WWE NXT Result And Report For 17 October 2023: Highlight, Match Ratings, Winners And Losers

The October 17, 2023, edition of NXT was a night filled with surprises, uncertainty, and the emergence of new talent. 

Despite the absence of some top-tier superstars, Carmelo Hayes continued to shine, while the addition of Trick Williams and the backstage attack added layers of intrigue to the NXT Championship storyline.

In the women’s division, both potential and inexperience were on display, with Lyra Valkyria and Tegan Nox standing out as rising stars. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the show:

The Road to the NXT Championship: Carmelo Hayes Shines

The evening’s main event featured Carmelo Hayes, fresh off his significant victory from the previous week, taking on the imposing duo of Dijak and Baron Corbin. The stakes were high, with the winner becoming the No. 1 contender to the NXT Championship and earning the opportunity to face Ilja Dragunov at Halloween Havoc.

The match showcased the incredible talent of these three competitors. The action was fast-paced, with each wrestler giving it their all to secure a shot at the NXT Championship. Carmelo Hayes’ stock continued to rise, showing his ability to handle top-tier opponents. However, a surprise announcement that added Trick Williams to the mix injected an unexpected twist into the main event.

While Hayes and Trick appeared to be on the same page, it was evident that the road to the NXT Championship was full of unexpected turns. The surprise addition of Trick Williams, the sudden backstage attack on him, and the possibility of a future heel turn by Carmelo Hayes created an intriguing narrative that left fans eager for the championship clash at Halloween Havoc.

Grade: A

The Bada Bing Bada Boom Battle Royal: Chase U Takes the Spotlight

In a high-energy and chaotic Bada Bing Bada Boom Battle Royal, top teams in NXT battled for the opportunity to challenge Tony D’Angelo and Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo. The Creed Brothers, Humberto Carrillo, and Angel Garza provided some exhilarating moments in the ring, but the referees’ oversight allowed Angel and Humberto to reenter and eliminate the Creeds.

Chase U, a duo not typically associated with the tag team division, managed to secure the victory. This surprising win showcased the charisma and popularity of Chase and Duke Hudson, ensuring that their future showdown with The Family would be entertaining and crowd-pleasing.

The battle royal also paved the way for new rivalries, like The Brawling Brutes vs. OTM, and continued the ongoing stories in the tag team division, such as The Creed Brothers vs. Angel and Humberto.

Result: Chase U defeated Angel and Humberto.

Grade: B+

Carmelo Hayes: The Emerging Top Babyface?

Carmelo Hayes’ journey to becoming the top babyface in NXT took another intriguing turn. This young superstar has been on an impressive ascent, but the addition of Trick Williams and the revelation of a Fatal 4-Way for the NXT Championship raised questions about the future direction of this storyline.

While Hayes and Trick’s partnership appeared shaky at times, it is unclear whether they will stay aligned or if a potential heel turn by Carmelo is in the cards. With John Cena’s endorsement, it seemed that Hayes was destined for a heroic role, but WWE’s penchant for surprise twists kept the audience guessing.

Grade: D+

The Women’s Breakout: Karmen Petrovic vs Jaida Parker

The Women’s Breakout Tournament showcased emerging talent in the women’s division, but it also exposed the inexperience of some participants. Karmen Petrovic faced off against Jaida Parker in a brief and somewhat disjointed match.

The limited ring experience of both competitors was evident, leading to a match that lacked fluidity and polish. While this tournament is intended to provide opportunities for emerging talent, it also highlighted the challenges these inexperienced performers face in a highly competitive environment.

Result: Karmen Petrovic defeated Jaida Parker.

Grade: D

Tegan Nox vs. Lyra Valkyria: Rising Stars Shine

Tegan Nox and Lyra Valkyria delivered an exciting match that showcased their potential as rising stars in the women’s division. Nox, in particular, demonstrated a more serious side, engaging in an intense battle with The Valkyrie.

The match featured a series of impactful strikes and near-falls, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. The interference of Chelsea Green and Piper Niven added a chaotic element to the match but did not overshadow the showcase of these two promising talents.

Valkyria’s upcoming showdown with Becky Lynch promises to be a significant test, and a strong showing could potentially propel her towards a main roster call-up. As she continues to refine her in-ring skills, she appears to be a woman with the potential to make a significant impact in the coming years.

Result: Lyra Valkyria defeated Tegan Nox by pinfall.

Grade: B+

Shotzi vs. Kiana James: Work in Progress

Shotzi faced Kiana James in a match that highlighted both wrestlers’ potential but also revealed areas where improvement is needed. The match showcased moments of athleticism and resilience but also displayed some shortcomings in terms of in-ring chemistry and pacing.

Shotzi remains a work in progress, and more opportunities in NXT are needed to help her reach her full potential. The match, though overlong, hinted at the untapped potential in both competitors, leaving room for growth and development.

Result: Shotzi defeated Kiana James.

Grade: D+

Arianna Grace vs. Brinley Reece: A Promising Debut

Arianna Grace made a significant return to NXT after an injury in 2022, and her return was marked by an impressive victory over Brinley Reece. Grace’s TV-ready presentation and her ability to create moments of excitement bode well for her future in the women’s division.

The match may have been brief, but it was an effective showcase of Grace’s potential. While Reece showed promise, she may need more time and experience to reach her full potential in NXT.

Result: Arianna Grace defeated Brinley Reece.

Grade: C

No. 1 Contender for NXT Championship: Carmelo Hayes vs Baron Corbin vs Dijak

The night concluded with a spectacular showdown to determine the No. 1 contender for the NXT Championship. Carmelo Hayes, Baron Corbin, and Dijak delivered a thrilling match that exceeded expectations.

The energy in the ring was palpable, with all three men working at their best. In particular, Baron Corbin demonstrated a faster and more dynamic style, showcasing the incredible depth of talent in NXT.

Carmelo Hayes emerged victorious, setting up a potential future showdown with Ilja Dragunov. However, the unexpected twist of Trick Williams’ backstage attack may add new layers to this already intriguing storyline.

Result: Carmelo Hayes defeated Dijak and Baron Corbin.

Grade: A