The July 21 edition of WWE NXT was a thrilling showcase of talent, with high-stakes matches and intriguing storylines. The show delivered an engaging spectacle, with a particular focus on the NXT Championship and the rise of Reina Volcan. Here's a detailed breakdown of the action and the expert analysis that follows.
The Main Event: Tony D'Angelo vs. Naraku
The NXT Championship Street Fight between Tony D'Angelo and Naraku was a highlight of the night. D'Angelo's reign continues, but the match itself was a showcase of raw, unfiltered action. Naraku's aggressive style and use of weapons, including chairs and a ladder, made for an intense and chaotic bout. The finish, where D'Angelo blocked a second shot of red mist and planted Naraku through a table, was a fitting conclusion to a hard-fought battle. This match reminded viewers of D'Angelo's ability to rise to the occasion when given a challenging opponent.
Reina Volcan's Debut
Reina Volcan's long-awaited debut against Skylar Raye was a squash match, but it showcased her potential as a rising star in NXT's women's division. Volcan's performance was impressive, and her theme song fits her character perfectly. The match itself was a standard debut squash, but it set the stage for Volcan's future competitive matches. The question remains: will WWE give her the opportunities she deserves, and will she live up to the hype?
Midcard Feuds and Storylines
The midcard feuds on the show were a mix of entertaining and underwhelming. The Jaida Parker vs. Nattie match was a solid effort, with Parker's victory over Nattie and her crew. The introduction of Thea Hail as Parker's backup was a clever move, adding depth to the story. However, the use of the 'Sharpshooter' finish felt odd, raising questions about the rules of the match.
The Shawn Spears vs. Niko Vance match was a disappointment, with Spears' victory by disqualification. The referee's fall for the Eddie Guerrero spot was out of place, and the match lacked the energy and personality of Vance. The 'Perfect 10' gimmick, once a fan favorite, needs a revival for Spears to shine.
Tag Team Division and Future Directions
The DarkState vs. Saquon Shugars, Noam Dar, and Romeo Moreno match was a solid outing, with Shugars' impressive performance. The team of Dar and Moreno has chemistry and the crowd's support, making them a potential tag team force in the future. Shugars' potential is evident, and a rematch with Lennox could be on the horizon.
The NXT Women's Championship
The NXT Women's Championship scene is heating up with the upcoming match between Kendal Grey and Lola Vice. Grey's dominance over Vice at The Great American Bash sets the stage for a rematch, with Vice seeking validation. The heated interaction between the two showcased their competitive spirits, and the NXT Underground match stipulation adds an intriguing layer to the story.
Conclusion and Takeaways
The July 21 edition of WWE NXT was a solid effort, with a mix of entertaining matches and intriguing storylines. The NXT Championship Street Fight was a standout moment, and the rise of Reina Volcan is a promising development. The show's overall grade of B reflects the mix of strong performances and areas for improvement. Graham Matthews' expertise and insights provide a comprehensive analysis, offering a deeper understanding of the show's key moments and their implications for the future of NXT.
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