NXT results, May 17, 2017: Itami puts Roode to sleep before TakeOver: Chicago

ORLANDO, Fla. — Drew McIntyre continues to blaze a trail of fallen opponents and rattled jaws as he defeated Sean Maluta in a hard-hitting clash.

Maluta, who competed in WWE Network’s Cruiserweight Classic tournament, used his unique offense to keep McIntyre at bay, but not for long. After withstanding Maluta’s initial onslaught — which resulted in a nasty cut beneath his right eye — McIntyre retaliated with his own brand of pain.

The Scottish Superstar prevailed after hitting his running single-leg dropkick to the face of Maluta. Following the contest, McIntyre responded to Wesley Blake’s comments last week, issuing a challenge to the former NXT Tag Team Champion.

After being blindsided by SAnitY following his grueling NXT Title No. 1 Contender’s Match against Hideo Itami, Roderick Strong made it clear he wanted to get his hands on the unhinged faction.

Eric Young happily granted Strong his wish this week, telling the new father that he will see him this Saturday at TakeOver: Chicago.

NXT Women’s Champion Asuka was not in the mood to field questions as she was driven to Full Sail University. The Empress of Tomorrow appeared frustrated with her interviewer, as she simply answered every query thrown her way with “next question.”

Here’s a question: Can Asuka keep her record-breaking title reign alive past this Saturday when she defends her coveted championship against Nikki Cross and Ruby Riot in a Triple Threat Match?

Kassius Ohno looks to score a big win against NXT's resident nighthawk, Andrade "Cien" Almas. Video courtesy of the award-winning WWE Network.

Kassius Ohno’s knockout streak continued as his rolling right elbow landed squarely on Andrade “Cien” Almas’ jaw. The victory is the latest impressive performance from Ohno, whose big-strike capability has left his opponents seeing stars.

For Almas, this loss will surely bring more questions about his partying ways and whether they have been the cause of his recent setbacks in the ring. However, Almas’ innovative arsenal and resiliency were on full display in this epic bout, reminding everyone of the decorated luchador’s enormous potential. 

Days before they battle over Bobby Roode's NXT Title, The Glorious One hurls trash-talk the way of his challenger, Hideo Itami, prompting the proud warrior to fight his way to the ring. Video courtesy of the award-winning WWE Network.

With their huge NXT Championship showdown just days away, Bobby Roode and Hideo Itami met inside the ring in an explosive encounter.

The Glorious One did what he does best and struck down his NXT TakeOver: Chicago challenger verbally before the Japanese Superstar had enough and came out to confront the titleholder. General Manager William Regal couldn’t calm down Itami, who not only put NXT security to sleep, but left Roode himself laid out via the GTS. Could this be a preview of what’s to come this Saturday?