In a thrilling main event on the May 7, 2024, episode of WWE NXT, Chelsea Green of SmackDown stepped into the ring with NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez, putting on an unforgettable show for the fans. Although Green ultimately failed to capture the championship title, she managed to pay a subtle yet striking tribute to former WWE Superstar Zack Ryder.
The match between Green and Perez was an intense and evenly matched affair, with both women countering and parrying each other’s moves with impressive defensive awareness. However, in a surprising twist, Green opted to switch gears and stunned Perez with the signature Rough Ryder move, a classic finisher popularized by Ryder during his WWE tenure.
The unexpected appearance of the Rough Ryder move caught not only Perez off-guard but also sparked a reaction from Ryder himself, who took to social media platform X to respond to the nod to his iconic move. The commentators, including Vic Joseph, were equally caught off-guard, with Joseph taking a moment to name-drop the move as Green executed it to perfection.
Despite the sudden injection of energy from the Rough Ryder, Green was ultimately unable to capitalize on the momentum, as Perez managed to regain her composure and deliver her signature finisher, Pop Rocks, to retain her title. The win added another successful title defense to Perez’s growing résumé, but it was Green’s showmanship and innovative move selection that earned her a resounding ovation from the crowd.
The subtle homage to Zack Ryder served as a welcome reminder of the rich history and legacy of WWE, with Green’s nod to the former Superstar both a tribute to his iconic legacy and a testament to the interconnectedness of the WWE universe. As the women’s division continues to evolve and innovate, moments like these serve as a poignant reminder of the timeless appeal of professional wrestling.
