The March 4 episode of WWE NXT was a packed show that ended with a huge title change. In the main event of the evening, Shawn Spears won the NXT North American Championship, his first title in WWE.
Taking on Tony D’Angelo, the match had a big-fight feel, amplified by Lilian Garcia’s standout introductions. As the contest progressed, there were several near falls, with the NXT Arena firmly behind “The Don of NXT.” Going into the match, there were concerns within the Family about D’Angelo’s physical condition. The final saw D’Angelo attempt a move but is back gave out, allowing Spears to capitalize and score the pinfall.
D’Angelo had been the NXT North American Champion since the October 8 episode of NXT in Saint Louis at The Factory, where he dethroned Oba Femi. His reign had seen him retain against the likes of Ridge Holland, Ethan Page, and Brooks Jensen.
This win marks Spears’ first championship on WWE programming, which has been a long time coming given that he first signed with WWE back in 2006. This victory adds Spears’ name to the list of AEW alum to have won championships in WWE, joining the likes of Lexis King, Jade Cargill, Ethan Page, and Cody Rhodes.
It remains to be seen what the future looks like for Spears as Champion, but with his dark faction at his side, it may be a long time before anyone takes the gold from the Chair-man of NXT.
