Blake Monroe recorded her first singles loss on WWE NXT in a dramatic opening match of the August 5 episode, after choosing to run away from her scheduled opponent Kelani Jordan when Jordynne Grace unexpectedly appeared at the arena[1][2]. Monroe’s match against Jordan was cut short when Grace made her way to the ring, prompting Monroe to panic and flee the WWE Performance Center altogether. She escaped in a waiting car as Grace, despite wearing a neck brace, gave chase, leading to Monroe’s disqualification by count-out and handing Jordan the victory[1][3].
This loss marks a significant moment in Monroe’s early WWE NXT career, as this was only her fourth official NXT match since debuting, and notably her first defeat in the brand[1]. Monroe previously competed in AEW under the ring name Mariah May, where she held the AEW Women’s World Championship, making her a recognizable talent transitioning into WWE[1][2].
The backstage heat between Monroe and Grace has been building on NXT programming, fueled by a bitter history. The two were once allies, but tensions escalated at WWE Evolution when Monroe betrayed Grace, costing the latter an opportunity at the NXT Women’s Championship[2][4]. Grace’s sudden arrival and aggressive pursuit of Monroe on this week’s show underscored the lingering animosity.
In terms of storyline context, Jordynne Grace is currently recovering from an injury borne out of a double-armed DDT delivered by Monroe onto a steel chair — an attack that required her to wear a neck brace on television[1][4]. Her presence despite the injury amplified the intensity of the segment and raised stakes for their personal rivalry.
Following the chaotic conclusion of Monroe’s match, WWE officially confirmed that Monroe and Grace will square off in a high-profile bout at WWE NXT Heatwave, setting the stage for a brutal showdown that has been long anticipated by fans[2][4]. Heatwave, scheduled for later this month, is expected to feature several marquee matches including this heated personal feud.
Additionally, Tuesday night’s NXT episode featured notable appearances and storyline progressions, including Joe Hendry’s surprising backstage debut and interactions involving factions like the No Quarter Catch Crew[3]. These developments provide further depth to the upcoming NXT programming, but the Monroe-Grace conflict remains a focal point.
According to WWE insiders, Monroe’s decision to flee was a deliberate storyline choice designed to escalate tensions ahead of Heatwave. A source close to production revealed to Fightful, “They wanted to make the chase scene intense and to give Jordynne Grace a strong psychological edge going into the match. Blake’s flight adds layers to their rivalry and gets fans invested in seeing the pay-off”[1].
Fans eager to follow the unfolding saga can keep an eye on WWE.com and trusted wrestling news outlets such as Fightful and Wrestling Headlines, which continue to provide real-time updates and post-show analyses. The Heatwave event promises to be a pivotal moment for both women as they seek to settle their differences in the ring.
In summary, Blake Monroe’s first WWE NXT defeat was far from traditional, involving an unexpected escape and the ominous return of Jordynne Grace. With their upcoming match at Heatwave confirmed, this rivalry is poised to draw significant attention, highlighting Monroe’s evolving role in NXT and Grace’s relentless pursuit of retribution[2][4]. Wrestling fans should anticipate a high-stakes confrontation that could reshape the NXT women’s division landscape.