Tag: new year’s evil

WWE NXT New Year’s Evil live results: Three title matches, The Rock appears

Posted on by Chris Aiken

Continuing a big week for the company, WWE NXT is in Los Angeles tonight for its first episode of 2025.

NXT New Year’s Evil takes place from Shrine Expo Hall and will feature three championship matches. Iron Survivor Challenge winners Giulia and Oba Femi are both getting their title shots. Giulia is challenging Roxanne Perez for the NXT Women’s Championship, while the NXT Championship will be up for grabs in a triple threat between Trick Williams, Femi, and Eddy Thorpe.

The Heritage Cup Championship will also be contested in a rematch between Lexis King and Charlie Dempsey. It will be a sudden death round instead of the traditional multi-round format.

Fatal Influence (Fallon Henley, Jacy Jayne & Jazmyn Nyx) are set to compete in a six-woman tag team match as they take on Gigi Dolin, Tatum Paxley & Shotzi. And there will be a four-way bout between Stephanie Vaquer, Kelani Jordan, Cora Jade, and Lola Vice.

Plus, following his appearance on Raw’s Netflix premiere, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson will be in the building for NXT tonight.

Join us for live coverage starting at 8 p.m. Eastern time.

**********

New Year’s Evil from inside the Shrine Auditorium in LA on the air, and various wrestlers are seen arriving to the building. That includes The Rock arriving in a pickup truck, and he gets out popping the top on a beverage just before putting his custom title belt over his shoulder.

Corey Graves is back on commentary in NXT for tonight, as he joins Vic Joseph and Booker T at the announce booth.

Opening the show is a women’s title match.

Giulia defeated NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez to win the title

Giulia pinned Perez clean to win the title, in what was a helluava match. Superb. Great opener.

Great wrestling from the start with counters and reversals. The mood shifts when Perez slaps Giulia across the face. Giulia fires up and answers back with a headbutt. The intensity picks up from there. Just before the show cuts to its first commercial break, Perez stomps on Giulia’s arm with Giulia draped on the bottom turnbuckle.

The show returns from the break with Perez executing a Frankensteiner off the ropes, and she gets a near falls on Giulia. They trade strikes, until Perez goes back to targeting the arm. Perez with a tope suicida. Moments later, Giulia has turned the tide. Giulia with a super butterfly suplex off the top rope. Great action here, and Giulia strikes with a sit-out tombstone piledriver.

Perez counters Giulia, and Perez locks in a crossface. Perez breaks the hold and goes for Pop Rocks, but Giulia escapes, only to eat a dropkick as the action spills outside. At ringside, Giulia drops Perez with a Northern Lights Bomb on the floor. They tease a double count-out. Cora Jade runs down to ringside, and she rolls Perez into the ring. Somehow this is not a DQ, and referee keeps counting on Giulia, who barely breaks the count.

As they go home, Perez applies a Fujiwara armbar. Giulia escapes the hold, and she hits Perez with a knee strike. Giulia follows up with a Northern Lights Bomb, and Giulia hooks a leg for a three count. And new…

Eddy Thorpe was supposedly injured as the victim of another sneak attack, but this is like the boy that cried wolf. NXT GM Ava does not believe him this time, and she leaves his laying there selling for the trainers.

A video package has Je’Von Evans speaking through clinched teeth, as he vows revenge on Ethan Page. Evans jaw is wired shut after he head was Pillmanized by Page in an angle from late-December.

Stephanie Vaquer defeated Kelani Jordan, Cora Jade and Lola Vice in a fatal four-way match to become the number one contender for the NXT Women’s North American Championship

Vaquer pinned Jordan to win the match. Plethora of high spots and fast-paced sequences throughout the match, but especially in the closing moments. Vaquer does a dive to the floor, followed by Jordan doing a moonsault off the top turnbuckle to the floor.

Just before the finish, Vice takes a knee from Jade. Vice falls outside. Jade takes an Olympic slam from Jordan, and Jordan climbs to the top rope. 450 splash, but no water in the pool. Vaquer follows up, and she executes her finisher on Jordan. Vaguer then scores a pinfall.

In a backstage skit, Oba Femi admits to Ava that he did in fact attack Thorpe. Ava still seems indifferent.

Triple H and Nick Khan are seen on camera in the front row.

A video package sponsored by an insurance company features OTM cutting a promo on NXT Tag Team Champions Nathan Frazier & Axiom. The two teams meet next Tuesday in a tag title match.

Gigi Dolin, Tatum Paxley & Shotzi defeated Fatal Influence (NXT Women’s North American Champion Fallon Henley, Jacy Jayne & Jaxmyn Nyx) in a six-women tag team match

Shotzi pinned Henley to win the match, which may set up Shotzi as a potential challenger.

The match goes through a commercial break. Breakneck pace just before cutting to commercials, and everybody is down selling when the show cuts away. Back from the break, and they are working over Paxley. Hot tag to Dolan.

For the finish, Shotzi tags in for some tandem moves. Paxley also helps with double-team moves. Her and Dolan jump off the apron with stereo quebradas. Meanwhile, Shotzi with a senton bomb on Henley. Shotzi goes on to cover the North American Champion for a pinfall.

Ethan Page is arguing with Ava in a backstage skit, as Page is upset like Dennis Stamp. He is not booked. In walks The Rock, and he interrupts Page. Rock and Page meet and shake hands. Rock has heard some things about Page, and it was not all good.

Rock brings up Page breaking someone’s jaw, and Rock tells Page that payback willl be a bitch. Nonetheless, Rock tells Page to that he can come to him if needs anything. Rock goes to give Page a warning about Rock’s daughter Ava, although she is never referred to as his daughter on television. Rock tells Page he will see him on the main roster, and Rock slaps Page on the buttocks like an old school football coach.

Rock then asks Ava for advice with the crowd. Sure, like he needs it. Ava tells him the NXT crowds are different. Rock says he will speak from the heart.

Lexis King defeated Heritage Cup Champion Charlie Dempsey (with No Quarter Catch Crew) to win the trophy

King pinned Dempsey in what was a good match. This show has yet to have a bad match. Really good so far.

The match goes through a commercial break. They traded submission holds at times. They also traded stiff strikes. They collides together a few times. The second time, Dempsey went for a leap frog. King inadvertently headbutts Dempsey in the groin. Dempsey sells big. King then delivers The Coronation, and King covers Dempsey for a three count.

A backstage skit sets up a number one contender match between Shotzi and Stephanie Vaquer. That is set for next week.

Oba Femi defeated NXT Champion Trick Williams and Eddy Thorpe in a triple threat match to win the title

Femi pinned Williams, thanks to some unintentional help from Thorpe. Good match, but the subplot with Thorpe detracted from the fight between Femi and Williams. However, Thorpe’s involvement allows Trick to save face despite the finish.

No Eddy Thorpe to start the match, and it begins as a singles match with Trick squaring off with Oba. Thorpe would run in later to join the match. Not long after the start of the match, the show cuts to a commercial break.

When the show returns from the break, Thorpe is making his way through the backstage area, and Thorpe is wielding a metal folding chair. Meanwhile, Femi and Williams are having a slugfest in the ring.

Trick gives Femi a Rock Bottom off the middle rope for a near fall. They continue to trade strikes. Trick fires up and is on a roll, until Femi blocks Trick’s knee strike finisher. They go on to trade near falls. Trick counters Femi’s finisher, and Trick lands a big boot for yet another near fall.

Sit-out powerbomb by Femi on Trick, followed by a cover. Thorpe suddenly appears a ringside, where Thorpe pulls the referee out of the ring to break up a pin. Thorpe still has the chair. Femi with biel throw, brings Thorpe into the ring. Femi then mauls Thorpe, beating him from pillar to post. Thorpe got nothing.

Great false finish as Trick lands his jumping knee strike out of nowhere, but Femi kicks out. Trick measures for another kick, but Femi dodges and Trick is hit by Thorpe with a chair. Pop-up powerbomb by Femi, and he covers Williams for a pinfall. And new…

Rock closes the show

Closing the show is an appearance by The Rock. Huge pop of course. Rock shake hands and interacts with the fans in attendance on his way to the ring. His entrance took forever, and the crowd chanted his name once the music finally stopped blaring over the house speakers.

Rock has goosebumps and he shows them off as he paces around the ring. Rock even talks about having chills as he begins his promo. He pauses so the crowd can chant his name again. Rock looks towards the timekeeper, and says we have six minutes left. He has hardly begun to speak yet.

Rock says he has a lot of nicknames, and he talks about a few. He also does some catchphrases. Rock says the crowd is feeling it, and they need to help The Rock out. Rock addresses the hug with Cody Rhodes the night before on Raw. Rock mocks the fans for having a problem with it. Rock says to shut your mouth and enjoy the ride he is taking them on.

Rock keeps cursing and keeps getting bleeped out. He does apologize for the language after saying they have a few minutes left. Rock says he wanted to go see NXT, but Rock did not know what to say.

Rock wants to tell the fans something important, which wants to thank them. He puts over the fans for coming to NXT, and the crowd chants “N-X-T.” Rock tells the fans they are important to the show. Rock talks about depending on the crowd. Rock says he loves NXT and does his “can you smell” catchphrase as the show goes off the air. What a haphazard promo that went nowhere.

WWE NXT New Year’s Evil live results: Two title matches

Posted on by Chris Aiken

WWE’s New Year’s Knockout Week continues tonight with a special episode of NXT.

TTwo championship matches headline NXT New Year’s Evil 2024. Trick Williams and Blair Davenport are getting the title shots that they earned by winning the Iron Survivor Challenge matches at NXT Deadline. Williams is challenging Ilja Dragunov for the NXT Championship. Davenport is facing Lyra Valkyria with the NXT Women’s Championship on the line.

A grudge match between Tiffany Stratton and Fallon Henley will go down tonight. If Stratton wins, Henley has to become her servant for a day. If Henley wins, Stratton will need to spend 24 hours working as a ranch hand for Henley.

The winner of the Men’s Breakout Tournament will be crowned when Riley Osborne and Oba Femi face off tonight.

With Dragon Lee unable to appear due to visa issues, Joaquin Wilde & Cruz Del Toro will have a mystery partner against the No Quarter Catch Crew (Drew Gulak, Damon Kemp & Myles Borne). Roxanne Perez vs. Arianna Grace is also set.

*********************

The show begins with a video package highlighting tonight’s supercard. The first of two title matches opens the show, which is live from a sound stage at the Performance Center in Orlando. 

The first 30 minutes is commercial free. That is special, but the setting itself is run-of-the-mill. Special graphics on the video screen aside, this looks like any other episode of NXT from the PC.

NXT Women’s Champion Lyra Valkyria defeated Blair Davenport to retain her title

Valkyria pinned Davenport after a Michinoku Driver/fireman’s carry combo finisher. Seemed very snug at times, like they were beating the heck out of each other.

In setting up the finish, Davenport executes an avalanche Falcon Arrow off the top, but Valkyria rolls outside the ring before Davenport can cover her. Davenport goes outside after Valkyria, and Davenport is tossing her around near the announce desk. Davenport goes for a knee strike, Valkyria moves, and Davenport strikes the desk. Davenport sells her knee after she broke a hole in the desk. 

Back in the ring, Davenport goes for a suplex, but her knee gives out. She goes for a double stomp, after delivering one earlier in the match. No water in the pool this time around. Davenport lands on the mat, and sells her knee. Valkyria boots her in the face, and Valkyria executes a finisher. One, two, three, and Valkyria retains via pinfall. 

Lola Vice ran down to ringside with her contract she recently earned. The gimmick is the contract is like Money in the Bank, and it can be cashed it at any time. Vice is about to cash in when Tatum Paxley jumps out from the front row to attack Vice. In runs Elektra Lopez to back up Vice, and she brawls with Paxley. Valkyria makes a save, and there is a brawl at ringside. Seems to set up a tag match with Valkyria teaming with Paxley for sometime soon.

A crawler at the bottom of the TV screen during the last match promised breaking news, and it involved the men’s NXT Championship match scheduled for the show. NXT Champion Ilja Dragunov is not cleared to compete, so they title bout for later tonight is reportedly off. 

In another change to the advertised card, Dragon Lee is having some of sort of issue with his visa. Therefore, Dragon Lee is missing the show. He is replaced by Carlito in a trios match that is up next. 

LWO (Carlito, Joaquin Wilde & Cruz Del Toro) defeated No Quarter Catch Crew (Drew Gulak, Damon Kemp & Myles Borne) in a six-man tag team match

Kemp drops the fall for his team, after he is pinned by Del Toro. 

Wilde does a wild dive to the outside, where Carlito and Del Toro help by launching him off the middle rope. Wilde is soon cut off, and the heels work him over. That builds to a hot tag, where Carlito tags in and cleans house. 

Wildes wipes out Gulak and Borne, after a corkscrew senton off the top to the floor. Kemp goes for an O’Connor roll on Carlito, not realizing there was a blind tag. Kemp takes a backstabber from Carlito, and Del Toro follows up with a Phoenix Splash. Del Toro then scores a pinfall on Kemp. Playing into his gimmick, Carlito spits an apple in Gulak’s face after the match.

Grayon Waller returns to NXT when he interrupts an interview with Trick Williams and Carmelo Hayes. Hayes hypes up Trick, before Hayes promises that Williams will put up his title shot tonight in a match against Waller. Trick is not happy with Hayes, but Waller accepts the challenge nonetheless. 

Riley Osborne is featured in a vignette from Chase U. In the skit, Osborne recites and essay he is writing about his match later tonight.

Arianna Grace defeated Roxanne Perez via a reversed decision

Perez attacks Grace after the match, and the referee reverses his decision. That awards the match to Grace, despite Perez scoring a pinfall. Perez teases a heel turn, or something like that.

Perez pinned Grace after Pop Rox (Code Red). Grace got some offense with some heel tactics, as she worked over Perez. Eventually, Perez hulks up. Perez looks to make a comeback. Grace cut her off, but Perez counters into her finisher. Perez then cradles Grace for a three count.

Grace yells at Perez after the match, screaming that Perez “needs help!” Perez snaps and jumps Grace. Perez locks in a crossface, and several referees have to pry her off Grace. Perez flashes a sinister smile before letting go of the hold. I will never be comfortable with that sport after living through the summer of 2007.

Blair Davenport and Nikkita Lyons argue in a backstage skit, nearly leading to a fight. This would seem to set up a singles bout between the two.

Fallon Henley defeated Tiffany Stratton in a servant or ranch hand stipulation match

Henley pinned Stratton to win this grudge match. Thus, Stratton has to serve as a ranch hand for Henley. 

This is a takeoff of an angle done with Jimmy Garvin and David Von Erich in World Class, during the heyday of that promotion in the 1980s. Garvin lost a match, and he had to serve as Von Erich’s valet for a day. That led to humorous skits where Von Erich ordered Garvin (and Garvin’s valet Precious) to do various chores around the ranch. The angle was likely done elsewhere at other times, by the World Class version I recall fondly the most. 

The match goes through a split-screen commercial break. They had a good grudge match. The setting hurt it some, as they likely would have more heat in an arena setting outside of the sameness of the sound stage. 

For the finish, Stratton grabs a metal folding chair. Stratton looks to use the chair as a weapon. The referee takes the chair from Stratton. With Stratton distracted by the chair, Henley charges at her to deliver a running knee strike. Henley then covers Stratton for a pinfall. 

Baron Corbin and Bron Breakker star in a lackluster skit where they agree to team up for the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic. They still bickered, but they are a team. Whatever, dudes. Why should we care?

Oba Femi cuts a promo ahead of his match tonight in the finals of the Men’s Breakout Tournament. Oba Femi is such a promising new character.

Cora Jade and Gigi Dolan get into a argument over a locker. So, we have another grudge match over a locker. Half expecting to see Mr. Belding run in to ask, “What is going on her!?” Even Saved by the Bell had more complex storylines than fights over a dern locker. 

Ridge Holland sits down for an interview, where he discusses the injury angle with Dragunov. Holland also discussing other injuries he either suffered or was part of during his WWE career.

Holland talks about blowing out his knees in a NXT match. Holland returns and joins the main roster, and Holland gets smashed in the face. He had reconstructive surgery. Now Holland is back. Holland goes on to say he had no ill intend when Dragunov suffered an injury in their match.

Holland concludes by saying he is going to show who he truly is by running through the NXT roster. 

In a backstage skit, Thea Hail marks out when she high fives her crush, Riley Osborne.

Oba Femi defeated Riley Osborne to win the NXT Men’s Breakout Tournament

The match probably went too long, but it was a tournament final so they were given a lot of time. Femi is portrayed like a monster heel.

As they went home, Osborne is going for a shooting star press. Oba Femi gets his knees up, and he awakens like a Kraken. Femi gives Osborne a snake eyes, and Femi tosses Osborne with a suplex that seems rather unsafe. Femi then delivers a powerbomb, and Femi covers Osborne for a pinfall.

OTM cut a promo on NXT Tag Team Champions The Family. This hypes up a tag team title match on the next episode of NXT.

Kiana James and Izzi Dame are interviewed by Kelly Kincaid. Another interview on this show where no one interrupted them. That has to be some kind of record. 

More tension between Trick Williams and Carmelo Hayes, as Williams tells Hayes that Williams wants to wrestle on his own tonight. That means no Hayes at ringside, which visibly upsets Hayes.

Jacy Jayne is somehow no in charge of Chase U, or at least their booking of matches. Jayne tells Andre Chase to only focus on his debt, and she is now in running things. Jayne replaces Chase with Riley Osborne as Duke Hudson’s tag team partner in the Dusty Classic. Jayne vows to restore Chase U to glory. I was unaware her character cared so deeply about education until now.

Tatum Paxley continues to freak out WWE Women’s Champion Lyra Valkyria.

Nathan Frazier and Axiom agree to team up for the Dusty Classic. Edris Enofe and Malik Blade overhear Frazier bragging, which is Frazier’s new gimmick where he stick his foot in his mouth. 

NXT Tag Team Champions Tony D’Angelo and Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo cut a promo on OTM. Tony D also introduces the audience to Adriana Rizzo, who has been featured in skits over the last several weeks. Joe Gacy also locked himself in a trunk for some unrelated reason. Tony D was not alone in being confused by Gacy’s gimmick. Same here. 

Trick Williams defeated Grayson Waller

Williams pinned Waller, after a surprise appearance by Kevin Owens. Carmelo Hayes also did a run-in, as he argued with Williams just before the finish. In winning, Williams remains the number one contender. 

Not a bad match, but anti-climatic after it replaced a main event title match that was build up for a few weeks. A cameo by Kevin Owens at least made it feel a little more special.

The match goes through a split-screen commercial break. Probably did not need to be that long, but it was the main event so they got main event time. They did some good near falls after the show returns from the commercial break. Waller is overheard at times loudly calling spots. Kayfabe, brother. 

Carmelo Hayes runs down and jumps on the apron at one point. Williams and Hayes argue as Waller looks to capitalize. Kevin Owens suddenly appears at ringside. Owens attacks Waller, and Owen rolls Waller back into the ring. Williams abandoned his argument with Hayes just in time to hit Waller with a flying knee. Williams then covers Waller for a three count. Williams retains his number one contender status.

Dragon Lee off WWE NXT New Year’s Evil due to visa issues

Posted on by Bryan Rose

Dragon Lee is off New Year’s Evil.

Lee announced on X Monday evening that due to visa issues, he was stuck in Mexico and as a result will not be able to make it to Tuesday’s NXT New Year’s Evil event. However, he did promise the No Quarter Catch Crew a “big surprise” for Tuesday’s show.

“Feliz año nuevo! Sad news to kick off the year, but due to visa issues I am unable to leave Mexico right now,” he wrote. “Por eso, I will miss @WWENXT New Years Evil… But the LWO has a big surprise for the NQCC and the NXT Universe tomorrow night.”

On last week’s NXT, a six-man tag was set up with Lee and the LWO’s Cruz Del Toro & Joaquin Wilde against the No Quarter Catch Crew (Drew Gulak, Myles Borne, and Damon Kemp). On the December 19 edition of NXT, Lee defeated NQCC’s Charlie Dempsey and Gallus’ Joe Coffey to retain the NXT North American Championship. The NQCC attacked Lee after the match, but Wilde & Del Toro came out for the save.

Here is the updated card for next week’s NXT New Year’s Evil:

  • NXT Championship: Ilja Dragunov defends against Trick Williams
  • NXT Women’s Championship: Lyra Valkyria defends against Blair Davenport
  • Tiffany Stratton vs. Fallon Henley – if Stratton wins, Henley must become her servant
  • NXT Men’s Breakout Tournament finals: Oba Femi vs. Riley Osborne
  • Arianna Grace vs. Roxanne Perez
  • ???, Joaquin Wilde, and Cruz Del Toro vs. Drew Gulak, Myles Borne, and Damon Kemp

WWE NXT viewership up for New Year’s Evil, 18-49 demo rating down

Posted on by Paul Fontaine

Tuesday night’s special New Year’s Evil episode of WWE NXT averaged 700,000 viewers on the USA Network, up 7.2 percent from last week. It’s the second-largest audience total for the show since October 25.

In the 18-49 demo, NXT ranked 17th on the cable charts with a 0.15 rating. That’s down 6.3 percent from last Tuesday, meaning the audience skewed much older this week. It’s still NXT’s third-highest rating in the key demo since October 18.

As compared to the same week in 2022, NXT’s overall viewership was up 8.2 percent while its 18-49 rating was up 7.1 percent.

Listed below are the last 11 weeks of overall viewership and 18-49 demo ratings for NXT, as well as the 10-week averages in both categories. This week’s show was up 9.2 percent in overall viewers and up 7.1 percent in 18-49 as compared to the recent averages.

WWE NXT video highlights: New Year’s Evil

Posted on by Joseph Currier

WWE began setting the stage for Vengeance Day on last night’s special New Year’s Evil edition of NXT.

An NXT Championship match between Bron Breakker and Grayson Waller took place last night, but it ended with Breakker retaining by countout after the ropes broke twice. Waller wasn’t able to beat the count after the second break.

Later in the show, it was announced that Waller will get a rematch against Breakker for the NXT Championship at Vengeance Day on Saturday, February 4. This time, the match will be inside of a steel cage.

Both members of Toxic Attraction will challenge Roxanne Perez for the NXT Women’s Championship in a triple threat match at Vengeance Day. That was made official after Gigi Dolin and Jacy Jayne simultaneously won a number one contender’s battle royal last night.

New Year’s Evil was also a night of returns with Jinder Mahal, Tiffany Stratton, and Gallus all appearing.

More coverage from last night —

WWE NXT video highlights —

Tony D’Angelo vs. Dijak

Jinder Mahal returns to NXT

Pretty Deadly tag team gauntlet

Carmelo Hayes wants the NXT Championship

The center of the universe is back in NXT 

Bron Breakker vs. Grayson Waller for the NXT Championship

Hank Walker vs. Charlie Dempsey

Tyler Bate is returning to NXT for good

Julius Creed vs. Jinder Mahal

20-woman number one contender’s battle royal

Bron Breakker vs. Grayson Waller steel cage match announced for Vengeance Day

NXT fallout: Roxanne Perez is ready to take down Toxic Attraction

NXT fallout: Wes Lee will face hard justice from Dijak at Vengeance Day 

NXT fallout: Gallus are tired of The New Day and Pretty Deadly

NXT fallout: Jinder Mahal will teach Indus Sher how to win

WWE NXT video highlights: New Year’s Evil go-home show

Posted on by Ian Carey

NXT presented the go-home show for New Year’s Evil last night. 

In the final segment of Tuesday’s show, NXT Champion Bron Breakker appeared on The Grayson Waller Effect. Waller insulted Breakker throughout the segment, attempting to bait the champion into a physical confrontation. Breakker finally had enough after his father, Rick Steiner, was insulted. He gave Waller a gorilla press into a powerslam and then used Waller’s phone to record himself doing a flip dive over the ropes onto Waller. The show closed with Breakker standing tall over his future challenger. 

Four matches for next week’s New Year’s Evil show were also confirmed last night. A 20-woman battle royal to determine Roxanne Perez’s next challenger, Dijak vs. Tony D’Angelo, Charlie Dempsey vs. Hank Walker, and a tag team gauntlet match featuring Pretty Deadly has been added to the card. 

More coverage from last night —

WWE NXT video highlights —

Apollo Crews vs. Carmelo Hayes

Axiom vs. Trick Williams

Apollo Crews saves Axiom from Carmelo Hayes and Trick Williams

Apollo Crews and Axiom bond over common enemies

Dijak vs. Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo

D’Angelo calls out Dijak

Several wrestlers state their case for NXT Women’s title match. 

Alba Fyre has more than resolution on her mind. 

Alba Fyre vs. Isla Dawn

Kiana James supposedly tries to make amends with Fallon Henley

A mystery watcher keeps an eye on Kayden Carter & Katana Chance

Oro Mensah vs. Javier Bernal

Andre Chase vs. Drew Gulak

Wes Lee hopes for an all-out war between Dijak and Tony D’Angelo

Pretty Deadly want to run the gauntlet

Kofi Kingston vs. Joe Gacy

Waller discovers the cost of going viral in confrontation with Breakker

The countdown ends next week

Fight Game: WWE releases, Page vs. Danielson II, Bron Breakker

Posted on by Garrett Gonzales

John LaRocca and I are back on the Fight Game Podcast to go over several big topics in the world of professional wrestling before tackling AEW Dynamite and NXT from this week.

Dave Meltzer joins us right at the top of the show to talk about the injuries that happened at AEW Dynamite and the Rampage taping, the WWE releases, and the best matches he’s seen this week.

Then John and I come back to discuss:

  • Which of the two Hangman Page vs. Bryan Danielson matches were better
  • CM Punk and MJF and where Wardlow fits in
  • The Dynamite main event which saw the Jurassic Express win the tag team straps
  • Bron Breakker winning the NXT title
  • Carmelo Hayes looking like a star
  • The fun of Matt Riddle & MSK vs. WALTER and Imperium

Click below to listen.

Right click save

WWE NXT viewership up, demo rating steady for New Year’s Evil

Posted on by Paul Fontaine

Source: ShowBuzz Daily

Tuesday’s New Year’s Evil edition of NXT averaged 685,000 viewers on the USA Network. That’s up 3.5 percent from last week and is the best audience for the show since Halloween Havoc on October 26.

In the 18-49 demo, NXT drew the same 0.16 rating as it did for the final show of 2021, matching NXT’s best number since Halloween Havoc.

NXT finished 24th on the cable charts in the key demo. Parts of a college basketball game and a college football bowl game on ESPN both aired against NXT and took the top two spots on the rankings.

NXT was up in every single age group with the exception of men 18-49, which dropped 17.4 percent from last week. The biggest increases were with women, with females 12-34 rising by 73.3 percent and women 18-49 increasing by 33.3 percent. In fact, there were more women than men watching in 12-34 this week. That’s very rare for a pro wrestling show.

As compared to this week last year, which came on the day of the insurrection at the United States Capitol building, NXT was up 3.5 percent in overall viewers but had the same rating in the 18-49 demo.

Listed below are the last 11 weeks of overall viewership and 18-49 demo numbers for NXT, along with the 10-week averages in both categories prior to this week. This week’s show was up 10.1 percent in viewers and 14.3 percent in 18-49 from the recent averages.

WWE NXT video highlights: Bron Breakker wins NXT title

Posted on by Joseph Currier

A big title change headlined the first NXT episode of 2022.

Bron Breakker defeated Tommaso Ciampa to win the NXT Championship at New Year’s Evil on Tuesday night. Breakker’s father Rick Steiner was in attendance for the match but not shown on camera. After the show went off the air, WWE uploaded video of him celebrating Breakker’s NXT Championship win in the ring with him.

Two other title matches also took place at New Year’s Evil. Mandy Rose retained her NXT Women’s Championship in a triple threat match against Raquel Gonzalez and Cora Jade. And the NXT North American and Cruiserweight titles were unified when Carmelo Hayes defeated Roderick Strong.

With the titles now unified, the NXT Cruiserweight Championship is being dropped. Hayes will be recognized as the North American Champion going forward.

Plus, main roster stars AJ Styles and Riddle appeared. A confrontation between Styles and Grayson Waller set up a match for next week’s NXT, while Riddle teamed with MSK to defeat Imperium’s WALTER, Marcel Barthel & Fabian Aichner.

More coverage from Tuesday night —

WWE NXT video highlights —

Carmelo Hayes vs. Roderick Strong title unification match

The men’s and women’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classics are returning for 2022

AJ Styles-Grayson Waller confrontation

Pete Dunne issues a challenge to Tony D’Angelo

Six-woman tag match set for next week

Riddle & MSK vs. Imperium

Joe Gacy & Harland would be happy to prove that they belong in the Dusty Classic

Elektra Lopez will leave with the winner of next week’s Escobar vs. Quinn match

Mandy Rose vs. Raquel Gonzalez vs. Cora Jade for the NXT Women’s Championship

The Creed Brothers aren’t going to let MSK win the Dusty Cup again

Von Wagner ruins Andre Chase’s scholarship presentation

Cameron Grimes will start chasing gold in 2022

Tommaso Ciampa vs. Bron Breakker for the NXT Championship

NXT fallout: Rick Steiner celebrates his son’s NXT Championship win with him

NXT fallout: Carmelo Hayes is a born champion

NXT fallout: Grayson Waller will regret trying to use AJ Styles to become famous

NXT fallout: MSK are ready to repeat as Dusty Classic champions

WWE NXT live results: New Year’s Evil

Posted on by Chris Aiken

Three title matches headline tonight’s special New Year’s Evil edition of NXT.

The first NXT episode of 2022 will see Tommaso Ciampa defend his NXT Championship against Bron Breakker. They each have a victory over each other heading into the bout. Ciampa retained against Breakker at Halloween Havoc last October, but Breakker got the win for his team at WarGames by pinning Ciampa.

Mandy Rose will put her NXT Women’s Championship on the line against Raquel Gonzalez and Cora Jade in a triple threat match tonight. Plus, the NXT North American Championship and NXT Cruiserweight Championship will be unified as Carmelo Hayes takes on Roderick Strong. The winner will be the NXT North American Champion going forward.

Two main roster stars are also set to appear. Riddle will team with MSK against Imperium’s Walter, Marcel Barthel & Fabian Aichner. And AJ Styles will make another appearance on NXT as he confronts Grayson Waller.

Our live coverage begins at 8 p.m. Eastern time.

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The show is opening with a title match to unify two championships. This marks the end for the Cruiserweight Championship once created as part of the 205 Live brand, as that title is being folded into the North American Championship.

Slightly different look to the soundstage, mainly because of lighting and video screen graphics. The opening match is already giving the show the feel of a supercard, even if it is taking place on the same soundstage it does every week.

NXT North American Champion Carmelo Hayes (with Trick Williams) defeated NXT Cruiserweight Champion Roderick Strong (with Malcolm Bivens and Hachiman) in a unification match

Hayes pins Strong in a great match to unify the titles. Hayes leaves the match with two title belts, and the opener has set the bar every high for the rest of the show.

Action packed from the start, and everything mostly flowed together well. All action until a near fall for Hayes leads into a commercial break. Double down during the break, and Strong gets to his feet and chops down Hayes.

Strong working over the back as the show returns from the break. Hayes comes back with La Mistica transitioned into a crossface. Strong counters and attempts to apply his Boston crab finishing hold, which he calls The Stronghold. Hayes reverses to apply to the Stronghold on Strong. Another counter later, and Strong applies the Stronghold on Hayes. Hayes is able to secure a rope break.

Hayes is getting rocked by strikes when Strong delivers an Olympic Slam for a near fall. They keep trading near falls down the home stretch. Strong gives Hayes an avalanche X-plex off the top rope in the craziest spot of the match. Vic Joseph calls it the X-plex, but it was wacky. Strong delivered the move, yet Hayes covers Strong with one arm for a two count. Right to the finish after that.

Hayes leaps way high into the air to slice Strong with a guillotine legdrop from the heavens. Hayes then covers Strong for a three count. Hayes successfully defends his North American Championship, and Hayes captures the Cruiserweight title en route to unifying the titles.

NXT Champion Tommaso Ciampa is in the locker room clutching Goldie, when he is met by AJ Styles. They exchange pleasantries before Styles heads to the ring for his segment.

AJ Styles brawls with Grayson Waller

The live audience gives Styles a superstar reaction, and rightfully so. The crowd chants his name, and Styles gushes about them for a moment. Then Styles gets more serious as he talks about his regrets. Styles remarks about having not gone through NXT before debuting on the main roster. Styles says there is something special about NXT, and the crowd chants “NXT.” Styles points to that right there, saying it is the passion.

Styles will not let anyone take the passion from the fans, thus bringing up the name of Grayson Waller. I do not follow the logic there, but Waller come out interrupt regardless. Waller cuts a promo on Styles before as cutting a promo on a fan in the front row. Waller says he knows the reason Styles lost last night on Raw. Waller is implying he himself is a really great wrestler.

Styles informs Waller that Styles has never had a match in NXT. Styles says he already has his gear on, and he challenges Waller to a match. All they need is a ref, says Styles. Waller, who was wearing street clothes, tries to beg off. Styles tells him to “grow a sack” and get into the ring.

Waller takes his shirt off and gets into the ring. Waller circles Styles before stopping to basically say not tonight. Waller challenges Styles to a match next week in the main event of NXT. Styles accepts. Waller tries to cheap shot Styles, but Styles ducks the punch. Styles decks Waller, but Waller baits Styles into a trap.

Styles fights back with a Pele kick, and Styles goes for his signature springboard. Waller bails out of the ring and hightails up the ramp. They meet again next week in a match.

A pre-tape skit sets up a another match for next week on NXT. Amari Miller was in the gym with Kacy Catanzaro and Kayden Carter. They are approached by Persia Pirotta and Indi Hartwell. Pirotta accepts a challenge for a trios match. There was some comedy with Wendy Choo (formerly Mei Ying), who is doing a sleeping gimmick. Choo is set to team with the Pirotta and Hartwell against the team of Miller, Catanzaro and Carter.

Matt Riddle & MSK (Wes Lee & Nash Carter) defeated Imperium (Walter, Marcel Barthel & Fabian Aichner)

Riddle pins Aichner to win the match. Fun match was was also really good.

Much like the opener, this match had lots of action. Far more wrestlers in this match too, so lots more action. The trios bout went through a commercial break, where the pace eventually slows.

Imperium works over Carter as the show returns from the break. Hot tag to Riddle, and Riddle unloads with a flurry of offense. Riddle cleans house and he runs wild on Walter. Earlier in the match, Walter struck down Riddle. Now it was Riddle’s turn for a receipt on Walter.

Triple flying with stereo dives through the ropes by MSK and a springbaord twisting whisper in the wind by Riddle. Imperium collectively fight back, and Walter gets a near fall on Riddle. Double team by Barthel and Aichner on Riddle, and Carter makes a save to break up the pin.

Walter barks orders as Barthel and Aichner go for their finisher. Riddle counters and he tags out to Cater. Lee then tags in, and another quick tag to Riddle. MSK execute their tandem finisher, and Riddle follows with a bro-sault. Riddle then catches Barthel with the RKO, and Riddle covers Barthel for a pinfall.

Joe Gacy announces that he and Harland want to compete as a team in the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic. Sigh… whatever, bro.

NXT Champion Mandy Rose arrives in a helicopter looking like a superstar.

Elektra Lopez says that next week Xyon Quinn gets his answer next week. Quinn meets Santos Escobar in a match next Tuesday on NXT. Lopez goes on to say the winner of that match “leaves with me.”

NXT Champion Mandy Rose defeated Cora Jade and Raquel Gonzalez in a no disqualification triple threat match

Rose pinned Jade to retain the title.

The no-DQ stip allowed them to use a kendo stick, which they used during a split screen commercial break. Go figure.

Gonzalez got to look strong with her power moves. Gonzalez tossing Jade out of the match at one point, and then Gonzalez points at Rose. Trying to flee, Rose runs up the ramp. Gonzalez gives chase, and she brings Rose back into the ring. Rose begs off before Gonzalez begins to rain down punishment.

Rose cuts off Gonzalez for a near fall. Gonzalez hulk up to give Rose the powerbomb finisher. Gonzalez goes for a cover, but Jade flies in off the top rope with a senton to break up the pinning attempt.

Gonzalez turns her fury towards Jade, but Jade is able to counter. Jade shoves Gonzalez out of the ring. Jade smirks towards the camera, and Jade goes for a schoolgirl roll-up. Rose with a counter for the roll-up, and Rose cradles Jade for the deciding pinfall.

In what is possibly their first speaking role on television, The Creed Brothers confront MSK. The Creeds cut a promo vowing to win the Dusty Classic.

Von Wagner is no fan of Chase University

Andre Chase comes to the ring for a speech. A bunch of plants that are supposed to be his students cheer him on like a high school pep rally. Chase mentions a student saving him last week. Chase is grateful Harland did not throw the student off the building, as that would hurt enrollment. Chase honors the student with the first-ever full scholarship to Chase University. Chase tells the student to come on down, like he is a contestant on The Price is Right.

No celebration though, as Chase’s speech is interrupted by Von Wagner. Sauntering to the ring, Wagner is bleeped when he says “bulls***,” and he goes on with is promo. Wagner’s voice naturally sounds a lot like his father.

Wagner tries to put himself over as a star. Chase tries to tell him this is what teachable moments are for, but Wagner is hearing none of it. Wagner floors Chase with clothesline, and Wagners give him an Olympic Slam.

Wagner was not done fighting, as he starts attacking Chase U students. Wade Barrett gets in an Antonio Brown joke in saying Wagner was crazy. Officials pour out to break up the melee.

Security escorts Wagner out of the building, but in the process Wagner meets up with Diamond Mine. Roderick Strong and Wagner have a short staredown, so there could be a match between in the future.

A video package featuring Cameron Grimes seems to indicate a shift in his character. Grimes in the new year is ditching the green (as in money) gimmick for gold (as in a championship).

Announced for next Tuesday on NXT:

  • AJ Styles vs. Grayson Waller
  • Xyon Quinn vs. Santos Escobar
  • Boa vs. Solo Sikoa
  • Wendy Choo, Persia Pirotta & Indi Hartwell vs. Amari Miller, Kacy Catanzaro & Kayden Carter
  • Pete Dunne vs. Tony D’Angelo in a crowbar on a pole match

The main event is airing commercial free.

Bron Breakker defeated NXT Champion Tommaso Ciampa to win the title

Breakker submits Cimapa to win the title and become the new champion of the NXT brand. Really good match that made Breakker look like a superstar. It helps he has that it factor.

Breakker got a special entrance. He broke through chains like in the mythology of Hercules (the Greek god, not to be confused with the one half of Power & Glory). Breakker breaks down the chains and he proceeds to kick through a giant “X” emblem. Breakker is barks, but his black singlet was the least Steinerized gear he was worn to date. In the ring, Breakker still looks like a Steiner.

Breakker starts like a house of fire, as he manhandles Ciampa with power moves. Ciampa fights dirty to cut off Breakker, yet Breakker answers back. Ciampa is eventually able to cut off Breakker for the time being. Unable to fight back after missing a splash, Breakker is sent outside the ring. Ciampa follows with a flip dive over the ropes to the floor.

Sleeper hold applied by Ciampa is broken up by Breakker. Double down as they both struggle to their feet. They trade strikes in the middle of the ring. Breakker explodes with lariats and a Stinger splash. Breakker then slams Ciampa to the mat.

Breakker sets up for a Super Frankensteiner, but Cimapa crotches him on the turnbuckle. Breakker is trapped in the tree of woe, and Ciampa stomps on him. Nonetheless, Breakker fires up yet again to deliver a spinebuster. Breakker follows that with a standing moonsault. Ciampa kicks out at two and half.

Ciampa cuts off Breakker, and Ciampa shoves him off the turnbuckles. Ciampa hits a series of knee strikes, while blood starts to trickle down his face. Breakker explodes with a spear out of nowhere that rocks Ciampa.

They face off to trade strikes once more. Ciampa backs Breakker into a corner, and Breakker answers back with a Frankensteiner. Things went slightly awry when Ciampa counters a Breakker signature powerslam. Ciampa is able to drape Breakker on a rope, and Ciampa delivers a Willow’s Bell. Breakker kicks out.

Ciampa applys a half crab, but Breakker gets a rope break. The fight spills outside where Ciampa has pulled back mats to expose the concrete floor. Breakker gives Ciampa an Alabama slam through the announce desk.

Breakker delivers his powerslam finisher, but Ciampa grabs the bottom rope to break up the subsequent pinning attempt. Ciampa crotches Breakker, and Ciampa knees Breakker in the head several times. After a trifecta of knee strikes, Ciampa connects with The Fairy Tale Ending, but Breakker musters enough will to kick out for the best near fall of the night. Ciampa in disbelief.

They fight while perched on the turnbuckles. Breakker shoves off Ciampa, and Brekker jumps off the middle rope with a Rick Steiner flying bulldog. Breakker pulls down the straps on his singlet, and Breakker applies the Steiner Recliner. Ciampa taps out, and Breakker wins the match to become the new NXT Champion.

Pretty great show all things considered.

AJ Styles to appear at NXT New Year’s Evil

Posted on by Joseph Currier

AJ Styles is headed to NXT for another confrontation with Grayson Waller.

The feud between Styles and Waller will continue when Styles confronts Waller at NXT New Year’s Evil next Tuesday. It will be the second confrontation that Styles and Waller have had on NXT.

After their feud began with Waller mocking him on social media, Styles showed up on NXT last week for a segment with Waller. Waller then returned the favor by appearing on Raw last night. They’ve teased having a match against each other, but WWE hasn’t confirmed when or if that match will be happening.

Waller kicked off tonight’s NXT following his appearance on Raw. It led to a match where Waller defeated Odyssey Jones. Waller was originally supposed to face Dexter Lumis, but Lumis didn’t appear on tonight’s show.

Styles appeared on the video screen after Waller defeated Jones. Styles said Waller may have gotten the attention he wanted by showing up at Raw, but it’s the wrong kind of attention. Styles announced that he’ll be at New Year’s Evil next week. Styles said it’s time for Waller to put up or shut up.

The updated lineup for New Year’s Evil is listed below:

  • NXT Champion Tommaso Ciampa defends against Bron Breakker
  • NXT Women’s Champion Mandy Rose defends against Raquel Gonzalez and Cora Jade in a triple threat match
  • Title unification match: NXT North American Champion Carmelo Hayes vs. NXT Cruiserweight Champion Roderick Strong
  • Riddle & MSK (Wes Lee & Nash Carter) vs. Imperium (WALTER, Marcel Barthel & Fabian Aichner)
  • AJ Styles will confront Grayson Waller

The winner of Hayes vs. Strong will be the NXT North American Champion going forward.

Riddle & MSK vs. WALTER & Imperium set for NXT New Year’s Evil

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Riddle and WALTER will be on opposite sides of a six-man tag team match at NXT New Year’s Evil.

WWE has announced that Riddle & MSK (Wes Lee & Nash Carter) will face Imperium (WALTER & NXT Tag Team Champions Marcel Barthel & Fabian Aichner) at New Year’s Evil next Tuesday. The show is a special episode of NXT. It’s airing live on USA Network at 8 p.m. Eastern time.

Barthel & Aichner won the NXT Tag Team titles from MSK at Halloween Havoc this October. After MSK’s loss, Riddle was revealed as their shaman as they tried to get back on track and get back to the NXT Tag Team titles.

Last week, Riddle encouraged MSK to call out Imperium tonight and said he’d be on the show with them. Barthel & Aichner also teased that WALTER would be appearing. Riddle and WALTER were both on the show via video to set up next week’s six-man tag match. When MSK called out Imperium for an NXT Tag Team title rematch, WALTER said they weren’t worthy. Riddle then challenged Imperium to face him and MSK in a six-man tag match next week.

This will be WALTER’s first televised match in WWE since losing the NXT United Kingdom Championship to Ilja Dragunov at NXT TakeOver 36 this August. WALTER was also in action at WWE’s house show tour of the United Kingdom in November.

Riddle & Randy Orton are the current Raw Tag Team Champions. They’re set to defend their titles against The Street Profits at WWE Day 1 this Saturday.

Riddle won’t be the only main roster star at New Year’s Evil. WWE has also announced that AJ Styles, who is feuding with Grayson Waller, will be appearing at the show.

Here’s the updated New Year’s Evil card:

  • NXT Champion Tommaso Ciampa defends against Bron Breakker
  • NXT Women’s Champion Mandy Rose defends against Raquel Gonzalez and Cora Jade in a triple threat match
  • Title unification match: NXT North American Champion Carmelo Hayes vs. NXT Cruiserweight Champion Roderick Strong
  • Riddle & MSK (Wes Lee & Nash Carter) vs. Imperium (WALTER, Marcel Barthel & Fabian Aichner)
  • AJ Styles appears

Title unification match added to NXT New Year’s Evil

Posted on by Joseph Currier

WWE is set to unify the NXT North American Championship and NXT Cruiserweight Championship.

On NXT tonight, it was announced that North American Champion Carmelo Hayes and Cruiserweight Champion Roderick Strong will face off in a title unification match at New Year’s Evil. The show is a special episode of NXT. It’s airing live on USA Network on Tuesday, January 4.

Hayes agreed to the match after being challenged by Strong. Both have been calling themselves the real champion in NXT.

A contract signing for the title unification match will take place on NXT next Tuesday. The contract signing will be hosted by Wade Barrett.

Hayes vs. Strong is the third match that’s been announced for New Year’s Evil. The updated lineup for the event is listed below:

  • NXT Champion Tommaso Ciampa defends against Bron Breakker
  • NXT Women’s Champion Mandy Rose defends against Raquel Gonzalez and Cora Jade in a triple threat match
  • Title unification match: NXT North American Champion Carmelo Hayes vs. NXT Cruiserweight Champion Roderick Strong

Triple threat NXT Women’s title match set for New Year’s Evil

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Image: WWE

The NXT Women’s Championship will be on the line in a triple threat match at New Year’s Evil.

Mandy Rose will defend her NXT Women’s Championship against Raquel Gonzalez and Cora Jade at New Year’s Evil. It will be Rose’s first title defense since winning the championship from Gonzalez at Halloween Havoc this October.

Rose defeated Gonzalez at Halloween Havoc following interference by Dakota Kai. At NXT WarGames earlier this month, Gonzalez, Jade, Io Shirai & Kay Lee Ray defeated Rose, Gigi Dolin, Jacy Jayne & Kai in the women’s WarGames match.

Jade got the win at WarGames by pinning Jayne. Leading into WarGames, Jade defeated Rose in a non-title match.

Gonzalez defeated Kai in a street fight on NXT tonight. After the match, Gonzalez called out Rose and said she wanted an NXT Women’s Championship rematch. But Jade made her way out to the ring instead. Jade said Gonzalez deserves a rematch, but she wants a match against Rose too. Jade said she wants Rose and the rest of Toxic Attraction to pay for hurting her shoulder at WarGames.

Rose appeared on the video screen and said Gonzalez and Jade are both envious of her. Rose said that, since she’s in the holiday spirit, she’ll defend her NXT Women’s Championship against Gonzalez and Jade in a triple threat match at New Year’s Evil. Dolin and Jayne then attacked Gonzalez and Jade, putting Gonzalez through a table.

New Year’s Evil will be the first NXT episode of 2022. It’s airing live on USA Network on Tuesday, January 4. Here’s the updated card for the show:

  • NXT Champion Tommaso Ciampa defends against Bron Breakker
  • NXT Women’s Champion Mandy Rose defends against Raquel Gonzalez and Cora Jade in a triple threat match

Ciampa vs. Breakker NXT title match set for New Year’s Evil

Posted on by Joseph Currier

A date has been set for Tommaso Ciampa vs. Bron Breakker II.

WWE has announced that Ciampa will defend his NXT Championship against Breakker at New Year’s Evil. The special NXT episode is airing live on USA Network on Tuesday, January 4.

Ciampa and Breakker each have a win against each other heading into the title match. Ciampa retained the NXT Championship against Breakker at Halloween Havoc, but Breakker pinned Ciampa to win the men’s WarGames match at NXT WarGames.

Breakker challenged Ciampa to an NXT Championship match after getting the win at WarGames. Last week, Ciampa attacked Breakker following Breakker’s win against Roderick Strong. Ciampa laid out Breakker by giving him Willow’s Bell on top of the NXT Championship belt.

During a promo segment on tonight’s NXT, Ciampa said Breakker has earned a title rematch — but he exposed Breakker’s inexperience when they faced off at Halloween Havoc. Ciampa said Breakker isn’t ready to be a champion in his NXT. Ciampa slapped Breakker and told him reality is going to hit at New Year’s Evil.

Breakker responded by picking up Ciampa for a press slam, but he put Ciampa down instead of hitting it. Breakker told Ciampa that blood is in the water — and this shark is going to eat Ciampa alive at New Year’s Evil.

New Year’s Evil will also feature a triple threat NXT Women’s Championship match with Mandy Rose defending her title against Raquel Gonzalez and Cora Jade.