Finally, we get the conclusion to the Matt Riddle/Killian Dain rivalry. The victor will get bragging rights and the number one contender spot. Also, Kushida and two mystery partners will face off with Imperium’s Fabian Aichner, Marcel Bartel, and Alexander Wolfe. With that let’s not wait and dive into our first incredible match in this NXT Recap.
NXT RECAP: KEITH LEE EVENS SERIES WITH BIG WIN OVER DOMINIK DIJAKOVIC
Keith Lee and Dominik Dijakovic have the best chemistry when it comes to big men in professional wrestling. This fantastic series has been built on a simple story, I’m better than you. It does not matter how much I see these men perform a moonsault, it’s still impressive. What’s crazy is that’s not even the most impressive feat they pull off!
Lee’s glory was on full display with his hard-hitting strikes and aerial offense, particularly his springboard corkscrew crossbody. Dijakovic’s notable highlights include a forceful chokeslam on the ring apron and possibly the spot of the night an avalanche Canadian Destroyer. The latter netted him a two count that Lee Kicked out of with force. While holding the 6ft. 7 in. giant like a child, Lee impressively rolled into a standing position and nailed Limit Breaker for the three count.
DAKOTA KAI TRIUMPHANT IN RETURN OVER TAYNARA CONTI
Nothing of note really with this match-up, but Kai did pick up the win in her return to NXT. I wanted to include this though as Kai has had issues with injuries, and it’s a highlight anytime a superstar returns from injury. Here’s looking forward to her playing a big part in the women’s division, and to hoping she can stay away from the injury bug.
MATT RIDDLE ENDS RIVALRY WITH KILLIAN DAIN AND EARNS TITLE SHOT IN BRUTAL STREET FIGHT
Even on network television, NXT continues to showcase great matches intertwined with terrific stories. Killian Dain felt Riddle had been handed everything since arriving in NXT, and wanted to take it. Matt Riddle wanted revenge on the man who had been attacking him. These men battled all over the arena, notably Dain planting RIddle through a wall with a crossbody.
Riddle persevered locking in the fujiwara armbar for the win. While Riddle celebrated his win, NXT Champion Adam Cole blindsided him. Cole taunted his future opponent, which quickly backfired as Riddle locked him in the fujiwara armbar. The rest of the Undisputed Era made their way to the ring, saving their leader as Riddle made his exit.
RHEA RIPLEY AND BRIT-AM BRAWLERS ELEVATE KAYDEN CARTER AND EVER-RISE
These two matches were proof that you can raise your profile in defeat. Kayden Carter really impressed as she was going toe to toe with Ripley, before succumbing to the Riptide. Holding your own with a woman viewed as an equal to the champion, not a bad way to debut.
Ever-Rise showed a lot of promise, but are definitely missing a few things before they’re ready for a push. They were able to keep the Brawler’s isolated from one another, and looked good against former title challengers. Ever-Rise is the new NXT name for longtime indie tag team 3.0.
CAMERON GRIMES DOUBLE STOMP CONTINUES TO ESTABLISH HIM AS STAR ON THE RISE
Cameron Grimes faced off with Raul Mendoza, one week removed from his destruction of Sean Maluta. The match was fine, but the story of this match was all about establishing the double stomp as one of the deadliest finishers in NXT.
It was teased early on that Grimes would again have a short match, but Mendoza countered out. Ultimately Grimes did hit that dreaded double stomp, and continues establishing himself as a star on the rise.
KUSHIDA & BREEZANGO OVERCOME IMPERIUM
In the main event Imperiums Fabian Aichner, Marce Bartel, and Alexander Wolfe squared off with Kushida, Tyler Breeze, and Fandango. The entire match was a showcase for Imperium. The NXT UK stable showed a level of cohesion, and control of the ring that’s been lacking in the general tag team division. Tyler Breeze was unfortunately on the receiving end of most of their onslaught, dispair filling the audience with every failed hot tag.
Fandango finally received the hot tag to a thunderous ovation, followed by an assault on the trio. Chest chops, a Falcon Arrow, and an impressive Cannonball over the top rope put the babyfaces back in control. Kushida secured the win with a roll-up bridge pin for the victory. As Kushida retreated, Walter blindsided Kushida on the ramp as Imperium stood in salute to close out the show.
Stay tuned to the Last Word on Pro Wrestling for more on this and other stories from around the world of wrestling, as they develop. You can always count on LWOPW to be on top of the major news in the wrestling world, as well as to provide you with analysis, previews, videos, interviews, and editorials on the wrestling world including a new NXT Recap weekly. Make sure to check NXT out on the WWE Network just 24 hours after it airs on USA Network.
NXT Recap Main Photo via wwe.com
