In the sizzling summer heat, WWE NXT kicked off the “biggest party of the summer” with a bang at the Great American Bash 2023, electrifying the H-E-B Center at Cedar Park in Cedar Park, Texas.
The NXT Championship match saw Carmelo Hayes face his most daunting challenge yet, squaring off against the relentless Ilja Dragunov. In a display of sheer determination, Dragunov unleashed an onslaught of chops on Hayes’ chest, turning it crimson red. However, with the help of his hype man, Trick Williams, Hayes found the strength to deliver a devastating Nothin’ But Net finisher to retain his NXT title. The match reached a level of intensity that left the WWE Universe in awe, making it an instant contender for Match of the Year.
Chase University proudly declared Thea Hail the uncrowned champion after she made Tiffany Stratton tap out. Despite her grit and submission mastery, Stratton showed resilience, escaping numerous Kimura Locks, and ultimately locking in a Boston crab that Hail couldn’t break free from. Andre Chase, Hail’s mentor, threw in the towel when the young contender refused to quit, ending the match in Stratton’s favor. Although Hail may have fallen short this time, her impressive display showed she’s a force to be reckoned with in the future.
In a dramatic turn of events, Dominik Mysterio, with the assistance of Judgment Day, stole the NXT North American Championship from Wes Lee, just ahead of his scheduled bout against Mustafa Ali at Great American Bash. The three competitors waged war in a thrilling triple threat match, where Mysterio successfully retained his title. The high-octane action and stunning twists kept fans on the edge of their seats.
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Tony D’Angelo’s long-awaited freedom was secured by some clever acting from Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo, leading to an NXT Tag Team Championship match for The Underboss and The Don. In a riveting battle against Gallus, D’Angelo and Stacks emerged victorious, claiming the tag team gold and signaling a new era for the division.
A hometown hero, Roxanne Perez, sought vengeance against the dangerous Blair Davenport in a brutal Weapons Wild match. The two fierce competitors clashed with an array of weapons, but in the end, it was The Prodigy who emerged triumphant, sealing her victory with a thunderous Pop Rox on steel chairs.
The Great American Bash proved to be a stacked event with incredible talent and potential. From thrilling high-flying matches to intense brawls, NXT showcased its best, delivering a show that left the WWE Universe proud. The event’s highlights were many, with Lee, Stratton, Mysterio, Hayes, and Dragunov all showcasing their top-tier skills and leaving a lasting impression.
Overall, the Great American Bash lived up to the hype and expectations, solidifying its place as one of NXT’s most memorable top-to-bottom events in recent memory. As the summer continued to sizzle, NXT’s stars continued to shine, and the WWE Universe eagerly awaited what the future held for this dynamic brand.
Carmelo Hayes (c) vs. Ilja Dragunov – NXT Championship
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Grade: A+
Notable Moments:
- Dragunov’s relentless chops turned Hayes’ chest red, displaying the intensity of the match.
- Trick Williams provided crucial support, helping Hayes hit Nothin’ But Net to secure the victory.
Chase University’s Thea Hail vs. Tiffany Stratton (c) – NXT Women’s Championship – Submission Match
Grade: B
Notable Moments:
- Stratton showcased her submission skills, escaping multiple Kimura Locks from Hail.
- Andre Chase threw in the towel when Hail refused to quit, granting Stratton the victory.
Dominik Mysterio (c) vs. Wes Lee vs. Mustafa Ali – NXT North American Championship
Grade: A
Notable Moments:
- Wes Lee put on an awe-inspiring performance, stealing the show with high-flying maneuvers.
- Judgment Day’s involvement added a layer of intrigue to the match’s outcome.
Tony D’Angelo and Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo vs. Gallus (c) – NXT Tag Team Championships
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Grade: B
Notable Moments:
- D’Angelo and Stacks secured their freedom and a title shot, leading to a victorious championship win.
- The tag team division witnessed a new era with D’Angelo and Stacks as the champions.
Roxanne Perez vs. Blair Davenport – Weapons Wild Match
Grade: B+
Notable Moments:
- Perez’s hometown advantage fueled her determination for revenge against Davenport.
- The fierce weapons-laden encounter showcased Perez’s hardcore prowess.
Gable Steveson vs. Baron Corbin
Grade: C-
Notable Moments:
- The hostile crowd showed their disapproval for Steveson, chanting “You’re not Angle!”.
- The post-match brawl added more excitement than the match itself.
NXT Women’s Championship: Tiffany Stratton (c) vs. Thea Hail
Grade: B
Notable Moments:
- Stratton displayed a wide array of submission holds during the match.
- Andre Chase’s involvement and Hail’s strong showing set up potential future opportunities.
NXT Championship: Carmelo Hayes (c) vs. Ilja Dragunov
Grade: A+
Notable Moments:
- Dragunov’s red contacts added to the intensity of the encounter.
- Hayes and Dragunov delivered an unforgettable main event, earning a spot on the match-of-the-year list.
Overall Show Grade: B
Notable Moments:
- Several matches, including Dominik Mysterio vs. Wes Lee vs. Mustafa Ali, exceeded expectations and were career highlights for the competitors.
- The event showcased the future of the women’s division, with impressive performances from Tiffany Stratton and Thea Hail.
- Tony D’Angelo and Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo’s victory marked the beginning of a new era in the NXT tag team division.
- Roxanne Perez’s hardcore prowess was on full display in her hometown.
- The main event between Carmelo Hayes and Ilja Dragunov was a show-stealer, solidifying Hayes’ status as a top champion.
