On the September 9th episode of WWE NXT, Carmelo Hayes and Tyler Breeze made unexpected returns, energizing the brand just days ahead of the highly anticipated NXT Homecoming event. This development marked a pivotal moment for fans of WWE’s developmental territory, reinvigorating storylines with fresh tension and unresolved rivalries.
Carmelo Hayes entered the arena alongside Trick Williams during a heated exchange with the legendary tag team #DIY, composed of Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa. While Ciampa reflected on the significance of the night, commemorating the 10-year anniversary of his debut NXT match alongside Gargano, Hayes boldly claimed the role of the new architect of NXT, contrasting Trick Williams’ assertion that the brand still belonged to him. Meanwhile, Tyler Breeze appeared ringside after Tavion Heights’ victory in a flag match, reintroducing himself to NXT audiences by posing with a selfie stick next to the defeated Ethan Page.
Heated Confrontation Between Established and Rising Stars
The segment opened with Tommaso Ciampa emphasizing the special nature of being in an NXT ring, recalling the milestone of a decade since his first match with Gargano. Gargano affirmed his deep loyalty to NXT by declaring he was “NXT for life,” underscoring the emotional weight of the occasion. Trick Williams then confronted the veteran duo, reminding them that last week’s advantage was due to his two-on-one attack, and accusing #DIY of jealousy over his version of NXT. Just as tensions escalated, Carmelo Hayes appeared to support Williams, claiming that while Williams might view NXT as his “house,” it was #DIY who built it and Hayes who renovated it, effectively challenging Williams’ territorial claim.
The argument continued with Ciampa provoking the group by questioning who was truly the “big brother” and “little brother” in the mix. Hayes immediately countered by referencing Ciampa’s notorious betrayal of Gargano, which remains one of the most infamous moments in NXT history. The confrontation not only symbolized the collision of two NXT eras but set the stage for one of the brand’s most significant tag team matches ever.
Progress in the Women’s Speed Championship Contender Tournament
Lainey Reid secured a crucial victory over Faby Apache, facilitated by a strategic distraction from Natalya. Reid capitalized on the missed swanton attack from Apache by delivering a decisive running knee strike, advancing her to face Candice LeRae in the tournament finals scheduled for the September 23 episode of NXT. The winner of that match will challenge Sol Ruca for the NXT Women’s Speed Championship at NXT No Mercy. Additionally, a separate match is planned for WWE x AAA: Worlds Collide in Las Vegas, where Natalya will square off against Apache.
Joe Hendry’s Unexpected Appearance Alters Tag Team Title Match
In a surprising turn during the NXT Tag Team Championship defense, DarkState (Dion Lennox and Osiris Griffin) battled Hank Walker and Tank Ledger. Cutler James insisted that Joe Hendry would not appear that night; however, Hendry defied expectations by crashing through an arena wall, causing chaos. While the referee was distracted by Hendry’s intrusion, DarkState capitalized by reversing a roll-up attempt and successfully retaining their titles. Hendry’s return adds further complexity to the tag team scene in NXT.
The Dark Turn of Blake Monroe in Ongoing Feud with Jordynne Grace
Blake Monroe revealed a darker persona following her brutal encounter with Jordynne Grace the week before. In a chilling segment illuminated by red lighting and surrounded by candles, Monroe declared that her attempt to embody “Glamour” had been shattered by Grace, leading to a more ruthless and merciless mindset. She said,
“I wanted to be something different. I wanted to be clean, perfect. But the truth is… Glamour was never meant to be clean. Glamour is cruel. Glamour is merciless.” —Blake Monroe
Monroe further warned Grace that she had only been awakened, not broken, issuing a foreboding challenge:
“You didn’t humble me. You didn’t break me. You awakened me. I’ll show you why even Blake Monroe can make the Devil blush. See you in hell, JG.” —Blake Monroe
Grace responded simply with, “Ready and waiting, gorgeous.” The intensity of this rivalry continues to escalate dramatically.
Tyler Breeze Returns With Signature Flair
Tyler Breeze’s return to WWE NXT was marked by nostalgic gestures as he appeared with his iconic selfie stick shortly after Tavion Heights defeated Ethan Page in a flag match. Draping the Canadian flag over Page’s prone body, Breeze recreated his signature style by posing for a selfie beside his fallen opponent. Breeze’s history with NXT dates back to his initial run from 2012 to 2015, with a return stint from 2019 until his release in 2021. Since then, he has remained connected to WWE through behind-the-scenes and digital roles, making this in-ring return particularly significant.
Upcoming NXT Homecoming Event Promises Surprises
The official lineup for the September 16 NXT Homecoming episode was unveiled, featuring several high-profile matches and appearances. Included on the card are Grayson Waller Effect with Oba Femi and Ricky Saints, a tag match pitting Trick Williams and Carmelo Hayes against Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa, and a contest for the NXT North American Championship between defending champion Ethan Page and challenger Tyler Breeze. The event is also expected to feature additional surprise appearances, ensuring an unforgettable night for NXT fans.
The Impact of These Returns and Future Prospects
The reemergence of Carmelo Hayes and Tyler Breeze signals a renewed commitment to blending established names with emerging talent in WWE NXT. Hayes’ challenge to Trick Williams and #DIY reignites long-standing rivalries that celebrate the brand’s history while driving new narratives forward. Breeze’s dramatic return bridges past and present storylines, setting up vital championship opportunities.
With the NXT Women’s Speed Championship tournament advancing and high-stakes matches lined up for Homecoming, WWE’s developmental brand is positioned for an intense period of competition and storyline development. The involvement of figures like Joe Hendry and the intensifying feud between Blake Monroe and Jordynne Grace adds layers of unpredictability and emotional investment for viewers. As these stories unfold, NXT continues to highlight its role as a proving ground for both talent and dramatic wrestling entertainment.
