Bleacher Report presents live coverage of Week 2 of NXT Spring Breakin’, aired on April 30. Here’s what WWE promoted for the show:
1. Thea Hail vs. Jacy Jayne
2. Oba Femi vs. Ivar
3. AOP vs. Nathan Frazer and Axiom
4. Natalya vs. Lola Vice
5. Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson vs. Tyson Dupont and Tyriek Igwe
Now, let’s dive into the highlights from Tuesday’s event:
Oba Femi vs. Ivar
The episode kicked off with a recap of Trick Williams’ NXT Championship win last week. Following this, Trick made his first appearance as the new champion, exchanging words with Lash Legend.
In the opening match, Oba Femi defended his NXT North American Championship against Ivar. The bout showcased athleticism and energy, but it felt somewhat predictable. Despite the lack of surprises, Femi retained his title, setting up a confrontation with Wes Lee post-match.
Grade: B
Notable Moments and Observations:
– Trick Williams’ attire bore resemblance to The Rock’s recent outfits.
– Gigi Dolin and Arianna Grace’s segment discussing the card felt out of place.
– Ivar’s absence without Valhalla was noticeable.
– The championship belt on a pedestal during matches adds a nice touch.
Thea Hail vs. Jacy Jayne
Chase U pumped up Thea Hail before her match against Jacy Jayne. The bout ended swiftly, with Hail emerging victorious, although it failed to reach its full potential.
Grade: C+
Notable Moments and Observations:
– The crowd’s “Welcome back” chant for Lee drowned out Chase U’s pre-match speech.
– The body scissor submission during the break dragged on.
– Hail’s backward springboard into a neckbreaker was a highlight.
The OC vs. Tyson Dupont and Tyriek Igwe
Tyson Dupont and Tyriek Igwe made their NXT debut against Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson, but the newcomers suffered a quick loss, despite prior hype.
Grade: D+
Notable Moments and Observations:
– Gallows and Anderson lacked their usual charisma without AJ Styles.
– Dupont showcased a commendable running elbow strike.
– Anderson displayed power with a spinebuster on Igwe.
Shawn Spears vs. Ridge Holland
Shawn Spears faced Ridge Holland, with Holland securing a straightforward victory. However, the match lacked intensity.
Grade: C-
Notable Moments and Observations:
– Spears’ gear stood out.
– The crowd appeared unsure who to support.
AOP vs. Nathan Frazer and Axiom
The NXT Tag Team Championship was on the line as Nathan Frazer and Axiom defended against AOP. Despite interference, Frazer and Axiom retained, though the outcome felt anticlimactic.
Grade: B-
Notable Moments and Observations:
– Axiom’s entrance gimmick suited the character well.
– The suicide dives injected energy into the match’s start.
– Femi carrying Ivar on his shoulders showcased impressive strength.
Natalya vs. Lola Vice
The main event featured an NXT Underground match between Natalya and Lola Vice. The stipulation provided a unique fight-style atmosphere, with Vice emerging victorious after an intense bout.
Grade: C+
Notable Moments and Observations:
– Vice’s serious demeanor added depth to her character.
– Natalya’s fall out of the ring had a delayed reaction from ringside attendees.
– The old-school mic descending from the ceiling was a nice touch.
In Conclusion:
This week’s NXT Spring Breakin’ episode felt lackluster, with rushed matches and puzzling outcomes. Lee’s return and Femi vs. Ivar stood out, but overall, the episode failed to deliver the excitement expected.
Grade: C
