Theres more fallout from the chaotic NXT Womens North American Title match on December 16and now were learning that former champion Blake Monroe was actually injured during the bout.
According to Fightful Select, sources close to Monroe said the star was legitimately hurt during the match and was upset with how the finish played out. The critical moment came when Thea Hail hit a senton that knocked the wind out of Monroe, leaving her unable to kick out as planned. She was injured on the spot but the severity isnt known.
The tension didnt end there. Some within NXT felt that Fernandez dropped the ball by failing to properly check on Monroe before making the count.
But not everyone agrees. Key names in WWEincluding Shawn Michaels and Matt Bloomare standing by Fernandez, saying he followed proper protocol by treating the situation like a shoot as WWE policy demands.
Adding to the confusion, WWE production actually played Blake Monroes entrance music immediately after the finish, accidentally believing she had retained the title. It was quickly cut and replaced with Hails theme once the production team realized the result had changed hands.
Earlier this week, Monroe posted a photo on Twitter showing KT tape wrapped around her ribs, seemingly confirming the injury was real and not just storyline.
Despite the backstage drama and botched conclusion, WWE is pushing forward with the angle. On the December 23 episode of NXT, Thea Hail accepted a rematch challengeand the two will square off again at NXT New Years Evil on January 6.
Do you think the referee did the right thing by counting the fall, or should more have been done to protect Blake Monroe? Share your thoughts below.
