NXT, or WWE’s developmental branch, has transcended its initial purpose, evolving into a powerhouse brand that has delivered some of the most memorable moments in professional wrestling history. From heart-stopping debuts to championship victories, NXT has become a platform where wrestling talent shines brightly. In this article, we will explore some of Best NXT Moments that have left a lasting impact on fans and shaped the future of the wrestling industry.
10. The Debut of Bron Breakker and the Destruction of the Old NXT Logo
One of the standout moments of NXT 2.0 was the debut of Bron Breakker, the son of WWE Hall of Famer Rick Steiner. Making his entrance during the inaugural episode of NXT 2.0, Breakker quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His first match saw him compete against L.A. Knight (now known as Max Dupri), where he showcased his impressive strength and agility, earning a decisive victory. Bron’s impact did not stop there. In a symbolic act, he shattered the old gold Styrofoam “X” that represented the previous NXT era while heading to the ring for his title match against Tommaso Ciampa at NXT: New Year’s Evil on January 6, 2022. This decisive act signified the end of an era and the beginning of what many fans hoped would be an exciting new chapter for NXT.
9. Toxic Attraction Makes History
When Mandy Rose re-entered NXT in July 2021, few could have predicted the impact she would have. Teaming up with Gigi Dolin and Jacy Jayne, Toxic Attraction quickly became a formidable force in the women’s division. The trio would go on to achieve a historic milestone at NXT Halloween Havoc on October 26, 2021, when they collectively won all the gold in the women’s division. Gigi Dolin and Jacy Jayne claimed the NXT Women’s Tag Team Championships in a thrilling Ladder match, while Mandy Rose defeated Raquel Rodriguez to become the NXT Women’s Champion. This marked a significant turning point for the women’s division, establishing Toxic Attraction as a dominant faction capable of putting the entire roster on notice.
8. L.A. Knight’s Electrifying Promo Ahead of WarGames
L.A. Knight is known for his dynamic mic skills, and one of his most electrifying moments came just before the Men’s WarGames match on December 5, 2021. As part of Team Black and Gold, Knight gave a passionate promo that highlighted his team’s strengths, including Johnny Gargano, Pete Dunne, and Tommaso Ciampa. His charisma and ability to connect with the audience helped elevate the anticipation for the WarGames match, showcasing Knight’s talents both inside and outside the ring. Fans rallied behind his confident and bombastic style, leaving a lasting impression as one of the standout moments of the WarGames event.
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7. Carmelo Hayes’ Unification of the Cruiserweight Championship
Carmelo Hayes burst onto the scene when he answered Kushida’s open challenge for the NXT Cruiserweight Championship. Although he didn’t win the title initially, his perseverance and skill eventually led him to the NXT Breakout Tournament, which he won and later used to propel himself into the spotlight. On January 4, 2022, at NXT: New Year’s Evil, Hayes faced Roderick Strong for the Cruiserweight Championship while his North American Championship was on the line. In a historic match, Hayes defeated Strong, unifying the two titles and marking a significant milestone in the NXT history books. This moment not only transformed Hayes into a household name within NXT but also showcased the importance of the Cruiserweight division.
6. Nikkita Lyons’ Show-Stopping Debut
The women’s division in NXT has consistently produced remarkable talents, and Nikkita Lyons is a prime example of this. Lyons made her much-anticipated debut on February 22, 2022, against Kayla Inlay, captivating audiences with her athleticism and unique style. Lyons utilized a creative and eye-catching pinning technique to claim victory over Inlay, instantly announcing her presence in NXT. Her energetic performance and commanding presence quickly garnered attention, positioning her as a star to watch in the women’s division for years to come.
5. Solo Sikoa’s Dramatic Return and Title Win
Solo Sikoa’s journey in WWE has been nothing short of electrifying. The young talent made headlines when he interfered in the main event of Clash at the Castle, aiding Roman Reigns in retaining his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. However, Sikoa had unfinished business in NXT, leading him to make a surprise return on the September 13, 2021, episode of NXT 2.0. Sikoa’s dominance culminated in an unforgettable match where he defeated Carmelo Hayes for the NXT North American Championship. Although he would eventually be stripped of the title, the moment solidified Sikoa’s status as a rising star worthy of recognition. The shockwaves of his victory reverberated throughout NXT, leading fans to eagerly anticipate his future.
4. Mandy Rose’s Record-Breaking Championship Reign
Mandy Rose’s journey through NXT has been nothing short of inspiring. After defeating Raquel Rodriguez for the NXT Women’s Championship at Halloween Havoc, Rose began an impressive title reign, defending her championship against a variety of formidable challengers including Cora Jade, Roxanne Perez, and Zoey Stark. Rose achieved a career milestone when she unified the NXT Women’s and NXT UK Women’s Championships at Worlds Collide on September 4, 2022, defeating Blair Davenport and Meiko Satomura. This win not only showcased Rose’s wrestling prowess but also highlighted her growth as a performer, cementing her legacy within NXT history.
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3. Dolph Ziggler’s Unexpected Title Win
Dolph Ziggler, a seasoned veteran, made a stunning impact on NXT 2.0 when he interrupted a segment between Bron Breakker and Santos Escobar on February 8, 2022. By inserting himself into the title picture, Ziggler quickly became a focal point, capturing the attention of both fans and wrestlers. In a thrilling triple-threat match at NXT Roadblock, Ziggler emerged as the new NXT Champion, defeating defending champion Bron Breakker and Tommaso Ciampa. His victory shocked the wrestling world and demonstrated Ziggler’s ability to adapt and compete at a high level within NXT, leaving fans excited about what was to come next.
2. The Surprise Appearance of Old Faces
In a fascinating twist, WWE decided to evolve NXT UK into NXT Europe, creating opportunities for a new generation of talent. This shift, however, came with the release of several NXT UK superstars, stirring speculation throughout the NXT universe. In the final episode of NXT UK, Tyler Bate emerged as the champion after defeating Trent Seven. However, a surprise visit from former rivals, including Gunther and Pete “Butch” Dunne, added an element of nostalgia. With appearances from names like Finn Balor, Tommaso Ciampa, Rhea Ripley, and Shayna Baszler, old faces helped motivate the champions, paralleling the legacy of their respective brands as they prepared for Worlds Collide.
1. Dexter Lumis Speaks for the First Time
One of the most heartwarming moments in NXT history came during the wedding of Indi Hartwell and Dexter Lumis. Known for his intense persona, Lumis had primarily communicated through actions rather than words throughout his NXT stint. However, when it came time to say “I do,” Lumis finally spoke. In a touching ceremony that encapsulated the ups and downs of their relationship, Lumis uttered “I do,” marking a memorable moment for fans who had followed their rollercoaster romance. The wedding served as a well-deserved narrative climax for both characters, allowing Lumis to showcase a softer side that resonated with viewers.
Conclusion
NXT has become synonymous with memorable moments, powerful storytelling, and incredible athleticism. From the dawning of new superstars like Bron Breakker and Nikkita Lyons to the unexpected victories of veterans such as Dolph Ziggler, NXT has remained a hotbed for talent and creativity. The culmination of each event, the excitement of debuts, and the evolution of characters all blend seamlessly into the fabric of professional wrestling. The best moments in NXT not only define the brand but also set a foundation for the future of sports entertainment. As new stories unfold and fresh talent emerges, the legacy of NXT will continue to inspire and excite fans around the world. Undoubtedly, the best is yet to come in the ever-evolving world of NXT.