Tag: ricky saints

WWE NXT live results: Last Man Standing title match

Posted on by Chris Aiken

A big title match headlines WWE NXT tonight with Ricky Saints set to defend against Trick Williams.

In a rematch from Halloween Havoc, Saints and Williams will face off with the NXT Championship on the line. This time, the matchup will have a Last Man Standing stipulation. Saints retained in their first meeting — but Williams has refused to accept his loss and has kept his rivalry with Saints alive.

Another title match will go down on the episode with men’s WWE Speed Champion El Grande Americano battling Jasper Troy, who earned the title shot by winning a number one contender’s tournament.

We’ll hear from NXT Women’s Champion Tatum Paxley, who has continued to be a target of former champ Jacy Jayne and Fatal Attraction.

Plus, Tavion Heights will be in action against Josh Briggs.

Tonight’s show will finish setting the stage for NXT Gold Rush 2025, a two-week special that begins next week. Join us for live coverage starting at 8 p.m. Eastern.

**********

Opening the show is a tribute to the Unites States military for Veterans Day.

NXT is back on the air from a sound stage at the Performance Center in Orlando in front of a live studio audience.

Hype for the last man standing title match later from the commentary duo of Vic Joseph and Booker T.

Kicking off the show in the sound stage is the entrance of The Culling. NXT Women’s Champion Tatum Paxley is joined by Izzi Dame, alomg with Shawn Spears and Niko Vance. They get in the ring for community theater, which sets up a women’s title match for Gold Rush.

Paxley defends at Gold Rush against Jacy Jayne in a blow-off to their feud. Jayne talks Paxley into a title match, much to the chagrin of Izzi Dame.

Before Jayne and Fatal Influence come out to interrupt Paxley and company, Paxley was giddy and excited as heck to be the champ. Paxley says she still gets goosebumps. Paxley’s mood takes a turn, as she gets upset with herself about last week. She should have listened to Dame.

Dame helps to lift Paxley’s spirits. Dame goes on to tell Paxley they want her to remain the goofy and dancing champion they have come to love, but only if she stops handing out random opportunities. Paxley admits to the flaw, and says she will do better. She then marks out for spinning the wheel in a comedy bit. Paxely is soon interrupted by the Fatal Influence trio.

Jacy Jayne is flanked by Lainey Reid and Fallon Henley. Jayne tries being empathetic with Paxley, as Jayen also tries to paint her as a fighting champion. Jayne was trying to talk Paxley into another title bout. Dame comes again trying to talk sense into Paxley, as they just talked about something like this moments ago. Paxley tells Dame she will be more careful… after New York. The match is on for Gold Rush.

El Grande Americano vs. Jasper Troy for the WWE Speed Championship

While Troy is getting a monster push, I would still consider the result an upset. Troy goes over clean, and he wins the Speed title from El Grande Americano. In the final minute of the match, Americano is handed a foreign object by his luchador henchmen, and he puts it in his singlet. He then drops in plain sight of the referee. Troy then batters him and executes a Bossman slam, followed by a pinfall.

Match result: Jasper Troy defeated El Grande Americano to win the WWE Speed Championship.

— Thea Hail is backstage for a skit with Joe Hendry, who is in her corner tonight for a match that is up next after a commercial break.

— After the break is another skit. Sean Legacy is chatting with NXT General Manager Ava. In walks Sol Ruca and Zaria. Although Zaria cautions her on coming back so soon after her supposed injury, Ruca wants a title match at Gold Rush.

Thea Hail (with Joe Hendry) vs. Alba Fyre (with Chelsea Green and Ethan Page)

The bout goes through a commercial break. Hail is down selling as the show cuts to a break, after Fyre hit her with a tope suicida. Green distracted Hail at ringside to set up the spot. Fyre works over Hail, but Hail makes a comeback after the break.

Green gets involved again as Hail is going to the top rope. Hail fights her off. Page soon jumps on the apron to interfere. That leads to a spot where Green inadvertently slaps Page, after Joe Hendry posts Page.

Fyre gets a near fall on Page after a superkick, and Fyre goes for her Gory Bomb finisher. Hail counters into a Code Red, and she pins Fyre to win the match.

Match result: Thea Hail defeated Alba Fyre via pinfall.

— NXT Women’s Champion Tatum Paxley is in the trainer’s room for a skit with NXT Champion Ricky Saints. The Culling usher Paxlet away, and there some foreshadowing with Saints.

— “NXT Spotlight” with NXT Women’s North American Champion Blake Monroe is a skit with Monroe interviewing herself. This was ridiculous. Monroe is talking with her dark side, and her dark side will be there with her at Gold Rush.

— Sarch Schreiber interviews Jordynne Grace, and Grace cuts a great promo vowing to win the TNA Knockouts title at Gold Rush over Kelani Jordan.

— Je’Von Evans is in the ring for a monologue in front of the studio audience. Moments ago, Evans was on the phone with TNA X-Division Champion Leon Slater. Evans says he will put Legacy on the video screen for this promo. Slater then links up via video chat with Evans, as Evans announces they will challenge Darkstate for the NXT Tag Team Championship at Gold Rush.

With Legacy still on the screen, the lights go dark in the sound stage. Out comes the four members of Darkstate. They surround the ring looking to ambush Evans, who stands his ground. Evans calls them foolish, as Slater was not the UK on video. Slater is there in Orlando, and he runs down to join Evans in going two-on-four against Darkstate. Nonetheless, the two babyfaces run wild on Darkstate. Slater and Evans both do dive over the ropes to the floor. This angle was silly, but at least they put the babyfaces over strong.

— Trick Williams gives TNA Knockouts Champion Kelani Jordan a pep talk, while Jordan says she is picking Williams to win tonight.

— Fallon Henley (with Jacy Jayne & Lainey Reid) vs. Skylar Raye in the first round of the WWE Speed Championship Tournament.

Henley won after catching Raye with a Rocker Dropper. Raye got a video package before the match, as they put over he being the LFG winner. Henley still beat her convincingly.

Match result: Fallon Henley defeated Skylar Raye via pinfall to advance in the tournament.

Tavion Heights vs. Josh Briggs

Briggs strikes as the bell sounds, and Heights eats a big boot. Briggs shows a ton of fire, even as Heights tries to fire up. Briggs hammers Heights as the show goes through a commercial break.

Briggs with a cheap shot to cut off a Heights rally. Nevertheless, Heights soon makes a comeback and executes a belly-to-belly suplex to pin Briggs for a three count.

Match result: Tavion Heights defeated Josh Briggs via pinfall.

— Ava warns Myles Borne about interfering in the main event, and she even begs him. Wren Sinclair and Evolve Women’s Champion Kendal Grey are also with Ava. Up walks Lainey Reid, who slaps Grey across the face. They have a pull-apart brawl, as this seems to set up a natural match-up.

Ricky Saints vs. Trick Williams in a last man standing match for the NXT Championship

Weapons are used early on, as the match begins with a tightrope spot playing off a kendo stick. Metal folding chairs are soon used, along with metal trash cans. The ring steps are also used as a prop.

Saints ribs are taped, and Trick targets them with shots from the trash can. Saints is also dropped on a trash can, and he crushes it on impact. Trick is in control as he taunts Saints and the audience.

Trick ties Saints in the ropes, leaving Saints defenseless for a shots from a kendo stick. However, the ropes are too tight, and Saints cannot stayed tied up. He sells big anyway. Saints goes on to feed his back from a chair shot. Saints sells big like Trick caught him on the head with the chair shot.

Taunting Saints, Trick goes to hit Saints with a trash can lid. Saints blocks it and whacks Trick with the trash can lid instead. Trick takes several shots from the lid before falling outside the ring. The show cuts to a commercial break with Trick on rubber legs.

During the break, Saints is trapped in the ring skirt with a trash can over his head. Trick hits him repeatedly with the kendo stick while ads play throughout picture-in-picture.

On the floor outside ring, Trick measures for a running knee lift. Saints sidesteps him, and Trick goes crashing through a gimmicked section of the barricade.

Double down before they both square off again in the ring. Saints peppers Trick with shots from the kendo stick. Saints with receipts from earlier in the match. Trick was bleeding from the side of his head at this point.

Saints calls from a chair, only to have the it kicked back into his face. Nonetheless, Saints gives Trick several chair shots. Austin-Rock chair shot spot. Trick still answers the count by getting to his feet before the ten count. Spear by Saints, and Trick is again barely able to beat the count. But Trick does, as he gets to his feet.

Saints is sent crashing outside on a pile of debris. Trick picks up the steps and hits Saints with the metal prop. Saints still answers the count, only for Trick to land his leaping knee strike. Saints somehow manages to break the count.

Saints is placed under the steps as Trick tries to hold him down. Saints escapes and shoves Trick off the steps. Saints goes charging towards Trick, only for Trick to sidestep him. Saints crashes through a gimmicked wall. Saints answers the count, and comes back on fire.

They brawl through the crowd in attendance. Trick stand atop the barricade as he taunts the crowd. Saints out of nowhere flew in with spear, and they take a bump on the announce desk. The desk explodes into pieces beneath them. It was a helluva stunt. Saints appears to be bleeding from the mouth.

The bloody combatants both trying rising to their feet. Saints gets to his feet, and he shoves down Trick to win the match. Trick could not answer the ten count. Saints is the last man standing, thus retaining the title.

Match result: NXT Champion Ricky Saint defeated Trick Williams in a last man standing match to retain his title.

— As the show is going off the air, the cliffhanger is the entrance of Oba Femi. He returns.

Next WWE NXT Championship match booked, stipulation set

Posted on by Bryan Rose

The next NXT Championship match is official.

After a show-long storyline saw Trick Williams and Ricky Saints brawl around the WWE Performance Center, Ava finally stopped the attack by announcing that the two will meet in a Last Man Standing match in two weeks on the November 11 edition of NXT.

The start of Tuesday’s show saw an irate Williams storm into the WWE Performance Center and demand another shot at the NXT Championship, saying he beat Saints. Ava came out and claimed otherwise. Saints emerged and ran down to the ring as the two brawled. After two hours, they emerged during the main event, still brawling. Both ended up crashing through a wall near ringside. That was when Ava came out and declared that the two will meet in two weeks.

Following his TNA Championship loss at Bound for Glory, Williams called his shot for Saints’ NXT Championship. The two met at Halloween Havoc, but it was Saints that emerged as the winner.

NXT (November 11)

  • Last Man Standing for NXT Championship: Ricky Saints defends against Trick Williams
  • WWE Speed Championship: El Grande Americano defends against Jasper Troy

WWE NXT Halloween Havoc live results: Ricky Saints vs. Trick Williams

Posted on by Jeff Moss

The NXT Championship is on the line as part of tonight’s WWE NXT Halloween Havoc from the Findlay Toyota Center in Prescott Valley, Arizona.

Ricky Saints will put the title on the line against former champion Trick Williams in Saints’ first defense since defeating Oba Femi at September’s No Mercy.

NXT Women’s Champion Jacy Jayne will defend against Tatum Paxley in search of her fifth title defense. Paxley is looking for her first NXT title reign.

NXT Tag Team Champions Matt & Jeff Hardy will defend against DarkState in a Broken Rules match.

NXT North American Champion Ethan Page will defend against AAA star El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr. in a Day of the Dead match while Zaria defends the NXT Women’s North American Championship for partner Sol Ruca against Blake Monroe.

A tag team match featuring TNA X-Division Champion Leon Slater & Je’Von Evans against Mr. Iguana & La Parka rounds out the card.

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It’s the event that brought you such classics as Van Hammer vs Doug Sommers (1991) and Hollywood Hogan vs Warrior (1998). From the makers of NXT, it’s Halloween Havoc!

The legally mandated footage of wrestlers arriving to work was shown (and not very spookily, I might add), this time updated with Blake Monroe getting her makeup put on! Seriously though, the set looked very cool and it was fun to see all the costumes in the crowd, including Vic Joseph’s sweet Riddler outfit.

Je’Von Evans & Leon Slater vs. Mr. Iguana & La Parka

Evans and TNA X-Division Champion Slater became allies during the NXT/TNA Showdown. The duo was then challenged by Mr. Iguana and La Parka. Because what’s Halloween without a dancing skeleton? Truly though, with La Parka and Mr Iguana on the same team and Evans and Slater bouncing around, I don’t even care why this match is happening, I’m just stoked it is.

Evans and La Parka started things off, trading wristlocks while the crowd traded chants. La Parka startled Evans with a punch in the face followed by some dancing and a spinning heel kick. Evans used the top rope to land a hurricanrana and the two collided in the center of the ring.

Iguana tagged in and so did Slater, but Slater didn’t really know what to do with the half-man-half-lizard. Slater caught him with a bak kick, but Iguana hit a headscissor and the two wrestled a fast chain of holds. Iguana offered up a Code of Honor for some reason and Slater threw him into the corner.

Iguana went up top, but Slater caught him for a slam. Evans tagged in and the two double teamed Iguana before mocking La Parka’s dancing. La Parka tagged in and hit a back breaker on Evans before sending them both out of the ring. Iguana tossed his, well, iguana at them and then dove through the ropes to take out both men.

La Parka then hit a moonsault from the top of the ringpost to take all three to the ground. He threw Evans back into the ring and went for a pin, but only a two count. La Parka hoisted Evans up for a gut buster, but again just a two count. Iguana tagged in and wrapped Evans in a grapevine. La Parka tagged in and hit a dropkick to Evan’s, according to Vic Joseph, “rump.”

Evans used the ropes, bouncing off of them to land a snap suplex on La Parka. La Parka cut off a tag attempt with as suplex of his own. Iguana and Slater tagged in and Slater hit a really high dropkick, a spinning DDT and then a spinning cutter, but Iguana kicked out at two.

Slater tagged in Evans and they took turns splashing Iguana in the corner. Evans stayed legal and suplexed Iguana. He went to work the leg, but Iguana threw him off and pulled him down into an armbar. Evans shifted and picked him up into a bucklebomb.

Iguana scurried to tag in La Parka who cleaned house, delivering a flapjack to Evans and dancing side slam to Slater. Slater popped up and threw some chops, with La Parka responding in kind. Evans tagged himself in and delivered a superkick, sending La Parka back into Iguana.

That counted as a tag and Evans started throwing chops at him. Slater tagged in and Iguana demanded to face both at the same time, using his iguana as a weapon. Iguana walked the ropes and hit a headscissor on Evans, which brought in La Parka to take out Slater.

Evans hoisted Iguana on his shoulders, but Iguana reversed it. Slater tagged in and La Parka charged, but Slater sent him to the outside and then flipped over the ropes onto both La Parka and Iguana. La Parka got back in the ring and Slater hit a crossbody from the top turnbuckle, followed by a frog splash from Evans. La Parka kicked out at two though.

Evans and Slater got ready to take out La Parka, but Iguana rose from the ropes an eye-poked Evans with his Iguana. That left him open for Slater who knocked him back and then dragged in La Parka. Slater Picked up the iguana, but that left him open for La Parka to deliver a slam for another two count.

Slater bailed to the outside and La Parka hoisted Evans for a staaaaaaalling suplex. La Parka then went up top and Iguana followed, but Evans popped up throwing hands. They shoved him off the turnbuckle and Slater arrived to punch Iguana. Iguana ducked and he took out La Parka.

Evans and Iguana went for springboard cutters at the same time and missed each other. La Parka got caught by a cutter and sent to the outside. In the RIng, Slater hit a splash on Iguana and got the pin for the victory.

Match Result: Je’Von Evans & Leon Slater defeated Mr. Iguana & La Parka

That, my friends, was a hell of an opener. The crowd was hot for the whole thing and there was no indication who might win at any point. Really cool stuff, Evans and Slater were made to tag with each other. Five Mike Awesome vs Vampiro (2000) matches out of five.

-Backstage Ethan Page was interviewed. He said that it wasn’t personal with Dr. Wagner, he was just trying to keep the train rolling and Wagner cost him a chance to become a double champion. He called Wagner a “Dangerous intruder” in NXT and promised to defend it against him. He then ate a bunch of buttertarts and drank some maple syrup (not really but you could tell he was thinking about it).

-Zaria and Sol Ruca were shown in the back, with Zaria mentioning that Ruca would be allowed to be at ringside for the Womens North American title coming up. Izzi Dame and Tatum Paxley interrupted them to say that Paxley will win her match tonight and Zaria won’t. So there.

Day of the Dead Match: NXT North American Champion Ethan Page vs AAA Latin American Champion El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr.

It’s a battle of geographical champions as Ethan Page, the NXT North American Champion defends his title against the AAA Latin American Champion, Dr. Wagner Jr. in a Day of the Dead Match. Apparently that means anything goes (but the decision must take place inside the ring). Personally, I hope that means the winner gets to ressurect one person from the land of the dead, but that’s probably unlikely. Page’s mouth got him into trouble when he ran down AAA, summoning the Dr. to challenge him to this match.

The match began and they turned on blacklights for some reason, making the match look like a college dorm. Page and Wagner threw stiff strikes, selling that they do not like each other. The fight moved to the outside and Wagner hit a big hurricanrana on Page in from onf the announce table.

Wagner went under the ring and grabbed a chair, smacking Page in the back with it. Wagner put Page up on the announce table and climbed the top turnbuckle. Page scurried back into the ring, but Wagner turned and hit a missile dropkick.

WAgner called for a piledriver, but Page flipped it and sent Wagner to the corner. Wagner flipped that and wrapped up Page in a package and then set up the chair against his rump (which was quickly becoming the word of the night) for a missile dropkick.

Wagner went back under the ring and came up with a garbage can and lid. He hit Page with the can and lifted him for a powerbomb, but Page used the ropes to kick it off. Wagner hit him with the trash can again and then climbed up top. Page hit him with the lid of the can and then threw him onto the can proper.

Page hulked up and mercilessly beat Wagner with the trash can lid. Wagner started throwing jabs and Page started throwing chairs into his midsection before smashing his head on the ringpost. They moved outside and Page hit Wagner’s head off the steps until Wagner reversed it and went under the ring for a table.

Wagner lost focus and Page tripped him into the upturned table leg. Wagner hit his throat and Page pulled the table up into the ring. Page sent Wagner into the steps and delivered a chair shot. He threw Wagner back into the ring and set up a chair between the ropes, legs out. He did the same in the opposite corner and then smacked him in the back with a third chair.

Wagner wailed in pain as Page sent him into the chairs, ending with a sidewalk slam on a set up chair. Somehow, Wagner kicked out at two.

Page started messing with Wagner’s mask, ripping it in half, exposing the upper part of Wagner’s head. That powered Wagner up and he shot Page a look that was so full of rage, Page was taken fully aback.

Wagner went to town on Page, landing chops and lariats. He stunned him with an elbow and a foot to the chin. He hit a facebreaker, but Page barely kicked out at two. Page slumped against the ropes and Wagner dragged him by the hair to the corner. He started throwing kicks and punches to Page before grabbing a second garbage can (why do they store those there?).

Wagner went up top and went coast to coast, driving the can into Page’s face. Inexplicably, Page kicked out at two.

Wagner got Page up on his shoulders and Page started messing with the mask again. Wagner got distracted and that allowed Page to hit the Ego’s Edge onto the trash can. Wagner somehow kicked out at two.

Page set up a chair and put a dazed Wagner up on the turnbuckle. He set up to throw him onto the chair, but Wagner reversed it and superana’d Page, who’s head hit the chair on the way down. Wagner hit a moonsault to put Page away, but he kicked out at two.

Wagner grabbed the Official Slim Jim table and set it up to knock Page’s head against it. He put Page on the top turnbuckle, but Page fought him off. Wagner came back, but Page slipped through is legs and climbed back up to turn Wagner’s mask so he couldn’t see.

While he was fixing it, Page threw powder in his face. He grabbed Wagner and hit a cutter from the top rope through the Official Slim Jim Table. Page made the pin and got the win to retain the North American Title.

Match Result: Ethan Page defeated El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr.

Man, I love luchadores! That was an awesome match that had me very worried when they turned on the blacklight. It was brutal and told a great story. Seven Rick Rude vs Masahiro Chono (1992) matches out of six.

-Backstage Kelani Jordan, TNA Knockouts Champion and Jordynne Grace, in a Velma costume, discussed Jordan’s bad attitude. Grace told her that she’s got a great idea for Jordan’s next challenger: Her. Grace slapped Jordan and she stormed out of her own locker room.

NXT Women’s North American Championship match: Zaria vs Blake Monroe

So, the NXT Women’s North American Champion Sol Ruca suffered a leg injury on Smackdown, when ZaRuca challenged Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles. For reasons only wrestling understands, her partner and best friend Zaria will step up here to defend the title against a very mean Blake Monroe. I asked my boss if I hurt my leg, could I make Mark in the mail room do my job for me and he looked at me blankly then walked away. So it goes.

Zaria had an awesome La Parka costume on and Ruca handed her the belt as they made their way to the ring. Monroe was also there dressed as an “Ex-wife.” Get it?

Before the bell could even ring, Monroe jumped Zaria. Zaria quickly recovered and started laying shots into Monroe. After a pump kick, she tried to end it early with a pin, but Monroe kicked out. Zaria lifted Monroe and dropped her face-first onto the turnbuckle.

They battled near the ropes and Monroe grabbed Zaria’s arm and pulled it through. She then hit an armbreaker and started slamming Zaria’s limb against the mad. Monroe then sent her shoulder first into the corner. Monroe twisted Zaria’s arm behind her back and started punching. She then used the ropes to hyper extend Zaria’s arm over the top.

Monroe hit a dropkick and went for a pin, but Zaria kicked out. Monroe put on a bridge armbar, bending Zaria’s arm back over her body. The ref broke it up and Monroe went for a DDT, but Zaria backdropped her and threw a clothesline.

Zaria hit a pump kick and belly-to-back suplexed Monroe. She hoisted Monroe onto her shoulders, but Monroe squirmed out of it and crawled to the corner. Zaria grabbed her form the corner and torture racked her. Monroe countered it into an arm bar and Zaria screamed in pain.

Zaria rolled it and picked up Monroe for a sit out powerbomb. The two got to their feet and started throwing shots at each other. Monroe ducked a larait and threw a slingblade. Both went for a clothesline and knocked each other out of the ring.

Zaria, clutching her arm, charged Monroe who moved, sending Zaria into the steps, shoulder first. Ruca then shoved Zaria into the ring, which apparently popped her shoulder back in. She leapt into the ring and threw multiple suplexes and a spear at Monroe.

Zaria went for an F5, but Monroe countered on the way down into another armbar. She worked it almost all the way back, but Zaria rolled it over into a pin. Monroe leapt to her feet and hit a running knee, but Zaria kicked out at two.

Monroe coyly pulled a hair pick from her gear, but got caught with a spear when she approached Zaria to use it. Monroe rolled out of the ring and Zaria followed. Monroe kicked the crutch out from underneath Ruca and Zaria slammed her about it.

Zaria went to make sure Ruca was ok, but Monroe caught her from behind and hit a Glamour Shot on the outside. Rolling Zaria back into the ring, she hit a second Glamour Shot and got the pin 1,2,3 to become the new NXT Women’s North American Champion.

Match Result: Blake Monroe defeated Zaria

That was decent. Monroe looked good, but Zaria looked better. She really brought the power. There were some shaky acting moments from Zaria and Ruca, but that’s a pretty minor beef. Four-point-five Lex Luger vs Meng (1995) matches out of five.

-Backstage, Lash Legend bullied the Evolve Women’s Champion, Kendal Grey. So, they made a match for next Tuesday. It’ll be on NXT, it’s not like in a park or something.

NXT Women’s Champion Jacy Jayne vs Tatum Paxley

The entire Culling accompanied Paxley to the ring for this title bout. Paxley won a 20-Woman Battle Royal to become the No. 1 Contender to Jayne’s NXT Women’s title. Jayne has run the division since beating Stephanie Vaquer for the title and she will summon all the strength and swagger of a 1996 Shawn Micheals to keep it.

Jayne began her fifth title defence with some schmutz on her face, but she didn’t let that stop her from tossing Paxley around the ring. Jayne swept the leg and twisted Paxley’s arm, throwing her back to the mat every time she popped up.

Jayne hit a senton and piefaced Paxley, calling her a loser. She tried a second one, but Paxley moved. When Paxley went to bounce off the ropes, Jayne grabbed her ankle. Jayne went for a crucific, but Paxley avoided it. Paxley hit a standing splash for a two count.

Paxley put Jayne up for a back slide, putting pressure on her head and neck. Jayne kicked her in the face about it and Paxley responded with a dropkick. Paxley hit a step up insiguri and Jayne left the ring. Paxley went for a baseball slide, but Jayne pulled the ring apron and she slipped underneath. When Jayne went to look for her, she was gone.

Paxley approached from the rear, taking out Fallon Henley, but Jayne caught her and slingshotted her face into the exposed steel of the underside of the ring. Jayne threw her back into the ring, but could only get a two count.

Jayne began pummelling Paxley in the corner, stomping her face and neck, Lainey Reid choked Paxley behind the ref’s back, but Jayne could only get a two. Jayne wrapped Paxley’s neck with her legs and twisted, trying to get her to pass out.

Paxley rolled out of the hold and started throwing wild chops. Jayne put a stop to it with a hammer of a clothesline. She drove elbows into Paxley’s traps then set in a headlock, twisting Paxley so she couldn’t breathe.

Jayne threw Paxley into the corner and charged, but Paxley dodged it and tried for a sleeper. Jayne got out of it but Paxley hit a belly-to-back suplex followed by some lariats and a step-up kick. Paxley landed a fisherwoman’s suplex and climbed the turnbuckles.

Jayne leapt up and knocked the ropes, causing Paxley to fall. Jayne climbed up with her and hit a super neckbreaker from the top turnbuckle. She was about to get the three count, when Shawn Spears put Paxley’s foot on the ropes.

Fatal Influence and The Culling started fighting on the outside, distracting the ref who ejected both factions from ringside. Jayne looked concerned to be left alone as Paxley rolled her up for a two count. Jayne hit a pump kick, but Paxley also kicked out at two.

Jayne looked to put Paxley away with some stiff shots, but Paxley turned it around for a near fall. Jayne rolled her into another near fall. Paxley escaped to the corner and Jayne went for a cannonball, but Paxley moved and hit a Rolling Encore. She scampered to the top rope for a 450 splash but Jayne kicked out at two.

Paxley tried for Cemetary Drive, but Jayne hit her with her knee and then hit a cutter through the ropes. Paxley lured Jayne out of the ring and flapjacked her on the ring apron (the most Halloweeny part of the ring!).

Back in the ring, the exchanged forearms and punches until they both tried a double dropkick and knocked each other down. At this point, the Culling came back and Dame grabbed the title belt. She went to hit what seemed like Paxley, but Jayne caught Dame first. Paxley used that to hit Cemetary Drive and pin Jayne to become the new NXT Women’s Champion!

Match Result: Tatum Paxley defeated Jacy Jayne

That was a surprise! I could have done without all the interference on the outside, but that the took the belt off of Jayne is genuinely shocking. Really hard hitting match too. 92 Buff Bagwell vs David Flair (2000) matches out of 100.

-Backstage, a devilish GM Ava talked to Miles Borne about his beef with Josh Briggs. Tavion Heights showed up with his own Briggs issues. Ava suggested that Borne and Heights fight each other next week. So no one gets what they want. Except Josh Briggs maybe. Perfect management from Ava.

Broken Rules Match: NXT Tag Team Champions The Hardy Boyz vs DarkState

The Hardys are the current NXT and TNA Tag Title holders and DarkState is
 creepy? Angry? Weird? I can honestly never get a read on those guys. Anyway, after retiring the Dudley Boys, The Hardys were challenged to this Showdown rematch against DarkState. However, DarkState’s weirdness has the Hardys saying “hold my beer” and unleashing their Broken alter egos. Brother Nero and Broken Matt made this a Broken Rules match, which I can only pray to the Wrestling Gods will take place on the Hardy Compound.

(sigh) It did not.

Apparently, “Broken Rules” just meant that everyone was legal and “anything goes,” but the decision must take place in the ring. So kinda like a Day of the Dead match, I guess?

Anyway, it was great to see the Hardy’s emerge from the Lake of Reincarnation, even if the match didn’t take place there.

To start the match, Dion Lennox and Osiris Griffin jumped the Hardys. The Broken Brothers fought back though, hitting their greatest hits early. Matt hit a side effect on Lennox and Nero followed with a splash. The other two members of DarkState, Cutler James and Saquon Sugars jumped in and the Hardys fell victim to the damned numbers game.

Sugars tossed in a couple of chairs, but the Hardy’s intercepted them and started swinging. They ran off Sugars and James and beat on Griffin and Lennox. Jeff aka Brother Nero, sent Griffin to the outside while Matt wrapped Lennox in a chair and hit a Twist of Fate.

James pulled Matt out of the ring and he and Sugars kept him busy until Nero came at them with a chair. Matt grabbed a ladder and took out Sugars and James with it. Matt hung them up on the barricade and Nero leapt off the stairs with a double clothesline.

Things were so chaotic, I didn’t even see Nero suplex Griffin through an Official Slim Jim Table until it was replayed!

Nero set up a second Official Slim Jim Table while Matt tossed Sugars into the barricades. Nero grabbed a second Official Slim Jim Table and set it up at a 45 degree angle from the first. Matt put James on the first Official Slim Jim Table and Nero put Sugars on the second.

Matt climbed a ladder and Nero climbed the ring post. Nero hit a swanton and Matt hit a legdrop, putting Sugars and James through both Official Slim Jim Tables!

Lennox and Griffin came back to life and tossed the Hardy’s back into the ring. Lenos threw a trash can lid and a couple of kendo sticks into the ring while Griffin brought the can and chairs. Lennox hit both Hardys with a kendo stick while Griffin set up a chair in the corner.

Griffin scoop slammed Nero on the can and shoved him out of the ring. Lennox brought in a ladder and threw Matt onto it in the corner with a powerslam. Griffin and Lennox then hit a 3D on Matt, but Matt kicked out at two. Nero leapt back into the ring double fisting kendo sticks and chased Lennox and Griffin off.

Lennox landed a clothesline on Matt on the outside and tossed him into the crowd. He grabbed Nero and bounced his head off the ring apron (the Hardy-est part of the ring!). He then dropkicked Matt through the barricade. Nero staggered to his feet just in time to be speared by Griffin through the adjoining barricade.

Everyone staggered back to the ring and Griffin started a beatdown on Matt. Nero made the save with a cutter and Matt hit a Twist of Fate. Nero went up top and landed a swanton, but Lennox broke up the pin. The Hardy’s hit a Plot Twist, but Lennox was able to kick out at two.

Nero rolled out of the ring and cleared the pieces of the Official Slim Jim Tables out of the way at ringside. He Set up a 20ft ladder while Matt brought over another two Official Slim Jim Tables. They set them up at the base of the un-sponsored ladder and laid out Griffin. Nero climbed the ladder and hit a swanton from the top, but Griffin moved, sending Nero himself through the Official Slim Jim Tables!

Matt got together with Lennox in the ring, but Lennox hit a spinebuster and set up an Official Slim Jim Table in the middle of the ring. He laid out Matt and climbed the turnbuckle. Matt popped up though and grabbed him, trying to hit a superplex. Griffin broke it up at the last minute and he and Matt traded punches.

Nero crawled back into the ring as Matt sent Lennox outside onto the Official Slim Jim Table Debris. Griffin grabbed Matt and hung him up in a tree of woe while Lennox grabbed Nero and made him watch. Lennox scaled the 20ft ladder and Griffing got Nero up onto his shoulders. They executed a Super Doomsday Device through the Official Slim Jim Table and Lennox pinned Nero to become the new NXT Tag Team Champions!

Match Result: DarkState defeated The Broken Hardys

Jeff Hardy. If you’re reading this, please stop doing these things to yourself. As a person of similar age, I’m genuinely concerned for your well being. Aside from that though, that was one of the most hardcore hardcore-style matches I’ve seen in a long time. 27 Chamber of Horrors (1991) matches out of 10.

-Backstage, Je’von Evans and Leon Slater decided they should take a run at the NXT Tag Team Titles.

NXT Champion Ricky Saints vs Trick Williams

Williams is a two-time NXT Champion and one-time TNA World Champion, who could make history by becoming the second person ever to win the NXT Title three times (Samoa Joe was the other one, who vacated the title in 2021 just before the “NXT 2.0” era). Saints however beat the monsterous Oba Femi to gain the NXT championship and if he can beat that behemoth of a man, then he can probably beat anyone.

After the introductions (and a quick check of the World Series score) Williams went right for Saints, jumping him and throwing him to the outside. Saints scrambed back in the ring and Williams shouted that he’ll be going through the announce table soon.

Williams hit a dropkick and tried to get Saints to the outside again, but Saints scrambled back into the ring. Williams followed and scoop slammed him. Williams threw him outside again and bashed Saints’ head against the announce table. He then removed all the monitors and such, but couldn’t find Saints when he went to fulfill the prophecy.

Saints appeared in the ring and Williams charged, but Saints was waiting this time and laid him out in the corner. He followed him around the ring with chops then landed an armdrag. Williams fought back, sending Saints into the ropes, but took too long mugging for the crowd and Saints grabbed him and sent him to the outside.

When Saints went to get him, Williams landed a massive lariat and tried to put him through the table. Saints fought him off, but Williams poked the eye and threw him into the barricade. Williams bounced Saints off the announce table and threw him back into the ring for a side kick, busting Saints open.

Saints staggered to the corner and Williams delivered a flapjack for a two count. The ref checked on Saints, but Williams wasn’t waiting. He grabbed a front facelock and Saints pushed him into the corner. Saints set Williams up on the to turnbuckle and the two threw hands. Saints dropped back, and Williams hit a blockbuster from the top rope.

Williams went back to the face lock, trying to get Saints to pass out. He suplexed him once, twice, but on thrice, Saints reversed it into a suplex of his own. Williams hit a neckbreaker for a cover, but Saints kicked out.

Williams continued with the facelocks, but Saints fought out and hit a side slam on a surprised Williams. Saints threw some elbows in the corner then went Undertaker Old School and hit a Russian Leg Sweep. Williams came back up and Saints threw lariats and neckbreakers, but only getting a two count.

Saints took a moment to compose himself, but it gave Williams a chance to get him into a Boston Crab. Saints willed himself to the ropes, but Williams pulled him back to the center of the ring. Williams hit a Rock Bottom and then a Book End but only got a two count.

Saints tried to steal one with an inside cradle, but Williams turned it into a powerslam. Williams started paintbrushing Saints, but Saints went for a crucific into a crossface. Williams managed to make it to the ropes to break the hold.

Williams rolled out of the ring and grabbed the NXT Title belt. Saints hit him with a baseball slide, but WIlliams got a big boot and grabbed Saints for a Book End through the announce table. He quickly got Saints back into the ring and hit a Trick Shot, but somehow, Saints kicked out at two.

Saints got to his feet and started stomping Williams, throwing forearms and elbows. Williams got to his feet and hit a pump kick. He hoisted Saints onto his shoulders, but Saints got out of it and hit a spear off the ropes followed but a top rope tornado DDT and quickly got the 1-2-3 to retain the NXT Championship.

Match Result: Ricky Saints defeated Trick Williams

I have to say, Williams manhandled Saints in that match. Saints is a great scrappy underdog, but Williams beat him pillar to post. I’m going to have to give this one 36 Alex Wright vs Steve McMichael (1997) matches out of 40.

Overall though, a really good night of wrestling. Lots of different styles of matches, exciting finishes and surprising title changes. Everything one could want from a Havoc filled Halloween. 10 out of 10 Bill Kazmaier Vs Oz (1991) matches!

WWE NXT live results: Halloween Havoc go-home show

Posted on by Chris Aiken

Ricky Saints and Trick Williams sign the contract for their Halloween Havoc match tonight on NXT.

The NXT Championship will be on the line this Saturday when Saints and Williams clash at Halloween Havoc. It’s the first title defense for Saints, who defeated Oba Femi last month to become champion. Tonight’s official contract signing is their last interaction before the PLE.

Sol Ruca has been scheduled to defend her NXT Women’s North American Championship against Blake Monroe on Saturday, but the status of that match is now up in the air due to a potential injury Ruca suffered on SmackDown. Ruca will address the fans tonight and give an update on her condition.

TNA gold will be up for grabs on the episode with X-Division Champion Leon Slater defending against Stacks.

A new tournament will begin as WWE looks to determine a number one contender for men’s Speed Champion El Grande Americano. The first two matchups are Axiom vs. Sean Legacy and Jasper Troy vs. Zachary Wentz.

Plus, Hank & Tank battle OTM in tag team action.

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

**********

NXT is on the air before a live studio audience from the Performance Center in Orlando.

The Culling open the show with an in-ring promo where Tatum Paxley celebrates her win last week on NXT. Izzi Dame is at Paxley’s side. Shawn Spears and Niko Vance flank them, as Paxley recites a promo where she is giddy with excitement.

While they are soon interrupted by the Fatal Influence trio, Paxley gets a few minutes of spotlight. Dame and Jayne eventually get in each other’s face, potentially setting up a match between the two.

At first, the studio audience chants “you deserve it” for Paxley. She gushes over them and their support. She also puts over her friendship with Dame, whom she called her best friend. Paxley could not be happier than being with The Culling, and Paxley promises to bring a singles title to the faction.

From there, enter Fatal Influence. A tirade from Jayne follows where she says Paxley has no chance in winning the title. Jayne cuts a scathing promo on Paxley, then she tries to sew dissension between Paxley and Dame. That is when Dame verbally gets into it with Jayne.

A brawl eventually erupts and Fatal Influence are sent packing. Glares are exchanged. The tension builds ahead of Halloween Havoc.

Leon Slater (with Je’Von Evans) vs. Stacks (with Arianna Grace) for the TNA X-Division Championship

This was a really good television match with a lot of action. The match goes through a commercial break, and Slater gets to shine just before the show cuts to commercials. High flying and a plancha to the outside by Slater. Evans is hyped at ringside, and he celebrates with Slater. They are near the announce desk, and Evans gets on the headset to send the show to break.

When the show returns from the break, Stacks is working over Slater. As Slater makes a comeback, Arianna Grace jumps on the apron to help Stacks. Slater hits the ropes with a handspring, causing Grace to go sailing off the apron into the waiting arms of Evans. A jealous Stacks freaks out like Randy with Liz, and Slater pays the price by taking a bump on the announce desk.

On the home stretch, Slater runs corner to corner with a flip dive over the ring post to the floor. Slater flew back into the ring with a 450 splash, and Slater covers Stacks for a clean three count. Great way to open the show.

Match result: TNA X-Division Champion Leon Slater defeated Stacks via pinfall to retain the title.

Afterwards is an in-ring promo from Slater and Evans. They want to team together at Halloween Havoc against a team from anywhere. Out comes Mr. Iguana and La Parka to answer the challenge, which looks to set up a tag bout for Halloween Havoc this weekend.

Mr. Iguana is over huge with the crowd, as is La Yesca. Iguana questions whether they could have even have Halloween Havoc without them. They already spoke to NXT General Manager Ava, and the tag bout is booked for Halloween Havoc.

— Zachary Wentz and Jasper Troy each hype their match in pre-tape promos, before the show cuts to a commercial break.

Jasper Troy vs. Zachary Wentz in a first round match in the WWE Speed Men’s Championship #1 Contender’s Tournament

—

Being a “Speed” match, the match was short, yet packed with action. They made to most of their time. Wentz gets some near falls, but he ultimately is pinned clean. Troy with a swinging uranage slam, and he covers Wentz for a clean pin.

Match result: Jasper Troy defeated Zachary Wentz to advance in the tournament.

— TNA Knockouts Champion Kelani Jordan is banned from the NXT women’s locker room, and the roster dumps her belongings on the floor outside the door. Jordynne Grace tries to help Jordan, only for Jordan to cut a promo on her.

The Hardys transforms into “Broken” characters in vignette

Darkstate is cutting a promo when they are supernaturally interrupted by Matt and Jeff Hardy from their family compound. The brothers go into the Lake of Reincarnation, and they emerge again as Broken Matt Hardy and Brother Nero.

Broken Matt announces they will face Darkstate in a “Broken Rules” match at Halloween Havoc, and Darkstate is scheduled for deletion. Delete…delete…delete!

— Clips from Smackdown show Sol Ruca suffering a knee injury. Cut to present day, and Ruca is walking with a crutch backstage alongside Zaria. On Ruca’s knee is a large brace. Ruca is headed to the ring to address the audience after a commercial break.

Sol Ruca vacates title; new Women’s North American Championship match set for PLE

—

An emotional Sol Ruca talks about her injury, and she does not know when she will return. Ruca was basically saying she would vacate her titles when Blake Monroe interrupts her. Ruca at the moment held both the NXT Women’s North American title, along with being the WWE Speed Women’s Champion.

Monroe gets into the ring and offers sarcastic condolences. Monroe then lobbies for the North American title. Zaria takes exception to Monroe wanting to simply be awarded the championship, as Ruca fought to win and defend the title.

Monroe accuses Zaria of fighting all of Ruca’s battles, and even Ruca herself says Monroe has a point. Ruca goes on to talk about not knowing how long until she is cleared, but Zaria assures her that Zaria has got it until then.

This all sets up Zaria subbing for Ruca in a title match against Monroe at Halloween Havoc. Monroe gets into it with Ava, and Ava checks her. Ava then makes the match official for the PLE. Monroe seethes at Ava, and Zaria steps in to give Monroe a F-5. Zaria then snatches the belt from Ruca, and Zaria poses with the title belt.

What started as an emotional speech from Ruca turned into a contrived angle by the end.

Axion vs. Sean Legacy in a first round match in the WWE Speed Men’s Championship #1 Contender’s Tournament

—

While the earlier Speed match was good, this bout was even better. Great finish where it came down to the wire, with seconds remaining as they go home. Los Americanos are watching the match from ringside seats.

Spanish Fly off the top rope, and Axiom covers Legacy for the finish, which capped off a hot match. They pulled off the finish so well, with under 10 seconds remaining as they do the Spanish Fly. A second remained as Axiom scores the clean pin.

Match result: Axiom defeated Sean Legacy via pinfall to advance in the tournament.

— The upcoming title match at Halloween Havoc with NXT North American Champion Ethan Page defending his title against challenger (and AAA Latin American Champion) El Hijo del Dr. Wagner Jr. is the focus of a video package hyping the bout. Great stuff here.

Hank Walker & Tank Ledger vs. Lucien Price & Bronco Nima

—

Hank & Tank battle OTM in a hoss fight, and the fight begins before the bell sounds to start the match. Hank & Tank jump OTM during their entrance. Bedlam before the bell, and that continues as the match gets under way.

Heat on Hank, with OTM cutting him off from his corner. OTM work over Hank, and they toy with him. However, Hank creates separation and rolls into a hot tag. Tank in and he gets a near fall after a flying shoulder tackle.

Hank takes an uranage slam, and he rolls out of the ring. Tank then fights two-on-one, and he is cut off. Tank takes an assisted spinebuster, and Price covers Tank for a clean pinfall.

Match result: Lucien Price & Bronco Nima defeated Hank Walker & Tank Ledher when Price pinned Ledger.

In a post-match beat down, OTM jump Hank & Tank after the bell. Hank is hit with a shot from the ring steps, and Tank takes is sent crashing through the announce desk. Hank & Tank are not only pinned clean, but they are beaten up again for good measure. Hank & Tank lost clean and were then laid out.

— Lash Legend insults Wren Sinclair in a locker room skit that included product placement with sponsor Maybelline. Evolve Women’s Champion Kendal Grey sticks up for Sinclair, which seems to set up a match between Legend and Grey.

Jacy Jayne & Lainey Reid (with Fallon Henley) vs. Tatum Paxley & Izzi Dame (with The Culling)

—

The tag bout goes through a commercial break. The babyfaces were fired up just before the show goes to commercial. Paxley swings in through the ropes with a wrecking ball dropkick on Henley. However, Reid ties up Paxley’s legs, which allows Jayne to deliver a draping neckbreaker on Paxley. The heels are in control as the show cuts to the break.

Back from the break, and Dame cleans house after a hot tag. Melee develops, and when the smoke clears there are Paxley squaring off with Jayne. Challenger against champion, and Paxley held her own until Henley causes a distraction.

Henley jumps on the apron to distract both the referee and get the attention of Dame. Henley takes a bump into the ring after Dame strikes her. Dame then goes to run the ropes, but she is tripped up by Reid and pulled outside. In the ring, Jayne with a Rolling Encore that drops Paxley. Jayne then covers Paxley for a pinfall. So, the champ pins the challenger clean ahead of their title match. Take that for what it is worth.

Match result: Jacy Jayne & Lainey Reid defeated Tatum Paxley & Izzi Dame when Jayne pinned Paxley.

Henley and Reid jump Dame after the match, and they send her crashing into the ring steps. Dame is down and out while Paxley is left defenseless in the ring. The heel trio surround Paxley. She is held by Reid and Henley for Jayne to taunt her.

Jayne goes to hit Paxley with the title belt, but Paxley jumps up to kick Jayne. Paxley then fights off Reid and Henely, as they bump and feed. Paxlet then executes her finisher on Jayne. Paxley concludes the segment by posing with the women’s title belt.

NXT Champion Ricky Saints is heading to the ring, as is Trick Williams. They meet face-to-face in the ring for a contract signing.

Contract signing for NXT Championship Match at Halloween Havoc

—

Ava is the ring with security surrounding her. She is standing at a table when she introduces both Saints and Trick. Ava first brings out the challenger, followed by the champ. They take a seat on opposite ends of the table set up in the ring.

Trick claims Saints is jealous that Trick is still the man in NXT, despite Saints being the champion. Trick says that is why he left Saints hanging a few weeks ago at Showdown. Trick wants to prove he is the only one that can carry NXT on his back.

Pivoting on NXT, Trick says to not “get it twisted” with him and NXT. Trick says he owes nothing to NXT. Trick is only loyal to one man, and that person is Trick himself.

“Trick Williams loves himself Trick Williams,” Trick said.

Trick vows to become a three-time NXT champ. Saints responds by saying the title can ether make the holder complacent or more ambitious. Saints ponders what did it do for Trick, and Saints concludes Trick started to think he was bigger than the NXT brand. Saints accusing Trick of wanting to leave NXT for a long time.

Trick makes a crack at Saints about the indies. Trick boasts he is Hollywood, thus above going to the indies. Trick claims Saints is cosplaying as champion, and Trick vows to kick his butt and end the “Absolute Era”.

Saints gets fired up while scolding Trick about the indies. Saints claims Trick wants to be like him, because Saints also claims to be more slick and more stylish than Trick. Saints stands up to lay claim as the face of NXT.

Shoving starts as security holds them back, and Trick goes for a cheap shot on Saints. A brawl begins to erupt, as security tries to keep them apart. Saints and Trick both clobber the security holding them back, and Trick boots Saints in the face. Saints counters Trick, and Saints gives Trick a F-5 through the table set up in the ring.

Saints then poses with his title belt while taunting a fallen Trick.

New matches announced for WWE NXT Halloween Havoc

Posted on by Bryan Rose

Four title matches have been announced for Halloween Havoc.

In the main event of Tuesday’s show, Tatum Paxley emerged as the winner of a battle royal to determine the new number one contender for Jacy Jayne’s NXT Women’s title. She last eliminated Jordynne Grace and friend Izzi Dame to secure the title match for the October 25 PLE.

The show ended with Lyra Valkyria coming out to celebrate with Paxley as Jayne, Fallon Henley, and newest Fatal Influence member Laney Reid looked on.

Ricky Saints opened the show and immediately called out Trick Williams, wanting a match for Halloween Havoc. Williams responded by appearing on the video screen, saying he’d do this on his time. Williams later jumped Saints backstage, causing Saints to later look for revenge. Ava calmed him down by saying they would meet next week in a contract signing to make their Halloween Havoc match official.

After weeks of feuding, El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr. called out Ethan Page, who ultimately agreed to defend the North American title against Wagner. However, the AAA Latin American Champion informed Page that wouldn’t be any match, it would be a Day of the Dead match where anything goes.

As Leon Slater and Je’Von Evans were upset about their match being ruined by DarkState at Bound for Glory, The Hardy Boyz told them it was likely due to their association with one another. Matt mentioned that the stable would get a rematch at Halloween Havoc for the NXT Tag Team titles. Later, The Hardyz were also taken out backstage at the hands of DarkState.

WWE NXT Halloween Havoc (October 25)

  • NXT Championship: Ricky Saints defends against Trick Williams
  • NXT Women’s Championship: Jacy Jayne defends against Tatum Paxley
  • NXT Tag Team titles: The Hardy Boyz defend against DarkState
  • Day of the Dead match for the NXT North American title: Ethan Page defends against Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr.

New champion crowned at WWE NXT No Mercy

Posted on by Bryan Rose

A new NXT Champion has been crowned.

Ricky Saints ended up being the person to topple Oba Femi at Saturday’s No Mercy premium live event, defeating The Ruler of NXT to win the NXT Championship for the first time. The finish came when Starks kicked out of Femi’s fall from grace powerbomb. Femi went for the move a second time, but Saints cut off Femi with a DDT. He then followed with a tornado DDT to win the match and the championship.

NXT No Mercy closed with Saints celebrating with the championship.

Femi had held the title for most of 2025, winning it from Trick Williams back at NXT New Year’s Evil on January 7.

Saints started making his claim for the NXT Championship following Heatwave, which saw Femi retain against Je’Von Evans. However, the last few weeks had seen Femi confront former foe Williams, leading to a TNA title vs. NXT title match on this past Tuesday’s NXT. No winner emerged after the NXT and TNA locker rooms emptied leading to an interpromotional brawl. Saints had his focus on the NXT title, but Femi emerged and the two had a staredown in the closing moments of the program.

WWE NXT No Mercy live results: Oba Femi vs. Ricky Saints title match

Posted on by Jeff Moss

WWE NXT holds its latest premium live event with tonight’s No Mercy from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

In the main event, WWE NXT Champion Oba Femi defends against former North American Champion Ricky Saints. Femi has defended the title ten times since winning it in January while this is Saints’ first shot at the top prize.

NXT Women’s Champion Jacy Jayne puts her title on the line against Lola Vice who is looking for her first title run.

In a weaponized steel cage match, the rivalry between Jordynne Grace and Blake Monroe will continue.

The men’s NXT North American Championship will be on the line as Ethan Page defends against Tavion Heights while WWE Women’s Speed Champion Sol Ruca defends against Lainey Reid.

The show is rounded out by Josh Briggs vs. Je’Von Evans, fresh off challenging WWE U.S. Champion Sami Zayn on SmackDown.

Our live coverage begins with the pre-show at 6 PM Eastern.

**********

Welcome in friends and I have some great news! All the wrestlers working tonight made it to work OK and I know this because camera crew met them at the door as is legally mandated and the footage was shown to open NXT No Mercy!

Je’Von Evans vs. Josh Briggs

The show kicked off with one of my personal NXT favourites, Evans taking on Josh Briggs. What I know about Briggs is this: he’s a bad friend and has a Green Lantern tattoo. Aside from that though, Briggs had a definite size advantage over Evans, but Evans fought Oba Femi to a standstill at Heatwave, so he can bring it with the biggest of them.

Evans opened the match by kicking Briggs square in the face and punching him repeatedly. That upset Briggs, who grabbed Evans a threw him over the ropes. Briggs went to charge Evans, but he moved and Briggs ended up hitting the steel steps.

Back in the ring, Evans had Briggs on his heels, hitting high-flying moves and hurricanranas. Once Briggs got himself back together though, he grabbed Evans and threw him into the corner a few times. He then stood on Evans, working his heels into the small of his back.

Evans was favouring his hip during this mask due to an attack from Briggs on Smackdown last night. Briggs worked this with a series of backbreakers. Evans flopped like wet spaghetti, but managed to get to his feet. Briggs continued the assault with a few more throws into the corner.

Evans began fighting back, but Briggs overpowered him again. Evans tried to use the ropes to springboard but Briggs got to him first and sent him flying off the apron into the barricade, further injuring that hip.

Back in the ring, Briggs hit a side slam but whiffed on the splash afterwards. He began stomping Evans, but then stopped to mug for the crowd. Evans got to his feet and they began throwing hands, with Evans turning it into a snap suplex.

Evans tried a couple of lariats to get Briggs off his feet and the third one connected. Evans hit a series of spinning heel kicks and sent Briggs reeling into the corner. Evans brought the scrap from there, raining down punches on Briggs. He then went up top, but Briggs saw it coming and rolled out of the ring.

Evans changed his aim and hit a big dive anyways. Tossing Briggs back into the ring, Evans hit a frog splash from clear across the ring and got a 2.5 count before Briggs kicked out.

Briggs began clubbing Evans, including a huge lariat that flipped Evans clear over. Evans came back with a bunch of flying forearms and Briggs nailed a big boot to keep the back and forth going. Briggs hit a flipping knee and tried for a cover but only got a two count.

Briggs pulled Evans into the corner and went to climb to the top turnbuckle. He dragged Evans up with him and tried for a chokeslam, but Evans flipped right over it and sent Briggs to the mat. He kicked him in the face and went for a spingboard, but Briggs caught him with a chokeslam.

Briggs charged Evans who pulled the rope down and dove after him. Briggs caught him in midair with a lariat, then put him back in the ring for another one. It was almost a three count, but Evans got his foot on the rope and the ref called it off.

Briggs tried to go up top again, but Evans grabbed his ankle and began slapping him. Briggs went to chokeslam Evans again, but Evans turned it into a cutter and went up top for another fast frog splash. That got to Briggs and Evans made the pin, 1-2-3.

Match Result: Je’Von Evans defeated Josh Briggs

Great opening match. It was fast-paced and went as long as it needed to. Briggs has real potential as a Kevin-Nash style big man and Evans is the best underdog since Sami Zayn. Good stuff all around.

-Footage was shown of Trick Williams beating up Dominick Mysterio in a match for the North American Title at No Mercy 2024. Dragon Lee was the ref. Trick won. I have no idea why they showed this. (EDIT: Later I figured out they were showing these during international commercial breaks. I’m smart that way.)

They then showed some footage of the TNA incursion (we don’t say “invasion” in WWE. Too many bad memories) of NXT last Tuesday, which made more sense. Footage was also shown of Kelani Jordan winning the TNA Knockouts title at Victory Road last night.

Women’s Speed Championship Match: Sol Ruca (c) vs. Jaida Parker

Lainey Reed was originally scheduled for this match, but declared not medically cleared earlier today. Ruca wanted to defend the title anyway, so NXT GM Ava found a new opponent in Jaida Parker.

For those that don’t remember or couldn’t bring themselves to download X, the Speed titles were created as an X-exclusive title. The matches would be released on X and they were subject to a five-minute time limit. Now, once you get all the jokes about lasting long enough out of the way and put aside the horrible X promotion, it’s kind of a fun deal. So, it was great to hear that the titles would be moving to NXT after everyone realized the X was a cesspool of misery and broken dreams.

Ruca won the Women’s Speed title from the inaugural champion, Candice Le Rae April and this will be the first NXT defence of the title at a PLE. Incidentally, the Men’s speed title is currently held by El Grande Americano, who won it in May and it hasn’t been seen or heard from since.

The match started and the clock started ticking. The two traded quick pin attempts, and Ruca hung Parker up on the ropes before flipping her out of the ring. Parker tried to regroup, but Ruca dove off the steps onto her.

Ruca tossed Parker back into the ring, but Parker rolled back out. Ruca went for a baseball slide, but Parker caught her and hit her in the throat at 3:32.

Ruca hit a back stabber, but Parker recoverd and set Ruca up for some offense in the corner. She hit a falcon arrow, but Ruca kicked out at 2:47. Parker didn’t waist time and went for a tilt a whirl, but Ruca reversed it and planted a big knee in Parker’s chest.

Parker tried to go up the entrance ramp, but there was only two minutes left. Back in the ring, Ruca hit a DDT, but only got a two count at 1:43. They got to their feet and Parker caught Ruca in a Samoan drop. Ruca rolled out and pulled Parker with her at 1:03.

Ruca started wasting as much time as possible and went for another dive, but Parker dodoged it and threw her back into the ring. Lash Legend arrived and that distracted Parker before she rolled back into the ring just in time to get caught by Ruca for a pin. Ruca wins and retained the Speed Title with 0:11 on the clock.

Match Result: Sol Ruca defeated Jaida Parker

-Footage was shown from last week’s NXT of Joe Hendry being interviewed. He was interrupted by the DarkState who told him that they were going to give him a 4-on-1 beatdown if he doesn’t back off. They said he’s either with them or against them and left, leaving Hendry pondering that.

Weaponized Steel Cage Match: Jordynne Grace vs. Blake Monroe

These two have been at each other’s throats for months and this would hopefully be the big blow off of their feud. They made a big deal about the cage being “weaponized” which I assumed meant that it was going to be used later in a argument or something.

Instead though, it meant that there were kendo sticks, garbage cans, Official Slim Jim Tables and chairs (painted pink) attached to the cage that the participants could use. So it wasn’t the cage that was weaponized and more the… weapons, that were weaponized.

The bell rang and they charged each other with Grace sending Monroe into the cage first. Monroe grabbed a kendo stick though and beat Grace with it. Grace got it away from her and returned the favor. She then hit a spinebuster on a chair. Grace set the chair up and put Monroe in a boston crab, setting the chair over her so Grace could have a seat for more torque.

Grace set up a chair in the ropes and picked up Monroe. Monroe bit Grace and sent her shoulder first into the chair and then face first into the cage. Monroe worked Grace’s wrist into the chain link, wrenching the already injured joint. She then pulled down a pink garbage can and clobbered Grace with it. There was a curling iron and hair dryer in the can, but they got ignored.

Monroe worked the hand of Grace again, then hit an inverted Russian leg sweep onto the kendo stick. Monroe then went to the aforementioned hair dryer and used the cord to tie Grace to the middle rope. Monroe pulled a bag off the cage that held a pair of scissors. Monroe then started cutting off chunks of Grace’s hair, with Grace powerless to stop it.

Grace freed herself from the hairdryer cord and threw a Thez Press to beat the heck out of Monroe. She hit a series of lariats and went for a powerbomb, but Monroe got out of it and started scaling the cage. Grace pulled her down onto the top rope and hit a samoan drop from way up high.

Grace took a moment to mourn for her curly locks and then grabbed what looked like a wieght belt from the cage and beat up Monroe with it. She set up a trash can, but Monroe reversed it and sent Grace face first into the metal. Monroe grabbed the lid and hit a dropkick with it, sending Grace into the cage.

Monroe pulled another bag off the cage and emptied it’s contents which were diamonds. She grabbed Grace and tried to slam her, but Grace reversed and slammed them both onto the diamonds.

Grace got to her feet first and grabbed a garbage can. Setting Monroe up on the top turnbuckle, Grace climbed up, but Monroe slipped out and hung Grace up in a tree of woe. She put the garbage can over Grace’s head and then double stomped it from the top rope.

Monroe then grabbed the Official Slim Jim Table to the crowd’s delight. She tried to jam Grace’s face into the table leg, but Grace reversed it and sent Monroe into the cage like a battering ram. Grace finished setting up the Official Slim Jim Table and put it in the corner. She grabbed Monroe, but Monroe punched her and scaled the cage. Grace met her up there and got her into an electric chair position.

Monroe wormed out of it and the two climbed to the top of the cage where they traded punches. Monroe produced a bag with powder and threw it into Grace’s eyes. Grace slunk down to the top rope, and Monroe tried for a powerbomb, but Grace turned it into an air raid crash and put both women through the table.

Grace landed on top of Monroe, so the ref counted 1-2-3 and gave her the victory.

Match Result: Jordynne Grace defeated Blake Monroe

Dang! That was a cool cage match. Silly name, but awesome match none the less. I’ve never seen that hair spot in a cage match which was awesome. The diamonds instead of tacks was a great touch. That was really, really fun.

-Next, NXT GM Ava addressed the situation between TNA and NXT. She announced that NXT and TNA will compete in two 5-on-5 Survivor Series style matches (one Men’s one Women’s) and a Tag Team Title match between The Hardy Boys and DarkStake (winner takes all). There must be a finish in that match as everyone will be banned from ringside. It will all happen on October 7th on NXT TV and yes, it will be called “Invasion.”

-Then Lash Legend came out from the back. She cut a promo on the recently announced Invasion. She lobbied hard to lead Team NXT in the Women’s match. Jaida Parker took exception to that and jumped her from behind. They fought and were pulled apart.

-Lainey Reed was interviewed in the back about how she had to give up her shot at the Speed Championship. It was an ankle injury that took her out, but she will be back. Lola Vice interrupted the interview to tell her that sucks. Reed said that Vice had no chance to win her match tonight and Vice said she was bringing the title to Vice City.

NXT North American Championship Match: Ethan Page (c) vs. Tavion Heights

So, if Tavion wins the title here, does he have to pay the tariffs on it? Or if Page wins, does he have to pay them to get it back over the border? Just asking.

Off the bell, the two locked up and Heights brought some real agression to Page. Page responded with a headlock and Heights sent him into the ropes as “USA” chants broke out. The two started throwing shoulders with neither getting the advantage.

Heights kept coming at Page though, dodging kicks, dropping punches and then dropkicking Page out of the ring. On the entrance ramp, Page hit a big backdrop on Heights, leaving him writhing in pain. He dragged him back into the ring and dropped some big elbows before playing to the crowd.

Heights scrambled to the corner and Page landed a big back body drop. He continued the beatdown, working Heights into the corner and charging, but Heights moved and went for a suplex. His back gave out though page capitalized with a waist lock, wrenching his back. This went on for a while.

Heights finally shook page off and sent him into the corner. Heights went up, but PAge climbed the ladder and hit a backbreaker over the steel of the turnbuckle. Heights landed on the outside and was checked on by the official.

Page went outside and sent Heights back into the ring. He yapped at the announce team and turned his back on Heights, who found his second wind and hit a bunch of big lariats and high kicks. Heights locked in an ankle lock, but Page was able to get over to the ropes.

Heights tried a backslide, but Page kicked out. He picked up Heights in the Ego’s edge and then put on a an Olympic Boston Crab. Heights made it to the ropes though and it seemed like Page’s ankle gave out. Heights went up top, but Page clocked it and joined him. He went for a suplex, but Heights put on a sleeper hold. Page countered and sent him to the mat.

Page hit a twisted grin in the ring and got the pin, retaining the North American title.

Match Result: Ethan Page defeated Tavion Heights

Heights looked really impressive here, but as a Canadian I am legally mandated to be excited that Page won. I’m serious though, Heights looked great in this match.

-After the match, the AAA Latin American champion, El Hijo De Dr Wagner Jr appeared on the big screen, challenging Page.

NXT Women’s Championship Match: Jacy Jayne (c) vs. Lola Vice

Jayne arrived doing her best 1994 HBK impression for her 4th defence of the NXT Women’s Championship. Also, Fallon Henley was there. Booker T could barely contain his excitement.

The crowd was clearly behind hometown hero Vice, chanting for her as the match started. Jayne slapped on a headlock and Vice worked it into a head scissor. Jayne went back to the headlock, transitioning to a wristlock. Vice tried to flip out of it, but Jayne put on a third headlock then started throwing shoulders and sentons.

Vice managed to catch Jayne with an armbar before moving into a headlock of her own. She threw Jayne into the ropes and kicked her back to the mat. Jayne whispered something in Henley’s ear before booting Vice in the stomach. She sent Vice to the corner and stomped her.

Jayne set Vice up for some chops and then threw her into the ropes. Vice came off them with a shot to the stomach followed by a suplex. Vice put on a chinlock and wrenched the neck of Jayne. Jayne turned it into a chinbreaker to make some space and the two traded pinning attempts.

Vice sent Jayne into the ropes and kicked her in the stomach as she bounced back. On the third, one, Jayne left the ring and Vice followed, smacking Jayne’s face on the announce table. Henley got involved, distracting Vice enough that Jayne could throw her into the steel stairs. She followed that up with a cannon ball and tossed Vice back in the ring.

Jayne hit a slingblade and went for a pin, but only got a two count. She suplexed Vice and delivered some hard kicks to the back, working the body part that took the brunt of the stair shots. She went for another kick, but Vice caught her leg and delivered a few of her own.

Henley got up on the apron and Vice charged her, but that just left her open for Jayne to deliver a backstabber. Jayne put her knee on Vice’s back and pulled her up in a chinlock in the middle of the ring. Vice managed to stand up and back Jayne into the corner. Jayne came right back out and went for a pin, but Vice reversed it into an arm submission.

Vice began throwing kicks, sending Jayne into the corner. Vice, the spiritual sucessor of Rikishi introduced some Butt-based offense, but Jayne rolled out of the ring where Henley was. Vice dove through the ropes to take out Henley, but that exposed her to a pump kick from Jayne.

Jayne tossed her back into the ring but missed with a discus elbow and Vice landed a big kick. She went for the pin, but at two, Henley pulled the ref out of the ring. He ejected her from ringside and when he got back, Vice had the Squeeze locked in on Jayne.

Jayne rolled through, avoiding the submission and the two traded chops. Jayne got a backfist in, but Vice kicked out at two. Bothe women lay on the mat as the “this is awesome” chants rained down on them.

Jayne got up first and kicked Vice in the head, sending her to the corner for some back elbows. Jayne yapped at Vice’s family at ringside and when she turned, Vice grabbed her for a DDT into a guillotine choke. Jayne got up though and sent Vice to the corner.

Vice responded with her feet and climbed to the top turnbuckle. A high kick from Jayne stopped her in her tracks and Jayne grabbed her for a suplex from the top followed by a big running knee. Vice kicked out at two though, to the surprise of Jayne.

Jayne left the ring and grabbed the title belt, presumably looking for the DQ. The ref pulled it away from her and Vice rolled her up for two. Vice hit a superkick and Jayne hit some high strikes. A flurry of kicks and backfists from Vice sent JAyne to the mat, but Vice’s momentum took her out of the ring.

Suddenly, someone in black jumped the guardrail and flattened Vice on the outside. Jayne writhed in the ring and Vice made it back in at 9, just beating the count. Jayne hit a rolling encore to the dazed Vice and got the pin to retain the title.

Match Result: Jacy Jayne defeated Lola Vice

I really liked this match. It was hard hitting and fast with a ton of near falls. Jayne makes a terrific heel champion and Vice has star power to spare. Great work here.

NXT World Championship Match: Oba Femi (c) vs. Ricky Saints

Ricky Saints is an excellent professional wrestler. So is Oba Femi, but Femi has the advantage of also being a murder monster who has dominated NXT for months now. Saints (200lbs) has a 110lb size difference from Femi (310lbs), but see the aforementioned “being really good at wrestling.” This should be an excellent match.

Femi went for Saints off the top, but Saints had it scouted and hit a few jabs to the face. Femi grabbed him and threw him at the ground for a few minutes before sending him to the corner. Saints put a big boot up and sent Femi staggering, but Femi was right back and pressed him against the ropes.

Femi started throwing European uppercuts and dropped Saints down into a headlock. Saints got his leg up though and across the throat of Femi to break the hold. Femi slammed Saints then started clubbing his back. Saints ducked underneath and threw some chops. Saints hit a boot to the gut and then a kick to the face to knock Femi off his feet.

Saints went up top, but Femi caught him on the way down. Saints wriggled out and hit a dropkick, stunning Femi momentarily. He sent him outside then charged for a dive, but Femi was waiting and hit a massive shot to Saints through the ropes that echoed through the arena.

Femi got back in the ring and slowed the tempo down. He hit a big backbreaker on Saints, followed by another and then a third. Saints kicked out at two though. Femi put him in the corner and laid some shots into Saints stomach, followed by a big clothesline that sent Saints through the ropes.

Femi pulled Saints back in then punched him so hard he flew back out, seemingly knocked out on the entrance ramp. Saints got back in at 7, beating the count, but Femi used that the drop him on the top rope and hit another European uppercut. Femi put his knee on Saints’ back and pulled him up in a chinlock.

Saints got out of it and went for a crossbody, but Femi caught him and hit a backbreaker before laying him out over the turnbuckle and pressing down, folding him in half. Saints snuck a shot in and Femi staggered back. Saints went off the ropes, but got caught again and chokeslammed into next year.

Femi charged, but Saints moved and tried a rollup. Off of that, he hit a high knee and then charged in with a forearm and a few more for good measure to get Femi into the corner. Saints tried to pick up Femi and on the second try got him up for a samoan drop. Femi kicked out at two.

Saints went for a spear, but Femi swatted him out of mid air and hit another big uppercut. They ran the ropes again and this time, Saints landed the spear, but Femi kicked out at two.

Saints went up top, but Femi ran over an punched him. He climbed the ropes and Saints clubbed him, slid underneath and landed a big powerbomb. He fell on top of Femi and got a near fall.

They both got to their feet and began trading shots. Femi powered up and Saints collapsed in the middle of the ring before he could touch him. Femi got close and Saints popped up. He laid in a few shots, but Femi threw him off. Saints charged and Femi grabbed him and threw him across the ring. He tried to pick up Saints, but Saints turned it into a rollup and got a two count.

Saints wearily rolled out of the ring and Femi followed. He pulled everything off the announce table and picked up Saints. He threw him onto the table and set him up for a powerbomb, but Saints countered and DDT’ed Femi on the table. Somehow it did not break.

Saints hit a tornado DDT and crawled back into the ring. Saints charged Femi on the ring apron, but Femi swatted him down like a fly. Back in the ring, Femi hit a Fall From Grace, but Saints somehow kicked out.

Femi went for another Fall From Grace, but Saints turned it into another DDT followed by a fourth spinning DDT and pinned Femi 1-2-3! Ricky Saints is the new NXT Champion!

Match Result: Ricky Saints defeated Oba Femi

Wow! I did not see that coming! Saints won and won clean over one of the most dominant champions NXT has ever had. Absolutely stunning. Maybe WWE has bigger plans fo Femi, but Saints earned the hell out of that title.

WWE NXT live results: Oba Femi & Ricky Saints team up for eight-man tag

Posted on by Chris Aiken

The road to No Mercy continues on WWE NXT tonight with Oba Femi teaming up with his next challenger.

Ricky Saints defeated Josh Briggs last week to become the new number one contender to the NXT Championship. He’ll get his shot against Femi later this month at No Mercy, but first they’ll be on the same side for an eight-man tag match. It will be Femi, Saints, Hank & Tank vs. DarkState.

DarkState’s Dion Lennox & Osiris Griffin defeated Hank & Tank at Heatwave to become the new NXT Tag Team Champions. A win in this eight-man bout could help Hank & Tank earn their rematch.

NXT hosts its first Speed match tonight as Candice LeRae meets TNA’s Xia Brookside. It’s an opening-round matchup in the tournament to decide Sol Ruca’s Speed Women’s Championship challenger for No Mercy.

With both having their sights set on challenging Jacy Jayne for the NXT Women’s Championship, Lash Legend and Jaida Parker will face off one-on-one tonight.

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

**********

NXT is back on the air in front of a live studio audience at a sound stage from the Performance Center in Orlando. Participants in the eight-man tag match arrive to the building. Ricky Saints brought swagger, while Hank & Tank arrived with a rotisserie chicken. NXT Champion Oba Femi arrives to rule, while Darkstate saunters into the building.

Opening the show from inside the building is the entrance of Jaida Parker. She is over with the studio audience, as the crowd chants “Miss Parker” as she enters the ring. Following her entrance is that of Lash Legend. Those two meet in t he opening bout tonight on NXT.

Jaida Parker vs. Lash Legend

They wrestled through a commercial break. They were given a lot of time, and they worked hard. Push Jaida Parker and she would become a superstar. She has the tools in the ring and an “it” factor, but they put Legend over here.

Parker got to shine in the match despite dropping the fall, including getting near falls on Legend. Before they went home, the fight spilled outside the ring on the floor. Legend executes her Lash Extension on the floor, and Parker takes the finisher on the announce desk. Back in the ring, Legend with another Lash Extension in the ring, and Legend covers Parker for a three count.

Match result: Lash Legend defeated Jaida Parker via pinfall

This feud must continue, so they brawled after the match. Parker attacked Legend in the aisle after the bell, and Legend is sent into the barricade. Parker then delivers a hip attack, and Legend crashes through the barricade in a stunt.

— Blake Monroe is backstage when she meets up with Arianna Grace, and there is some product placement with Maybelline in a skit. Stacks is there with Grace, but he exits stage left. Jordynne Grace enters the scene and has a pull-apart with Monroe.

Evlove Woman’s Champion Kalli Armstrong rushes in to cut a promo on Grace for barging into an “ruining” another segment. Not only does Grace have a problem with Monroe, Armstrong warns Grace that she now has a problem with Armstrong too. This clearly sets up a singles bout between the two.

— An in-house commercial plugs AAA while promoting When Worlds Collide in Las Vegas.

Josh Briggs trolls and attacks Je’Von Evans

Evans is somber as he cuts a heartfelt promo about losing to championship match against Oba Femi. Josh Briggs interrupts after trolling the audience by teasing a cameo from The Undertaker. Briggs then jumps Evans after a cheap shot.

First, Evans wears his heart on his sleeve as he recounts his failure to capture the NXT title. He cannot be positive after Heat Wave. Evans appears emotional and takes a moment to collect himself. He went into excited, and he even called his sister to say he would become the youngest NXT champion. But he did not do that.

Evans apologizes to the fans for letting them down, and the studio audience responds with “NO” chants. Evans says he also let himself down. The crowd chants they love him, and Evans is appreciative of that. He continues to speak when a motorcycle is seen arriving to the building. Evans says this is not time for games.

The motorcycle is seen again, as it arrives at the building. This is all a tease for The Undertaker. The dong sounds, and the studio audience comes unglued for a huge pop.

Out comes Josh Briggs to troll everyone. He is drowned in boos but the studio audience. Briggs gets into the ring and cuts a promo on Evans, with Briggs complaining about Evans getting so many title shots only to lose. Briggs goes to say Evans should have gotten in Femi’s face and demanded a rematch. Briggs says try being himself. Being better than everybody else and not getting an opportunity. Briggs proclaims that Evans will never beat Femi.

Evans tries to respond, but Briggs hits him with a cheap shot. Big boot by Briggs, and Briggs sets up a metal folding chair in the ring. Briggs then gives Evans a chokeslam on the chair. Evans is left for dead, and these two are programmed together for a grudge match.

— Xia Brookside is the focus of a personality profile sponsored by an insurance company. She is in a match tonight.

— Hank & Tank are hyping up Oba Femi and Ricky Starks in a backstage skit.

Candice LeRae vs. Xia Brookside in a Speed Championship Number One Contenders tournament match

Being a Speed match, the action was fast-paced and quick. To set up the finish, LeRae springboards off the top rope with a tornado DDT. LeRae follows up by leaping off Brookside’s back into a senton. LeRae then jumps off the middle rope with a Lionsault, and Lerae covers Brookside for a pinfall with about 30 seconds remaining in the time limit.

Match result: Candice LeRae defeated Xia Brookside via pinfall to advance in the tournament

In winning, LeRae moves on to the semifinals to meet the winner of Faby Apache vs. Lainey Reed.

— Josh Briggs and Andre Chase are set for a singles match after a locker room skit. Chase U students basically get Chase in a match with Briggs after a confrontation.

— In another skit, Ava is in her office with tag teams from the women’s roster. She announces a number one contender’s triple threat tag match for next Tuesday.

— Darkstate is the focus of a personality profile on the faction. They cut promos as highlights hype them up. This was a good piece of business.

— TNA World Champion Trick Williams is heading to the ring before a commercial break.

DYI returns to NXT to confront Trick Williams

Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa make a surprise appearance in a cameo that builds up the “Homecoming” show in a few weeks.

Trick begins the segment by boasting about himself. He bemoans none coming out to respond after calling himself the greatest NXT superstar ever, seemingly suggesting the past NXT stars do not care about the brand anymore. Trick does not blame them, as he plans to never return when he signs a million dollar contact when called up to the main roster. Trick claims all of the NXT favorites do not love NXT anymore.

The team of DIY — Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa — enter to a huge pop. They soak it in before getting in the ring to confront Trick. Gargano insists they still love NXT, and he notes today is the 10 year anniversary of their NXT debut. Ciampa and Gargano goad Trick about them both being two-time NXT champs. Gargano also held the North American title three times, and DIY were also tag team champs.

Trick bickers with them some more until a shoving match begins. Ciampa shoves Trick, and Gargano hits Trick with a superkick. DIY then do their stereo finisher on Trick, and they celebrate their return by posing on the turnbuckles.

— In a skit from the trainer’s room, Ava comes to an agreement with Je’Von Evans. If Evans does not interfere in Josh Briggs’ match tonight, then Ava will book Evans against Briggs for next week.

— In another skit after a commercial break, Ava books a flag match between Tavion Heights and North American Champion Ethan Page. The stipulation came after Page opened his big mouth and talked his way into a gimmick match.

— Kalli Armstrong is featured in a video package ahead of her match tonight. This was good, but too bad she loses clean.

Jordynne Grace vs. Evolve Women’s Champion Kalli Armstrong in a non-title match

They had a really good match, and the audience was into it. Armstrong with a decent push on this show coming into the match, only for her to lose clean. She is the champ of another brand no less, and she still lost clean. No fault of Grace, as she is the one they have pushed for some time now. Still, whatever momentum Armstrong had is minimized by dropping the fall. Unless the NXT viewing audience does not care about wins or loses, but that seems like an existential question for another time.

The match itself went through a commercial break, and Armstrong was able to look strong at times. For the finish, Grace drops Armstrong with a back elbow. Grace then executes a scary rendition of Beast Mode, and Grace scores the clean pin on Armstrong.

Match result: Jordynne Grace defeated Kalli Armstrong via pinfall

Blake Monroe runs in after the match, and she gets into a post-match brawl with Grace. Monroe is sent crashing into the ring steps before security pours out to separate them. Monroe appears to be bleeding from the mouth after the brawl. Armstrong was unfortunately an afterthought here, but the program is Grace and Monroe in a feud.

Josh Briggs vs. Andre Chase

Briggs spoofs Undertaker during the match, which is surely building to Undertaker making an appearance to give Briggs a comeuppance of some sort.

Chase can still get over with the studio audience, even if he is more of a bit player than his previous role. He is so much better than his push would indicate. He gets a close near fall on Briggs during the match, and the crowd bought into it hook, line, and sinker.

Chase had the crowd behind him when Briggs hulks up and cuts off Chase. Briggs goozles Chase and deliver a chokeslam. Briggs then hits Chase with a high kick, and Briggs pinned Chase clean as a sheet.

After the match, Briggs gets more heat by attacking the Chase U students at ringside. Briggs sends Kale Dixon crashing into the barricade, which would have been more effective if we had not seen a similar spot several times earlier in the show. Nonetheless, Briggs also attacks Uriah Connors. Briggs chokeslams Connors on a gimmicked announce desk, and the desk implodes on impact. Briggs stand over his prey after the carnage is complete.

Match result: Josh Briggs defeated Andre Chase via pinfall

— Trick Williams is backstage cutting a promo on DIY. After they attacked him earlier tonight, Trick will not let that slide. Trick says they are not the only ones here with a history, and he will see them next week.

— Canelo vs. Crawford is hyped in a video package, which is cross-promotional marketing within the TKO family.

NXT Champion Oba Femi, Ricky Saints, Hank Walker & Tank Ledger vs. Darkstate (Dion Lennox, Osiris Griffin, Saquon Shugars & Cutler James) in an eight-man tag team match

The team of babyfaces stand tall as the show cuts to its final commercial break. Darkstate gets heat on Hank after the break, until Hank creates some separation. Hot tag to Tank, and he cleans house. Blind tag by Saints, and he runs wild with a tornado DDT. Femi makes a bling tag by smacking Saints hard on the back.

Femi and Saints argue, and they collide into each other when Shugars shoves them into each other. Saints in turn shoves Shugars into Femi, and Femi tosses Shugars on Saints. After getting back to his feet, Saints smacks Femi. Slugfest between Saints and Femi, despite them being tag partners in the match. Bling tag to Tank, after Femi and Saints go over the top rope with a Cactus Jack clothesline. They brawl their way up the ramp and exit stage left. That leaves Hank & Tank to face Darkstate — two against four.

Shugars gets sandwiched by Hank & Tank, and they are on a roll. Not for long, as Tank is posted groin-first. Hank has his eyes raked by Shugars. Darkstate gang up on Hank & Tank, but the babyfaces fight back. Nevertheless, Hank is cut off by Cutler James. After grabbing him but the throat, James asks Hank who will save him now. Hank says, “Joe Hendry.” Speak his name, and he appears.

Hendry suddenly appears on the apron to distract James and Darkstate. James then takes the combo finisher from Hank & Tank. Following the powerslam/spear combo, Hank pinned James to win the match.

Match result: Hank Walker, Tank Ledger, Oba Femi & Ricky Saints defeated Cutler James, Dion Lennox, Osiris Griffin, & Saquon Shugars when Walker pinned James

Joe Hendry celebrates with Hank & Tank after the match, with them posing together in the ring.

TO THE BACK, Saints and Femi are still brawling as security tries to separate them. The show goes off the air in the midst of the pull-apart brawl. After that cliffhanger, it would be funny if they were still brawling when the show goes on air next week.

WWE NXT Championship match set for No Mercy

Posted on by Bryan Rose

Ricky Saints is heading to No Mercy.

Saints will get his shot at Oba Femi on September 27 after winning a number one contender’s match against Josh Briggs. This follows the events of Heatwave, where Saints confronted Femi after he successfully defeated Je’Von Evans to retain the NXT Championship.

Briggs cut off Saints’ promo at the start of the show and the two traded barbs, causing NXT General Manager Ava to come out and make the number one contendership match for later that night. The two fought back and forth but it was Saints who got the win with a tornado DDT to pick up the hard-fought victory.

After the match, Saints called out Oba Femi as the two proceeded to exchange words. Femi told Saints that he lied when he said he saw nothing in him at Heatwave, because what he sees now is fear. Suddenly, DarkState arrived and beat down the two until Hank & Tank ran out for the save. An eight-man tag team match was then made for next week’s show.

WWE NXT No Mercy (September 27):

  • NXT Championship: Oba Femi defends against Ricky Saints
  • NXT Women’s Championship: Jacy Jayne defends against Lola Vice
  • WWE Women’s Speed title: Sol Ruca defends against TBA

WWE NXT Heatwave notes: Speed titles coming to brand, Ricky Saints

Posted on by Bryan Rose

Notes from Sunday’s WWE NXT Heatwave.

After Sol Ruca has been appearing in recent weeks with the Women’s Speed Championship, it was announced that the titles would be defended in NXT moving forward. Ruca will defend her title next month in a tournament that begins on the September 2 edition of NXT. The participants will include a participant from NXT, TNA, AAA, and a participant from the Raw & SmackDown brands. The winner of this tournament will challenge Ruca at WWE NXT No Mercy on September 27 in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

El Grande Americano currently holds the WWE Speed men’s championship. It wasn’t announced when he’d defend his title next

In the main event of Sunday’s show, Oba Femi was successful in defeating Je’Von Evans. After the referee was knocked out, Evans hit a springboard cutter as another referee came out and counted three. However, the original referee called it off, saying Femi’s foot was under the rope. Femi dodged a top rope maneuver by Evans and shot put him into the announcer’s table below. He then put him back into the ring and pinned Evans to retain the title.

After the match, Ricky Starks came out and had a staredown with Femi as the show went off the air.

WWE NXT Great American Bash live results: Three title matches

Posted on by Jeff Moss

WWE NXT returns with the Great American Bash — a Saturday afternoon premium live event from Center Stage in Atlanta, Georgia.

In the headliner, NXT Champion Oba Femi looks to continue his run as he defends against Yoshiki Inamura who earned the shot in a recent no. 1 contender’s match.

Blake Monroe will make her televised NXT debut, teaming with Jordynne Grace to take on Fatal Influence (NXT Women’s Champion Jacy Jayne & Fallon Henley) one day ahead of Grace challenging Jayne for the title at Evolution.

In a falls count anywhere match for the North American title, Ethan Page defends against Ricky Saints.

A day after making her main roster debut on SmackDown, Women’s North American Champion Sol Ruca will defend against Izzi Dame.

The high-flying Je’Von Evans will battle LFG winner Jasper Troy while TNA Champion Trick Williams, Joe Hendry and Mike Santana will sign their contracts for TNA Slammiversary.

Our coverage begins at 3 PM Eastern.

**********

It’s great! It’s American (mostly)! And someone is sure to get bashed. It’s NXT’s Great American Bash and it starts…

Wait for it…

NOW!

Je’Von Evans vs. Jasper Troy

Noted chains enthusiast, Troy, won LFG Season One and almost dethroned Oba Femi and captured his NXT Title. Evans doesn’t like that Troy is causing chaos in his structured little NXT and is looking to end the threat once and for all. 

Troy was pretty much a whole human bigger than Evans, so it wasn’t a shot that off the top, Try began ragdolling him around the ring. Evans was also wrestling with taped ribs, so he wasn’t at 100%. That didn’t stop him from slapping Troy in the face.

Evans’ agility was his greatest weapon against Troy, as he dodges a ringpost and hit a springboard at the big man. Unfortunately, Troy caught him mid air and threw him at the ground. Hard. Both men ended up on the outside, where Troy drove Evans’ back into the ring apron (the hardest part of the ring, and the earliest I’ve ever used that joke).

Troy grabbed Evans by the throat and threw him over the top rope. He then picked him up by said throat and thew him at the barricades. Back in the ring, Troy hit a splash off the ropes on a barely moving Evans. He hit another one for good measure and then put on a devastating chinlock. Yes, even a chinlock from Troy looks devastating.

Evans tried again to go high flying, but once again, Troy caught him and wracked him through a series of backbreakers. The ref checked on Evans, but as soon as he was able, Troy mercilessly attacked him again. Troy locked in an abdominal stretch and topped it off with some elbows to the gut.

Evans found a second wind though and started peppering Troy with shots. That dazed the big man and he fell to one knee. Evans tried to go up top, but his body failed him and the couldn’t make it. Troy did though, and hit a big headbutt from the second rope.

Evans started throwing hands and sent Troy to the corner. He hit s superkick and then tried a German Suplex, but couldn’t get the bigger man over. Evans tried a springboard cutter, but it didn’t land. He went up top but Troy threw him back into the ring. Troy charged, but his momentum took him over the ropes when Evans dodged. Evans dove through the ropes and hit Troy.

Back in the ring, Evans finally got that German Suplex on Troy and punctuated it with a Frog Splash. It only got him a two count. He tried again, but Troy caught him for a choke slam. Troy set him up for abig slam, but Evans wormed his way underneath and rolled up Troy for a quick pin!

Match Result: Je’Von Evans defeated Jasper Troy

Good gracious! Troy is absolutely terrifying. Evans did an amazing job of making him look like the monster he is. I loved Evans’ “never say die” attitude, even when Troy was essentaily killing him. Lopsided matches like this almost always turn into squashes, but these guys told a great story with a fun finish. Excellent kickoff to the Bash!

-The current holder of the Heritage Cup, “Stacks” Lorenzo joined us next to reveal a list of all the people he’d give a shot at the cup to, including Fat Lexis King, Randy Orton’s Kids, Koko B. Ware and Matt Bloom (A-Train). He then spoke to Bloom in the Performance Center, who advised him to keep his head on a swivel. After that, it was revealed that someone had stolen the Cup!

-Next, Sol Ruca and Zaria joined i for an interview. They said all the things the wrestlers say, but what was interesting was the brief interruption of the feed to a skull-faced stranger. It only happened for a second, and Ruca and Zaria did not acknowledge it.

NXT Women’s North American Champion Sol Ruca w Zaria vs. Izzi Dame w/Tatum Paxley

This match is all about friendship. Women’s North American and WWE Speed Champion Ruca wanted to be friends with Tatum Paxley, but Paxley decided that she’d rather be friends with The Culling, helping Dame pin Ruca in a tag match, Now Ruca and Dame will go one on one for the Women’s North American Championship, but it’s their friends on the outside who could make the biggest difference. 

Right off the bell, Paxley and Zaria got into it, distracting the ref. That allowed Dame to hit a quick powerbomb and pin Ruca. By the time the ref noticed though, Ruca’s foot was on the ropes.

The match began in earnest with Ruca hitting a missile dropkick on Dame, sending her to the outside. She followed with a splash and threw Dame back into the ring for a two count. Ruca had control, but got caught by Dame who hit a bellybuster, leaving Ruca writhing.

Dame sent Ruca off the ropes for a knee to the gut and backbreaker. Ruca tried to fight back, but Dame dropped her and set her up for a knee to the back and crab submission. Ruca powered out and got some momentum, but Dame hit a big boot the face and tried a quick pin for two.

The crowd was solidly behind Ruca, who started throwing elbows at Dame. Ruca hit a backstabber and Dame rolled out of the ring. Ruca followed via moonsault, but it was hard to tell who got more hurt in the move.

Back in the ring, Ruca hit a springboard clothesline off the top rope and set Dame up on the ringpost. Dame shoved her off and hit a missile dropkick, knocking Ruca onto her back. The two stood and traded shots in the middle of the ring.

Ruca set Dame up on the ringpost and hit an X-Factor from the top rope. She tried it again, but Dame caught her by the throat and hit a big chokeslam in the middle of the ring. Dame climbed up and tried a splash from the second rope but Ruca met her with a kick instead.

Ruca fired up and hit a huge spear, but Dame got her foot on the rope during the pin. By that I mean, Paxley put it there. Zaria speared Paxley on the outside and Ruca hit a big cutter in the ring to get the 1-2-3 and retain her Women’s North American Title.

Match Result: Sol Ruca defeated Izzi Dame

That was a fun match. It lacked a little of the intensity of the first bout, but the crowd was way into it and that made it a ton of fun to watch.

-Next, a promo for Lola Vice played, touting her victory in AAA last night. From there, Jordynne Grace and Blake Monroe were shown warming up for their match, before a hype package for Saints vs Page aired.

Falls Count Anywhere Match: NXT North American Champion Ethan Page vs. Ricky Saints

The latest chapter in this long-running feud is sure to be brutal. Page took the NXT North American Championship from Saints in May and then injured him, putting him out of action for months. Now that Saints is back, revenge is on his mind as well as reclaiming the NXT North American title. 

Saint’s jumped Page as the bell rang, sending him to the outside right away. He grabbed a Kendo stick from under the ring and peppered Page with shots to the back. Page grabbed a trash can lid and hit Saints, following him up into the crowd.

They battled in the aisles and the crowd chanted for Saints. Saints sent Page into the concession area where he hit him with a garbage can. Page responded by driving Saints into a pillar and locking in a boston crab. Page went for an Ego’s Edge, but Saints wriggled out and sent him face first into that pillar.

PAge charged and Saints caught him and put him through a WWE Merch table. Saints went for the cover, but only got a two. Moving back out into the crowd by the entrance ramp, Page sent Saints into the steel ring steps and grabbed a chair. He hit Saints with it and wrapped it around his neck before sending him into the ringpost.

Page threw a bunch of chairs into the ring, pausing to swing at Saints. Saints dodged though and page hit the barricade. Saints then blasted him with a fire extinguisher and stripped the banner from the steel guardrail, which he then threw on top of Page. Saints grabbed a chair of his own and delivered a shot before tossing it and the barricade into the ring.

Saints stomped Page’s head on the ring apron (the ego-est part of the ring!) and dragged him inside. Saints picked up Page and racked him on the turnbuckle, but Saints fought back and slammed Page’s head into a chair.

Saints then set up two chairs in the middle of the ring, back to back. He then suplexed Page onto the chairs, followed by another suplex onto the barricade in the corner. Somehow, Page kicked out at two.

Saints upped the ante by setting up four chairs, front to front. Page followed him up the to the top rope where they fought until he was able to Powerbomb Page onto the chairs!

Page bailed trying to escape to the back, but Saints followed, and the two battled in the green room, using a couch, a flip-flop and a sewing machine. Suddenly, Jasper Troy appeared and slammed Saints onto a road case!

Page dragged Saints back to the ring and belted him with a chair. Saints punched back and back body dropped Page onto the entrance ramp. From there, Saints hit a tornado DDT and got a two count. The two fought along the LED board, and Page hit an Ego’s Edge on Saints, throwing him off the ramp and through two tables!

Page scurried down and got the pin, winning the match and retaining his North American Title!

Match Result: Ethan Page defeated Ricky Saints

That was a killer match with all the best things that a Falls Count Anywhere stipulation can bring. Weapons, huge spots and a flip-flop. It’ll be interesting to see if Jasper Troy had a reason for interfering, or if he was just annoyed that the match interrupted his feeding time, which I assume is mostly raw meat.

-Next, it was announced that the next NXT PLE will be Heatwave, on Sunday August 24th.

TNA World Championship Contract Signing

Of all the wrestling tropes out there, my least favorite is the dreaded “Contract Signing.” These segments are rarely different from one another, “Promo, promo, signed paper, overturned table, brawl, signed paper, fight.” But I guess legally speaking, papers have to be signed, so let’s get on with it. 

Trick Williams will defend the TNA World Title at Slammiversary against Joe Hendry and Mike Santana in a Triple Threat Match. The Hendry and Santana want the title back in TNA, and will sign any papers they have to in order to get that done.

NXT GM Ava started the proceedings by introducing the participants, starting with Santana. Hendry followed to a great ovation and then Trick Williams came down with the TNA Title. Booker T called Hendry the “Brett Farve of wrestling” which tells me that Booker does not pay attention to football (or fraud cases).

Santana grabbed a mic and talked about how being in a WWE ring as a TNA wrestler means something to him, but the TNA title belongs in TNA. He called Williams soft and talked about respecting Hendry, but at the end of the day, Hendry is standing in Santana’s way. He then signed the contract.

Hendry spoke next, saying that he respects Santana as well, but Hendry is the one who should being the TNA title back and take TNA to the next level. He turned to Williams and warned him that he will make him believe in Joe Hendry. He then signed the contract.

Williams then said he didn’t want to ruin the moment for Hendry and Santana, but they need to put some respect on his name. Williams said that he’s the one with the stroke around NXT and TNA (I’m pretty sure no one but wrestlers use “stroke” like that).

Williams said that he doesn’t need help to defend the title and would kick both of their butts. He then signed the contract.

Wait, what’s this!? Hendry and Santana pushed their chairs back and jumped Williams, putting him through the table! What a shocking and unexpected outcome!!

-Any way, a promo for Saturday Night’s Main Event played next, but was interrupted by that masked faction, DarkState, who entered the ring and beat up Hendry and Santana who were still in the ring for some reason!

-Next a promo from Tony d’Angelo aired, revealing that he was the one who stole the Heritage Cup from Stacks! He tossed it off of a bridge and promised to win their “final” battle on Tuesday.

NXT Champion Oba Femi vs. Yoshiki Inamura w/Josh Briggs

The NXT Title could be headed to Japan! Inamura has made his bones in Pro Wrestling Noah and If he’s able to defeat Femi here, he would become the first non-WWE person to win the NXT Championship. Femi however has dominated NXT since he debuted and his winning of the NXT Championship was pretty much only a matter of time. Inamura will have his work cut out for him. 

The crowd was chanting OBA before the match even started, but once the bell rang it was clear that these two were pretty evenly matched in size and power. They locked up and Femi got the advantage with a shoulder block. Inamura moved on to a wrist lock, but Femi overpowered it. The two remained locked in a test of strength that Femi eventually won.

Femi picked Inamura up for a suplex which just energized Inamura. He charged Femi and drove him to the mat with a shoulder, followed by a big elbow. Inamura went to the top rope, but Femi rolled out of the ring, drawing Inamura down for Femi to hoist him on his shoulders.

Inamura broke free though, and dove on Femi on the outside. Back in the ring, he picked up Femi for a spinning slam. Femi responded with a slam of his own, but neither man could get more than a two count.

Femi began to take charge, tossing Inamura around the ring. He put Inamura in a back stretch over his knee, but Inamura was able to power out and counter the hold into a body slam. Femi hit a spinebuster in response. Working the body, Femi tried to get Imanura up for a suplex, but Inamura blocked it and delivered on of his own to Femi.

Inamura started delivering chops to Femi, utilizing his strong style strikes. Inamura hit another German Suplex on Femi, but only a two count. Inamura went to the top rope, but Femi dodged his dive, sending him into the ref in the corner. That allowed Briggs to hit Femi with the NXT title.

Inamura went up top, but Briggs tried to get him to make a pin. IN the confusion, Femi staggered to his feet and Inamura hit a big splash from the top rope. However, the ref was still down, so there was noone to count the pin.

Briggs tried to put the ref back in, which allowed Femi to recover and hit a choke slam. The pin was only for two though as Inamura kicked out. The big men went back to striking and punches and chops flew everywhere.

Inamura hit a modified Blue Thunder Bomb, but that only got him a modified two count. Briggs got up on the apron, but Femi wasn’t distracted and hit a pop up powerbomb to get the 1-2-3 and retain the NXT Title.

Match Result: Oba Femi defeated Yoshiki Inamura

That was a lot of big men slapping the meat! I love these slobberknockers as a certain Oklahoman used to say and Imanura kept up with the dominant Femi the whole way. I could have done without the Briggs interference, but it was still a fun title match.

-Backstage, Trick Williams asked GM Ava to do something about him getting jumped by Hendry and Santana. Ava said that DarkState got his revenge and then made the match Williams, Hendry and Santana vs DarkState on Tuesday.

-Oba Femi was interviewed in the back and he was joined be Inamura. They exchanged respect and Inamura apologized for Briggs’ interference. Briggs arrived and a pull apart broke out.

Jordynne Grace & Blake Monroe vs. Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne and Fallon Henley) w/ Jazmyn Nyx

Monroe’s arrival in NXT threw the women’s division into chaos and resulted in Fatal Influence putting her through a table. Grace is the number one contender for Jayne’s NXT Women’s Title, and just hours before Evolution, Fatal Influence will be looking to make an impact on the division and the faces of Grace and Monroe. 

Grace and Henley kicked things off, with Grace having the obvious strength advantage. She sent Henley into the corner and after some shots hit a big spinning slam. Henley tagged in Jayne and the two traded schoolboy attempts.

Grace then tagged in Monroe in her first ever WWE/NXT match. She and Jayne locked up and traded armbreakers. Monroe dodged a senton from Jayne who rolled over and tagged Henley back in. Monroe sent her to the corner and Grace tagged in. Using Monroe as a weapon, Grace scooped her up and dropped her on Henley.

Now isolated, Henley struggled against Monroe and Grace in the corner. Monroe, the legal woman, hit a spinning slam in the middle of the ring followed by a rollup. Jayne distracted the ref and Nyx jumped in to break up the pin and give a shot to Monroe.

Now Monroe found herself isolated as Jayne and Henley tagged in and out, working her over. Monroe dodged a double team though and got a hot tag to Grace who cleaned house until Jayne got a foot in her stomach. Henley arrived for a double team, but Grace shrugged them both off, sending them to the outside.

Jayne lured Grace to the outside and delivered a huge kick as Grace rounded a corner. Tossing her back into the ring, Henley and Jayne suplexed Grace, but it only resulted in a two count. Jayne pounced on a dazed Grace and hit a big elbow and a kick square to the face.

Henley rejoined the fray and hit Grace with a back elbow off the ropes. Jayne and Henley tagged in and out, delivering shots and kicks to Grace in the corner, targeting the arms. Grace fought back, overpowering Henley into a Death Valley Driver. A hot tag was made to Monroe to took out Henley and Jayne.

Jayne tried to go up top, but Monroe got her with a head scissors and brought her back down to earth. Monroe fought Jayne on the ring apron (the most glamourous part of the ring!) and tried a power bomb, but Nyx stopped her and Jayne dragged Monroe back into ring.

Henley tagged in and hit a blockbuster on Monroe for a two-count. Monroe delivered a big headbutt to Henley and fell back into a tag from Grace. Grace worked Henley over, tossing her onto the entrance ramp. They traded shots until Henley speared Grace through the ropes back into the ring.

Jayne and Monroe tagged in and traded stiff shots. Jayne sent Monroe intot he corner, but Monroe dodged and hit a German Suplex on Jayne. Monroe went to the top rope, but Nyx managed to push her off. Suddenly Masha Slammovich appeared and took out Nyx!

All four women brawled in the ring, the Ref unable to keep control. Henley sent Grace to the outside and in the ring, Monroe at a high kick from Jayne. Grace popped up and hit a back fist on Jayne, knocking her cold and allowing Monroe to get the pin!

Match Result: Jordynne Grace & Blake Monroe defeated Fatal Influence

A fun match that was worthy of being the Main Event. Loved the Slammovich cameo and thought that all involved worked really well together! Evolution should be great tomorrow, but before that, it’s Saturday Night’s Main Event!

Ricky Saints: ‘I’m a rough diamond that just needs a little polishing’

Posted on by Ian Carey

Ricky Saints was Cody Rhodes’ guest on the latest So, What Do You Wanna Talk About? podcast.

During the interview, Saints revealed that Triple H was the one who called him about signing with WWE and starting on the NXT brand. He was at the airport at the time and didn’t recognize the number, but says he always answers his phone regardless.

“Even if it’s unknown, I always answer it,” he said on the show. â€œI like an adventure. If it’s spam, let’s get to it, baby. I’m cool with it.”

Saints continued:

“Hunter calls me. I’m getting off this flight in Seattle and I can barely hear him because the airport is so loud. And he asked me, ‘Hey, would you want to come in? We’re interested, blah, blah, blah. We would love to have you, you’re talented, X, Y, and Z.’ And I was like, ‘Oh yeah, sure, hell yeah.’”

Saints said he heard Triple H say something about Raw or SmackDown, but the airport was so loud he couldn’t hear exactly what was being said.

“Right as I’m getting on the tram, he says something about like Raw or SmackDown. I was like, ‘Wait, what? What did you say?’ And I was so scared to say, ‘Hey, can you repeat yourself?’ Because I know how it feels. So I said, ‘Yeah Yeah, for sure.’ Basically, what he was saying was, ‘Hey, we’re not going to put you on Raw or SmackDown just yet,’ but it could have been anything. I didn’t know. I was like, ‘Okay, sweet.’

Triple H told Saints he wanted him to meet Shawn Michaels, which Saints was excited about, saying he feels like a “rough diamond that just needs a little polishing” with WWE’s resources.

“But he wanted me to meet Shawn. So that was a big thing. I was like, ‘Of course I will. Like, yes, I would love that.’ That’s all I really wanted is just resources. I feel like I’m a rough diamond that just needs a little polishing.”

Later in the conversation, Saints spoke about attending the 2024 Royal Rumble and being captured on a security camera entering the building.

“I don’t regret the Rumble thing. The Rumble thing was hilarious,” Saints said. â€œAt the Rumble, I was just like ‘Hey, I’m an hour away.’”

Rhodes added, â€œThat was also my fault, I walked you through the backstage area.”

Saints continued, “We were going to the bus and you were like, ‘Yeah, no one’s here.’ I saw B, I saw the other guy, I went to the bus, that was it. The reason is because I thought Rumble was a very special moment, to me. I wanted to be there and be like, ‘I’m here. This is great.’”

As he normally does on his podcasts, Rhodes asked Saints to name his “Dream Team.” After naming the show sponsor Wheatley Vodka, Saints said:

“We’re going to put The Deadman on there.”

“Undertaker is my favorite wrestler. I see this dude randomly, him and Michelle at the PC. We cut up, we talk about WCCW days.”

“Wheatley, Undertaker, Cody Rhodes, that’s not any glazing because I’m on your show.”

Mick Foley, Matthew McConaughey, and Harry Connick Jr. were also added to Saints’ team.

Up next for Saints is NXT Great American Bash on Saturday. He’s scheduled to challenge Ethan Page for the North American Championship in a Falls Count Anywhere match on the show.

The full episode of the podcast is available below:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0QzDokFxk4wTcnI9oxGnfz

WWE NXT live results: Number one contender’s match

Posted on by Chris Aiken

Tonight’s WWE NXT on The CW continues the march toward this month’s Great American Bash will feature a number one contender’s match in addition to TNA’s Joe Hendry in action.

Jasper Troy and Yoshiki Inamura will do battle for the right to challenge NXT Champion Oba Femi at the Bash. Troy is coming off a loss to Femi last month while Inamura battled Femi once on a live event, also last month.

Hendry returns to NXT for the first time since May when he battles Wes Lee. Hendry is preparing to challenge TNA World Champion and NXT member Trick Williams in addition to Mike Santana at this month’s TNA Slammiversary.

NXT North American Champion Ethan Page and Ricky Saints will meet with NXT GM Ava as another match between them looms in the distance.

Myles Borne vs. Lexis King, Thea Hail vs. Lainey Reed, and Izzi Dame & Tatum Paxley vs. Zaria & Sol Ruca round out the show.

**********

Opening the show is the entrance of TNA World Champion Trick Williams, and he joins the announce team for guest commentary alongside Vic Joseph, Booker T and Corey Graves.

Joe Hendry defeated Wes Lee (with Tyson Dupont & Tyriek Igwe)

Hendry pinned Lee after a chokeslam. Williams was on commentary, but other than stare down with Hendry, he did not play into the match itself. Yet, the match still featured a run-in.

The match goes through a commercial break. Just before the break, Hendry takes a wrecking ball dropkick from Lee on the floor. Hendry then counters to clothesline Lee. Hendry then has a stare down with Trick Williams at ringside. Those two meet in a title match at TNA Slammiversary in triple threat that also includes Mike Santana, who runs in later in this match to aid Hendry.

When the show returns from the break, Igwe and Dupont distract Hendry. That allows Lee to hit Hendry with a dive. Lee then casually springboards off the middle rope into a Phoenix Splash. From there, Hendry counters a tilt-a-whirl with a vertical suplex. It’s off to the races from there. Hendry manages to counter Lee again.

Santana runs down to ringside to counteract interference by Igwe and Dupont. Hendry deliver a chokeslam soon thereafter, and Hendry covers Lee for a pinfall.

Luca Crusifino comes to ring wearing a suit. He calls out Tony D’Angelo to clear the air. “The Don” accuses Crusifino of costing him the Heritage Cup in a match last week. They then accuse each other of hitting the other in the face.

Crusifino goes on to talk about how he left college and turned down offers to join a law firm in order to instead chase his dream in WWE. Crusifino says he as never done anything to doubt D’Angelo, and that is loyalty.

Out comes Heritage Cup Champion Stacks to interrupt the bickering to himself bicker with other two. Stacks sarcastically thanks Crusifino helping him win the Heritage Cup. Crusifino yells at Stacks to shut up. This is between Crusifino and D’Angelo. “The Don” chimes to to agree, and Crusifino decks D’Angelo with a right.

Stacks enjoys the sight of a decked D’Angelo, and he puts his arm around Crusifino while taunting D’Angelo. Crusifino then suddenly decks Stacks. The plot thickens.

NXT Champion Oba Femi is interviewed backstage by Kelly Kincaid. He comments on Jasper Troy against Yoshiki Inamura in a match later today. In walks Inamura, flanked by Josh Briggs. Inamura gets a promo that concludes with him saying he will see Femi at Great American Bash.

Myles Borne defeated Lexis King

Borne pinned King to win the match, which was set up in a skit last week with University of Florida football players George Gumbs Jr. and Tyreak Sapp. They were front row ringside for this match, and the celebrated after the match with Borne. For the finish, Borne does the Florida Gator chop before a Zig Zag and a pinfall.

Darkstate is featured in a pre-taped promo where each member gets to talk and threaten the NXT roster.

Lainey Reid defeated Thea Hail

Reid pinned Hail in a disputed finish. Not only did Hail have her hand under the plane of the bottom rope, but Reid was also holding the rope for illegal leverage. Moments before the finish, Reid tries to cheat by putting her feet on the ropes. For the finish itself, Reid delivers a knee strikes and covers Hail for the disputed finish. A rematch is plausible.

No Quarter Catch Crew is featured in a skit that sets up Charlie Dempsey against Tavion Heights. If Heights wins, he leaves the Crew. This is such an odd stipulation. Just leave if you want. Dempsey says when he wins, he does not want to hear about it again. Dempsey also heeled on Wren Sinclair in the skit.

Jasper Troy cuts a promo vowing to win tonight against Inamura, and then Troy vows to win the NXT title at Great American Bash.

Tatum Paxley & Izzi Dame (with The Culling) defeated NXT Women’s North American Champion Sol Ruca & Zaria

Dame pinned Ruca to win the match, which could also set up a title match with the champ dropping a fall. Paxley aligned herself with The Culling throughout the story of the match.

Ruca & Zaria are in sync most of the match until they go home. The tag bout goes through a commercial break. Just before cutting to commercials, Ruca & Zaria do a cool tandem spot that includes a dive to the floor and military press outside the ring. They do other tandem spots, including a modified take on the old Quebecers finisher. However, miscommunication and aDamen inadvertent spear tease dissension.

Just before the finish, Zaria accidentally spears Ruca after Paxley saves Dame. For the finish itself, Dame uses a sit-out powerbomb to score a pinfall on Ruca. With Dame pinning a champion, that would seem to set a title match in the near future.

In a skit from the office of NXT General Manager Ava, Ricky Saints meets with NXT North American Champion Ethan Page. Flanking Page is Vanity Project from Evolve, which includes WWE Evolve Champion Jackson Drake. This skit sets up Saints in a “Vanity Project gauntlet” next week. If Saints runs the gauntlet, he can pick a stipulation for his title rematch against Page.

Chasu U is featured in a vignette. Andre Chase apologizes to Uriah Connors and Kale Dixon for tough love. Chase has Dixon booked in a singles match next week. Chase wants Dixon to promise he will listen to Chase.

Joe Hendry is being interviewed by Kelly Kincaid when Santana also joins them. Hendry and Santana agree to fight against High Ryze.

Backstage in a skit, NXT Tag Team Champions Hank & Tank agree to put their titles on the line

Yoshiki Inamura defeated Jasper Troy in number one contender’s match

Inamura pinned Troy clean with a flying body press. In winning, Inamura earns a title match against NXT Champion Oba Femi at The Great American Bash.

So much for Troy’s big push. They figuratively cut his legs off here with a clean loss after several weeks of a pushing him. Inamura also kicked out of Troy’s finisher, which was a black hole slam. Inamura fired up in the closing moments. He then climbed the turnbuckles and leapt off with a splash to score the deciding pinfall.

Femi comes out after the match to have a stare down with Inamura on the entrance ramp. Meanwhile in the ring, Je’Von Evans springboards in to attack Troy. That is payback from a previous angle involving the two, and it also indicated a direction for both Evans and Troy.

Jordynne Grace is headed to the ring for a monologue. She starts by saying getting to this point (in NXT) is the hardest thing she has done. It reminds her that she thrives under pressure. So is heading into Evolution and is in the ring this time and not on the sidelines. She gets to compete alongside the best women’s wrestlers in the world.

Grace goes on to say for sake of being honest, she fears being vulnerable. She thought a lot and asked herself if she really belongs in WWE. She says the audience knows her journey. She did not grow up wanting to be a WWE superstar, but Gracy says she did everything she could to get here. She became someone WWE could not ignore.

Grace is interrupted by the Fatal Influence trio consisting of NXT Women’s Champion Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley and Jazmyn Nyz. Jayne taunts Grace by mocking her “sob story” about her journey. Jayne mocks by saying Grace might bench press more than her, but Jayne tells Grace she could never carry the women’s division. Keep flexing and a title might fall into her arms, but Jayne says it will not be her title.

Jayne claims she is at the top of her game. The live studio audience drowns her with boos, and Jayne taunts them too. Grace eventually cuts off Jayne and tells her to shut up. Grace starts saying a vow to become the champion when Jayne goes for a sneak attack. Grace tries to fight them off, but Grace is overcome by the odds.

Jayne and Henley are jumping Grace when Blake Monroe runs down for a save. Monroe and Grace clean house and clear the ring as the heels flee. Out comes Ava, who bickers with Fatal Influence. Ava books a match for The Great American Bash with Monroe & Grace against Jayne & Henley. The two heels — Jayne & Henley — rush into the ring after the announcement and they brawl with Monroe & Grace. The babyfaces again clean house on the heels before the show goes off the air.


WWE NXT live results: The fallout from Battleground

Posted on by Chris Aiken

New TNA World Champion Trick Williams is set to appear as the fallout from Battleground takes place on WWE NXT tonight.

Williams made history on Sunday, becoming the first WWE-contracted wrestler to win the TNA World Championship. With help from a well-placed belt shot, he defeated Joe Hendry to become champion. We’ll hear from Williams tonight for the first time since his victory.

Mike Santana has declared that he wants to be the savior of TNA and is coming after Williams’ title. Tonight, Santana makes his WWE debut against Tavion Heights. The match was set up at Battleground in a confrontation between Santana and No Quarter Catch Crew.

A couple of title matches are also part of tonight’s lineup. After successfully defending against Jordynne Grace at Battleground, Stephanie Vaquer already has her next challenger. She’s putting the title on the line against Jacy Jayne after Jayne slapped her in the face on Sunday.

Ricky Saints vs. Ethan Page for the North American Championship is kicking off the episode. The winner will defend the title at Worlds Collide against a yet-to-be-announced opponent.

Plus, WWE LFG winner Jasper Troy will be in action, Tatum Paxley faces Jaida Parker, and more.

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

**********

Opening the show is a title match and horde of security at ringside. NXT North American Champ Ricky Saints enters the sound stage at the Performance Center in Orlando. After him is his challenger, Ethan Page. They brawl before Mike Rowe can finish the ring introductions, and the security team rushes into the ring to break them up.

With a pull-apart brawl ongoing in the ring, Rowe does an abbreviated introduction before the bell sounds to officially start the title bout. The winner defends the title at When World Collide.

Ethan Page defeated NXT North American Champion Ricky Saints to win the title

Page pinned Saints to win the championship in a really good opener. Since neither of these wrestlers had a match on the PLE last weekend, this was essentially their PLE match in they had plenty of time and high drama. They wrestled through a picture-in-picture commercial break.

The fight spilled onto ringside, where Page went to grab a metal folding chair. Members of the security team spots him from using the chair. The horde of security then holds back back Saints and Page from brawling at ringside. Is brawling at ringside suddenly banned?

Out comes NXT General Manager Ava to sort out this mess. Instead, she gives a message to the announce team. Ava then leaves ringside, and the announcers are even more confused than before. The referee does his best Big John McCarthy, and the fight resumes at ringside as security steps aside.

When the show returns from the commercial break, the fighting at ringside continues with Saints and Page brawling over the announce desk. Security breaks them apart and the ref yells at them to get back into the ring. With some separation between them, Page strikes with a Diamond Cutter on the floor. In taking the move, Saints comes crashing down on a folding chair. Saints sells big while clutching his throat, but he manages to crawl back into the ring and take a Razor’s Edge. Saints still somehow kicks out.

Still selling his throat, Saints valiantly fights back as the babyface in peril. Saints gets a near fall on Page, while still selling his throat. The live studio audience begins a “Ricky” chant when Saints eats a boot from Page. The match rolls on and Page counters Saint’s finisher. In doing so, Page maneuvers over to the ropes , where Page snaps Saints injured throat on the top rope. Page follows up with a Diamond Cutter. Page the hooks a leg and covers Saints for a three count. And new…

Referees and officials check on an injured Saints in the ring, while Page poses with the North American title belt on the ramp.

Sarah Schreiber interviews Fatal Influence, and the tension was so thick you could cut it with a knife. Jacy Jayne cuts a promo on Fallon Henley. Jazmyn Nyx looks on behind Jayne.

Mike Santana is the focus of a personality profile introducing him to the NXT audience ahead of his upcoming match.

Josh Briggs and Yoshiki Inamura are back together again, and Briggs returns Inamura’s leather vest to him. Briggs suggest they set their sights on the NXT tag team titles, or Inamura suggest something “even bigger” for them.

Mike Santana defeated Tavion Heights (with No Quarter Catch Crew)

Santana pinned Heights after a roaring lariat. The bout itself goes through a commercial break, and they had a pretty good match. In Height’s corner was Charlie Dempsey, Wren Sinclair and Myles Born, but they played little into the match. Dempsey looked strong in winning, and he shakes hands with Heights after the match. Dempsey was disgusted by the display of sportsmanship from Heights.

The trio now known as High Ryze is the focus of a video package. That trio includes Wes Lee, Tyson Dupont, and Tyriek Igwe.

Up next is the aftermath from the fallout between Tony D’Angelo and Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo. For that we get some bad acting when Luca Crusifino sits down with D’Angelo. Crusifino professes his innocence to “The Don”, but D’Angelo says he cannot trust anyone. Crusifino insists D’Angelo can trust him.

New TNA Champion Trick Williams is heading to the ring for a celebratory monologue. Trick is victorious and boastful, but he heels on the studio audience when they try cheering for him. Tricks mocks them by asking if they feel stupid for singing along with “Average Joe” on the previous episode of NXT.

Trick boasts about himself and the title win, and Trick lists luminaries that were champions of TNA. Trick then says he is better than all of them. Trick heels on the crowd from turning their back on him, so he is going to TNA. Trick wants to change the name of TNA to “Trick-N-A”.

Santana interrupts Trick and confronts him in the ring. Santana is there to take up for TNA, and Santana takes exception to Trick trying to tear it down. Trick yells at Santana in response, basically telling Santana to know his place. Santana proceeds to cut a promo on Trick, and Santana calls Trick a “pretender” as a wrestler, a rapper and a champion.

Santana vows to take the TNA title from Trick. They are interrupted by TNA Director of Authority Santino Marella, who appears on a video screen. Marella informs Trick that he will indeed be a fighting champion. Trick is booked to defend the TNA title next Tuesday on NXT against Santana.

Santana rocks Trick with punches, and Santana sends Trick packing. Santana then poses with the TNA title belt.

In a locker room skit, Ava informs NXT Women’s Champion Stephanie Vaquer that she is booked in a tag match at When Worlds Collide, and Ava instructs Vaquer to find a tag partner. Vaquer agrees, but first she has a title match tonight. Lola Vice enters the scene offering to team with Vaquer.

Jaida Parker defeated Tatum Paxley

Parker pinned Paxley after a hip attack. This match was set up with a skit last week that also involved Thea Hail, who runs in after this match to attack Parker.

Setting up the finish, Parker threw on of Paxley’s dolls into the ring. Paxley brought the dolls to ringside before the match. Parker threw the red haired doll (probably symbolizing Gigi Dolan) into the ring. Paxley retrieves the doll. Parker then ambushes Paxley with the Hip-notic finisher, and Parker covers Paxley for a three count. Hail jumps Parker after the match, so they are clearing headed for a singles match between them.

Featured in a hype video is Jasper Troy, whose debut match on NXT television is up next..

Jasper Troy defeated Dante Chen

Troy pinned Chen in a glorified enhancement match. Chen did get a burst of offense just before the end, but Troy wiped out Chen. Tory then delivers a Black Hole Slam, and Troy scores a pinfall.

NXT Champion Oba Femi then gets Troy’s attention, with Femi perched on a stand overlooking the ring. Femi says he could have jumped Troy like Troy did to Femi last week, but Femi does tell Troy to enjoy his five seconds of fame because those five seconds are over now that Troy is in Femi’s sights.

Charlie Dempsey wants Myles Borne and Tavion Heights to pull back and focus on the group. Borne takes exception and says he is not going back. They agree to match with Borne against Dempsey. If Borne wins he can leave No Quarter Catch Crew. Why not just leave the group? He is an independent contractor after all. Oh wait… never mind. Must not be that kind of independent contractor.

New NXT North American Champion Ethan Page is the ring to celebrate his title win earlier in the show. After a hard fought win, Page appears with a scratch on him. He was not even selling the match at all.

Out comes Je’Von Evans to interrupt Page, because almost no monologue in NXT can go uninterrupted. Anyway, Evans announces that Page will defend the North American title against Evans at When World Collide, but that is not all.

Evans then introduces Laredo Kid, and he enters through the crowd. Laredo Kid says he is the most complete luchadore you will ever see. Kid is apparently added to the title match, but that is not all.

Out comes Rey Fenix, who cuts a promo on Page as he announces a fatal four-way match for the title at When Worlds Collide. It is Page defending against Evans, Laredo Kid and Femix. The winner then on a later date faces Sean Legacy, who won a number one contenders match last Tuesday.

NXT Women’s North American Champion Sol Ruca and her pal Zaria offers some kind words to Tatum Paxley in a backstage skit. Meanwhile, looking on is The Culling faction.

Jacy Jayne (with Fatal Influence) defeated NXT Women’s Champion Stephanie Vaquer to win the title

Jayne pinned Vaquer thanks in part in outside interference from Fallon Henley. They teased more dissension within Fatal Influence, but ultimately it was Henley that helps Jayne win the title. The title change was quite a surprise.

Let in the match, Henley jumps on the apron to cause a distraction. This was similar to a spot Jayne did in Henley’s loss last week on the previous episode. Much like last Tuesday, it backfires on Fatal Influence. Jayne collides with Henley, and Jayne is then superkicked out of the ring. At ringside, Henley and Jayne argue. Jazmyn Nyz tries to keep the peace, but to no avail. Both Henley and Jayne shove Nyz aside as Vaquer leaps off the top rope with a high cross.

Back in the ring, Vaquer counters Jayne. Vaquer then does her signature head scissors spot much to admiration of Booker T on commentary. Vaquer then catches Jayne in a tarantula armbar. Henley swings around the ring post with Tiger Feint Kick to break up the armbar. Jayne then hits Vaquer with a roaring elbow, and Jayne covers the champion for a three count. Disbelief abounds on the title change. Even Mike Rome is in shock as he announces the winner. And new…

North American title match to kick off Tuesday’s WWE NXT

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Gold will be on the line to kick off WWE NXT this week.

During NXT Battleground tonight, there was a segment with general manager Ava revealing that Ricky Saints vs. Ethan Page for the North American Championship will open Tuesday’s NXT episode. Ava also announced that whoever walks out of that match as champion will defend the North American title belt at Worlds Collide on Saturday, June 7. Their Worlds Collide challenger has not been named yet.

Saints won the North American Championship from Shawn Spears this April and has already defended against Page once, getting the victory at Stand & Deliver over WrestleMania weekend. This is Saints’ first title reign in WWE after being let out of his AEW contract in February.

Worlds Collide is being held at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California and will include wrestlers from WWE, NXT, and Lucha Libre AAA. It’s taking place in the afternoon prior to WWE Money in the Bank at the Intuit Dome.

Also during Battleground, it was set up that TNA star Mike Santana will make his WWE in-ring debut against Tavion Heights on NXT this Tuesday.

WWE NXT (Tuesday, May 27) —

  • New TNA World Champion Trick Williams appears
  • NXT Women’s Champion Stephanie Vaquer defends against Jacy Jayne
  • Mike Santana vs. Tavion Heights
  • Tatum Paxley vs. Jaida Parker
  • WWE LFG winner Jasper Troy in action
  • NXT North American Champion Ricky Saints defends against Ethan Page