NXT TAKEOVER: HIGH STAKES [KICK-OFF SHOW] ‣ SUNDAY 22 AUGUST, 2022
SAM'S TOWN HOTEL & GAMBLING HALL ‣ LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
We are live from Sam's Town in Las Vegas, Nevada, as fans begin to file into the arena ahead of NXT's first Premium Live Event since Stand and Deliver in April. Sam Roberts welcomes viewers to the broadcast, standing at the panel desk with special guests Malcom Bivens, Matt Bloom, and Mauro Ranallo. Sam sets the tone immediately: after a, monumental SummerSlam the night before, tonight belongs to NXT - who have taken over Last Vegas for the for the first time ever!
Bivens, in classic form says, "Some people are gonna walk out richer. Some are gonna walk out broke." Bloom emphasises the pressure on tonight's Superstars, while Mauro proclaims "Pressure makes diamonds...or it crushes you." The night is about gambles, and only the bold will survive.
A video package rolls, hyping the Winner Takes All main event match between Bronson Reed and LA Knight. With the NXT Championship, NXT North American Championship, and Million Dollar Championship all on the line, the stakes couldn't be any higher.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"It started with opportunity..."
Clips flash of Karrion Kross dominating opponents before William Regal names NXT North American Champion Bronson Reed as his opponent at NXT: End of the Line.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"As the man who rose above chaos - the man who defied expectations..."
Footage plays of "The Colossal" defeating Kross at End of the Line. Reed stands tall holding the NXT title overhead.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"and claimed his place on top of the mountain."
We shift cut to LA Knight, clutching the Million Dollar Championship, fast-talking into the microphone about being the "New People's Champion" and lamenting Reed's title win, before beating various rookies in Million Dollar Dream Matches.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"While Bronson Reed stood at the summit...LA Knight was building his empire below."
Footage plays of Cal Lannister assisting LA Knight in the shocking moment that saw the former 'Cal Bloom' turn on the double champion.
Quick-cut montage of Reed staring down Knight from across the Capitol Performance Centre, as commentary remind us of the "no contact" rule between them.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"While both were kept part, the fire continued to burn."
Footage of Bronson Reed taking out Lannister weeks ago on NXT is played, while Knight makes a hasty escape.
BRONSON REED
"You wanted me to be a fighting champion, Knight. At High Stakes, I'm bringing the fight straight to you."
The scene shifts to footage from the final showdown between the pair this past week on NXT. LA Knight smugly unveils the garish, over-the-top "Mega Championship" belt. We then cut to him with the belt over his shoulder.
LA KNIGHT
"This right here? The future. The NXT title, the North American title, the Million Dollar title - unified into MY image. Because the WWE Universe doesn't need a roster full of part-time champions, it needs ME...the NEW People's Champion. L...A...Knight. YEAH!"
We cut back to Reed's initial reaction of the Mega Championship as he shakes his head in disgust.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"Knight seeks to reshape history....but Reed fights to protect everything he built."
A split-screen shows Reed dominating opponents in previous matches, launching off the ropes with his devastating Tsunami splash. In contrast, Knight is shown grinning and using dirty tactics to steal wins.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"Three championships. Two destinies. One Winner Takes All.
The High Stakes logo flashes on-screen.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"At High Stakes...it's all or nothing."
As the hype package fades out, the cameras cut back to the Kick-Off panel desk where Sam Roberts, Malcolm Bivens, Matt Bloom and Mauro Ranallo are seated.
SAM ROBERTS
"Three championships unified into one Mega Championship...or three legacies preserved. Bronson Reed. LA Knight. Winner takes all. Fellas, what do we think?
Sam turns to Malcolm Bivens first. Bivens, leaning back confidently, smirks before giving his view:
MALCOLM BIVENS
"Let's be honest, Sam. LA Knight does make a good point about Bronson Reed - he's had the belt for well over a month, and tonight will be the first time he's put it on the line. On the other hand, you have LA Knight. He's a genius. He's made stars - just look at "The Mountain" Cal Lannister. He's built his empire with the Million Dollar Championship, and tonight, he's going to rewrite history. The Mega Championship? Some call it garish. I call it art. I love it. It's Vegas, baby!"
Bloom shakes his head, more serious:
MATT BLOOM
"Knight talks a big game, sure. But Bronson Reed fought for everything he has. Power. Grit. Resilience. Two years ago, no one outside of America knew who this guy was. Now, he's made history as a double champion and he's not backed down to a single thing Knight has thrown at him. Tonight, that determination beats arrogance. I'm picking "The Colossal" to walk out with all three belts.
Mauro Ranallo is as fired up as ever, leaning into the moment.
MAURO RANALLO
"The Mega Star has the charisma, no doubt - but Bronson Reed has the tsunami force to crush anyone in his way. Knight's gambling with house money tonight. But Sam, let's not ignore the wildcard here: Malcolm referenced "The Mountain" Cal Lannister. We've seen Cal tip the scales before, and tonight Reed may be fighting against more than just the challenger. I want to see a fair fight but with the stakes this high - the odds just might not be in Reed's favour."
Sam wraps it up neatly by pointing out the divided opinions before concluding that one way or another, history will be written tonight - and the world will be watching to see who cashes in at High Stakes.
As the panel discussion over the main event winds down, Sam Roberts sets the table for the first bout of the Kick-Off Show, as two of NXT's most dangerous heavyweights collide.
We then go into a short video recap
The package opens highlighting Killian Dain's dominant run in recent weeks as "The Beast of Belfast" demolishes talent across NXT programming.
Footage then shows Timothy Thatcher bumping into Dain backstage - the tension immediately noticeable. We are reminded of Thatcher's ambitions to capture gold, but he ultimately comes up short in his Lucky 7 Qualifier match against Pete Dunne. Weeks later, following a victory on NXT Evolve, Dain is seen watching Thatcher from afar.
Quick flashes show Dain attacking Thatcher two weeks ago, injuring him severely enough to rule him out of the last chance Lucky 7 Qualifier match.
In a fiery interview, Thatcher then issues the challenge to Dain, promising to end his Lullaby of Woe, regardless of his own wellbeing. Dain accepted the challenge, vowing to put Thatcher on the shelf permanently.
The video ends dramatically on a shot of Timothy Thatcher ignoring Doctor's advice and signing the medical waiver to make this match official.
Back live, we head to the ring for the first of tonight's two Kick-Off matches. Kevin Patrick and Wade Barrett welcome the WWE Universe from the commentary desk.
SINGLES MATCH:
KILLIAN DAIN vs. TIMOTHY THATCHER
As Killian Dain begins his entrance, walking to the ring confidently, the crowd buzzes - and suddenly, Timothy Thatcher ambushes him from behind on the ramp! Thatcher barrels into Dain from behind, taking him down with a double axehandle across the the shoulders. The fans at Sam's Town erupt into cheers.
Despite being bandaged around the ribs, Thatcher continues to unleash a furious assault - forearm strikes, slaps, dragging the big man toward the ring apron and trying to smash him face-first into the steel steps. Referee, Tom Castor, struggles to get order as Thatcher struggles to get Dain under the ropes and demands the match start officially.
Castor calls for the bell, and Thatcher charges again - but Dain absorbs the blows and starts to turn the tide with his size and strength. The match becomes a gritty, ugly fight.
Dain powers out of a tight front chancery attempt, throwing his opponent into the ropes and flattening him with a massive shoulder block that echoes across the arena. "The Beast of Belfast" takes control, stomping at Thatcher's taped ribs and methodically ground him with heavy clubbing shots across the back before executing a devastating big splash.
Dain doesn't rush. Instead, he grinds Thatcher gown - driving his forearm across Thatcher's jaw, while applying a tight cross-face, wrenching at the head and ribs at the same time. Thatcher manages to struggle free, scrambling for a single-leg takedown, but Dain easily overpowers him, lifting him into a bearhug that crushes Thatcher's injured midsection.
Despite the pain, Thatcher shows flashes of defiance. He throws desperate palm strikes to Dain's face, tries to roll him into an armbar, and even manages to lock in a guillotine choke at one point - but every attempt is met with a brutal counter. Dain slams Thatcher into a corner with a spine-rattling thud, then hooks him in a modified abdominal stretch, using the ropes for extra pressure until the referee forces a break.
On commentary, Wade Barrett reminds us that Thatcher signed a medical waiver for this match and that Killian Dain is exploiting every inch of it tonight.
As Thatcher gasps for breath, trying to stay on his feet, Dain measures him - and once again locks in a deep rib compression bearhug in the middle of the ring. Thatcher fights with everything he has, swinging elbows at Dain's head, but the pressure is relentless. His movements slow, his strikes weaken, and his knees finally buckle under the strain.
Kevin Patrick says that Thatcher has the will but his body might not be able to hold out much longer.
Tom Castor moves in, checking Thatcher's arm - it drops once.
Twice.
A third time.
Castor calls for the bell - Timothy Thatcher is unresponsive, unable to continue. Killian Dain wins by technical submission.
The crowd is in shock as Dain drops Thatcher unceremoniously to the mat to have his arm raised in victory. Medics immediately rush into the ring, checking Thatcher's breathing and movement. For a moment, it looks like Dain has finished with his Lullaby of Woe as he begins to walk away.
Instead, he shoves the medics aside, and climbs the turnbuckles with surprising speed for his size, Dain launches off with a CRUSHING VADER BOMB, driving all of his weight into Thatcher's battered ribs. Thatcher spasms under the impact, barely able to roll away as Dain stands tall.
Officials pour into the ring, trying to intervene. Thatcher is barely stirring.
Still not satisfied, Dain roars at the officials, shoving one aside before dragging Thatcher upright by the arm - backing into the opposite corner. Ignoring warnings, Dain charges with full speed and smashes Thatcher with a BRUTAL CANNONBALL into the turnbuckles!
Kevin Patrick calls for someone to stop the madness, noting that Thatcher's ribs could be shattered. Wade Barrett adds that this is the risk Timothy Thatcher signed up for but agrees that no one deserves this kind of punishment - waiver or not.
Officials warm Dain, forcing him out of the ring under threat of further suspension or fines. Dain backs up the ramp, arms spread wide, snarling, while Thatcher lies inside the ring clutching his ribs, refusing to accept a stretcher even in agony.
The camera holds on Thatcher trying to pull himself upright as the crowd gives a mixed reaction, some booing Fain, others respecting Thatcher's toughness - before cutting back to the panel.
At the panel, Sam Roberts resets the tone.
SAM ROBERTS
"A savage, brutal scene here at Sam's Town - and it's only the Kick-Off Show! Killian Fain dominates Timothy Thatcher - and tonight, at High Stakes, it's clear that no one is safe from The Beast's Lullaby of Woe."
After the brutality of Killian Dain's victory over Timothy Thatcher, the camera cuts backstage. The mood shifts immediately - lighter but still tense - as the scene opens with a makeshift betting table set up near one of Sam's Town's side entrances.
Tony D'Angelo (identified by an on-screen graphic) stands behind a table decked out with a green felt cloth, fake chips, and scribbled betting sheets. He's dressed sharply but casually, flashing an easy grin as he takes "action" from a group of NXT Evolve talent including Grayson Waller, Duke Hudson, August Grey, Curt Stallion, Malik Blade and Edris Enofé, as well as a few crew members. A few backstage hands crowd around laughing and tossing money on he table.
Tony smiles, barking with enthusiasm.
TONY D'ANGELO
"Winner Takes All?" LA Knight's sitting pretty at 2-to-1, you understand me? That's a bargain! Lucky 7? Long shot odds - put your chips on Samoa Joe, maybe even old Grimey if you feel frisky."
As Tony boasts, counting the bets with flair, the crowd around him parts an in storms "The Mountain" Cal Lannister. Cal is all business, shoulders squared, visibly angry.
CAL LANNISTER
"Funny Tony. Real funny. You've got "The Mega Star" LA Knight at 2-to-1? Disrespectful odds for a man who is carrying this brand. Especially from a no-name greaseball like you..."
Tony chuckles, spreading his arms wide, trying to defuse the situation with mock innocence.
TONY D'ANGELO
"Whoa, whoa, whoa - who are you calling a greaseball!? Nothing personal, huh? It's just the numbers, just business, that's all. Everybody's gotta play the odds."
"The Mountain" steps closer, losing the space between them.
CAL LANNISTER
"You keep playing games like this...and maybe you won't like the hand you're dealt next."
Tony's smile falters for just a second - then he quickly regains his composure, flashing a smirk.
TONY D'ANGELO
"Easy, tough guy. No need for hard feelings. You wanna change the odds? Win some matches. Then we'll talk."
Cal stares him down for another intense beat before backing away slowing, giving D'Angelo a lingering glare.
Tony, unfazed, shrugs to the cameras as if to say "what can you do?" and brushes the non-existent speck of dust off his shoulder. He casually rakes a pile of chips as the scene fades out, the newcomer keeping his cool - for now.
The camera fades back to the Kick-Off panel at Sam's Town as fans continue to find their seats in the background. Sam Roberts smiles, tapping the desk lightly.
SAM ROBERTS
"Well there's a face we haven't seen before around here. Tony D'Angelo making quite the first impression."
Malcolm Bivens leans in, half impressed, half amused.
MALCOLM BIVENS
"I'll give him this much - most people rung when The Mountain comes storming towards them. Tony? Not so much. Guy's got guts. Or maybe just no sense."
With his personal experience of Performance Center talent, Matt Bloom adds:
MATT BLOOM
"Cal Lannister isn't a man you want to take lightly. But Tony D'Angelo? Let's just say he doesn't exactly colour insight the lines."
SAM ROBERTS
"In Las Vegas, fortune favours the bold...and tonight, boldness might just be the difference between climbing to the top - or crashing to the bottom. Speaking of which, it's time to talk about the chaos that awaits in the first-ever Lucky 7 Ladder Match!"
We open to a darkened arena. A ladder stands illuminated under a single spotlight.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"Seven men. Three briefcases. Everything to gain and everything to lose..."
Footage flashes back to Nigel McGuinness' official announcement as NXT General Manager where he promises to put his stamp on NXT and innovate the brand by bringing excitement and risk before introducing the Lucky 7 Ladder match.
Quick shots show the three briefcases suspended above the ring.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"Each man fights for one of three prizes...but not every prize is a blessing."
Ace of Spades: The holder earns the right to challenge for the NXT Championship/NXT Mega Championship at a time of their choosing.
King of Diamonds: This grants the bearer a title shot for any other NXT-sanctioned championship they are eligible for - North American, Tag Team or Cruiserweight.
The Joker: ends the career of the holder on the spot. Immediate termination.
There's a sharp musical sting as the Joker graphic flashes onscreen. We then cut to a montage of the Lucky 7:
Cameron Grimes outwits Roderick Strong and Oney Lorcan in the Last Chance Qualifier match, stealing the victory which infuriates "The Infamous" Bobby Fish, who had originally beaten him to qualify.
Pete Dunne battles through his qualifier, brutal as ever.
Kyle O'Reilly, battered but unbreakable, earns his shot through sheer grit.
Austin Theory, newly returned from injury, punches his ticket - cocky and fearless.
We then cut to flashbacks from NXT: End of the Line: Samoa Joe vs. Finn Bálor where Joe defeats Bálor in an exhibition match of the former champions. Both men are announced as Lucky 7 participants before Joe assaults "The Prince", making things personal.
We then get a rapid montage of chaos as Joe bulldozes through Kyle O'Reilly on NXT Evolve
Dunne silently stands tall at the end of the Town Hall segment
Six of the seven men going to battle in a trios match, in which tensions between Theory, O'Reilly and Bálor saw them lose bragging rights just days before the final battle.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"Old champions. Rising stars. Mercenaries. Dreamers. All fighting, not just for glory but for survival."
We then get individual flashes of
Cameron Grimes laughing at the end of the Trios Tag match, standing tall above his future opponents.
Former NXT United Kingdom Champion, Pete Dunne, snapping fingers with sadistic calm.
Austin Theory flexing atop a ladder in a filmed segment.
Kyle O'Reilly taping up his wrists, ready to go to battle.
Finn Bálor crouched, focused, breathing heavily.
"The Infamous" Bobby Fish, sat in a robe in his theatre, plotting his next move.
Samoa Joe smirking down the barrel of the camera.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"Three men will change their destiny forever but one will lost it all...
The ladders are set...
The cards are waiting..
The clock is ticking..."
The music peaks.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"Who dares to climb...and who falls forever?"
The camera cuts back to the panel at Sam's Town. Sam Roberts leans forward, clearly energised.
SAM ROBERTS
"The stakes do not get any higher - title shots, opportunities, or your career over in one night. Gentlemen, let's break it down..."
Matt Bloom is the first to speak this time, nodding thoughtfully. He talks about the opportunities at stake - how for young stars like Austin Theory and Pete Dunne, any title shot could be life-changing.
MATT BLOOM
"All the title opportunities are major prizes. Dunne and Theory have already shown they're starts - tonight's about proving that they're future champions."
He also gives credit to Bobby Fish, admitting that love him or loathe him, "The Infamous One" has reinvented himself since the split of The Undisputed Era and tonight he's dangerous.
Maclolm Bivens cuts in sharpy, reminding Bloom that Pete Dunne isn't a dreamer, he's already dominated in NXT UK. He predicts that "The King of NXT" will walk out with one of the briefcases.
Mauro Ranallo adds a different perspective. He reminds the audience that he was on commentary at End of the Line for the brutal Three Strikes match where Kyle O'Reilly defeated Adam Cole and sent him packing from NXT.
MAURO RANALLO
"I watched Kyle O'Reilly put everything on the line once before. He is the silent assassin of this match. My money is on Cool Kyle climbing the ladder again tonight."
Sam reminds the viewers one more time of the brutal twist.
SAM ROBERTS
"And remember, once you claim a case, you have one chance to veto it. Hand it back unopened and walk away...or risk everything to see what's inside."
The panel nods gravely as the camera prepares to transition toward the next major development. Sam wraps up with a final line.
SAM ROBERTS
"The Lucky 7 will climb tonight - but not all of them will land on their feet. At High Stakes, the ladders go up and someone's future will come crashing down. This is one match you are not going to want to miss!"
Following a message from sponsors of NXT TakeOver: High Stakes we re-join the panel. The crowd noise shifts slightly as Sam Roberts announces two surprise guests joining them to discuss the NXT Women's Championship match: Dakota Kai and Mercedes Martinez.
Kai makes her way out first assisted by a member of the backstage crew. She wears dark sunglasses to shield her vulnerable vision, her body language is tense and defensive.
Martinez follows moments later, arms-crossed, no nonsense, coolly surveying the panel as she takes a seat beside Sam.
Sam tries to keep the tone neutral, sensing some tension between the two women - despite their common ally.
SAM ROBERTS
"Thank you for joining me, both. Tonight, Raquel González defends the NXT Women's Championship against Toni Storm. Dakota, Mercedes, both of you are clearly Team Raquel tonight, but what do you think of her chances?"
Dakota is the first to answer, barely hiding her frustration.
DAKOTA KAI
"Well Raquel has made it very clear - yet again - that she doesn't want help. She told me to stay away. She told Mercedes to stay away. And now she's walking straight into Toni Storm, who's not exactly known for fighting fair."
"The Brass City Cruiser" leans forward slightly, her voice calm but pointed.
MERCEDES MARTINEZ
"Raquel's smart. She knows exactly what she's doing. She doesn't need distractions. She needs to win - because when she wins, I'm next in line to take that title."
The tension rises immediately. Following Martinez's voice, Kai turns sharply towards her.
DAKOTA KAI
"Could you make it any more obvious that you're just using her for a title shot?"
Mercedes doesn't flinch.
MERCEDES MARTINEZ
"Says the woman that has been using her for the past year!"
(she pauses)
"Listen. I'm not using Raquel. Raquel knows exactly who helped her when she needed it most. When she was staring down a literal deity - when Tian Sha were trying to end her career - I was the one who stood by her side. I didn't have to. But I did."
The live crowd murmur at the intensity building. Dakota's hands clutch to the edge of the panel table. Her voices slightly as she fires back.
DAKOTA KAI
"I WANTED to help her! I couldn't! That...that....THING! She blinded me! I never even got the chance."
The emotion pours out, Dakota's anger revealing itself as heartbreak. At that moment, Mauro leans in gently trying to mediate.
MAURO RANALLO
"Dakota, nobody questions your loyalty. I sat with you after the attack. I know how hard you've fought. But tonight isn't about the past. It's about what Raquel has to do to survive right now."
Dakota lowers her head slightly, breathing heavily through gritted teeth. Mercedes, sensing the emotional shift, pushes back from the table, standing without another word. Hearing her, Kai tries to reach out.
DAKOTA KAI
"Don't walk away from me too. You don't get to just leave me."
But Mercedes does just that and walks off the panel set without looking back. Meanwhile, Dakota is left visibly shaking with emotion as Sam signals for production to assist her, maintaining dignity as the panel resets.
SAM ROBERTS
"As emotions run high within Raquel González's camp, across the ring stands a challenger with no such turmoil. Toni Storm - a world class competitor, a global sensation, a former NXT UK Women's Champion, and winner of the 2018 Mae Young Classic - awaits her moment."
Matt nods in agreement.
MATT BLOOM
"Toni Storm has done it all - Japan, the UK, Australia - and she's dominated everywhere she's been. She's one of the best technical wrestlers and big-match performers anywhere in the world."
Mauro then adds.
MAURO RANALLO
"You mention the Mae Young Classic, which of course isn't just a trophy but a coronation of a star. However, that trophy seems to have done a lot of the work for her recently. She's not shy about swinging it when she's needed an advantage."
Bivens acknowledges the point but reminds everyone:
MALCOLM BIVENS
"The results speak for themselves. Toni Storm earned her way back to this opportunity, she defeated one of Big Mami Cool's besties, Mercedes in the first round of the Contender Series and then knocking off Sarray, who was undefeated at the time. Everyone raved about Sarray for months, then Toni humbled her real quick. Don't think for a second that The Headliner isn't coming into this match ready to break Mami's reign in half."
Sam closes the discussion with a warning:
SAM ROBERTS
"Well tonight isn't just Raquel's biggest defence - it could be her last defence if she underestimates Toni Storm for everyone one second. World-class credentials. A ruthless streak. Toni may just be the perfect storm to end Raquel González's reign tonight at High Stakes."
Following the heated discussion, Roberts shifts gears to reset the pacing - coming up next, the panel will dive into the NXT Tag Team Championship scene as MSK prepare to defend their titles against Hit Row and The Way.
A graphic appears stating "We'll be right back!" as the camera pans over the live crowd.
We return live from commercial break, the camera returns to the panel at Sam's Town. Sam Roberts welcomes the viewers back.
SAM ROBERTS
"Welcome back to the NXT TakeOver: High Stakes Kick-Off show. Coming up, it's one of the most unpredictable matches of the night. MSK defending their titles in a triple threat against The Way and Hit Row."
Mauro Ranallo smiles.
MAURO RANALLO
"Three teams. One set of titles. Mama Mia! It's going to be beautiful chaos, Sam."
Sam nods and sends us to a special look at how the match came together.
The opening shot shows the NXT Tag Team Championships as they glimmer under a spotlight.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"The road to the top of the NXT Tag Team Division has never been more dangerous...or more unpredictable."
Footage shows MKS celebrating with the titles, alongside highlights of their high-speed offence.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"The champions have blazed a trail few can follow.
We then see footage of Hit Row making their entrance, full or energy and confidence.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"But rising fast, Hit Row - who have dominated across singles, trios, and tag team matches."
The footage shows their victory against August Grey and Ikemen Jiro on the 3rd August edition of NXT.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"Meanwhile, Johnny Gargano and Dexter Lumis - former foes- found chemistry in the most unlikely of places."
We then cut to Johnny Gargano and Dexter Lumis overcoming Airya Daivari and Tony Nese, following an uncertain alliance, which has led to Lumis seeing 'the way'.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"But when unity was tested - it all unravelled. A critical loss left the champions vulnerable."
Flashback to this past Tuesday on NXT, when Gargano teamed with MSK against all three members of Hit Row. We first see, Gargano and Lumis reluctantly training with MSK before cutting to footage of Gargano getting pinned.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"Now, it's every team for themselves. Tonight, balance is resorted as three of NXT's best collide for the ultimate prize."
The camera cuts back to the panel desk.
SAM ROBERTS
"The champions are reeling. The challengers are confident. And tonight, the future of the tag team division hangs in the balance.
Matt Bloom is first to speak.
MATT BLOOM
"MSK are a phenomenal tag team, they won the Dusty Rhodes Classic to earn a tag title match, only to then have to overcome three other teams on the first night of Stand & Deliver to become the champions. However, there's real pressure on Wes Lee and Nash Carter tonight. Hit Row has been running over everybody, and Johnny Gargano is a veteran who knows how to win big matches and he wants The Way holding all the tag team gold."
Malcom Bivens prepares to jump in - but before he can, Chase Parker and Matt Martel of Ever-Rise storm the panel set, clearly furious.
Parker shouts "is this a joke!?" as Martel slams his hands on the desk, glaring at Bivens, who is both excited to see them, and confused.
Martel says they had Breezango beat on NXT Evolve, but he had to stick his nose where it didn't belong. Parker adds that they wanted to win 'the right way' and not with a 'shady shortcut'.
Bivens shrugs, pleading innocence.
MALCOLM BIVENS
"I helped you win. You're welcome. Where I come from a W's a W. Style points are for losers."
Martel shakes his head, furious:
MATT MARTEL
"You failed your probation, man. We didn't even want you out there with us. And now you've made us look like a joke."
Security steps between them quickly, guiding Ever-Rise away from the desk as they continue to shout towards Bivens, telling him he's banned from Ever-Rise Live. Bivens seems panicked at first, but tries to maintain his composure, acting unbothered.
SAM ROBERTS
"Clearly, tempers are running high tonight...and it's not just in the ring. Now, it's not just the men's division feeling the heat tonight. The NXT Women's Tag Team titles are up for grabs - but with unexpected changes rocking The Way's plans, the future of the women's tag team division has never been more uncertain. Let's take a closer look..."
We open to a shot of the challengers, Tegan Nox and Shotzi charging into battle together on the TCB battle tank. We are reminded of both of their previous feuds with Dakota Kai and Raquel González.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"A bond forged in fire...together overcoming the division's most established teams to prove they belong at the very top."
Flashback to the pair winning the number one contender's tag team gauntlet match on the 27th July edition of NXT. This is juxtaposed by a shot of the duo being attacked by Persia Pirotta and Indi Hartwell two weeks ago at the official High Stakes match contract signing.
We then cut to a show of Candice LeRae and Indi Hartwell with the NXT Women's Tag Team Championships, while Persia stands in the background.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"But with a shock announcement..."
We quick cut between Candice dodging matches or avoiding ring-time where possible up until it was revealed that she was pregnant!
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"A new team must rise or fall - under the weight of expectation."
We see Candice proudly applauding Persia, who emerged victorious in her proving ground match this past week as Indi looked on.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"Friendships tested. Legacies threatened. Tonight, in Las Vegas, the future of the NXT Women's Tag Team division is on the line."
Fade out to the Women's Tag Team titles draped over a poker table marked "High Stakes".
Sam Roberts brings it back smoothly:
SAM ROBERTS
"Nigel McGuinness has ruled that Candice LeRae has until bell time to come up with a plan or the The Way will forefit the NXT Women's Tag Team Championships.
Mauro speaks solemnly.
MAURO RANALLO
"Candice LeRae cannot wrestle tonight. She's got a bigger journey ahead of her now. She needs time away from NXT, and that's a reality that Indi Hartwell and The Way have to accept."
Bloom nods in agreement with Mauro.
MATT BLOOM
"This situation has thrown a wrench into everything. In both men and women's tag team title matches, The Way are going to have this question mark hanging above them. In this match, it's presented as a chance for Tegan Nox and Shotzi, who have fought their way for this opportunity. For the champions? It's a scramble.
Bivens, ever the cynic chips in.
MALCOLM BIVENS
"Persia Pirotta stepping in sounds like a solution, her and Indi go way back...but does Candice LeRae even want that? She's only just come around to the idea of inducting her into The Way, and we all know she has a death grip on that belt - is her ego really going to let a rookie waltz in and replace her?"
Matt Bloom closes the thought.
MATT BLOOM
"Tegan and Shotzi earned everything the hard way - fighting top teams, winning the gauntlet match - and tonight I think they've come for a fight, regardless of what Candice has up her sleeve."
The panel agrees with Matt as the show moves forward.
SAM ROBERTS
"Plenty of questions still swirling in the Women's Tag Team division and tonight we're hoping to have some answers. Up next, we'll turn our attention to a Cruiserweight Championship clash - a dangerous challenger, who has nothing to lose."
Following another commercial break, we cut to footage of Kushida's Cruiserweight title reign. Technical clinics, victories across multiple styles.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"Since April, Kushida has redefined the NXT Cruiserweight Championship - conquering main roster Superstars, international standouts and hungry young lions, making the title a symbol of global excellence."
We see footage of Kushida defeating Mustafa Ali, Mansoor, Jordan Devlin, Alex Shelley, and Ari Sterling. Cut to footage of Nigel McGuinness referencing a mystery challenger for "The Time Splitter" on numerous occasions.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"But promises were made..."
Cut to this past week on NXT when the champion awaited his mystery opponent.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"And promises were delivered."
The footage then shows Tommaso Ciampa's violent return to NXT, revealing himself as Kushida's opponent and attacking him after a handshake fake-out.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"The Blackheart is back. And mercy is a luxury, Kushida can no longer afford."
We cut to black.
In a new scene, a feint glow appears in a darkened room. Tommaso Ciampa's face is lit by a single low bulb.
TOMMASO CIAMPA
"Kushida...you spent months chasing perfection. Beating challengers. Building your legacy. You thought that made you untouchable. You forgot the only rule that matters here: survival isn't about winning. It's about breaking the ones who already thought they have."
"Tonight, I won't take your title.
I'll take your pride.
and I'll leave you with nothing."
Ciampa smirks darkly - broken and proud - before the screen slams to black.
The camera returns to the panel desk. The mood is serious.
SAM ROBERTS
"Chilling words from a man who is not here for respect, instead Tommaso Ciampa appears to have returned for destruction. And Kushida may find himself fighting for far more than just his championship."
Matt Bloom speaks seriously.
MATT BLOOM
"Kushida's faced pressure before but Ciampa is bringing a whole new level of intensity. He's not trying to win - he's trying to break the champion."
Mauro Ranallo adds:
MAURO RANALLO
"Although tonight may be more about survival than speed, I will say, don't count out the heart of The Time Splitter. He has put many to sleep with that Hoverboard Lock."
Malcom Bivens chuckles to himself as he throws in a jab.
MALCOLM BIVENS
"You know, first Killian Dain snaps and pancakes Timothy Thatcher in the ring, now Ciampa seems to be starring in his own horror movie....who's doing the psychological evaluations around here, huh? Dr Stevie? Seriously - NXT is one more black-out away from needing group therapy."
The joke breaks the tension briefly as Sam brings discussion to a close.
SAM ROBERTS
"One thing's for certain, whether Kushida keeps his title tonight or not, he's going to leave High Steaks a very different man.
He then calmly turns his attention to the final bout on the card.
SAM ROBERTS
As brutal as that promises to be, there's another collision that promises a level of physicality unlike anything else in NXT. This one is not for the faint of heart. A reign of dominance. A challenger who simply refuses to break. Let's take a look at tonight's rematch for the NXT United Kingdom Championship."
We see WALTER standing tall with the NXT UK title on his shoulder, the camera zooms in slowly.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"For over two years, one name has ruled NXT UK without equal.
One man has turned challengers into victims.
One reign has become legend."
Cut to footage of "The Ring General" chopping opponents such as Joe Coffey, Dave Mastiff, and Tyler Bate to the mat, brutalising title contenders.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"The Ring General.
WALTER."
Ilja Dragunov staggers into frame - bloodied, breathing heavily from their first encounter on NXT UK.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"Ilja Dragunov. The Unbeseigbar. The Mad Dragon who forced the champion to the very edge...before his body finally gave out."
We see footage of the referee stopping the match as Dragunov collapses. WALTER raising the title over his fallen opponent.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"But the challenger did not surrender. Tonight, The Mad Dragon rises again."
We cut to a training montage of both men preparing for battle.
SCOTT STANFORD (V.O.)
"The longest reign in WWE today.
The fiercest heart NXT has ever known.
Only one survives at High Stakes."
We end of a final split shot. WALTER, cold and unmoved. Dragunov, standing defiantly.
The panel comes back live following the brutal hype package. The atmosphere is heavy with anticipation. Sam Roberts puts over that tonight, WALTER's record-setting reign (over 850 days strong) will be tested like never before.
Matt Bloom says there will be no shortcuts in this match, it will be pure violence. Mauro agrees, his voice is low but passionate.
MAURO RANALLO
"The first time these two collided back in October last year - it wasn't a wrestling match. It was a survival test. Ilja Dragunov fought until his body literally shut down. Blood loss. Exhaustion. And yet somehow Dragunov has come back for more. Tonight, he gets his shot at redemption."
Maclolm Bivens shakes his head in disagreement.
MALCOLM BIVENS
"Redemption is a nice story but WALTER's a real monster. Dragunov can want it as bad as he wants but sometimes hunger gets you killed."
Sam nods, seeing both sides of the argument. He promotes the second Kick-Off match, Zoey Stark taking on Franky Monet in a Spin the Wheel, Make the Deal match.
He proceeds to hold his ear as he gets word in his ear. Looking up, Sam informs the panel that the challenger, Ilja Dragunov, is standing by with McKenzie Mitchell in an exclusive interview for some final words.
The camera quickly cuts backstage, where McKenzie stands ready with a microphone. She smiles professionally as she welcomes her guest - Ilja Dragunov. The crowd pop as he steps into frame, dressing his wrestling gear, focused but emotionally raw.
MCKENZIE MITCHELL
"Ilja, thanks to an agreement from NXT UK General Manager, Johnny Saint, and NXT General Manager, Nigel McGuinness, tonight you face WALTER once again here in Las Vegas, Nevada. How are you preparing differently this time?"
Ilja leans towards the microphone to answer, intensity in his eyes.
ILJA DRAGUNOV
"McKenzie, tonight I..."
When suddenly, from off-screen, Fabian Aichner and Marcel Barthel rush in!
Imperium ambush Dragunov without warning and McKenzie flees, calling for help. Aichner blindsides Dragunov with a forearm, Barthel follows with knees to the ribs.
Dragunov fights back briefly, trying to fend the duo off - but the numbers are too much.
Aichner drives Dragunov shoulder-first into a steel equipment trunk. Barthel continues to stomp him down as he yells at him in German.
Security rushes in, prompting Imperium to fee, as the camera zooms in on Dragunov grimacing in pain, clutching at his shoulders and ribs. The camera lingers on the challenger, struggling to push himself up despite the beating.
The cameras quickly cut back to the panel desk, where the panellists are visibly reacting to what they've just witnessed on the monitors.
SAM ROBERTS
"An absolute despicable attack by Imperium, and just hours before Ilja Dragunov is set to to challenge for the NXT UK Championship."
Matt Bloom shakes his head in disgust.
MATT BLOOM
"Fabian Aichner and Marcel Barthel just tried to take Dragunov out of the fight before it's even begun. And with the kind of damage we just saw - the ribs, the shoulder - Dragunov might not even make it to the bell."
Mauro Ranallo's voice rises with emotion.
MAURO RANALLO
"This was a calulacted, surgical ambush. WALTER's not taking chances tonight, and Ilja's dream of redemption may have been crushed before the first strike is even thrown."
Ever the contrarian...
MALCOLM BIVENS
"High Stakes, Mauro. Sometimes you win, sometimes you get wiped off the board before the cards are even dealt."
Sam tried to steady the tone.
SAM ROBERTS
"We will hope to update you on Ilja Dragunov's status as TakeOver continues. We are now edging ever closer to the event itself as 800-strong crowd are nearly in their seats. Before High Stakes kicks into gear, we still have one more match on the Kick-Off show - and it's a homecoming battle for Zoey Stark, who agreed to a match with the ruthless Franky Monet under the condition that the match would be decided via roulette. Anything goes! Fate will decide the rules."
The cameras pull slightly wider as the panel prepares to send things down to the ring,
SAM ROBERTS
"Gentlemen, thank you for your time tonight. This is it! One last roll of the dice before NXT TakeOver: High Stakes officially gets underway."
We cut to Alicia Taylor in the ring, ready to introduce the final Kick-Off match of the evening, as we pan to the roulette wheel set up at the side of the entrance ramp.
The crowd buzzes in excitement as the camera pans across the vibrant set. Kevin Patrick and Wade Barrett welcome the viewers back.
Kevin notes that this match is personal between these two competitors, with Barrett adding that tensions have been bubbling for months, ever since Zoey Stark and Sarray embarrassed Aliyah and Jessi Kamea back in June. Franky Monet didn't forget it - she kicked Robert Stone to the curb, taking over and repacking The Robert Stone Brand into 'The Brand', making it her mission to make Zoey Stark's life a misery.
Kevin adds that it all came to a head in the VIP lounge on NXT Evolve when Monet invited Stark to 'sit with her' - only to challenge her to a match instead. Being the fighter she is, Zoey agreed but only if they spun the wheel and left everything to fate tonight here in her hometown of Las Vegas.
Franky's music hits as she struts onto the stage in full Vegas showgirl attire: feathers, sequins, dazzling rhinestones - completely over the top. Even her haters, seems to be impressed.
Jessi Kamea and Aliyah accompany her, rolling their eyes at the crowd, who are still seated behind protective Plexiglas.
Kevin Patrick applauds the effort made by Monet but points out that Jessi and Aliyah are banned from ringside. Barrett says that they're simply here to make sure Franky arrives to the match safely.
Franky revels in the moment as her entourage open the ring ropes got her. She strikes a pose, which draws heat from the crowd, before Aliyah and Jessi assist her with remove the headgear and other accessories deemed unsuitable for wrestling in.
At this point, Darryl Sharma firmly instructs Aliyah and Jessi to head to the back, enforcing the agreed rules that they couldn't be at ringside. Aliyah stomps her feet as Jessi looks to Franky, hoping to appeal the decision. Sharma points the back as the crowd pop to see the duo leave. Interestingly, Franky doesn't look too unnerved.
The crowd comes alive as Zoey Stark's music hits! There's a big pop from the hometown Las Vegas crowd as Stark marches out, fired up and laser-focused, banging on the Plexiglas to rally the crowd behind her as she passes Aliyah and Jessi, who continue to sulk over their removal from the match, despite it being previously agreed.
KEVIN PATRICK
"Hometown pride on the line - and Zoey Stark would love nothing more than to send Franky Monet packing tonight."
Zoey climbs the turnbuckles, soaking in the reaction before jumping down and staring daggers across the ring at her opponent.
Referee, Darryl Sharma signals toward the stage. A production assistant spins the giant colourful wheel featuring a number of intriguing options such as a Snake Eyes Submission Match, Parking Lot Brawl and even a Tables match!
The wheel clicks loudly as it spins faster and faster before slowing.
Click.
Click.
Click.
And finally it lands on...
VIVA LAS VIOLENCE MATCH!
It's official! It's a Viva Las Violence match - anything goes! Except for the previously agreed banning on outside interference.
Franky looks horrified and starts to clutch at her face - her Monet-maker, so to speak. Alicia Taylor proceeds to explain the rules as the crowd cheer Zoey on.
VIVA LAS VIOLENCE MATCH:
AS DETERMINED BY ROULETTE WHEEL
ZOEY STARK vs. FRANKY MONET
Zoey charges immediately overwhelming Franky Monet with a series of stinging forearms, driving her into the corner. She backs up, nailing a running knee strike right into Franky's jaw as feathers from Monet's costumes begin to scatter across the mat.
"The Premier Blonde" scrambles to the outside to escape coming to face-to-face with a fan in the crowd as she irrationally acts as if she has no escape. Meanwhile Zoey launches herself through the ropes with a picture perfect tope-suicida, sending Monet crashing into the barricade!
The crowd roars in support as Patrick puts over the Las Vegas crowd, commenting that "Super Stark" is firing from all cyclinders in the early stages of the match.
Stark drags Monet to her feet, whipping her hard into the apron before ducking under the ring and pulling out a kendo stick, drawing an even bigger prop from the Vegas crowd!
Patrick remarks that the last time Stark had a kendo stick in hand, she drove Jessi and Aliyah out of the Capitol Peformance Center, which was then followed by Franky Monet's first ever loss on NXT television. Barrett jokes that Franky might be wishing she'd packed more feathers for protection as Stark cracks Monet across the back with a vicious kendo shot.
Franky cries out in agony, trying to get back into the ring, only for Stark to blaster her across the shoulders with another brutal strike!
The crowd chants for Stark as she lines up for a third swing - but Monet ducks under the attempt and rakes her opponents eyes (which is totally legal under Viva Las Violence rules!). Monet trips Stark into the ropes as she begins to turn the tables in her favour.
Regaining her composure, Monet charges with a German Suplex on Starks as she slides through Zoey's legs to the outside. Grabbing at the ankles of her opponent and dragging her out the ring, she the proceeds to charge Zoey spine-first against the ring post.
"Mean Girl" Monet grins viciously as she digs under the ring and pulls out a steel chair. We're reminded that there are no count-outs as Franky rolls back in the ring to set the chair and wedges it in the corner of the ring. Stark slowly returns to the ring, only for Monet to give her a 'helping hand' by grabbing a fistful of hair and tossing her into the corner. Monet looks around the Las Vegas crowd, telling them to watch what she's about to do to their hero as she delivers a crushing Meteora double knee smash, driving the back of Zoey's head against the chair.
COVER...
1...
2...
But Super Stark kicks out! Much to the relief of the crowd.
Franky gets increasingly frustrated as she removes one of her velvet arm-length gloves and begins to bite on it in anger.
She quickly ducks under the ring and fishes out a bag. The crowd think they know what is is, only for Franky to scatter poker chips from the bag on the mat. Returning to her opponent, she teases a powerbomb onto the chips in the centre of the ring but Stark counters, back-body dropping Monet onto the chips instead!
Both women get to their feet - Zoey attempts a Z-360 but Franky ducks under, running the ropes and delivers a roaring SPEAR!
The fans gasp as Zoey writes in pain. Franky grabs the steel chair from the corner and sets it upright in the middle of the ring. What is she going for here?
Franky looks to end her rival with a Glam Slam face-first onto the steel chair!
But Stark fights free with a flurry of elbow strikes to Monet, before she has a chance to lift her.
Stark proceeds to duck a clotheslines, allowing her to grab her trusty kendo stick and continue to unleash rapid-fire shots across Monet's back and ribs until finally, the stick breaks.
The crowd roar as Stark screams out, rallying with adrenaline.
With Monet reeling, Zoey sets up - hooks her under the chin...
AND BLASTS HER WITH A Z-360 FLIPPING KNEE STRIKE!
Zoey dives onto the diver:
1
...
2
...
NO!
The crowd in Sam's Town gasp, they thought that was it!
Stark drags herself up, rallying the crowd, but Monet, desperate, catches Zoey around the waist and rams her into the corner. The two women collapse, gasping for breath.
Both women are now on their knees as they trade chops and strikes with one another, both egging the other on. Zoey goes for a superkick but Monet catches the ankle and uses her strength to drag her into position....
GLAM SLAM ONTO THE STEEL CHAIR!
"RIGHT ONTO THE STEEL! RIGHT ONTO THE CHAIR! Zoey Stark might be seriously hurt here." cries Kevin Patrick
Monet covers, this time hooking both legs for the three count.
Heavy boos rain down from the Sam's Town crowd as Sharma immediately checks on Zoey Stark. Franky Money sits up laughing, holding her arms high - mocking the audience with an exaggerated showgirl curtsy. She kicks the poker chips across the ring as she poses.
WADE BARRETT
"Super Stark fought with everything she had but there was no chance she was ever getting up from that Brutal Glam Slam"
Monet wipes her fluffy boots clean on the mat next to where Stark is laying as the boos continue.
KEVIN PATRICK
"Oh come on! That's classless! Franky Money showing zero respect for the effort Zoey Stark gave tonight."
Barrett coldly responds.
WADE BARRETT
"This is Franky Monet's world now, Kevin - and she's made it crystal clear."
Franky leans towards the camera, smirking arrogantly as she says this is HER division now and everyone better get used to it. Her music continues to play loudly as she basks in the moment, soaking up the heat.
As Monet leaves up the ramp, the focus slowly shifts back to Zoey.
Stark pushes herself back up to a seated position, wincing in pain. The camera zooms closer - revealing blood trickling from her nose, an unmissable symbol of the battle she just fought.
The crowd begins to rise in applause, chanting softly for her at first, then louder.
"ZOEY! ZOEY! ZOEY!"
With help from the ropes, Stark gets to her feet, bloodied but defiant. She tearfully raises one fist to the crowd, acknowledging them through the pain. Barrett says she might not have won tonight, but she's earned the respect of her hometown. Zoey Stark exits the ring under her own power, limping but upright, heading up the aisle to cheers.
For one last time we re-join Sam Roberts, to close the show.
SAM ROBERTS
"What a match! And what a night it's already been. We've seen resilience. We've seen ruthlessness. But now, the time for talk is over. NXT has taken over Las Vegas, and the stakes are high!...
NXT TAKEOVER: HIGH STAKES, STARTS NOW!
