NXT Preview: Dream match to kickstart the show, huge title change in store? (December 18, 2019)

We are all set for this week’s NXT, which is set to feature two major title matches -- the NXT Championship and the NXT Women’s Championship.

The Black and Gold brand is home to newly-turned heels, promising feuds, and dream matches that we never ever thought we would get to see. However, amidst these brewing storylines, the locker room also needs to look out for the NXT UK Superstars as WWE is seemingly building up for another battle for brand supremacy (Worlds Collide 2020).

In this article, we will take a look at things that can transpire on this week’s episode of NXT. So, without further ado, let’s begin.

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#4 Finn Balor vs Adam Cole (c): NXT Championship

What does the Prince have in mind?

Last week, Finn Balor defeated Keith Lee and Tommaso Ciampa in a triple-threat match to win a shot at Adam Cole’s NXT Championship. After weeks of teasing an alliance with the Undisputed Era, Balor finally cleared his stance when he attacked Cole. The two are now set to lock horns in the title match that will kickstart the show tonight.

Cole and Balor are expected to engage in a brutal encounter as both Superstars are incredible at their craft and can narrate a good story in between the ropes. This match will also help initiate a feud between the two when they cross paths once again.

While Cole may have reliable allies in the other members of the Undisputed Era, he has others who are eyeing his title. Although we don’t expect any interferences in this match, it wouldn’t be a shock to see Ciampa lurking near the ‘Goldie’.

Not to forget, Lee would also be keen on drawing some attention towards him after establishing himself as the 'Moment Maker'.

#3 Rhea Ripley vs Shayna Baszler (c): NXT Women’s Championship

Title change on the cards?

Rhea Ripley established herself as one of the breakout stars of WWE in the concluding months of 2019. In the last few weeks, we have seen this up-and-coming star win the first-ever Women’s WarGames match, lead team NXT to victory at Survivor Series, and is now set to lock horns with Shayna Baszler for the NXT Women’s Championship.

The two Superstars share a brutal rivalry that has transpired over a long period of time and it will now see them engage in a compelling showdown for the most coveted prize in the Black and Gold brand's women's division. Ripley certainly has the potential to end Baszler’s dominant title reign.

However, the Champion will not let the task be so easy for her challenger. Ever since Baszler won the title, she has been a force to reckon with. Last month, she defeated RAW Women’s Champion Becky Lynch and SmackDown Women’s Champion Bayley in a triple-threat match to bag the win for NXT at Survivor Series.

If this title does change hands today, it will be a huge shock and will keep the fans invested in the product when the show returns after the holidays.

#2 Angel Garza and his Cruiserweight Championship under scrutiny?

Make way for the new Champion!

Last week, Angel Garza defeated Lio Rush to become the Cruiserweight Champion and is now expected to enjoy his title reign. However, he has to keep an eye on everyone who’s coming for the title, especially the ‘Man of the Hour’.

Rush was humiliated by Garza on multiple occasions and the former would certainly like to settle the score with the latter. It is possible for us to see Rush challenging Garza yet again, which is not something that the fans would hate. Both these high-flying Superstars have engaged in good matches and can certainly deliver a promising performance one more time.

Having said that, it would be better if the Creative have Garza challenged by other Superstars on the roster in order to book fresh bouts for the Championship. In any case, you shouldn’t expect the Mexican star to lose his Cruiserweight title any time soon.

#1 The invasion continues

Another battle of brands...

After NXT picked up a historic victory at Survivor Series, they are now set for yet another collision, this time within the brand itself. NXT UK and NXT are set to engage in a war for brand supremacy right before Royal Rumble. Needless to say, they are leaving no stone unturned in building up to the event and the invasion angle is likely to continue this week.

Last week, we saw Matt Riddle defeat Kassius Ohno in a Single’s match whereas Travis Banks picked up a shocking victory over The Forgotten Sons’ Jaxson Ryker. As we head closer to World Collide 2020, one can safely assume that the British Superstars will once again be keen on making a statement on the USA Network.

Could we see the NXT UK Champions arriving at Full Sail University tonight? If so, how would they fare against the likes of Keith Lee, Matt Riddle, Tommaso Ciampa, and Dominick Dijakovic? Stay tuned to find out.