Weeks removed from their classic battle at TakeOver: XXV, NXT Women’s Champion Shayna Baszler and Io Shirai are set to collide in a title rematch this week on WWE Network. But unlike any of their previous wars, this conflict will take place in the only fighting ground capable of containing their fury: A steel cage.
Although The Genius of the Sky fell short of capturing the title at TakeOver, she gave The Submission Magician one of her most grueling challenges to date. Moreover, Shirai gave Baszler a painful reckoning after the bell, using a Kendo stick and a steel chair to dish out an uncharacteristically ruthless attack on the champion. The enmity heightened even further on June 12, with Shirai and Baszler throwing down in a wild brawl that sprawled throughout the arena.
In the past, Superstars like The Horsewomen’s Jessamyn Duke & Marina Shafir and Candice LeRae have interjected themselves into this intense rivalry. Yet, with a steel cage surrounding the ring, that possibility is all but thrown out the window tonight, leaving bitter enemies Baszler and Shirai to settle the score one-on-one, with the prestigious NXT Women's Title on the line.