Week of May 15, 2021
Each week, Graham "GSM" Matthews breaks down the latest Raw, SmackDown and NXT broadcasts as well as the occasional pay-per-view events for that respective show's highlights, low points and other noteworthy moments. Awards are also given to the week's best match, most impressive Superstar, and strongest show.
Match of the Week:
Kushida vs. Santos Escobar (NXT, May 11)
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It was super cool to see the NXT Cruiserweight Championship take center stage this week on NXT. I mean, it was almost imperative given that it was a two-out-of-three falls match and nothing else was going to follow it. I had no doubt Kushida and Santos Escobar were going to kill it and they definitely did.
Escobar took the first fall, and almost immediately, Kushida stole the second. I would have spaced those out a bit, but I'm glad the third fall went a while. The action was exciting as they really brought the best out of each other. Ultimately, Kushida retained the title, which should pave the way for Escobar to move into the heavyweight division where he belongs. |
Superstar of the Week:
Hit Row
It's been a long time coming, but it feels like Isiah "Swerve" Scott has finally found his footing in NXT. Don't get me wrong, he's been doing some solid work over the last two years, but he was fairly directionless as a babyface. Turning heel was the key and giving him his own stable was the cherry on top.
Collectively known as Hit Row, the stable made their official debut on Wednesday's NXT. Scott introduced all of the members, which include AJ Francis (now known as Top Dolla) and Ashante "Thee" Adonis. I don't know much about the woman, but she seems to be a good fit for the faction as well. |
Show of the Week:
WWE NXT, May 11
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All of this week's awards went to NXT and rightfully so as it was a strong show on the whole. The ratings may not reflect it, but I truly feel the black-and-gold brand has been on another level since moving to Tuesdays last month. A lot of the feuds have been clicking and there's been some great matches to boot.
That was once again the case this week as Kushida and Raquel Gonazlez both retained their titles in fierce battles. Additionally, Karrion Kross killed Austin Theory, MSK had a fun sprint against Breezango, Kyle O'Reilly vs. Oney Lorcan was a blast, and Hit Row debuted. We also found out TakeOver: In Your House is returning next week, which is exciting news. |
Other Notable Highlights and Low Points
This Week's Highlights
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This Week's Low Points
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