Dominik Mysterio Shocks Wes Lee and The WWE Universe, Claims NXT North American Championship
In a historic moment, but also one that will go down as one of WWE's more controversial, arguably the biggest heel stole a title from a champion who was on an incredible run. Dominik Mysterio claimed his first singles championship in WWE by capturing the NXT North American Championship. During the July 18 episode of NXT, Mysterio faced off against Wes Lee in a high-stakes main event for the title.Lee had enjoyed an impressive reign as the North American Champion, breaking multiple records during his tenure. However, it was a cunning move by Mysterio and his allies, The Judgment Day, that sealed the victory. With Finn Balor distracting the referee and Damian Priest attempting to strike Lee with the title belt (only to miss), it was Rhea Ripley who ultimately struck Lee with the Women's World Championship, leading to Mysterio securing the pinfall.
The surprising outcome shouldn't really be all that surprising considering the momentum Dirty Dom has built as one of the company's most hated stars. Giving him a title in this fashion will only give the WWE Universe more reasons to rain down boos upon him. That said, it raises questions about Mustafa Ali's position heading into the Great American Bash, as the title match dynamics may be altered by Mysterio's triumph. It also begs the question, what now for Wes Lee?
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Wes Lee Had Quite The Run
Prior to this momentous win, Lee had held the NXT North American Championship since October 22, 2022. Fans aren't going to love that the championship was taken from him in this manner. As for Mysterio, he was a previous title holder as part of a tag team with his father Rey Mysterio. But, as a singles champion, he's bound to be unbearable as he rubs in his success.
Dominik Mysterio's victory marks a significant milestone in his career, signaling his ascent as a singles competitor in WWE. It also marks WWE's faith in him that this is a guy who can run with the ball and bring some eyeballs to NXT.
