As previously reported, Thea Hail unexpectedly defeated Blake Monroe on this week’s episode of WWE NXT. Initially, Monroe was supposed to kick out of the pin attempt; however, the referee counted the pinfall, making Hail the new NXT Women's North American Champion.
There has been considerable speculation regarding who may be at “fault” for this situation. According to a report from Fightful Select, referee Felix Fernandez received praise backstage for counting the match as a shoot. It was noted that Monroe had the wind knocked out of her from Hail’s senton and attempted to get her shoulder up, but it was too late.
The report also mentioned that the timing was particularly unfortunate, as WWE was finalizing its filming for the remainder of 2025 programming, resulting in the need for quick changes to the show. Additionally, some personnel had to return to the WWE Performance Center to re-tape materials to accommodate the title change. Typically, NXT pre-taped segments are filmed on Mondays, before the taping, with talent expected to remain for the taping the following day.
