The world of professional wrestling was abuzz this week as NXT Heatwave 2023 delivered a night of action-packed matches and surprising developments. While there were some underwhelming moments, one match stood out and left fans craving for more.
The highly anticipated title defense of Carmelo Hayes had some pre-match drama, with Trick and Melo exchanging tense words in the locker room. The tension between them hinted at a potential future program, which could add an exciting dynamic to the roster. However, the championship match itself did not live up to expectations, with an abrupt ending that left fans wanting more.
On the other hand, the clash between Trick and Ilja Dragunov stole the show. The match showcased Trick’s resilience and ability to hang with a seasoned competitor like Ilja. Despite taking some devastating blows, Trick kept coming back for more, displaying his determination and earning the respect of his opponent. This match marked a significant milestone for Trick and showcased his potential for success in the future.
While the Heritage Cup matches have a unique appeal, this week’s match failed to captivate the audience. The inclusion of outside interference and shenanigans detracted from the pure in-ring storytelling that the Heritage Cup represents. However, the victory of Noam Dar over Nathan Frazer sets up an interesting development for the Meta-Four stable.
The reveal of the Creed Bros being under the masks fell flat due to the lack of surprise. The audience had already been aware of their identities, and it made Joe Gacy look foolish for not recognizing them sooner. Despite this misstep, the upcoming cage match between the Creeds and the Dyad holds promise for an intense showdown.
The mixed tag match featuring Lyra Valkyria & Dragon Lee against Dirty Dom and Rhea Ripley showcased the potential of Lyra and Dragon as a formidable team. With Raquel Rodriguez interfering and causing a distraction, Dragon took advantage and pinned the North American champion. This match served as a solid setup for future rivalries and established Dragon Lee as a potential future champion.
The encounter between Baron Corbin and Von Wagner took an unexpected turn as the match never actually happened. Baron attacked Von before the match began, leading to a brawl around the ring. The involvement of Bron Breakker added an element of chaos to the situation. While this segment may have disappointed fans looking forward to a match, it sets the stage for a potential three-way dance in the future.
The women’s division also had its share of excitement, with Roxanne Perez, Gigi Dolin, Blair Underwood, and Kiana James all vying for Tiffany Stratton’s championship. A segment featuring each woman showcased their personalities, with Roxanne making a strong statement by attacking Tiffany in the ring. Next week, a four-way match will determine the number one contender for the title, and the spotlight is on Gigi Dolin as a potential frontrunner.
Overall, NXT Heatwave 2023 had its highs and lows. While some matches fell short of expectations, the clash between Trick and Ilja Dragunov delivered an intense and memorable encounter. As the future unfolds, fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in the ongoing storylines and the rise of new stars in the world of professional wrestling.
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