WWE NXT Recap: Judgment Day Shakes Up the Gold Brand! July 11 Episode Review & Ratings

Welcome to the Don't Say The F Word Podcast's weekly recap of WWE NXT! In this thrilling episode, the dominant faction Judgment Day made their presence felt as they set their sights on the gold brand. From intense matches to important developments, this show built momentum towards the upcoming Great American Bash 2023. We will not only provide you with the highlights, winners, and live grades but also evaluate each match using our original rating system. Let's dive into the action-packed July 11 episode.

Carmelo Hayes and Trick Williams Challenge The Judgment Day to a Tag Team Showdown:

The Judgment Day faction received a loud reaction from the NXT Universe as Carmelo Hayes and Trick Williams stepped up to challenge Finn Bálor and Damian Priest. While the match didn't feel as big as expected in the smaller arena, Hayes and Trick had an opportunity to learn from and shine alongside the top stars. Let's break down the match using our rating system:

- Action: 4

- Storytelling: 3

- Atmosphere: 3

- Innovation: 2

- Overall Enjoyment: 4

- Overall Rating: 16/25

Grade: C

Notable Moments:

- Finn Bálor referred to NXT as "the house that I built" but came across slightly forced in his swagger, overshadowing Damian Priest.

- Dominik Mysterio couldn't be heard over the boos from the entire audience.

Chase U vs. Drew Gulak and Charlie Dempsey:

The crowd was fully behind Andre Chase in his return to the ring, and Chase U delivered an exciting match. Let's evaluate it using our rating system:

- Action: 3

- Storytelling: 3

- Atmosphere: 4

- Innovation: 2

- Overall Enjoyment: 4

- Overall Rating: 16/25

Grade: B+

Notable Moments:

- The Chase U student section initiated a crowd wave in support of Andre Chase.

- Chase attempted his signature Chase U stomps and a crossbody from the top rope, but Gulak intervened, breaking up a potential three-count.

Cora Jade vs. Kelani Jordan (w/ Dana Brooke):

Cora Jade showcased her superiority over Kelani Jordan in this match. Let's evaluate it using our rating system:

- Action: 2

- Storytelling: 2

- Atmosphere: 3

- Innovation: 1

- Overall Enjoyment: 2

- Overall Rating: 10/25

Grade: D+

Notable Moments:

- After the match, Jade attempted to attack her opponent but was chased off by Dana Brooke.

- Gigi Dolin unveiled old pictures of Kiana James, creating tension between the two rivals.

No. 1 Contender Match: Bron Breakker vs. Ilja Dragunov:

Bron Breakker and Ilja Dragunov engaged in a physical battle that could have gone either way. Let's evaluate it using our rating system:

- Action: 4

- Storytelling: 4

- Atmosphere: 4

- Innovation: 3

- Overall Enjoyment: 4

- Overall Rating: 19/25

Grade: A-

Notable Moments:

- Breakker warned Dragunov that he would break him and called himself the most intense man in NXT.

- Dragunov nearly secured the win with the Torpedo Moscow, but Breakker countered with a Spear, resulting in a close-call kickout.

Tiffany Stratton vs. Ivy Nile:

Tiffany Stratton faced a motivated Ivy Nile in a non-title match. Let's evaluate it using our rating system:

- Action: 3

- Storytelling: 3

- Atmosphere: 3

- Innovation: 2

- Overall Enjoyment: 3

- Overall Rating: 14/25

Grade: C

Notable Moments:

- Nile executed a rolling side slam on Stratton and attempted a running low uppercut popularized by Julius Creed, but the champion rolled outside to safety.

- Stratton expressed frustration towards the Chase U student section chanting that she tapped out.

The Fate of Tony D'Angelo: Joe Coffey vs. Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo:

Joe Coffey dominated the match, but Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo was motivated, especially after revealing he would not fail Tony D'Angelo. Let's evaluate it using our rating system:

- Action: 3

- Storytelling: 4

- Atmosphere: 4

- Innovation: 2

- Overall Enjoyment: 4

- Overall Rating: 17/25

Grade: B-

Notable Moments:

- The Don did not sound confident in Stacks' chances in an interview with McKenzie Mitchell from jail.

- Joe called his shot and hit All the Best for the Bells, but Stacks kicked out, leading to Joe's frustration.

Carmelo Hayes and Trick Williams vs. Judgment Day:

In the thrilling main event, Damian Priest attempted to use the Money in the Bank briefcase against Carmelo Hayes. Let's evaluate it using our rating system:

- Action: 4

- Storytelling: 3

- Atmosphere: 4

- Innovation: 2

- Overall Enjoyment: 4

- Overall Rating: 17/25

Grade: B

Notable Moments:

- Melo and Trick looked as good as ever as a tag team, showcasing their potential.

- Finn Bálor executed a dropkick to send Melo into the turnbuckle before attempting the Coup de Grace, which Melo narrowly avoided.

Conclusion:

This week's episode of WWE NXT delivered an action-packed night, building anticipation for the upcoming Great American Bash 2023. While some matches had room for improvement, there were standout moments that captivated the audience. Applying our rating system allowed for a more detailed evaluation, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each match. Stay tuned to the Don't Say The F Word Podcast for more updates and analysis on all things NXT!