WWE NXT delivered with its NXT No Mercy event, captivating the audience at the Mechanics Bank Arena in Bakersfield, California. Each NXT title was on display, with the best from the brand stepping into the limelight.
The card was filled with unforgettable bouts, positioning the event as potentially one of NXT’s grandest spectacles ever.
Opening Act: Blair Davenport vs. Kelani Jordan
Kelani Jordan gave Blair Davenport a run for her money, but ultimately, Davenport’s diving stomp combined with a swinging side slam secured her the victory. Post-match, Gigi Dolin made her presence felt, attacking Davenport before being restrained by officials.
The bout was a lengthy affair for an NXT women’s match, giving Jordan ample opportunity to shine. She indeed stood out, impressing many. Davenport, ever the seasoned performer, clinched the anticipated win but will need to keep an eye on the rising stars like Jordan.
The spotlight now shifts to Davenport’s ongoing rivalry with Dolin.
Outcome:
Davenport beats Jordan via pinfall.
Rating: B-
Highlights:
- Jordan’s impressive rebound cutter move on Davenport.
- Jordan’s near win following a handspring back elbow and swinging leg neckbreaker.
Bron Breakker vs. Baron Corbin
Bron Breakker dominated Baron Corbin, surprising many. But Corbin’s fortune changed when Mr. Stone distracted Breakker, allowing Corbin to deliver the End of Days and secure the win.
The bout had its moments but lacked a clear narrative. The audience’s response was mixed, indicative of the inconsistent storyline between the two.
The ideal storyline moving forward would be a collaboration between Corbin and Breakker.
Outcome:
Corbin beats Breakker via pinfall.
Rating: C+
Highlights:
- An engaging No Mercy intro inspired by the video game.
- Breakker’s wolf-themed entrance and Corbin’s motorcycle ride.
- A fierce pre-match brawl between the duo, involving security interference.
North American Title: Dominik Mysterio (c) vs. Trick Williams (Referee: Dragon Lee)
In a twist of fate, Dragon Lee managed to recover just in time to count as Trick surprised “Dirty” Dominik Mysterio with a powerful knee strike, winning the North American Championship.
Though Mysterio has had some strong performances, the chemistry between him and Trick seemed off. The match felt driven more by plot points than raw wrestling action.
Now, with Trick holding gold, he has solidified his position as a rising star.
Outcome:
Trick beats Dirty Dom, becoming the new North American champion.
Rating: C-
Highlights:
- Pre-match banter between Carmelo Hayes and Trick.
- The crowd’s favorite chants: “Whoop That Trick” and “We Want Mami”.
- Dirty Dom mistakenly attacking Dragon Lee.
NXT Tag Titles: The Family (c) vs. Multi-Team Match
In a thrilling contest, The Family overcame intense competition, with Tony D’Angelo and Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo finishing off Lucien Price with their Bada Boom, Bada Bing move.
The match was a clear improvement from the earlier main card bouts, offering several highlight moments.
Outcome:
The Family retains the NXT Tag Team Championships.
Rating: B
Highlights:
- Unique entrances, including OTM’s Grand Theft Auto-themed ride and The Family’s reunion.
- D’Angelo’s comeback with a knee brace.
- A synchronized superplex move by the faces against the heels.
Heritage Cup: Noam Dar (c) vs. Butch
Despite some outside interference, Noam Dar managed to retain the Heritage Cup in a riveting bout against Butch, which fully embraced the Rounds format.
Outcome:
Dar retains the Heritage Cup, defeating Butch.
Rating: B+
Highlights:
- Butch’s joint manipulation tactics.
- Close calls with Dar nearly succumbing to submission.
NXT Championship: Carmelo Hayes (c) vs. Ilja Dragunov
In an epic showdown, Ilja Dragunov overcame Carmelo Hayes in a bout sure to be remembered as one of NXT’s finest.
Outcome: Dragunov becomes the new NXT champion, defeating Melo.
Rating: A+
Highlights:
- Melo’s jersey collection display.
- High-flying moves and near-falls that kept audiences on edge.
NXT Women’s Championship – Extreme Rules: Becky Lynch (c) vs. Tiffany Stratton
Both Becky Lynch and Tiffany Stratton pushed each other to the limit, with Lynch eventually retaining her title in an Extreme Rules bout.
Outcome:
Lynch retains the NXT Women’s Championship.
Rating: A
Highlights:
- An array of unique weapons used during the match.
- High-risk maneuvers, including Stratton’s senton bomb.
Overall Show
NXT No Mercy commenced with a slow burn but gradually built up momentum, treating fans to some world-class wrestling towards the latter half.
The event reached its zenith with the Heritage Cup match, and the last two bouts easily rank among NXT’s best offerings this year.
While the Noam Dar vs. Butch match had a convoluted finish, it showcased the technical prowess that set NXT UK apart.
With rising stars like Trick Williams coming to the forefront, the future of NXT looks promising.
Overall Rating: B+
