In what can only be described as a gauntlet match that had more twists and turns than a soap opera directed by M. Night Shyamalan, NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez now knows who she’ll be facing at No Mercy. The name on everyone’s lips? Jaida Parker, who clinched her ticket to the main event after outlasting five competitors who clearly thought “No Mercy” was just a catchy slogan.
The match featured a cavalcade of wrestlers who, bless their hearts, seemed more like they were auditioning for America’s Got Talent than vying for a championship opportunity. It kicked off with Sol Ruca and Wren Sinclair, both of whom tried to end the match faster than a politician dodging a tough question. But alas, the pinfalls were as elusive as a good Wi-Fi signal at a wrestling convention.
Enter Adriana Rizzo, who thought she’d pull a fast one by launching herself from the top rope like a caffeine-fueled superhero. Unfortunately for her, Sol Ruca wasn’t impressed by aerial acrobatics and sent Rizzo packing faster than someone in witness protection.
Then came Brinley Reece, who was probably regretting every life choice that led her to this point as Kendal Gray eliminated her quicker than a text message from an ex. Sol Ruca, however, had other plans for Gray, forcing her into a submission hold so intense it might’ve made a yoga instructor sweat. But before Sinclair could break up the hold, Ruca decided to show off her strength by tossing Gray around like a beach ball at a summer concert. Enter Jaida Parker, whose timing was more perfect than a selfie with good lighting. She proceeded to dismantle the competition like it was Black Friday at a department store.
In a move that can only be described as part genius and part “what was she thinking?” Parker sent Gray packing before Ruca could finish off Sinclair, who was next to hit the showers. And just when we thought we’d seen it all, Parker pulled off a move that looked like something out of a martial arts movie, sending Ruca flying off the top rope and straight into the canvas. Parker, ever the opportunist, pinned Ruca to secure her spot at No Mercy.
Now, it’s Jaida Parker vs. Roxanne Perez, and if tonight’s match was any indication, Perez better bring more than just her A-game. She might need the whole alphabet.