“We are NXT!” proved to be more than just a rallying cry as Drew McIntyre toppled Bobby Roode and claimed the NXT Championship not just for himself, but the entire NXT Universe.
The onetime “Chosen One” overcame a long, embattled journey to fulfill his destiny in a grueling battle in Brooklyn.
It became immediately apparent that the challenger’s size and strength advantage would play a big part in this storied contest. The Scottish challenger towered over Roode who utilized cutting chops and veteran guile to tear down his opponent.
Roode methodically picked apart his opponent as he has done to so many foes before him. But, unlike previous challengers, McIntyre managed to use his awesome combination of strength and speed to continually battle back.
Then, almost out of nowhere, McIntyre launched out of the corner, hitting the Claymore on the champion. However, the crafty Roode rolled closer to the ropes, allowing him to get a foot on the bottom rope before McIntyre could capture the three-count.
The challenger would return the favor moments later after Roode nailed him with The Glorious DDT, kicking out just before the referee’s hand hit the mat a third time. The Glorious One pounced again though, nailing a second Glorious DDT.
This time, instead of going for the pin, Roode lifted his challenger back to his feet to attempt a third devastating DDT. McIntyre was prepared though, as he fought back with a headbutt to the titleholder before unleashing a second Claymore for the dramatic victory.
In yet another shocking turn of events, Bobby Fish and Kyle O’Reilly appeared for a second time in the evening as they stood on the apron during McIntyre’s celebration. Only, they were only two-thirds of the equation as multiple time World Champion Adam Cole blindsided McIntyre. The trio of Fish, O’Reilly and Cole proceeded to beat down the new NXT Champion before Cole hit a superkick on the embattled NXT Champion.
Cole – flanked by Fish and O’Reilly – stood over a fallen McIntyre holding the NXT Championship, leaving the NXT Universe to wonder what these three men have in store for NXT.