WWE NXT Halloween Havoc 2025 delivered a thrilling showcase of talent at the Findlay Toyota Center in Prescott Valley, Arizona, with five championships defended in a night packed with high stakes and unforgettable moments. Headlined by “Absolute” Ricky Saints defending the NXT Championship against Trick Williams, this year’s Halloween Havoc brought intensity, surprises, and some standout performances that are already reverberating backstage and among the WWE Universe.
Main Event: Ricky Saints Retains NXT Championship Against Trick Williams
The climactic battle of the evening saw NXT Champion Ricky Saints face off against the ambitious Trick Williams. Both competitors exhibited impressive skill and resilience, but Saints ultimately retained his title, marking another strong chapter in his championship reign. According to sources close to WWE, management views Saints as the cornerstone of NXT’s future, with plans to build around his character for the near term. Trick Williams, meanwhile, is rumored to be poised for a main roster call-up following the event, as insiders suggest this could be his final high-profile NXT match.
Women’s NXT Championship: Jacy Jayne vs. Tatum Paxley
In a much-anticipated matchup, WWE NXT Women’s Champion Jacy Jayne defended her title against Tatum Paxley. The storyline feud between the two added emotional depth to the bout, but Jayne’s cunning and experience helped her retain the championship. A backstage source mentioned that WWE is committed to elevating Jacy Jayne as the face of the NXT women’s division, with Tatum Paxley being groomed for a longer-term storyline arc post-Halloween Havoc.
NXT Tag Team Championship: The Hardy Boyz vs. DarkState in a Broken Rules Match
One of the night’s most electrifying matches featured the legendary Hardy Boyz Brother Nero (Jeff Hardy) and Broken Matt Hardy defending the NXT Tag Team Titles against the enigmatic faction DarkState in a Broken Rules Match. The stipulation allowed for chaotic, hardcore-style action, with the Hardys’ veteran ingenuity shining through as they retained their championships. This bout was widely praised by fans and critics alike for blending nostalgia with intense competition. A WWE insider noted, “Bringing the Broken Rules element back was a masterstroke that truly showcased the Hardys’ unique brand of wrestling and psychology.”.
NXT North American Championship: Ethan Page vs. El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr. in Day of the Dead Match
Adding cultural flair, the NXT North American Championship was defended by Ethan Page against El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr. in a fierce Day of the Dead match. This specialty match theme resonates with Halloween Havoc’s spooky tradition, involving high-risk and theatrical elements. Ethan Page showcased his toughness and ring awareness to retain the North American title in a contest praised for its storytelling and intensity. Observers speculate that this feud might continue into a deeper rivalry heading into the winter season due to the emotional stakes displayed.
NXT Women’s North American Championship: Zaria Defends on Behalf of Sol Ruca
Unable to compete due to injury, Sol Ruca was represented by her close friend Zaria, who defended the NXT Women’s North American Championship against Blake Monroe. Zaria rose to the occasion, successfully defending the title in a performance that underscored her determination and loyalty to Ruca. Backstage, officials praised Zaria’s readiness as a potential breakout star who can carry the division forward while Ruca recovers. This substitution added a compelling emotional layer to the championship defense, reflecting genuine friendship and team spirit.
Additional Highlights and Noteworthy Moments
Tag Team Chaos and Guest Appearances: The pre-show featured a fun encounter with Je’Von Evans, Leon Slater, Mr. Iguana, and La Parka, adding a festive and lighter tone ahead of the intense title bouts.
Strong Crowd and Production: The atmosphere inside the Findlay Toyota Center was electric, with fans fully engaged in the Halloween-themed production elements, enhancing the overall experience for live and streaming audiences.
Future Storylines Brewing: Industry rumors suggest the aftermath of Halloween Havoc will seed fresh rivalries, particularly involving Trick Williams’ potential promotion and the women’s division shaking up after the title defenses.
Backstage Insights: WWE’s Vision for NXT Moving Forward
According to a WWE insider who spoke on condition of anonymity, “Halloween Havoc was designed not just to entertain but to solidify NXT’s top stars going into 2026. Ricky Saints is the clear standard-bearer, and the women’s division is set for some exciting new directions. The successful integration of legacy talent like the Hardys with rising stars shows WWE’s commitment to blending history with future potential.”
This insider also hinted at “some surprises on Raw and SmackDown as the main roster looks to capitalize on the momentum some NXT talents gained this weekend,” pointing at potential cross-brand storylines building off the Halloween Havoc fallout.
