meant to know your opponent ahead of the match. Well, I've had my arm twisted as your opponent is quite keen to meet you. He should be here any moment n-"
As if by magic, Regal is interrupted by a knock on the door. "The Time Splitter" looks intrigued as Regal beckons the mystery opponent in. The camera pans around to show...
....
...NXT UK standout and former NXT Cruiserweight Champion, Jordan Devlin.
JORDAN DEVLIN
"Kushida. I believe you've got something of mine."
Devlin holds his hand out. Although he's sceptical at first, the champion eventually shakes it before making a brisk exit. Devlin chuckles to himself and looks over to Mr. Regal.
JORDAN DEVLIN
"Somethin' I said?"
Regal looks irked by the arrogance of "The Irish Ace". Regardless, this week's Cruiserweight Championship Open Challenge found itself answered early this week and the WWE Universe would have to tune in this week to see who was on their way to The End of The Line as champion.
‣ Back at ringside, Alicia Taylor stands by ready to announce this rather impromptu match. Beth Phoenix explains that the challenge was made by Sarray to Toni Storm, who ignored the request and has now been passed over, as we just saw, from Franky Monet to Jessi Kamea.
ALICIA TAYLOR
"The following match is scheduled for one fall, introducing to the ring first, accompanied by The Robert Stone brand, from Austin, Texas...JESSI KAMEA!"
Despite her initial doubts, it seems that Franky Monet and co have been able to rally Jessi up enough to approach this match with confidence. Kamea steps into the ring. Vic Joseph points out that Franky Money is not at ringside with Robert Stone and Aliyah for this match, despite volunteering Kamea to take part in the match. Barrett says that Franky has already sent a Tweet out to say that she had a 'prior commitment' to attend to.
The sun begins to rise, which can only mean an appearance from NXT's newest female Superstar. Vic mentions that the undefeated Sarray has been impressive in her short time in the black and gold brand. Beth explains how appearances can be deceptive, while Sarray may appear to be sweet and mild-mannered, once she's in the ring, she is a spark plug with an array of impressive strikes. The crowd cheer as the lights come back on, and Sarray smiles and waves to the crowd.
ALICIA TAYLOR
"Introducing her opponent, from Tokyo, Japan, she is "THE WARRIOR OF THE SUN".....SARRAY!"
Sarray works the crowd, stepping up to the apron and bowing before the ropes. Jessi Kamea remains seated on the top rope, rolling her eyes at the pint-sized competitor.
‣ SARRAY vs. JESSI KAMEA w/ THE ROBERT STONE BRAND
Kamea steps down from the turnbuckle and meets Sarray, who offers a handshake but Kamea laughs it off. Commentary put over the height difference, with Kamea towering over the 5'2 "Warrior of the Sun" but Beth says it's not the size of the boat but the motion in the ocean as the bell rings.
Vic Joseph puts over the bad blood between these two stars after a bonus match that took place at NXT Takeover: In Your House that saw Sarray and Starks defeat Aliyah and Jessi in tag team action. Kamea begins to mock Sarray's gesture of a handshake but is soon left regretting her actions when Sarray strikes her with a forearm. "The Warrior of the Sun" whips Kamea into the ropes, but she comes back with a hair drag to take the Tokyo native down. Kamea begins to apply pressure on Sarray's throat, blatantly choking her out on the mat while the referee initiates the five count. Kamea throws her hands up and innocently protests that she wasn't doing anything while Robert Stone attempts to warn her of Sarray, who has got back to her feet...DROPKICK! Followed by a second.....followed by a third!
The crowd is warming up to this one following a trifecta of dropkicks, Sarray attempts to climb the ropes but Robert Stone and Aliyah begin to taunt her from the apron. Jessi makes her way back to her feet and knocks Sarray onto the apron, she then stands on the second rope and grabs the young superstar to hit an ELEVATED SUPLEX (not quite a superplex, not quite your standard suplex).
Aliyah and Stone excitedly call for the cover, to which the Texan obliges...
ONE...
TWO...
NO!
Jessi looks disheartened before the cameras cut to Franky Monet backstage, holding Presley and clapping excitedly while Beth comments that her 'prior commitments' must've fallen through. Kamea goes for a SPRINGBOARD ELBOW...BUT MISSES AS SARRAY ROLLS OUT OF THE WAY! Sarray is on her feet as she hits an arm drag. Sarray fires up looking for a shining wizard, but Jessi moves out of the way and finds salvation in the corner. Undeterred, Sarray looks for a flying forearm into the corner, but Aliyah once again proves there's power in numbers as she hops up onto the apron and drags Jessi to safety.
Stone and Aliyah high-five each other until the crowd begins to stir to see Zoey Stark march out to the ring. The two exchange looks as Zoey chases Aliyah around the ring. "The Powerbroker" Robert Stone then steps into the way of Zoey, who looks around the crowd and decks him with a right hand. Aliyah's eyes widen with fear as she looks at her fallen manager.
Jessi meanwhile, distracted by what's been happening fails to capitalize with a Senton as Sarray telegraphs the move and moves out of the way, backsliding Kamea...
ONE...
TWO...
KICKOUT!
On the outside, Aliyah finds the same spot that Killian Dain went crashing through earlier and makes her escape, with Starks running after her. In the ring, both women are back on their feet. Kamea takes a run at Sarray but she overshoots her shot and falls into the ropes.....DROPKICK TO KAMEA WHO IS CAUGHT IN THE ROPES! "The Warrior of the Sun" looking to strike now while the iron is hot as she lifts her opponent into a beautiful Perfect-Plex.
ONE...
TWO...
THREE!
"RING THE BELL!"
The crowd cheer while Sarray gets back to her feet, her arm raised in victory. Robert Stone holds his nose, getting back to his feet and reacting badly to the referee's decision.
ALICIA TAYLOR
"Here is your winner by pinfall...."THE WARRIOR OF THE SUN".....SARRAY!"
Backstage we see Franky Monet, who is also far from happy over the outcome, she covers Presley's eyes and storms off huffing and puffing like the big bad wolf. Sarray looks to the cameras and points, Vic Joseph says that whether Toni is taking her seriously or not, Sarray will not stop until she gets her match. As we move on, we are told that coming up next, following last week's Million Dollar Celebration, LA Knight will be in action!
‣ We see a video package highlighting the string of bad luck faced by Tegan Nox before making a triumphant return last week, where she put both Dakota Kai and Raquel González on notice. Nox is in an undisclosed location, which resembles a warehouse, filled with an eerie amount of smoke.
TEGAN NOX
"Last week I said everything I've been wanting to say for the past NINE months. I've had to sit at home and watch the disrespect shown by Dakota Kai - someone who I used to call a friend. I've always been raised to speak my mind and doing that last week felt GREAT! But I'm not going to wait around for my next opportunity, I'm going to make it happen for myself. If I'm going to be the NXT Women's Champion, I need to go straight to source - so I thought, why not kill two birds with one stone?" Nox smiles. "So next week, Dakota, it won't be the attention I'll be taking away from you, it'll be the victory."
"The Girl with the Shiniest Wizard" goes to depart but it would appear she has more to add. Stopping abruptly, she holds up her index finger and turns back to the camera.
TEGAN NOX
"One more thing, I forgot to mention. Just so you know, I'm serious about beating you too, Raquel, it'll be a tag team match, and my tag team partner...."
Descending from the smoke in the background, "The Blackheart Brawler" steps forward. Shotzi, who usually appears to be in high spirits looks a lot more focused and war-torn following last week's brutal Falls Count Anywhere match.
SHOTZI
"Surprise [CENSORED]!"
‣ It's time for our penultimate match of the evening, "Rollin' Deep" plays across the arena, there's a mixed reaction, with some of the fans enjoying the arrogance and 'banter' of the Million Dollar Champion, while some were left appalled at his behavior. Commentary talks about how he disrespected Hall of Famer, Ted DiBiase, the same man who originated the title he's currently wearing. Barrett says that DiBiase put the title up for grabs and everything Knight is doing is fair game
ALICIA TAYLOR
"The following match is scheduled for one fall, introducing first, already in the ring from Orlando Florida...DEMETRI JACKSON!"
Surprisingly, the crowd seems to respond to Jackson as he poses in the ring. Knight climbs into the ring and looks down his shades at his opponent.
ALICIA TAYLOR
"And his opponent, please welcome the Million Dollar Champion. L-A KNIGHT!"
Alicia goes to leave the ring but before she can step through the ropes, Knight stops her and asks for the microphone. Knight doesn't seem keen on starting the match just yet. Instead, he approaches Demetri Jackson before taking a look around the crowd.
LA KNIGHT
"Alright, you can cut my music. Cut it off. If you can hear over all these cheers." ironically, the crowd doesn't seem to be cheering that much. "Last week, we celebrated history together, the dawning of a true and REAL CHAMPION. Seriously, I came out here and told all the other champions to step up, and now Kushida is throwing open challenges, here, there, and everywhere and MSK are just begging to defend the titles. It's even gotten to the point where that oaf Bronson Reed is looking to double up on his collection! Well, no matter how hard all the others try, they will never reach the heights that I've already set for this." he holds up the Million Dollar Championship. "But as a humanitarian, I'm just pleased that I've encouraged the guys in the back to act like champions." Knight pauses. "but I'm about to go one step forward. I'm not just going to look at win-loss records or whoever was mean to me on social media in the last week. I'm a REAL CHAMPION and I'm here to make wishes come true." he turns his attention back to Demetri Jackson.
"What's your name, son?"
Knight points the microphone to Demetri Jackson, who clears his throat and begins to speak.
DEMETRI JACKSON
"My na..."
Knight swiftly takes the microphone back and walks away.
LA KNIGHT
"It doesn't matter what your name is." there's a mixed reaction, some lamenting the display of disrespect while others enjoyed the nod to The Rock. "I can tell from your tatty boots and the cheap tights that you've had a rough start in life, you probably have wrestled a handful of matches in your career and you're looking for your big break. Well, buddy, I'm here to make your dreams come true tonight. I get that your following us has probably already gone up tenfold since I addressed you but that's not enough for me, I'm going that one step further...I'm going to give you a TITLE MATCH! How does that sound?"
Although he was somewhat disheartened by being dismissed and insulted by Knight, Jackson can't help but smile and regain his excitement with this huge announcement.
LA KNIGHT
"Yeah? You accept!? Good!"
Knight and Jackson are all smiles, both men looking to the crowd and building the momentum when KNIGHT CRACKS JACKSON OVER THE HEAD WITH THE MICROPHONE! Knight demands that the referee calls for the bell to start the match.
‣ LA KNIGHT vs. DEMETRI JACKSON | MILLION DOLLAR CHAMPIONSHIP
Vic Joseph and Beth Phoenix are disgusted at the actions of the Million Dollar Champion. Knight makes a cover.
ONE...
TWO...
Knight lifts the shoulder and yells "he's still got a chance!", trying to act like this championship bout is a fair fight. Knight drags Jackson to his feet and throws him in the corner, repeating stomping on him until he falls to the mat. Having his fun now, Knight steps outside to the apron, sizing Jackson up as his head rests against the second rope.....RUNNING KNEE STRIKE! If there were any LA Knight fans in the building before, there definitely weren't now after this sickening display.
The Million Dollar Champion waits for Jackson to get to his feet and comes off the ropes with the BATTERING RAM! Joseph calls for Knight to end this one. He makes the cover...
ONE...
TWO...
But once again, Knight lifts the shoulder to keep the match going. Getting back to his feet, Knight holds his hand to his ear as the boos begin to pour in, he begins to appease the crowd and he lifts Jackson back to his feet, shaking his hand and praising his performance. Knight stands back and puts both hands behind their back, telling Jackson that he'll give him a strike for free. Jackson doesn't seem to be in the right frame of mind at all but he takes his chance...KNIGHT DUCKS AND HITS A JUMPING NECK BREAKER!
ONE...
TWO...
THREE!
Now it's over. The fans continue to boo while Knight smiles for the cameras before being reunited with his beloved title.
ALICIA TAYLOR
"Here is your winner and still the Million Dollar Champion, L-A KNIGHT!"
Knight rolls out of the ring and heads to the back, he turns and holds up the Million Dollar title while Barrett applauses him on not only making Demetri Jackson's dreams come true but decisively defending the title. Beth is offended by her broadcast colleagues' judgment, with Vic trying to move the show along to avoid tensions simmering over.
‣ Vic Joseph mentions last week Hit Row was triumphant in their NXT trios debut, while Legado del Fantasma faced the bitter taste of defeat over two bouts on 205 Live. Joseph says that following tensions between the two stables over the past week, both Hit Row and Legado del Fantasma had something to say.
ISAIAH SCOTT
"Legado del Fantasma...."
"Swerve" speaks in a serious tone, while his Hit Row stablemates are a bit more jovial as they stand behind him. Top Dolla in particular seems especially amused.
ISAIAH SCOTT
"That was really quite...something...last week."
There are back-to-back clips of Santos Escobar being rolled up with the O'Connor roll by Ari Sterling on 205 Live, while Ikemen Jiro hits an enzuigiri on Raul Mendoza to score a victory for himself and August Grey.
ISAIAH SCOTT
"If that's how you guys handle business in the ring, then I guess we have nothing to worry about because in case you missed it, we handled ours."
In stark contrast, a clip shows the double-team move between Scott and Adonis that saw them claim their first trios win against Tyler Rust and Ever-Rise.
TOP DOLLA
"Escobar, it seems you and your boys got your asses handed to you but if you still think you got the kahunas to go toe to toe with the freshest, the realest and the baddest team in the whole of NXT - come find us."
Ashante steps forward, tapping Scott on the shoulder with a tidbit of gossip to share.
ASHANTE ADONIS
"A little birdie told me old "El Jefe" has asked for another match this week."
Scott's eyebrows raise in surprise.
ISAIAH SCOTT
"Oh well is that so?" he turns back to the camera. "Well I know you're not watching our tapes, Escobar, but if you're lucky we might just watch yours. May the odds be in your favor"
"Swerve" bows his head while B-Fab crosses her fingers for Escobar. Top Dolla rubs his hands together, still anticipating a showdown with LDF. The members of Hit Row pose as the camera fades to black. We immediately jump cut to another scene backstage where a more somber Santos Escobar stands alongside Raul Mendoza and Joaquin Wilde.
SANTOS ESCOBAR
"You want to disrespect me?" as the former NXT Cruiserweight Champion speaks, his agitation begins to mount. "NO ONE DIRESPECTS SANTOS ESCOBAR! NO ONE DISRESPECTS LEGADO DEL FANTASMA! Do you want to compare resumés? I am a former NXT Cruiserweight Champion. I am a legend in Mexican Wrestling, Joaquin and Raul are two of the most decorated wrestlers in tag team wrestling. Who the hell are you?"
Escobar looks away from the camera and takes a few paces back. Wilde looks to the camera, seizing his opportunity to have a few words.
JOAQUIN WILDE
"Hit Row, you may not know it but you crossed a line last week. Legado del Fantasma is not here to be the 'realist' or the 'freshest'" he uses air quotes to belittle the comments made by Top Dolla. "we're just focused on being the GREATEST."
Wilde smiles confidently, looking over to Mendoza, who takes the reigns. Meanwhile, Escobar continues to try and calm himself down in the background.
RAUL MENDOZA
"You have picked a fight with the wrong men - y ahora es el momento de pagar el precio! Legado Del Fa..."
Unlike his tag team partner, Mendoza isn't so lucky in finishing his trail of thought. A furious Santos Escobar comes bounding forward, pushing the two men out of the way, seething with rage.
SANTOS ESCOBAR
"No! Shut it off." Escobar barges his way through, clearly frustrated and not looking to waste his breath on Hit Row. "We're not doing this! No les doy mas tiempo." Escobar steps up to the camera. "You stick your nose where it doesn't belong this week and I PROMISE you'll regret it. Hemos terminado. Vamos!"
The camera hastily cuts off. Commentary then advertises this week's 205 Live matches when Santos Escobar looks to redeem himself when he takes on the former 205 Live General Manager, Drake Maverick.
We then get a look at next week's line-up, so far:
As confirmed earlier tonight, the NXT Tag Team Champions, MSK, will face Imperium in a non-title match.
Following a long nine months on the shelf, Tegan Nox will be back in the ring, tagging with Shotzi to take on Dakota Kai and the NXT Women's Champion, Raquel González.
‣ Heading backstage, a split-screen shows Johnny Gargano giving Austin Theory a pep talk while on the other side Pete Dunne and Oney Lorcan confidently pace the halls. The main event is NEXT.
‣ It is time for your main event of the evening. Tensions between the four men in this match have reached boiling point with Gargano and Dunne's rivalry now bringing in the cavalry in the form of Oney Lorcan and Austin Theory. We have already seen Lorcan in action as "The Bruiserweight" tested his former Kings of NXT ally to make sure he was tough enough to work alongside him in taking down The Way.
ALICIA TAYLOR
"The following tag team match is your main event of the evening, and it is set for one fall. Introducing to the ring first at a combined weight of 395 pounds...from Boston, Massachusetts...ONEY LORCAN and from Birmingham, England...PETE DUNNE!"
The two men stand at the top of the entrance ramp before pausing. Dunne then poses, while Lorcan raises his hand and the two men proceed to make their way to the squared circle. There are boos from the crowd, but the former United Kingdom Champion could care less, his mind focused on one thing - victory.
"Coming Back For You" begins to play, generating a positive-to-mixed reception, fans still thawing out on Johnny Gargano. Although "Johnny Wrestling" has seemingly turned over a new leaf, the last few months of stroking his ego had seen his stock go down with the crowd. Regardless, if there was one thing that the fans could depend on Johnny for, it was putting on a show. Despite the earlier attack of Indi Hartwell and Candice LeRae at the hands of Xia Li, Theory and Gargano looked laser-focused on teaching Dunne and Lorcan 'The Way'.
Gargano and Theory enter the ring and hold their palms together in a 'still high-five'. Both men smile, much to the irritation of "The Street Tough Bostonian" and "The Bruiserweight".
‣ THE WAY [AUSTIN THEORY & JOHNNY GARGANO] vs. ONEY LORCAN & PETE DUNNE
Johnny Gargano and Oney Lorcan start things up, Lorcan goes to throw a forearm but "Johnny Wrestling" catches it and throws one back. Lorcan immediately retaliates with the knee and gets behind Gargano for a waist lock. Johnny manages to catch Oney with an elbow and pushes Oney into the ropes, Gargano follows and greets the Bostonian with a head-scissor takedown. Lorcan stumbles up to his feet and is met with a dropkick while Dunne barks orders from the apron. "The Bruiserweight" demands the tag, which Gargano allows, embracing the challenge of the young Brit.
Dunne comes storming into the ring and is pulled into an arm drag, he attempts a second but Dunne releases the hold, and "The Whole Shebang" falls to the mat. Dunne hits a lariat and follows up with a shoulder block. Dunne then slowly grabs the hands of Gargano, looking to manipulate the joints, but Gargano lifts the legs and pulls Dunne into a pinning predicament...
ONE...
TWO...
NO!
Johnny locks in a wristlock, forcing Dunne into his corner and tagging in Austin Theory. The rising star poses on the apron while the crowd pop, but this gives Dunne the chance to chop Gargano to release the hold and throw him out of the ring. The former UK Champion grabs Theory and brings him into the ring with a thud! Theory comes over the ropes landing on his back, with Dunne delivering a kick to the small of the back for good measure. Lorcan holds his hand up as a tag is made, both men have wristlocks applied to Theory now...STEREO CHOPS! Dunne exits the ring while the "Star Destroyer" hits another chop to Theory in the corner. A second chop echoes across the Capitol Performance Center before Lorcan tags back out to Dunne. Barrett commends the quick tags and keeps Theory isolated in the corner. Gargano urges Theory to keep his head in the match as he makes his way back up to the apron.
Dunne enters the ring and immediately begins to work Theory's fingers, holding his wrist before the crowd before SNAPPING the fingers. Gargano cringes at ringside but there's no way of him getting into the match at this point. Dunne then places Theory's hand on the mat and stomps on his fingers, leaving his opponent screaming in pain. Theory begins to crawl to his corner but Dunne cuts him off, standing on the fingers yet again and performing another stomp. Rolling Theory onto his front, Dunne looks up to Gargano as he drives the knee into the hand of Austin Theory. The referee checks on young Austin, who remains committed to fighting the good fight.
Beth respects Theory's dedication but doubts how much longer he can be a viable part of the match with the damage being done to the hand. Dunne scoops him back up for a suplex and tags back out to Oney Lorcan. "The Street Tough Bostonian" leaps into action as he stalks his prey. Dunne tells Lorcan to keep Theory ground but Lorcan is winding his arm up and comes bounding towards the former Evolve standout with a running European Uppercut...AUSTIN THEORY MINDS OUT THE WAY AS LORCAN FINDS HIMSELF IN THE CORNER! CLOTHESLINE BY THEORY! However, we see the effects of the attack on the fingers taking its toll, Theory tries to shake off the pain as he jumps to the apron and throws Lorcan down to the mat. Theory slingshots into a STOMP on the chest of Lorcan, with Dunne looking livid on the outside. Gargano wills his protégé on for the tag...will he make it? Lorcan tries to reach for Theory's leg...BUT THEORY FINALLY MAKES THE TAG!
The Way looks to regain control now, both men throwing Lorcan into the ropes (not noticing Dunne make the tag). Double shoulder block, Theory, and Gargano put their palms together and hit elbow drops in unison! Theory goes to leave the ring when "The Bruiserweight" storms in and throws him to the outside. Realizing what's happened, Gargano gets back to his feet but Dunne kicks him to the back of the leg to ground him. Dunne rolls Johnny onto his front, hyperextending the arm and hammering on the ribs of his opponent. Dunne batters the ribs before dropping the knee in his target area. Finally, Dunne twists Gargano's arm and delivers a kick to the elbow.
Pete Dunne throws Gargano into the corner and takes a run-up but "Johnny Wrestling" elevates himself up and lands behind Pete Dunne...DROPKICK! Dunne immediately rolls out of the ring, with Lorcan looking to attack but Johnny slides through Lorcan's legs to the outside and pulls him off the apron onto the floor. However, Johnny's taken his eyes off the ball for too long now...CLOTHESLINE as Dunne folds Gargano in half on the outside. Dunne re-enters the ring as Austin Theory tries his luck, looking to defend his tag team partner...SUPERKICK TO THEORY! He then locks in the waist lock for a SNAP RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX.
"YxB" tags Lorcan, the two men then roll to the outside, where they lift Gargano and slam him into the apron (causing Joseph to remind us that this is the hardest part of the entire ring). Barrett commends Lorcan and Dunne for working so well with each other as we see Gargano in pain on the outside and Theory rolling back to his corner, still favoring his hand.
Dunne and Lorcan roll Gargano into the ring, the Englishman locks in a surfboard while Lorcan begins to repeatedly chop Gargano. The referee warns Dunne to get out of the ring as Lorcan goes for the DDT....but Gargano manages to escape the move. Gargano gives Lorcan a chop of his own and throws Lorcan through the ropes.....he looks around the ring trying to muster the energy.....GARGANO DIVES THROUGH THE ROPES TO TACKLE LORCAN DOWN! Dunne drops down off the apron but Gargano ducks under the incoming lariat attempt and whips him into the steel post!
Gargano throws Lorcan back into the ring, waiting for him to get back to his feet...DISCUS LARIAT! Lorcan tries to crawl to the corner but Gargano drags him back. However, Dunne hops back up to his corner and begins to talk trash at the NXT Grand Slam Champion. The veteran takes the bait as Lorcan runs Gargano face-first into the turnbuckle...TAG! DUNNE COMES IN AND HITS ANOTHER RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX!
The fans cannot get enough of the action. Austin Theory dubiously offers his hand for the tag as Dunne goes for another STOMP.....Gargano moves his hand and arm drags Dunne over...KICK TO THE HEAD BY GARGANO. Johnny rushes to the apron and waits for Dunne to get back to his feet...SPEAR THROUGH THE SECOND ROPE! Gargano makes only the second cover of the match.
ONE...
TWO...
DUNNE GETS THE SHOULDER UP!
An exhausted Johnny Gargano gets to his feet, Theory asks for the tag as Gargano falls backward and the tag is made. Theory comes in hot as the crowd cheers him on, he clobbers Dunne with a forearm but shakes his hand having used the seemingly injured hand. Dunne retorts with a step-up enzuigiri...Lorcan suddenly springs into the ring and hits a RUNNING EUROPEAN UPPERCUT! Gargano tiredly gets back into the ring and throws Lorcan to the outside...A SECOND DIVE THROUGH THE ROPES but this time neither of them is in a hurry to get back up. Meanwhile back in the ring, Theory and Dunne are battling in the center of the ring, Theory catches Dunne with an arm-hold clothesline. Gargano boots Dunne in the gut....HE LIFTS HIM UP...DOES HE HAVE THE STRENGTH!? POWERBOMB CONNECTS!
ONE...
TWO...
THREE!...
NO!
THAT WAS A CLOSE CALL!
Austin Theory rallies the crowd, the kid is on a roll as he tells Dunne to get up looking for a rolling thunder blockbuster but Dunne pulls referee, Aja Smith, in front of him in a callous move. Smith turns around and starts to reprimand Dunne, allowing Lorcan to pull out a pipe from the outside (which commentary deduces must've previously been planted by the duo). Lorcan goes for the forearm but Theory catches it, he then reveals the pipe from behind his back and strikes the already injured hand of Austin Theory! Lorcan drops down and disposes of the pipe as Dunne immediately hits THE BITTER END!
Gargano attempts to get back into the ring but is pulled back by Lorcan while Pete Dunne makes the cover.
ONE...
Lorcan tries to strike but Gargano catches him with a superkick...
TWO...
With no time to spare, Gargano rushes into the ring to break the count....is he too late?
THREE!...
He is! Gargano looks devastated as Barrett says he can kiss his NXT Tag Team Championship dreams goodbye. Vic Joseph says that the actions of Lorcan and Dunne have been despicable.
ALICIA TAYLOR
"The winners of the match by pinfall...
Dunne gets to his feet and steps on the injured hand as he smiles at Gargano, immediately inciting a brawl between the two. Dunne manages to get a grip on Gargano and calls Lorcan back into the ring. Lorcan re-enters the ring, his nose appears to be bleeding, but the focus is drawn to the pipe in his hand.
VIC JOSEPH
"He's got the pipe! Johnny get out of there!"
Lorcan goes to strike, but immediately drops the pipe as from the other side of the ring slithers a familiar face...
BETH PHOENIX
"Is that who I think it is!?"
WADE BARRETT
"For the love of God, I hope it isn't!"
...
The surprise appearance of "The Stimulus" causes Lorcan to freeze. Dunne catches on and turns around, going nose to nose with Lumis as Gargano drops to the mat. It looks like all hell is going to break loose when Dunne immediately rolls out of the ring. Lumis then look to Lorcan, who also makes a hasty escape. The duo begins to make a getaway to a chorus of boos while medics rush out to tend to Theory, who is still cradling his hand. Gargano comes face to face with Lumis once again - Beth reminds us of how Lumis previously saved Indi Hartwell following an eight-person tag match and has now saved the male members of The Way. Lumis slowly raises his hand to shake it, Gargano looks upon it before seeing Theory being helped out of the ring. Accepting the feedback that they have just faced and thinking back on how much worse things could have been, Gargano shakes Lumis' hand and departs the ring.
The crowd cheer for Lumis, who looks around the ring. Vic Joseph thanks us for tuning in and asks us to join them next week for the penultimate show before End of the Line. |
I love the look of this already
