A big botch led to a title change on NXT last night, with Thea Hail crowned the new NXT Women’s North American champion after she defeated Blake Monroe.
The unplanned ending of the match came after Hail connected with a springboard senton and went for the cover. For some reason, Monroe did not kick out and only broke the pin by lifting her shoulder right after the three count.
The referee did what all refs are instructed to do: count to three as long as no one kicks out.
As soon as the three count hit the mat, the audience inside the Performance Center fell into silence as there was some confusion. The referee motioned for the bell as Hail said “What?” looking even more confused. After some more confusion, the referee got the title and handed it to Hail and her music kicked in.
“You didn’t kick out,” the referee explained to Monroe who was in disbelief. Hail burst out crying as Mike Rome announced her as the new champion.
The unplanned title changed caused some headaches backstage because of creative and quick turnaround was required as NXT will tape the next two weeks worth of television tonight.
