At the latest NXT Heatwave event, Roxanne Perez was able to defeat Lola Vice and successfully defend the NXT Women’s Championship. The win was a celebratory moment for Perez, but it was the style of his victory that got fans excited. Perez’s finalist, Pop Rox, was used five times before he nominated Vice, prompting widespread criticism and accusations of unfair booking.
The argument is settled
Fans compared it to a previous match when Perez defeated popular TNA wrestler Jordynne Grace using only that one punch. This difference makes the audience uncomfortable, and they start to question the logic and justice after the game is over. Why does Perez need five Pop Rox to beat Vice, but only one to beat Grace? The issue left fans upset and suspicious of WWE’s intentions.
Eliminated: WWE and TNA teams
The relationship between WWE’s NXT and TNA brands has seen many wrestlers cross over in each other’s promotions. Jordynne Grace took on Roxanne Perez in a highly anticipated match that ended with Perez winning with Pop Rox. Fans were hoping for a bad ending at NXT Heatwave, but the decision took a long time and didn’t sit well with many.
Fan reaction: Anger and accusations
After the match, the online wrestling community received an enthusiastic response. One fan said: ‘Why did Lola Vice fire 6 Pop Rox men?’ Jordynne Grace wasn’t fired at all! There is no need to do this. People believe that WWE is undermining TNA’s stars, which adds fuel to the fire.
Impact of demand decisions
Wrestling fans are no strangers to controversial decisions, but the handling of Roxanne Perez’s victory was surprising. The difference in Pop Rox’s performance in two different matches points to a deeper problem with WWE’s booking strategy. Fans felt that these differences not only undermined the credibility of the cast but also the integrity of the storyline.
It took 5 Pop Rox to defeat Lola?! 😳 #NXTHeatwave pic.twitter.com/vPvWfNZn8u
— Jaime 🇵🇷 🇲🇽 (@Iyos_My_Champ) July 8, 2024
WWE’s response and future actions
WWE has yet to officially respond to the controversy due to the growing backlash. The company’s book decisions are closely watched, with fans expecting similar results. The NXT brand needs to address this issue to maintain credibility and trust with its audience.
Enhanced Emotion
The emotional investment of wrestling fans cannot be overstated. They are passionate about sports and the stories they tell. When society sees something wrong, as Pop Rox argued, it creates a deep reaction. Fans feel a personal connection to the wrestlers and their journey, and any feelings of unfairness or manipulation can cause backlash.
An admirer’s view
One fan’s tweet captured the brunt of the outrage: “Just thought Pop Rox beat up Jordynne Grace.” They treated TNA very badly. Competitive integrity is paramount, and any behavior that compromises this integrity will be severely criticized.
Looking ahead: What it means for NXT and TNA
The controversial ending of NXT Heatwave will have a long-term impact on NXT and TNA. This is an opportunity for WWE to re-evaluate its writing practices and ensure matches end in a way that respects the strengths and reputations of all performers. For TNA, it’s a reminder of the challenges that come with working with a bigger promotion like WWE.
Calls for healthy competition
In the world of professional wrestling, fair play, and storytelling are important. The controversy surrounding Roxanne Perez’s win at NXT Heatwave is a reminder of this. Fans want to see their favorite wrestlers treated with respect and integrity, and any deviation from these expectations can backfire. With these issues out of the way, it will be interesting to see how WWE will address these issues and what changes, if any, will be made to restore viewers’ trust and loyalty.
