Kushida’s victory over Drew Gulak two weeks ago did little to change The Philadelphia Stretcher’s opinion of NXT’s latest blockbuster signee. Gulak deemed the Japanese Superstar a coward for gaining victory via pinfall instead of submission, and immediately challenged Kushida to fight him again in a Submission Match, where the only way to win is by forcing the other man to submit. Kushida didn’t hesitate to pick up the gauntlet, and NXT General Manager William Regal has greenlit the match for this week on WWE Network.
Both Kushida and Gulak are masters of the grappling arts who have preferred methods for forcing opponents to tap out: Kushida has scored countless victories with the shoulder-tearing Hoverboard Lock, whereas Gulak’s prized Gulock has caused many Superstars to cry uncle. Whether one of these holds will secure the win remains to be seen, but this much is for certain: A painful encounter is in store.