The debut episode of WWE LFG on A&E kicked off with an electrifying hype video, setting the stage for the competitors. With The Undertaker narrating, he welcomed viewers to the “final proving floor,” the place 4 WWE Legends would mentor 16 rising stars, the “Future Greats,” as they compete for a coveted NXT contract. The present’s title, LFG, represents Legends, Future Greats—however as followers shortly study, it additionally stands for Let’s F**ing Go!*
Setting the Stage
Joe Tessitore launched the idea, showcasing the trail to changing into a WWE Famous person. “There’s an ‘it issue’ that may’t be defined. Superstars aren’t born…they’re made.” The WWE Efficiency Middle was spotlighted because the proving floor, the place a lot of right now’s greatest stars honed their craft.
Arriving on the facility, Shawn Michaels was launched as the person overseeing this growth course of. He emphasised that whereas many practice on the Efficiency Middle, solely the “better of the very best” earn an official NXT contract. This new competitors, nonetheless, was set to boost the stakes.
Contained in the Efficiency Middle, Michaels was joined by the 4 Legends: Booker T, Mickie James, Bubba Ray Dudley, and The Undertaker. Welcoming them, Michaels revealed their function: every would mentor 4 Future Greats in an intense, competition-driven journey. Not solely had been the athletes preventing for an NXT contract, however the Legends themselves can be competing for the first-ever LFG Championship Title—one thing Mickie James playfully dubbed as her “seventh championship.”
The Future Greats Arrive
The following day, the Future Greats entered the Efficiency Middle, buzzing with pleasure and nerves. Michaels defined the format: 4 groups, every coached by a Legend, competing weekly for standout performances. Every standout would earn their coach a degree, pushing them nearer to the LFG Championship.
One after the other, the WWE Legends had been launched with profession spotlight packages. Booker T declared he was searching for the elite skilled wrestler—somebody with coronary heart and starvation. Mickie James was desperate to see the untapped potential within the rivals. Bubba Ray Dudley wasted no time setting the tone, refusing to shake the hand of Brayden “BJ” Ray, who later dismissed the snub as “not that deep.”
Lastly, The Undertaker made his entrance, asking a easy but intimidating query: “Who’s taking part in for second?”
In-Ring Drills & Mic Work
The Future Greats took to the ring for his or her first drills, overseen by the Legends. Shiloh Hill recalled his childhood worry of The Undertaker in a heartfelt interview, reflecting on how he grew up watching WWE along with his late father. In the meantime, Zena Sterling and Drake Morreaux famous how the cameras and the Legends’ presence turned up the depth.
The rivals then moved to their first promo problem, guided by WWE ring announcer Alicia Taylor. Every Future Nice stepped as much as the microphone, delivering promos that ranged from electrifying to forgettable.
- Tyra Mae Steele, an Olympic gold medalist, delivered a easy promo however radiated charisma afterward, impressing the Legends.
- Jasper Troy, towering over his friends, minimize an intense promo that left a long-lasting impression.
- Zena Sterling tried a “ditzy blonde” gimmick, which didn’t land properly, however The Undertaker noticed potential in her athleticism.
- Drake Morreaux leaned into his Louisiana roots, whereas Elijah Holyfield, son of boxing legend Evander Holyfield, minimize a passionate promo with Bubba Ray encouraging him to make use of his title to his benefit.
- Brayden Ray, nonetheless carrying an perspective over the sooner handshake snub, initially delivered a weak promo. Booker T challenged him to redo it—this time directing it at Bubba Ray. Fueled by frustration, Ray nailed his second try, proving he had one thing particular. Nevertheless, his defiance irritated the Legends, prompting The Undertaker to warn him: “You’re risking your complete future performing like a smartass.” Regardless of the friction, the Legends noticed untapped expertise in him.
First Matches: Future Greats Step Up
With the preliminary evaluations achieved, it was time for the primary matches. The Legends chosen 4 rivals to compete, with the winners incomes the proper to decide on their mentor.
Anthony Luke vs. Shiloh Hill
- The match was evenly contested, with each males showcasing their power and agility.
- Hill managed early, touchdown a powerslam and crossbody, however Luke’s expertise and ring IQ allowed him to counter and steal the win through the use of the ropes for leverage.
Winner: Anthony Luke
After the match, the Legends weighed in.
- Booker T believed Luke stood out extra.
- Mickie James leaned towards Hill.
- Bubba Ray in contrast Luke’s charisma to The Rock and gave him the sting.
- The Undertaker acknowledged each rivals however awarded the win to Luke.
Tyra Mae Steele vs. Dani Sekelsky
- Steele’s Olympic wrestling background shined early, however Sekelsky fought again with technical expertise.
- After a back-and-forth contest, Steele secured the win with a German Suplex.
Winner: Tyra Mae Steele
As soon as once more, the Legends gave their ideas.
- Booker T felt Sekelsky was in management, selecting her.
- Mickie James sided with Steele.
- Bubba Ray gave Steele the slight edge.
- The Undertaker praised each, however finally selected Steele.
Selecting Their Mentors
Following the matches, the winners chosen their mentors:
- Tyra Mae Steele took her husband’s recommendation and selected The Undertaker.
- Anthony Luke picked Booker T, citing a stylistic connection.
- Earlier than leaving, Luke was challenged to show he may do a Spin-a-roonie—which he nailed.
A Look Forward
Because the episode wrapped up, a preview of the upcoming season aired, teasing intense in-ring battles, behind-the-scenes drama, and emotional moments. With the Future Greats now divided into groups beneath their mentors, the LFG competitors had formally begun.
February 16, 2025 10:01 pm