Welcome to the latest edition of our weekly WWE NXT hits and misses series.
This week’s episode featured tons of action. We learned that NXT: The Great American Bash will be a two-week event. The crossover between NXT and TNA continued as well.
Here’s what went down on 7/16 NXT.
Hit – The Rascalz make WWE NXT in-ring debut
The Rascalz versus Gallus kicked off NXT this week. Wes Lee reunited with Zachary Wentz and Trey Miguel to take on the Coffey brothers and Wolfgang. TNA star Joe Hendry showed up on commentary during the match. Rascalz picked up the win over Gallus Boys after 13 minutes of incredible action.
A red hot opener that allowed the Rascalz to show what they are capable of. The NXT Universe had “welcome back” chants for Wentz. Their high-flying offense complemented Gallus’ hard-hitting style. Joe Hendry’s cameo was the cherry on top. It remains to be seen how Shawn Michaels plans on showcasing the TNA standout in the weeks to come.
Miss – Roxanne Perez & Thea Hail segment
Roxanne Perez addressed the NXT Universe two weeks into her successful title defense at Heatwave. The Prodigy was interrupted by Thea Hail. Roxanne delivered a cheap shot only for Hail to retaliate with her own submission maneuver.
Roxanne versus Thea seems to be the plan for The Great American Bash. The champion’s promo was a bit underwhelming. Roxanne does her best talk when she’s beating the life out of her opponent inside the ring. I’m looking forward to the build-up to this feud.
Hit – Je’Von Evans vs. Brooks Jensen
Je’Von Evans got the medical clearance to compete against Brooks Jensen on WWE NXT. Jensen showed a lot of aggressive offense during the match-up. Josh Briggs was at ringside to watch the match. Evans picked up the win following a huge cutter. Jensen jumped him post-match, but Briggs once again intervened.
A solid match-up that showcased a new and ruthless side to Jensen. This new character has really got me intrigued. Jensen’s dive onto Evans on the announce table was well executed. Jensen was seen leaving WWE NXT in his car following the main event. It remains to be seen what the second-generation star does next.
Miss – Ethan Page vs. Dante Chen on WWE NXT
Ethan Page defended his NXT Championship against Dante Chen. All Ego won the match after several minutes of action. Oro Mensah jumped Page after the match. The Main Man laid out Page and counted to three, teasing a title match against Page in the process.
A high-profile match for Chen since he lost to Lexis King in the Singapore Kane match. Page and Chen had a short match. The post-match angle helped continue the animosity between Page and Mensah. It remains to be seen if NXT GM Ava books this match for The Great American Bash.
Hit – Oba Femi vs. Duke Hudson
Oba Femi and Duke Hudson headlined WWE NXT this week. Oba put his North American Championship on the line against Chase U’s MVP. Hudson had a great showing against the champion, but the champion retained his title following a huge power bomb.
Oba Femi does not disappoint. The big man continues to put on incredible title defenses whether on weekly TV or Premium Live Events. Hudson had the biggest match of his career and he showed out as well.
Honorable Mentions
- Tatum Paxley took on Izzi Dame in singles action. Wendy Choo showed up during the match. Paxley picked up the win because of the distraction. Wendy handed Paxley a doll to tease an alliance. Paxley and Dame deliver a decent match-up. I was not expecting an interaction between Paxley and Wendy. Also, it looks like Paxley has found a new target in NXT North American Champion Kelani Jordan.
- OTM and the OC had a six-person tag team match. Both teams put on a fight. Gallows, Anderson and Michin picked up the one. It looks like the feud between the two teams is finally over. I think OTM should’ve won the match. Jaida Parker has emerged as the biggest star of this feud, in my opinion.
RELATED: Lexis King vs. Eddy Thorpe, Ashante Adonis vs. Oro Mensah, More Set For 7/23 WWE NXT
