On August 12, 2020, at Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida, Karrion Kross showcased his wrestling prowess in an NXT 2020 match by defeating Danny Burch in just four minutes. The bout, aired on the USA Network and called by Vic Joseph, Mauro Ranallo, and Beth Phoenix, highlighted Kross’s dominance and set the tone for the night’s dramatic events.
From the opening bell, Burch aggressively attacked Kross with a running dropkick, trying to gain the upper hand. Despite Burch’s early strikes, including a German suplex and a clothesline, Kross quickly regained control. After enduring a crossface from Burch, Kross unleashed his signature Doomsday Saito suplex followed by his submission hold, the Kross Jacket, forcing Burch to tap out.
Keith Lee’s Fireball Stunt Leaves Fans and Wrestlers Shocked
Following the match, Keith Lee made a surprising and ominous appearance, confronting Karrion Kross. Lee declared he would honor his agreement with General Manager William Regal by refraining from attacking Kross before their scheduled Takeover match but insisted that Kross sign the contract. As Scarlett, Kross’s associate, held the contract, Kross signed it without looking away from Lee.
Lee then dramatically picked up the contract folder. Just as he opened it, a sudden fireball exploded near his face, causing him to stagger and scream in visible agony. Officials rushed the ring while medics tended to Lee, who was eventually helped backstage with his eyes bandaged. The chilling moment closed with Lee demanding to know Kross’s whereabouts as he was escorted out.
Oh my god! What the hell? A friction’ fireball!
—Mauro Ranallo, Commentator
Chaos Unfolds in the Drake Maverick vs. Killian Dane Match
The violent aftermath continued as Drake Maverick faced off against Killian Dane. The match stalled when members of the Undisputed Era interrupted, ambushing both competitors aggressively. This caused the referee to immediately call a no contest, ending the bout prematurely and escalating tensions. The Undisputed Era’s presence suggested an ongoing vendetta, adding urgency to the show‘s unfolding storylines.
Adam Cole Issues a Fearsome Challenge to Pat McAfee
After clearing the ring, Adam Cole took the microphone to directly address Pat McAfee, who was watching from afar. Cole confronted McAfee with intense bravado, asserting his status as the longest-reigning NXT Champion and denouncing McAfee’s antics. He urged McAfee to make a live appearance on next week’s show to accept a match challenge for Takeover 30, insisting that McAfee was out of his league.
Tyler Breeze and Santos Escobar Deliver a Gritty Non-Title Match
Tyler Breeze entered the ring with an unusually serious demeanor facing Santos Escobar in a non-title contest. Early in the match, Escobar showcased his agility and control, while Breeze fought back with a determined spirit. Despite a dynamic exchange including a Supermodel Kick from Breeze and heavy interference attempts by Escobar’s allies, Breeze ultimately secured victory with his Phantom Driver, marking a significant moment amid Lee’s ongoing medical concerns.
However, shortly after, Fandango, injured with his arm in a sling, rushed to the ring to aid Breeze and was joined by Isaiah “Swerve” Scott who chased off Escobar and his faction.
Dakota Kai’s Ruthless Mindset Revealed in a Compelling Vignette
A vignette gave fans insight into Dakota Kai’s calculating nature as she prepared mentally for her showdown with Io Shirai at Takeover 30. Kai confidently proclaimed,
“She’s in Dakota Territory right now,”
emphasizing her singular focus on winning the gold while dismissing the need for alliances or backup. This segment deepened the narrative tension between the two competitors and showcased Kai’s steely determination.
She’s in Dakota Territory right now.
—Dakota Kai
Backstage Update: Mia Yim Confirms Keith Lee’s Condition
Backstage interviewer McKenzie Mitchell caught up with a visibly shaken Mia Yim, who had rushed to prepare for her upcoming match. Despite evident concern, Yim reassured viewers that Keith Lee’s injuries were not serious, providing a much-needed update following the fireball incident that had left fans anxious.
Indi Hartwell Faces Mia Yim in an Emotionally Charged Match
Indi Hartwell and Mia Yim squared off next, with Hartwell visibly distracted and tentative in the ring. Commentators noted her sluggish movement and unusual lack of focus, which contrasted with Yim’s composed and aggressive approach. Despite Hartwell’s efforts, Yim prevailed via submission with an armbar, a victory influenced by Hartwell’s emotional state.
Bronson Reed Upsets Damien Priest in a Hard-Fought Contest
The night’s intensity continued with a match between Damien Priest and rising star Bronson Reed, also known as “Thicc Boi.” The two exchanged impressive maneuvers, including near falls and high-impact strikes, showing exceptional chemistry reminiscent of previous battles between Keith Lee and Dominic Dijakovic. After a series of momentum swings, Reed secured a pinfall victory following a counter to Priest’s Reckoning finisher.
Io Shirai Confronts Dakota Kai’s Mind Games in a New Vignette
Another vignette focused on Io Shirai, who addressed her history with Dakota Kai, accusing her of manipulation and deceit. Shirai recalled how Kai once feared Shayna Baszler and declared that Kai should now be afraid of her strength. The vignette used creative English subtitles for Shirai’s limited English, effectively heightening the rivalry ahead of their high-stakes encounter.
You just pissed me off.
—Io Shirai
Exciting Triple Threat Match Determines Ladder Match Participant
Kushida, Cameron Grimes, and Velveteen Dream battled in a competitive triple threat encounter, with the winner advancing to the upcoming ladder match at Takeover 30. The match featured unexpected drama, including Dream’s surprise return and methodical ring tactics. Grimes emerged victorious after executing key moves and capitalizing on a well-timed double stomp followed by a pin on Kushida. Post-match chaos ensued with Dream attacking Kushida, setting up a heated rivalry highlighted by a tense faceoff with Finn Balor to close the event.
Additional Highlights and Storyline Developments
The show also featured heated confrontations involving Legado del Fantasma ambushing Tyler Breeze and Fandango, backstage segments with Johnny Gargano discussing his upcoming match against Ridge Holland, and a lesson from Timothy Thatcher demonstrating submission techniques. The commentators delivered updates on the unfolding stories, including medical news on Keith Lee and upcoming match promotions, painting a picture of a night filled with escalating tension and anticipation heading into NXT Takeover 30.
Significance of the Night’s Events and Future Implications
This episode of NXT 2020 set in Winter Park proved to be pivotal for storylines leading to Takeover 30. Karrion Kross’s swift victory over Danny Burch bolstered his threat level, while the dramatic fireball incident involving Keith Lee created a dark and urgent atmosphere that left fans and performers alike unsettled. Injuries and attacks throughout the night pushed narratives forward, highlighting conflicts ready to explode at Takeover.
With key rivalries intensifying, including the relocation of Velveteen Dream and Finn Balor at loggerheads, as well as the rising momentum of Bronson Reed, the program maintained high stakes and emotional investment. The fireball angle in particular served as a shocking and unique storytelling device, signaling that NXT was willing to push boundaries and deliver unpredictable moments.
Fans can expect a continuation of these story arcs in the coming weeks, with the upcoming Takeover event promising resolutions to the bitter conflicts and thrilling matches teased throughout this eventful episode.
