Tonight’s show is the usual post-TakeOver, pre-new taping affair, with a mix of action filmed before the live broadcast in Chicago this past Saturday and recaps & interviews centered on that event. Here's what to expect.
The Headliner(s)
We’ve got at least two, probably three matches coming our way. And they feature a couple of big names left off the TakeOver: Chicago card.
Don't miss an action-packed episode of @WWENXT from Chicago's @AllstateArena THIS WEDNESDAY at 8/7c only on @WWENetwork! #WWENXT pic.twitter.com/Z6twv3H6af
— WWE (@WWE) May 23, 2017
The main event will likely be former Intercontinental champion Drew McIntyre against former NXT tag champ Wesley Blake. The big Scot is probably going to be in the main event of a lot more than just TakeOver fallout shows soon, and he’s willing to work his way through all comers to get there. That includes Blake, himself seeking a chance to get back in the spotlight by picking a fight with the big free agent signing by disrespecting him during a backstage interview.
Even though he got some slick new merchandise last week, Aleister Black still finds himself “in action” against enhancement talents. Look for the Dutchman to find himself in a real feud at tomorrow night’s tapings... unless rumors are true his time in NXT is short and he finds himself on Raw or SmackDown in addition to Main Event.
Then there’s Patrick Clark, who’s worked several episodes as enhancement talent in the past. But the Tough Enough contestant’s been getting the teaser video treatment for his Velveteen Dream gimmick, and we’ll find out more about that act tonight when he squashes someone his own self.
The Title Scene
Each of these folks will get a recap of their win, and a replay of whatever fallout video they cut after last Saturday’s show.
Bobby Roode’s era continued when he evaded the Go To Sleep and pinned Hideo Itami to keep his NXT championship. Itami already looks to be moving on to at least one match with Kassius Ohno (and possibly turning heel), so we probably won’t know for a few weeks (or Thursday’s spoiler report) who The Glorious One’s Brooklyn might be.
Undefeated Women’s titleholder Asuka went ahead and pinned both Ruby Riot & Nikki Cross on Saturday, but not without a fight. Still, all signs point to a showdown with Ember Moon.
Tag champs Authors of Pain continued to look unstoppable, and headed toward a BEEF BATTLE with Heavy Machinery. The story we’ll probably spend more time on tonight, and rightfully so, is the break-up of the team they defeated #DIY. Johnny Gargano isn’t talking to anyone, so maybe the heartless murderer Tommaso Ciampa will have something to say for himself.
Other stuff to keep an eye on:
- Roderick Strong took on the world, or at least the three male members of SAnitY, and won. Is it time for Roddy to take a step up the NXT ladder? And what’s next for Eric Young & crew?
- Triple H’s UK territory stole the show in Chicago. Will we learn where we can next see new champ Pete Dunne and the man he beat for the belt, Tyler Bate?
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See you tonight for NXT, Cagesiders!