The June 16th episode of WWE NXT showcased a mix of championship matches and rising tensions, setting the stage for the Great American Bash. The show, however, received a mixed reception, with some segments falling flat and others showing promise. Here's a breakdown of the key moments and their implications.
Women's Division Chaos
The women's division was the highlight of the show, but not for the right reasons. The interruption promo segment between Kelani Jordan, Kendal Grey, and Lola Vice overshadowed the champion, Zaria. Instead of allowing Zaria to celebrate her victory, the trio turned the segment into a petty dispute, with Jordan belittling the Women's North American Championship and Grey and Vice focusing on Jordan rather than the champion. This segment received a well-deserved 'D' grade, with the author criticizing the waste of time and talent.
The Women's Speed Championship Tournament continued, with Izzi Dame advancing to the finals after a clunky match against Thea Hail. Hail, once a rising star, has fallen short of expectations, and her match against Dame only added to the awkwardness. The tournament, overall, has been a mixed bag, with some matches feeling rushed and others showing potential.
North American Championship Contenders
The North American Championship scene received a boost with the introduction of Tavion Heights as the new contender. Heights' match against Jackson Drake earned a 'B' grade, with the author praising the potential for a dramatic heel turn. However, Heights' performance left something to be desired, as he was outshined by Drake's flashier style. The Vanity Project, led by Drake, seems to be a priority, but the lack of direction for these talented wrestlers is a concern.
Tony D'Angelo and Naraku
The dynamic between Tony D'Angelo and Naraku received a 'B+' grade, with the author praising their intriguing rivalry. Naraku's mysterious past and ambitions add an air of suspense, but the author questions the need for 'evil' references, suggesting a fresh direction is needed.
Nattie vs. Jaida Parker
Nattie's match against Jaida Parker earned a 'B+' grade, with the author praising Parker's grit and determination. The match showcased Nattie's new presentation, making her feel like a real threat. However, the author questions the direction of Nattie's story, suggesting a follow-up match is needed to solidify her character.
Women's Speed Championship Tournament: Arianna Grace vs. Layla Diggs
Arianna Grace's victory over Layla Diggs in the Women's Speed Championship Tournament received a 'C' grade. The match was enjoyable, with Diggs standing out despite her recent addition to the roster. The author suggests playing off Grace's recent Knockouts Championship reign to enhance her character.
Tag Team Chaos
The tag team match between Lola Vice and Kendal Grey and Zaria and Kelani Jordan received a 'B+' grade. The match was well-wrestled and teed up an exciting future clash between Vice and Zaria. However, the author questions the necessity of the miscommunication in the babyface vs. babyface story, suggesting a potential turn is needed.
Overall Impressions
The show, overall, received a 'C-' grade, with the author criticizing the lack of tension and the sidening of exciting new acts. The women's division, while showing promise, needs to find its direction, and the tag team matches, while entertaining, lacked the impact needed to build momentum for the Great American Bash.
In conclusion, WWE NXT's June 16th episode had its highs and lows, with some segments falling flat and others showing potential. The show needs to find a balance between rising tensions and entertaining matches to keep fans invested in the build-up to the Great American Bash.
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