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Episode 184 - The Wrestling Podcast Two
# The Wrestling Podcast Two Episode 184 - Professional Analysis
This episode covers significant developments from NXT programming, with particular focus on championship outcomes and returning talent that will shape the brand's direction heading into 2025.
## Championship Picture and Booking Decisions
The episode opens with discussion of Oba Femi reclaiming the NXT Championship at NXT Deadline by defeating Ricky Starks in what was evaluated as a strong match. The podcasters expressed confidence in this booking decision while acknowledging an alternative perspective. They predict that Je'Von Evans will ultimately capture the NXT Championship at NXT New Year's Evil, suggesting the current title reign serves as a transitional period leading to that outcome.
The North American Championship also received attention, with Ethan Page successfully retaining against Mr. Iquana in a match praised for its quality. The analysis indicates expectations that Ethan Page will transition to the main roster in the near future.
## Tony D'Angelo's Return and Storyline Development
A major talking point was Tony D'Angelo making a surprising return to NXT Deadline, where he attacked Je'Von Evans. This created an intriguing dynamic, as D'Angelo subsequently had a confrontation with Oba Femi that was characterized as an epic moment. The podcasters noted the historical significance of this matchup, referencing their previous encounter for the North American Championship in 2024. This storyline development appears designed to create multiple credible challengers for the NXT Championship.
## Iron Survivor Challenge Results
Both Iron Survivor Challenge matches generated discussion. Je'Von Evans was confirmed as the Men's Iron Survivor winner, reinforcing the earlier prediction about his championship trajectory. The podcasters considered this the correct decision given NXT's booking strategy.
Kendal Grey emerged victorious in the Women's Iron Survivor Challenge. However, the analysis expressed some reservation about this outcome, suggesting that Sol Ruca might have been the more appropriate winner. Despite this critique, the podcasters acknowledged NXT's decision and framed it as a defensible booking choice.
## Women's Division Match Quality
The episode addressed the Izzi Dame versus Tatum Paxley match with measured commentary. While the finish received criticism and the overall match ending was viewed unfavorably, the podcasters emphasized that the remainder of the contest delivered strong work. They expressed optimism about the continuation of this feud extending into 2026, indicating belief in the long-term potential of this rivalry despite the specific execution concerns with this particular match.
## Overall Assessment
The episode reflects an analytical approach to NXT's current booking, balancing acknowledgment of successful creative decisions with constructive criticism where the podcasters felt alternative directions might have been stronger. The tone suggests engaged fans who maintain perspective on wrestling as both entertainment and business, evaluating decisions through multiple lenses including match quality, storytelling coherence, and talent development.
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Published on 2 days, 4 hours ago