The second week of WWE NXT Revenge is in the books, and it’s time to dissect the highs and lows of the evening. From intriguing matches to perplexing booking decisions, there was a mix of excitement and frustration for fans. Here’s a closer look at three things we hated and three things we loved from the April 21, 2026, episode.
3 Things We Hated
The Underwhelming Debut of New Talent
The introduction of new wrestlers to the NXT roster is always met with great anticipation, but the debut of newcomer ‘Vinnie Vandal’ on NXT Revenge was underwhelming to say the least. The newcomer, clad in a bold, all-black attire, was touted as a ‘chaotic’ force to be reckoned with, but his in-ring performance was lackluster, failing to leave a lasting impression on the audience.
According to a WWE insider, ‘Vinnie Vandal’s’ debut was a rushed decision made by the creative team to shake up the dynamics of the NXT roster. However, the move appears to have backfired, leaving many questioning the long-term potential of this new talent.
The Continued Downward Spiral of Bronson Mathews
Bronson Mathews, once a promising up-and-comer in NXT, has been on a downward spiral for weeks, and his performance on NXT Revenge was no exception. The former contender for the NXT Championship looked lost and disorganized in the ring, failing to connect with the audience or his opponent.
Sources close to Mathews reveal that he has been struggling with a combination of injuries and personal issues, which have taken a toll on his confidence and in-ring performance. While his struggles are undoubtedly genuine, it’s up to the creative team to help him turn things around and find his footing once again.
A Lopsided Tag Team Match
The tag team match featuring The New Day and The Viking Raiders against The Undisputed Era and Imperium was an unbalanced affair, with one team dominating the proceedings from start to finish. The match, while visually pleasing, failed to deliver in terms of storytelling and drama, leaving the audience feeling shortchanged.
According to an anonymous WWE source, ‘There were creative differences between the teams involved, which resulted in a match that didn’t quite live up to expectations.’ This discrepancy highlights the challenges of booking tag team matches, where the dynamic between the teams can greatly impact the overall quality of the match.
3 Things We Loved
The Emotional Return of Io Shirai
Io Shirai’s return to NXT was a long-awaited moment, and she did not disappoint. The former NXT Women’s Champion delivered a heart-wrenching promo, revealing her struggles with depression and anxiety, and showcasing her trademark determination and resilience.
According to a WWE insider, ‘Io Shirai’s return was a carefully crafted moment, designed to showcase her growth as a person and a wrestler. Her promo was a powerful statement, inspiring fans and setting the stage for her next chapter in NXT.’
A Thrilling Match Between Cameron Grimes and Tony D’Angelo
The match between Cameron Grimes and Tony D’Angelo was a thrilling, back-and-forth contest that left the audience on the edge of their seats. The two competitors traded near-falls and submission holds, each trying to outmaneuver the other in a bid for victory.
According to a WWE source close to Grimes, ‘Cameron was feeling under pressure going into the match, but he rose to the occasion, delivering a performance that exceeded everyone’s expectations.’ The match was a testament to the hard work and dedication of both competitors, and it’s a reminder that even the smallest matches can be some of the most memorable.
A Strong Promo from Damian Priest
Damian Priest’s promo on NXT Revenge was a masterclass in storytelling, showcasing his growth as a performer and a leader. The former WWE Champion delivered a powerful, emotional speech, addressing the fans and his opponents alike, and setting the stage for his next move in the NXT landscape.
According to a WWE insider, ‘Damian Priest’s promo was a carefully crafted moment, designed to showcase his growth as a person and a wrestler. His performance was a testament to his dedication and hard work, and it’s a reminder that he’s still a force to be reckoned with in NXT.’