NXT Showdown: Karmen Petrovic Claims Title Shot Amidst Rivalries

ORLANDO, Florida — WWE NXT delivered a thrilling night of action on February 18, 2025, at the WWE Performance Center, highlighted by a Triple Threat match where Karmen Petrovic emerged as the new Number One Contender for the Women’s North American Championship.

The highly anticipated match featured Jaida Parker, Kelani Jordan, and Petrovic, all vying for a shot at the title held by Stephanie Vaquer. The stakes were high following Vaquer’s recent victory over Fallon Henley at Vengeance Day.

Throughout the match, the three competitors exchanged intense maneuvers. Petrovic secured her victory with a pinfall over Jordan after a chaotic sequence that saw both Jordan and Parker battling fiercely for dominance.

“I knew I had to rise above the chaos tonight,” Petrovic said after the match. “I’ve trained hard, and I’m ready for Stephanie Vaquer.”

Before the main event, NXT Champion Oba Femi faced off against TNA star Moose, who called him out for a future championship match. Femi responded affirmatively, hinting at an exciting face-off in the weeks to come.

In addition, Tony D'Angelo‘s ally, Channing ‘Stacks’ Lorenzo, sought revenge against Shawn Spears in a singles match. Despite a valiant effort, Stacks fell to Spears, who delivered a decisive C4 for the pin.

“I’m not finished with The Family yet,” Spears declared following his victory, elevating the tension between the two factions.

Another exciting tag team match featured Sol Ruca and Zaria taking on Meta-Four’s Lash Legend and Jakara Jackson. Ruca and Zaria showcased impressive chemistry, ultimately securing the win when Ruca delivered her finisher, the Sol Snatcher, on Jackson.

“We trained together, and it paid off tonight,” Zaria said. “We’re here to make an impact.”

Ricky Starks, now officially known as Ricky Saints, made headlines with a highly publicized contract signing. During the segment, he confidently asserted his intent to dominate NXT, but it was interrupted by Ethan Page, who demanded a title match in his debut, igniting a fierce exchange between the two.

Wes Lee joined the fray, challenging Saints to a match next week, with the atmosphere becoming increasingly charged between the newcomers.

Later in the night, Fatal Influence assaulted Petrovic in the ring, prompting NXT Women’s Champion Stephanie Vaquer and Giulia to intervene. However, they were outnumbered until Jordynne Grace made a surprise appearance to even the odds, setting the stage for a potential six-woman tag team match.

“I’m here to fight and to join the best women’s division,” Grace stated, underscoring her commitment to the NXT women’s roster.

As the night concluded, fans were left buzzing about the rivalries and potential matchups that are sure to unfold in the coming weeks, promising an exciting road ahead for NXT.