Every week, the WWE Network airs the latest episode of NXT. Of course, if you are reading this site you know what WWE NXT is. However I know many WWE Network subscribers don’t follow the show. Much like Superstars, I watch NXT religiously every week. So why not share some of my thoughts while also giving some information to those who may not keep up with it?
This week’s edition of NXT sees the return of American Alpha. Their appearance on this show marks their first appearance since losing the NXT Tag Team Titles back to The Revival and then being assaulted by the Authors of Pain. The commentary team is the usual of Tom Phillips and Corey Graves, who make for a great duo. Let’s see how the show went:
Alexa Bliss vs. Carmella
I enjoyed this. Both girls have come a long way from where they were a year and two years ago. This wasn’t some must-see match by any means but I enjoyed it for what it was. Of course, the division has been kicking their feet with women for too long, and this match and the fan reaction reeks of the issues that are at hand.
Carmella and Alexa either need to be called up, or they need to be moved into the top tier role that Bayley, Asuka, and Nia are in right now. Especially as Bayley is likely being called up soon. The other alternative is have Carmella called up to even the odds with Enzo/Cass and the Social Outcasts. That’d be fine with me too.
Either way, Bliss winning was nice as I expected Carmella to get the win. What this actually means for either of them is anyone’s guess. They really need to do something with both of them, because the fans aren’t invested when they’re just dragging their feet. Bliss wins with the Sparkle Splash.
Winner: Alexa Bliss
After Bliss celebrates we get a look at the Balor/Nakamura segment from a few weeks ago before we get a sit down promo with Shinsuke Nakamura. This isn’t as electric as his in ring promos, but it still was fine, especially considering the language barrier. It felt realistic. It wasn’t an electric promo that may keep everyone invested, but it was fine.
After, Cathy Kelley interviews Bayley, who wants her rematch with Asuka. Bliss interrupts, saying she destroyed Carmella and if Bayley wants a title shot, she has to go through her first. Hey, this could be a good feud if given proper spotlight. Or it could be filler before NXT Takeover: Brooklyn.
Noah Potjes vs. Andrade Almas
Andrade Almas isn’t being used to his potential thus far. Having him go over Tye three times in two nights wasn’t a great way to endear him to the live crowd, and as a result they aren’t too into him here. And needless to say, they don’t care about Noah. While Andrade is really good and has a ton of potential, they need to do a better job at protecting him. He won clean, obviously.
Winner: Andrade Almas
After Almas celebrates, we get an Austin Aries promo. He’s fully heel now, attacking the fans and No Way Jose. This is perfect. I’ve been waiting for him to turn. Austin Aries works better as a babyface after being a heel first. This is the right move. Some think we’ll see No Way Jose vs. Austin Aries taking place at Takeover, but I don’t know if I see it lasting that long. Maybe Hideo would be more suitable?
We then go to a Finn Balor sit down interview, which wasn’t too great either. Nakamura’s was probably more interesting. But it was still solid enough for what it was, and it definitely further hypes their big upcoming match up.
The Hype Bros (Mojo Rawley and Zack Ryder) vs. Tommaso Ciampa and Johnny Gargano
Talk about over-delivering. We all know Mojo isn’t a great in ring worker. He has improved, and the Hype Bros tag team helps hide his weaknesses, but regardless a match like this wasn’t exactly something I was, erm, hyped about.
But to my surprise, it was quite good. They had some big near falls, the crowd bought into a few of them, and both teams looked really good in the process. When I saw this was the last match on the show, I was a little surprised, but it delivered. Good match, and Gargano/Ciampa continue to be pushed with a clean win. I’m happy with it. Meanwhile, I’d be fine with the Hype Bros being a main roster act.
Winners: Tommaso Ciampa and Johnny Gargano
Gargano and Ciampa take the mic after the match and make it known they want the NXT Tag Team Titles. This leads to American Alpha coming out and returning, saying they have a rematch and that Gargano and Ciampa won’t be facing the Revival for the titles, they’ll be facing Alpha who will be winning them back.
This leads to the Revival coming out, who tell both teams off in very enjoyable fashion. Ultimately, Regal comes out to announce that we will have The Revival defending their NXT Tag Team Titles against American Alpha, in a two out of three falls match. The Authors of Pain show up and assault American Alpha again, taking down Gargano and Ciampa as well. Yeah, the tag division is definitely hot right now. Good way to close the show.
Match List
Alexa Bliss vs. Carmella
Noah Potjes vs. Andrade Almas
The Hype Bros (Zack Ryder and Mojo Rawley) vs. Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa
Closing Thoughts
Not a bad episode of NXT. With less enhancement matches, two of the matches actually had time and were enjoyable. Meanwhile, Andrade’s match wasn’t well received but it had positives. The big story was the end, of course, with the tag division heating up. And that makes for a very fun division.
What did you think of the show? Make sure to leave your thoughts and feedback. As always, stick to WWE Network News for the latest WWE Network news, polls, reviews, and rumors! Bookmark us, like us on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter: @WWENetworkChron!