Quick review of WWE NXT Deadline 2024
So, last night marked the end of an era for pretty much everyone outside the U.S., as WWE aired the final PLE on the WWE Network with NXT Deadline. Did they go out with a bang or a whimper? Let’s find out.
First Match: Men’s Iron Survivor Match
First of all, I have to mention that I’m not a fan of these types of matches. I wasn’t a fan of them when they were called the Championship Scramble, and I like them even less now. My main issue is that they always seem to be booked for dramatic last-second endings rather than exploring a different structure—like having participants fight from behind. This match was no exception.
That said, I’ll give credit where it’s due: everyone gave it their all. However, the fact that everyone managed to score at least one decision before the 24-minute mark took me out of it. They had the chance to build Oba Femi as a huge monster, but instead, they went with a lucky finish where he scored two pinfalls in the last 10 seconds. It felt rushed and underwhelming. 3/5
Second Match: Underground Match (Lola Vice vs. Haida Parker)
Wow, what a fight this was! First off, I’m glad NXT brought back the Raw Underground concept and adapted it for NXT. It was a brilliant move to attach the gimmick to Lola Vice, as it fits her character perfectly.
For me, this was probably Lola’s best performance since debuting in NXT. The story they told in this match was really well done, with Lola fighting from behind for much of it. I also loved the ending, where Haida’s frustration led her to make a mistake, allowing Lola to capitalize and secure the win. This match showcased the potential both women have in the company. 4.5/5
Third Match: NXT Tag Title Match (Axiom & Nathan Frazer vs. No Quarter Catch Crew)
Another strong match with a well-told story. Nathan Frazer was not at 100%, so Axiom had to carry the team for a large portion of the match. No Quarter Catch Crew capitalized on this, beating Frazer down and making it look like there was no way they could win.
Eventually, Frazer made the hot tag, and Axiom tried to overcome the odds, only to get cut off again. A great moment was when Axiom accidentally hit Frazer with a missile dropkick, taking him out of the match. In the end, Axiom managed to surprise Miles with a small package to retain the titles. A solid match overall. 3.5/5
Fourth Match: NXT Championship (Trick Williams vs. Ridge Holland)
For me, the placement of the Men’s Survivor Elimination Match before this one hurt it. It essentially spoiled the outcome, as the winner of that match was already obvious before the bell rang. So, it was no surprise when Trick Williams retained.
That said, this was still a strong match. Ridge Holland finally showed he can deliver in high-stakes situations, but the predictability of the outcome dulled the excitement. Trick ultimately retained with his finisher. A decent match, but the lack of suspense detracted from it. 3/5
Main Event: Women’s Survivor Elimination Match
Like the men’s match, this was booked in a way that protected everyone involved, ensuring no one looked bad for losing. Unfortunately, it also made the match feel like the only moment that mattered was the final minute.
The rest of the match felt like a chore to get through, with everyone tied up until Sinclair scored a pinfall at the 24-minute mark to tie things up. Then, Giulia got a quick pinfall on Zaria with 30 seconds left to take the lead and win. As I mentioned earlier, I’m not a fan of this match format, and this one was no exception. For me, it was a disappointing way to close out the show. 2.5/5
Final Thoughts
In the end, this wasn’t the strongest NXT PLE of the year. For what will be the final PLE of the WWE Network era—at least for international fans—it felt like the era ended on a bit of a whimper. With two underwhelming bookends and little of note happening, the show was average at best. Overall Rating: 3/5