Following NXT TakeOver: XXX, Paul “Triple H” Levesque spoke to members of the media for a post-show conference call. Here are some highlights:
- Regarding Pat McAffee:
- HHH feels McAffee showed why he’s an elite athlete tonight and complimented his charisma and ability to cut a promo.
- Doesn’t know what McAffee’s immediate future will be but doesn’t believe at all that this will be his last time wrestling.
- HHH compliments Adam Cole for being a great ring general in the match.
- Regarding NXT UK’s return:
- Conversations about working closer with BT Sport began even before COVID-19.
- They will operate with minimal staff. Teams in the US (including HHH, Shawn Michaels and Matt Bloom) will digitally engage with the UK staff throughout production as if they were there.
- Once the ball gets rolling, items like UK TakeOvers will be discussed.
- Regarding a possible shoulder injury to Karrion Kross:
- They’re awaiting an MRI, but believes it’s a separated shoulder.
- Medical staff checked him and felt he was okay to continue.
- HHH talks about Kross’ toughness and tonight being a moment he and Scarlett spent their careers working for.
- Hopes the injury isn’t too bad and he can continue working through it.
- HHH is asked if he wants to say anything more about Velveteen Dream amidst continuing public discussion and the #FireVelveteenDream hashtag.
- HHH says he’s spoken on it and feels nothing more needs to be said.
- He says Scarlett is is a multi-faced performer who can go anywhere. Looks forward to seeing her evolution, including a potential future in-ring.
- When asked about Tyler Breeze’s return to NXT, HHH says a performer is best when they find their place within a system at any given time. Talks about the ability to move between brands as a way for guys to refresh themselves.
- Enjoyed seeing guys like Bronson Reed and Finn Balor work different styles tonight. Feels Reed, Grimes and Priest all stamped themselves as stars in the ladder match.
- Regarding Keith Lee’s relatively brief title run:
- Believes Lee has proven he’s a star.
- Says audiences may react to moments, but what we saw tonight was a piece of a storyline.
- When asked about Mauro Ranallo missing tonight’s show, HHH says Mauro “just wasn’t available tonight” and thanked Corey for doing a great job.
- Regarding Dakota Kai:
- Says she was once comfortable being a sidekick and could sense her intimidation amongst other talent early on, which is why they created the Shayna Baszler bullying storyline for her.
- Discusses her increased comfort and confidence since her heel turn.
- HHH says the same goes for Raquel Gonzalez and her growth from nervous performer to giant bad ass.
- Believes Dakota had a star-making performance against Io, win or lose.
- HHH thanks former writer Joe Belcastro for his contributions.
- Says Belcastro was at a point in his career where he wanted to pursue other dreams and that it was difficult for him to leave NXT.
- He wishes Belcastro the best and says the door is always open for his return.
Be sure to listen to upNXT with Braden Herrington and Davie Portman for a full rundown of tonight’s event right here at POSTwrestling.com.
