The July 21 edition of WWE NXT was a thrilling showcase of talent, with high-stakes matches and intriguing storylines. The show delivered an entertaining spectacle, with a focus on the NXT Championship and the rise of new stars. Here's a deep dive into the key moments and my expert analysis.
The NXT Championship Rematch: Tony D'Angelo vs. Naraku
The main event was a Street Fight between Tony D'Angelo and Naraku, a highly anticipated rematch from The Great American Bash. D'Angelo's reign as NXT Champion continued, but the real story was the potential for Naraku to become the top heel. The match was fast-paced and intense, with both wrestlers utilizing various weapons, including chairs and a ladder. D'Angelo's ability to adapt and counter Naraku's attacks showcased his resilience and strategic prowess. The finish, where D'Angelo blocked Naraku's Red Mist and planted him through a table, was a satisfying conclusion. However, I believe this could have been the moment to switch the title, especially with the introduction of Mike Santana, who has his sights set on gold. Naraku's potential as a dominant force in NXT is undeniable, and this match only served to enhance his character.
Rising Star: Reina Volcan
Reina Volcan made her long-awaited debut, and her performance against Skylar Raye was a solid introduction to her character. Volcan's in-ring skills and showmanship were on full display, utilizing backbreakers and a Rack Attack for the victory. Her entrance and theme song are already impressive, and her rise in NXT will be fascinating to follow. However, I wonder why WWE hyped her so much if they weren't planning to showcase her potential in competitive matches. I hope she continues to evolve and become a key player in the women's division.
Midcard Feuds and Storytelling
The midcard feuds on the show were a highlight, particularly the intense interaction between Kendal Grey and Lola Vice. Their heated argument and subsequent match for the NXT Women's Championship were well-executed. Vice's dominance in NXT Underground matches and Grey's determination to prove herself were compelling elements. The involvement of Wren Sinclair in the storyline adds an intriguing layer, and I hope their dynamic continues to unfold. Additionally, the Jaida Parker vs. Nattie match was a refreshing change of pace, focusing on respect rather than a title. Hail's return as Parker's backup was a strategic move, and it showcases the potential for her character evolution.
Tag Team Division and Individual Performances
The DarkState vs. Saquon Shugars, Noam Dar, and Romeo Moreno match was a solid outing, with Shugars showcasing his potential. The tag team division's depletion is evident, and keeping Dar and Moreno together could be a strategic move. Their chemistry and crowd support are notable, and I anticipate their continued involvement in the division. Keanu Carver's victory over Hank Walker was a necessary step in his character development, and the introduction of EK Prosper adds an interesting dynamic. However, the match itself was underwhelming, and I hope Carver's push continues to evolve.
The Culling and Shawn Spears
The Culling stable, led by Niko Vance and Izzi Dame, failed to impress in their match against Shawn Spears. Their lack of aura and personality is a concern, and I believe they should be dissolved soon. Spears' return to the babyface role was enjoyable, and his disqualification win against Vance was a strategic move to keep the referee distracted. However, I think Spears should reclaim his 'Perfect 10' gimmick for one last run as a fan favorite.
Overall Show and Takeaway
The July 21 edition of WWE NXT was a solid effort, with a focus on the NXT Championship and the rise of new stars. The show delivered an entertaining spectacle, and the overall grade of B reflects the positive aspects. The introduction of Mike Santana and the potential for Naraku to become a dominant force are exciting developments. Reina Volcan's debut and her potential rise in NXT will be a fascinating narrative to follow. The midcard feuds and individual performances showcased the talent and storytelling abilities of the WWE creative team. As an expert analyst, I believe this show was a step in the right direction for NXT, and I look forward to the future developments and the continued growth of the brand.
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