-
nxt
- First Show:
- 2010-02-23
- Start Time:
- 8 PM EST, 1 AM UK
- Channel:
- USA Network (USA), BT Sport (UK)
Highlights
- Trick Williams is the new NXT Champion, dethroning Ilja Dragunov in an electrifying match with a passing of the torch moment.
- The intense clash featured table spots and a big knee finish, drawing comparisons to other high-profile matches but still delivering strong emotion.
- Dragunov, despite defeat, will bring momentum to Raw or SmackDown, while Williams aims to solidify his title reign with new storylines.
In a night filled with solid action from start to finish, the main event of NXT Spring Breakin’ saw Trick Williams become the new NXT Champion. Williams is now the face of the brand, dethroning the formidable Ilja Dragunov to claim the championship. The uber-popular Williams will do his best to prove he’s a worthy titleholder while Dragunov will likely head to the main roster just in time for the WWE Draft.
The electrifying clash between these two fierce competitors concluded with Williams emerging victorious hitting a big knee for the win. The wrestlers used table spots, multiple false finishes, and more to tell the story. From the opening bell, it became clear this would be a match to remember.
Similar to their previous encounter at Vengeance Day, the two men left nothing on the table. Some fans have criticized the shorter amount of time the two were given, as well as the finish, saying it was a lot like the Will Ospreay vs. Bryan Danielson match. Neither negative took anything away from the emotion of the match.
The Trick Knee finished off the champion, who when the match was over personally handed the title to Williams. It was a passing of the torch moment, a tradition in NXT as performers move up to the main roster. The atmosphere inside the NXT arena was fire and the audience erupted when Williams scored the pinfall. WWE has found a fan-favorite in Trick and the hope is he’ll stay that way as champion.
Why Trick Williams Will Be WWE’s Next Great Mega-Star
Trick Williams has become NXT’s top babyface, but as an appearance with Carmelo Hayes on SmackDown showed, he will be a big main roster star too.
Few stars have found a connection with the fan base like Williams has. It was the right call by WWE to try and capitalize on it.
What’s Next For Dragunov And Williams?
Dragunov looked solid in defeat and he’ll take the momentum of being the former champion to either Raw or SmackDown, starting as early as this Friday. Where he fits on either brand remains to be seen. He’s not the biggest performer, but he’s unlike almost anyone either flagship show has on the roster.
As for Williams, he’ll need a new storyline to make his title run meaningful. It could be that Carmelo Hayes has something to say, or another star coming from Raw or SmackDown and headed to NXT might make for a solid and short-term adversary.
