Tony D'Angelo Vows Payback for Mason Rook's 2 Attacks as NXT Title Match Looms

Q: Is newcomer Mason Rook a bigger threat to the NXT Champion than his official challenger, Naraku?

No. Right now, Naraku is the bigger threat to Tony D’Angelo than Mason Rook. Naraku is the official challenger at The Great American Bash on June 28, and he earned that spot by defeating Rook on NXT. That result matters most: Naraku has already cleared the direct hurdle Rook could not, and he is the one with the scheduled title match. He also brings the stronger résumé and the more immediate danger. Naraku’s background includes major success in New Japan Pro-Wrestling, and he has been targeting D’Angelo with psychological warfare ahead of the contract signing and title bout. D’Angelo himself has made clear that Naraku’s mind games are a serious concern as he prepares for Sunday. Rook is still a meaningful problem for the champion, just not the biggest one at this moment. His debut attack on D’Angelo was impactful, and D’Angelo has openly said he “owes him a receipt.” Rook’s athleticism and aggressive introduction suggest he could become a future title threat, especially because WWE often positions new arrivals against champions to establish them quickly. But the current evidence points the other way. Rook appears tied up with Kam Hendrix for now, while Naraku has the title shot, the momentum of beating Rook, and the experience to capitalize on it. Rook may be the longer-term wildcard, but Naraku is the immediate and more credible threat to D’Angelo’s reign.

1 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jun 23

Tony D'Angelo said he owes Mason Rook "a receipt" after the newcomer hit him with a moonsault and later attacked him again following a match.
Rook's ambushes came as he arrived in NXT looking to make an immediate statement, though D'Angelo said he respects the challenger's athleticism and potential.
Kam Hendrix is now occupying Rook, with D'Angelo suggesting the two still have unfinished business to settle.
Sunday's Great American Bash remains D'Angelo's immediate focus, with Naraku already lined up for an NXT Championship shot after his own mind games.