With NXT Cruiserweight Champion Lio Rush joining the commentary team to observe his match, Tony Nese had the objective to not only show-up Rush, but to continue building off his momentum following his victory in last week’s Triple Threat Match. Facing NXT Superstar Raul Mendoza, Nese made sure to show off his physique as the match got underway.
Rush was not impressed with The Premier Athlete and also took the time criticize another potential challenger, Angel Garza. Inside the ring, Mendoza and Nese matched speed and agility with neither Superstars maintaining a clear advantage until Mendoza turned the tables and flattened Nese on the outside. Taking a moment to recover on the outside, Nese traded verbal jabs with Rush before returning to the fight and taking out his opponent.
As the match continued, Angel Garza took to Twitter to respond to Rush’s earlier comments, making it clear he wanted the NXT Cruiserweight Championship. The Man of the Hour criticized Garza for not watching the match but also continued to claim Nese was envious of Rush. In control of the match, Nese continued to trade verbal barbs with Rush, but his split attention worked against The Premier Athlete.
Mendoza battled back and pushed his opponent to the limit but was unable to secure the victory. As Garza continued to tweet to Rush, the champion grew more impressed with his potential challengers inside the ring. Taking down Mendoza on the outside, Nese made sure to take the time to taunt Rush. The Man of the Hour returned the taunts, which allowed Mendoza to recover and roll up Nese to pick up the victory.