WWE NXT Gold Rush’s headline bout ended in uproar as Sol Ruca’s championship aspirations were cut short—not by her opponent Blake Monroe, but by her own tag partner Zaria, whose decision to throw in the towel set off a firestorm backstage and among fans. The November 18, 2025, event at The Theater at Madison Square Garden will be remembered not only for its high-octane action but also for the controversy that unfolded long after the bell.
The Match: Sol Ruca’s Grit, Monroe’s Pressure, and Zaria’s Decision
Sol Ruca, recently cleared for in-ring competition after a significant injury, was on a mission to reclaim the NXT Women’s North American Championship. She faced the reigning champion, Blake Monroe, in a match brimming with anticipation. Ruca, whose prior injury had forced her to vacate both the North American and Women’s Speed Championships, finally had her chance at redemption on one of the biggest NXT stages of the year[1].
The contest was fiercely competitive. Monroe targeted Ruca’s previously injured limb, battering it with ruthless efficiency. Despite being visibly in pain, Ruca refused to submit, holding on in a punishing submission hold while the crowd willed her to fight through[6]. The tide turned not due to Monroe’s offense, but when Zaria—Ruca’s longtime ally—made the shocking decision to throw in the towel, signaling to the referee to stop the match and handing Monroe the victory[2][6].
Fan Backlash and Social Media Eruption
As soon as the towel hit the mat, social media lit up with debate. Some fans empathized with Zaria’s apparent concern for Ruca’s health, while others accused her of robbing the challenger of her moment. Hashtags like #LetSolFight and #TowelGate began trending on wrestling Twitter within minutes, highlighting the polarizing nature of Zaria’s intervention.
Sol Ruca’s Explosive Reaction Backstage
Backstage, the mood was anything but conciliatory. According to sources present at Madison Square Garden, Ruca confronted Zaria in the locker room, her anger palpable.
“I told her I was fine to keep going, but she didn’t listen. I don’t need anyone to save me—not like that, not ever,” Ruca was overheard saying to WWE officials, according to a source close to NXT management. The argument reportedly grew heated, with Ruca feeling undermined and questioning Zaria’s loyalty at a pivotal moment in her career[5].
Zaria’s Perspective: Safety or Sabotage?
Zaria, for her part, defended her actions in a post-show interview, citing concern for Ruca’s long-term health. “When you see someone you care about in that much pain, you do what you have to do. I’d rather she be mad at me than see her get seriously hurt,” Zaria explained, her voice tinged with emotion.
However, not everyone backstage bought the explanation. A WWE insider told this reporter, “There’s a thin line between protecting your partner and costing her the biggest match of her career. Some are questioning if Zaria’s motives were as pure as she claims, especially given the stakes involved.”
Implications for the NXT Women’s Division
The fallout from the towel throw is already reshaping the NXT Women’s North American Title picture. Ruca, who never technically lost the match by pinfall or submission, has a legitimate claim for a rematch[1][6]. NXT General Manager Ava is expected to address the controversy on the next episode, with speculation swirling that a triple threat or no-interference stipulation could be in the works.
Beyond titles, the incident throws the future of Sol Ruca and Zaria’s partnership into doubt. The duo, once one of NXT’s most cohesive units, now face a rift that could lead to a high-profile rivalry or even a bitter breakup.
Reactions from Around WWE
The controversy has drawn commentary from across the WWE locker room. Several superstars have weighed in on social media, with some siding with Zaria’s caution, while others, like veteran Natalya, tweeting, “A true champion should decide her own fate in the ring.” The debate has amplified interest in the women’s division and is expected to drive strong viewership for next week’s NXT broadcast.
What’s Next for Sol Ruca?
Determined to reclaim her momentum, Sol Ruca has already demanded another shot at Blake Monroe’s title. Sources close to Ruca say she is “laser-focused” on redemption and is not ruling out confronting Zaria directly in the ring. “If she wants to prove she’s really got my back, she can face me and show the world,” Ruca reportedly told NXT officials backstage.
According to a WWE insider, “Sol is more motivated than ever. She feels wronged not just by Monroe, but by someone she trusted. This is going to fuel her next chapter, and the NXT women’s division is on notice.”
The Bigger Picture: Trust, Ambition, and the Price of Gold
The NXT Gold Rush towel throw controversy underscores the delicate balance between trust and ambition in professional wrestling. For Ruca, Zaria’s act—whether born of compassion or calculation—changed the trajectory of her comeback story. For Monroe, it was a successful title defense shadowed by questions over legitimacy.
As the dust settles, one thing is certain: the fallout from this explosive moment is far from over. With emotions running high and championship gold still in play, WWE fans can expect even more drama, intensity, and must-see confrontations in the weeks ahead.
Backstage Quote:
“I’ve fought my way back from injury for this moment. I wanted to stand or fall on my own terms. That chance was taken from me tonight, and I won’t forget it,” Sol Ruca told WWE officials immediately following the event, according to a source present backstage[5][6].