The good thing about developmental is no one expects the wrestlers to be perfect. The bad thing about developmental is sometimes the wrestlers act like they should be. Kendal Grey put an end to the latter by fully embracing the former.
Kendal, the new Women’s NXT champ, is a work in progress. What makes that revelatory is that she admitted as much and embraced it.
Kendal spent her first Tuesday as champ in the ring on a microphone sounding like someone still finding their footing. She can do it all in the ring but it’s clear the theatrical part of this thing of ours isn’t fully in her grasp just yet. The first half of her promo contained a lot of general platitudes about support from the fans, hard work, family, etc. It was the white meat babyface special, if you will. She didn’t kiss any babies but I’m sure she would’ve if given the chance.
Then the second half came and that’s where I felt like Kendal came out to play. She told everyone she’s not always going to know what to say. She talked about wiping off the makeup NXT puts on her before she steps out. She talked about not looking like the prototypical NXT woman; she is herself. That authenticity goes a long way with any wrestling audience, but especially one as rabid as the NXT faithful. NXT wrestlers perform in intimate settings where the fans can practically touch them. The Performance Center, even during the worst of times, feels like a secret club with a handshake only a few know, much less understand how to execute. It’s a merciless environment at times, but it’s overall very supportive. Kendal stripping her facade during her championship celebration guaranteed plenty of that support.
During yet another NXT reset, maybe it’s time to have someone like that atop of the card. The brand can feel a bit too contrived at times, something which Kendal presents as the exact opposite. Bringing Wren Sinclair into the ring after and not only presenting her with a cake, but letting them both eat it only backed up her point about not being like her locker mates.
Kendal was the right choice at the right time. NXT needs someone fans genuinely care about. The best way to connect with anyone at anytime is to just be yourself. If Kendal continues being real like that, she’ll take this brand into new territory.
This was a fine show wrestling wise. As a television show though, it still left a lot to be desired. I’m excited to see the new champ get her run.
What say you, Cageisders?
