WWE NXT returned to the Venice Community Center in Florida on October 17, 2025, with a non-televised live event packed with intense action and standout performances. The show featured a blend of emerging talents and established stars vying to impress the NXT faithful in attendance. Headlining the event was Ethan Page successfully defending his NXT North American Championship against Shiloh Hill, while several undercard matches delivered crucial momentum-building victories.
Dante Chen and Rising Stars Shine Early
The night kicked off with Dante Chen securing a solid win over Shady Elnahas, showcasing his technical prowess and resilience. According to sources close to WWE NXT’s creative team, Chen has been earmarked for a meaningful push and performances like this live event victory only bolster his case.
The early card also featured Thea Hail defeating Dani Sekelsky in a hard-fought contest that highlighted Hail’s growing agility and charisma. In the men’s division, Lexis King, accompanied by Brooks Jensen, overcame Drake Morreaux, further solidifying Lexis’s upward trajectory within NXT’s midcard ranks.
Tyra Mae Steele continued her impressive form by defeating Sirena Linton, while Oba Femi bested Jasper Troy, earning critical acclaim backstage for his physicality and presence. A WWE insider noted, “Oba’s performance tonight suggested the company sees him as a potential breakout star moving forward, and fans responded energetically.”
Je’Von Evans and Tavion Heights Make Significant Statements
Je’Von Evans controlled the ring to defeat Uriah Connors, showcasing his technical skill set that has been honed through NXT’s developmental system. Meanwhile, Tavion Heights earned a notable victory over Niko Vance, who was accompanied by Izzi Dame and Tatum Paxley, creating an entertaining dynamic on the floor.
Izzi Dame herself returned to action, overcoming Bayley Humphrey with support from Tatum Paxley and Niko Vance, hinting at a possible faction storyline brewing around these talents. The backstage buzz against this dynamic trio suggests WWE may be gearing up to elevate their presence in the women’s division.
Ethan Page Retains NXT North American Championship in Main Event
The main event was a high-stakes match where NXT North American Champion Ethan Page defended his title against challenger Shiloh Hill. Page’s victory was marked by a mix of strategic offense and sharp ring awareness, reinforcing his status as a cornerstone of the NXT roster. Fans at the venue gave a loud ovation for both competitors, acknowledging their efforts in a competitive showdown.
According to a WWE insider, “Ethan Page is currently seen as a reliable champion who can carry the NXT North American Title with credibility. The company values his leadership in the ring and his ability to elevate his opponents.”
Backstage Insights: What This Means for NXT Moving Forward
Sources close to the company revealed that WWE is focusing on building a blend of experienced performers and fresh talent to keep the NXT brand dynamic and engaging. The Venice live event results provide a snapshot into future directions, with promising names like Dante Chen, Oba Femi, and Lexis King potentially playing bigger roles in upcoming televised episodes.
One backstage source shared, “The company is very pleased with how the younger wrestlers have stepped up. It’s clear NXT is preparing for an exciting winter season with storylines designed to leverage these wins in impactful ways.”
Summary of WWE NXT Venice Live Event Results – October 17, 2025
| Match | Winner | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dante Chen vs. Shady Elnahas | Dante Chen | Strong technical showing |
| Thea Hail vs. Dani Sekelsky | Thea Hail | Increasing momentum |
| Lexis King (w/ Brooks Jensen) vs. Drake Morreaux | Lexis King | Growing midcard contender |
| Tyra Mae Steele vs. Sirena Linton | Tyra Mae Steele | Noteworthy athleticism |
| Oba Femi vs. Jasper Troy | Oba Femi | Potential breakout star |
| Je’Von Evans vs. Uriah Connors | Je’Von Evans | Solid technical match |
| Tavion Heights vs. Niko Vance (w/ Izzi Dame & Tatum Paxley) | Tavion Heights | Strong performance |
| Izzi Dame (w/ Tatum Paxley & Niko Vance) vs. Bayley Humphrey | Izzi Dame | Faction storyline hints |
| NXT North American Championship: Ethan Page (c) vs. Shiloh Hill | Ethan Page (c) | Successful title defense |
This live show underlined WWE NXT’s continued commitment to developing fresh stars and delivering quality wrestling action outside of its televised programming. Fans and talent alike left the Venice Community Center energized, signaling an exciting path ahead for WWE’s premier developmental brand.