The debut episode of WWE LFG on A&E kicked off with an electrifying hype video, setting the stage for the competition. With The Undertaker narrating, he welcomed viewers to the “ultimate proving ground,” where four WWE Legends would mentor 16 rising stars, the “Future Greats,” as they compete for a coveted NXT contract. The show’s name, LFG, represents Legends, Future Greats—but as fans quickly learn, it also stands for Let’s F**ing Go!*

Setting the Stage

Joe Tessitore introduced the concept, showcasing the path to becoming a WWE Superstar. “There’s an ‘it factor’ that can’t be explained. Superstars aren’t born…they are made.” The WWE Performance Center was spotlighted as the proving ground, where many of today’s biggest stars honed their craft.

Arriving at the facility, Shawn Michaels was introduced as the man overseeing this development process. He emphasized that while many train at the Performance Center, only the “best of the best” earn an official NXT contract. This new competition, however, was set to raise the stakes.

Inside the Performance Center, Michaels was joined by the four Legends: Booker T, Mickie James, Bubba Ray Dudley, and The Undertaker. Welcoming them, Michaels revealed their role: each would mentor four Future Greats in an intense, competition-driven journey. Not only were the athletes fighting for an NXT contract, but the Legends themselves would be competing for the first-ever LFG Championship Title—something Mickie James playfully dubbed as her “seventh championship.”

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The Future Greats Arrive

The next day, the Future Greats entered the Performance Center, buzzing with excitement and nerves. Michaels explained the format: four teams, each coached by a Legend, competing weekly for standout performances. Each standout would earn their coach a point, pushing them closer to the LFG Championship.

One by one, the WWE Legends were introduced with career highlight packages. Booker T declared he was looking for the elite professional wrestler—someone with heart and hunger. Mickie James was eager to see the untapped potential in the competitors. 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.”

Finally, The Undertaker made his entrance, asking a simple yet intimidating question: “Who’s playing for second?”

In-Ring Drills & Mic Work

The Future Greats took to the ring for their first drills, overseen by the Legends. Shiloh Hill recalled his childhood fear of The Undertaker in a heartfelt interview, reflecting on how he grew up watching WWE with his late father. Meanwhile, Zena Sterling and Drake Morreaux noted how the cameras and the Legends’ presence turned up the intensity.

The competitors then moved to their first promo challenge, guided by WWE ring announcer Alicia Taylor. Each Future Great stepped up to the microphone, delivering promos that ranged from electrifying to forgettable.

  • Tyra Mae Steele, an Olympic gold medalist, delivered a simple promo but radiated charisma afterward, impressing the Legends.
  • Jasper Troy, towering over his peers, cut an intense promo that left a lasting impression.
  • Zena Sterling tried a “ditzy blonde” gimmick, which didn’t land well, but The Undertaker saw potential in her athleticism.
  • Drake Morreaux leaned into his Louisiana roots, while Elijah Holyfield, son of boxing legend Evander Holyfield, cut a passionate promo with Bubba Ray encouraging him to use his name to his advantage.
  • Brayden Ray, still carrying an attitude over the earlier 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 attempt, proving he had something special. However, his defiance irritated the Legends, prompting The Undertaker to warn him: “You’re risking your entire future acting like a smartass.” Despite the friction, the Legends saw untapped talent in him.

First Matches: Future Greats Step Up

With the initial evaluations done, it was time for the first matches. The Legends selected four competitors to compete, with the winners earning the right to choose their mentor.

Anthony Luke vs. Shiloh Hill

  • The match was evenly contested, with both men showcasing their strength and agility.
  • Hill controlled early, landing a powerslam and crossbody, but Luke’s experience and ring IQ allowed him to counter and steal the win by using the ropes for leverage.
    Winner: Anthony Luke

After the match, the Legends weighed in.

  • Booker T believed Luke stood out more.
  • Mickie James leaned toward Hill.
  • Bubba Ray compared Luke’s charisma to The Rock and gave him the edge.
  • The Undertaker acknowledged both competitors but awarded the win to Luke.

Tyra Mae Steele vs. Dani Sekelsky

  • Steele’s Olympic wrestling background shined early, but Sekelsky fought back with technical skills.
  • After a back-and-forth contest, Steele secured the win with a German Suplex.
    Winner: Tyra Mae Steele

Once again, the Legends gave their thoughts.

  • Booker T felt Sekelsky was in control, picking her.
  • Mickie James sided with Steele.
  • Bubba Ray gave Steele the slight edge.
  • The Undertaker praised both, but ultimately chose Steele.

Choosing Their Mentors

Following the matches, the winners selected their mentors:

  • Tyra Mae Steele took her husband’s advice and chose The Undertaker.
  • Anthony Luke picked Booker T, citing a stylistic connection.
  • Before leaving, Luke was challenged to prove he could do a Spin-a-roonie—which he nailed.

A Look Ahead

As 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 teams under their mentors, the LFG competition had officially begun.

Tags: WWE LFG

Felix Upton has over 15 years of experience in media and wrestling journalism. His work at Ringside News blends speed, accuracy, and industry insight.

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