The June 9th edition of WWE NXT showcased a diverse range of matches, each with its own unique story and stakes. The show was a showcase of talent, with a mix of established stars and rising prospects, all vying for a chance to shine and make their mark on the NXT brand. Here's a breakdown of the key moments and my personal thoughts on the action and performances.
Tag Team Action: Fraxiom & Frazer vs. Noam Dar & Romeo Moreno
This match was a breath of fresh air, a high-flying, fast-paced contest that stole the show. Fraxiom and Frazer, a new tag team, showcased their chemistry and ability to elevate their opponents. Romeo Moreno, in particular, stood out with his speed and fire, reminiscent of Je'Von Evans. His energy and in-ring prowess made him a standout, and I believe he's a future star in the making. The match itself was a blur of action, with both teams trading blows and near-falls. The double-teaming of Dar and Romeo, followed by Fraxiom's Golden Ratio and Phoenix Splash, was a highlight. This match was a breath of fresh air and a reminder of the potential in NXT's tag team division.
NARAKU vs. Mason Rook
A hard-hitting, veteran-filled contest between NARAKU and Mason Rook. NARAKU's Strong Style clashed with Rook's hard-hitting style, creating an engaging battle. The distraction by Kam Hendrix, however, was a misstep. It not only ruined the flow of the match but also made NARAKU look weak. The crowd's investment in this match was evident, and the potential for a deeper story between NARAKU and Tony D'Angelo is there. The match itself was a showcase of experience and power, with NARAKU's size and style contrasting with Rook's agility. The ending, with NARAKU hitting Enter The Abyss, was a bit underwhelming, but the overall match was a solid effort.
Kelani Jordan vs. Kendal Grey
A highly anticipated women's match between two top-tier athletes. Jordan and Grey showcased their chemistry and in-ring skills, delivering an excellent battle. The near-falls and counter-attacks kept the audience on the edge of their seats. Grey's victory, with her signature Shades of Grey, was a highlight. This match solidified Grey's potential as a future NXT Women's Champion. The rivalry between these two is a must-see, and I believe it will continue to elevate the women's division.
Dion Lennox vs. Jasper Troy
A power-heavy match that lacked the finesse and storytelling. Lennox, despite his strength, struggled to keep up with Troy's size. The match was a bit awkward, with Lennox's power moves looking out of place against Troy's big man style. The build-up to Shugars vs. Lennox is a concern, mirroring Tony D'Angelo's recent matches too closely. Troy's recent losses are a worry, and NXT needs to be careful not to overwork him.
Mr. NXT Pageant
A weird but entertaining segment. The pageant itself was a mix of talent and awkwardness. The judges' choices were questionable, and the fan vote was awkwardly timed. However, Shiloh Hill's win was a highlight, showcasing his every-man appeal and potential for future success. The build-up to a potential match between Hill and Angels is intriguing, and Hill's popularity is on the rise.
Women's North American Championship: Tatum Paxley vs. Zaria
A fast-paced, high-energy main event that delivered. Zaria's victory over Paxley was a surprise, but a well-deserved one. The action was clean and focused, with both women showcasing their skills. Paxley's cosplay entrance was a unique touch, and Vic Joseph's commentary favored Zaria, indicating a potential future for her. The match itself was a showcase of main event potential, and I believe it should be run back with more time to build even further.
Overall, the June 9th NXT episode was a strong showing, with a mix of action, storytelling, and talent. The show solidified the key stars of the NXT brand and showcased the potential for future stars. The tag team division, women's division, and rising prospects all shone, making this a must-watch episode for any wrestling fan.