7 Ups & 4 Downs From NXT Halloween Havoc Part Two (Results & Review)

2. Von To The Rescue

The bond between Von Wagner and Mr. Stone took a long time to develop, but it’s clear that the manager and wrestler are a unit, and that relationship was on full display Tuesday night.

Stone sought to defend Von’s honor against Bron Breakker after Bron had caved in Wagner’s head with the ring steps a couple of months ago, putting him out of action. The result was never in doubt, but Stone managed to sneak in a flash pin attempt moments before Breakker cut him in half with a spear.

The aftermath might be a bit divisive though. Bron looked to repeat the punishment to Stone when Von emerged from the back with his head bandaged. He brawled with Breakker briefly and chokeslammed him on the steel steps before security separated them.

Wagner not coming out for the match and only emerging at the last minute was obviously for dramatic flair, but one could ask why he didn’t just provide the backup or even prevent the match from taking place if he cared about his friend Mr. Stone.

But that also can be overthinking things too much. Von got a great reaction and has never been in a position to be cheered like this before. There needed to a buildup for Wagner’s return, and it came at the most opportune time, leading to his challenge for next week. Cliché, yes, but that doesn’t automatically make it a negative.