Glad to have you join another session of the eWrestlingNews Inquisitive Day!
WWE NXT Halloween Havoc 2024, which premiered last night, brought us surprising title changes, intriguing gimmicks, a peek into the future, and Zaria’s debut match. Opinions may differ on the merits and demerits of the event, which is precisely what this conversation is set to address.
The question I have for you today is: “What aspects of NXT Halloween Havoc 2024 did you find most and least impressive?”
Please post your reply in the comment section below.
Regarding my perspective…
My major disappointment was the overpowering sense of futility that seemed to mar the event.
Why change a ladder match gimmick to conclude with a pinfall? Why did Oba Femi get a rematch for the North American title, only to suffer another defeat? What purpose did it serve? It certainly didn’t strengthen Tony D’Angelo’s image – they made a point of stating he emerged victorious due to his family’s interference, had them removed, and yet they interrupted once again. This illustrates that he can’t triumph over Femi without them, making Femi seem weak, as he was pinned for no rhyme or reason. Even if they wanted Femi to be unsuccessful, he could have done so without being pinned, by allowing Tony D to win the ladder match through conventional means of climbing and seizing the title!
Similarly, what was the rationale behind Ridge Holland attacking Andre Chase and the rest of Chase University, only to repeat the assault? Some might argue that a more decisive victory was necessary to set up for his match against Trick Williams, but I contest that defeating Chase anew has less impact than simply winning a No. 1 contender’s match.
Moreover, why did a Falls Count Anywhere match almost exclusively take place within the ring? What??
However, there were certainly bright spots amidst the gloom. Two elements stood out, and I’m hard-pressed to decide which takes the top spot.
The logical decision by Fatal Influence to opt for the gauntlet strategy and successfully executing it, stands out as one memorable moment. It was expertly portrayed how a smart heel duo can utilize their advantage without falling short due to the babyface’s plot armor. Additionally, the fact that Fallon Henley seized a title is commendable. I’m quite a fan of hers, so it was a satisfying outcome.
The second highlight would be the direction they’re taking with Bubba Ray Dudley. I’m speculating a future tag team match featuring Dudley and Trick Williams against Ethan Page and Ridge Holland in an upcoming NXT show at the ECW Arena. Even if not, the possibility of a match between Holland and Dudley is compelling in its own right – it adds a layer of fascination that wouldn’t be present if Holland were to engage Trick Williams without additional elements involved.
What’s your take on this? Share your insights in the comments below!