New Champion Crowned On WWE NXT 2.0

Another week, another title change on WWE's revamped developmental brand...

WWE NXT Logo 2021
WWE

Roderick Strong is the new WWE NXT Cruiserweight Champion, having defeated Kushida to take the belt on last night's NXT 2.0 show.

This bout was originally set to go down on NXT's 17 August episode. It was pushed back, however, with Kushida confirming he had tested positive for COVID-19 a few weeks later. He has since recovered - and the match was rearranged for last night.

A contest that started competitively unravelled towards the end, with heavy interference from Strong's Diamond Mine allies. Manager Malcolm Bivens saved the former Undisputed Era man at one stage, putting his foot on the ropes when Kushida had his challenge trapped in a Hoverboard Lock, with more decisive actions coming moments later.

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The Creed Brothers pulled Kushida out of the ring while Bivens distracted the official. Ivy Nile then struck the champion, who was rolled back into the ring, allowing Strong to finish him off with a signature backbreaker.

Grayson Waller interrupted Diamond Mine's post-match celebrations, setting up a future Cruiserweight Championship match between him and Strong.

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This was the second week in a row that NXT 2.0 has brought a title change. Tommaso Ciampa claimed the vacant NXT Title last week, besting Von Wagner, LA Knight, and Pete Dunne in a four-way match, as WWE's developmental revamp continues.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.