Tony D’Angelo Explains Why He Chose a Pinfall Match Over a Ladder Match at NXT Halloween Havoc

Tony D’Angelo isn’t about climbing ladders—he’s about making statements. As the reigning NXT North American Champion gears up for his Tables, Ladders, and Scares Match against Oba Femi at Halloween Havoc, Tony revealed why he opted for a match that ends with a pinfall or submission instead of the traditional ladder match finish.

In an interview with Bill Pritchard, Tony explained his reasoning for choosing to pin Oba Femi, noting it’s not just about retaining his title—it’s personal.

“Well, look, let’s just say we kept it the same. ‘Okay, run up the ladder, grab the title.’ You know, I can. A win’s a win, but I don’t feel like I’m beating him,” Tony said, clearly still frustrated after what happened on the previous episode of NXT. “Especially after what he did on Tuesday. Tied me to the ring and made me watch. I’m 99% sure that this guy had Rizzo taken out. So, I want to rub some more dirt in the wound. I want to make it clear that you do not do those kinds of things to the D’Angelo Family. That’s it. I just want to rub more dirt on the wound. I want to hurt him and make it clear to everybody that I’m beating him.”

Tony also gave an update on his allies, Luca Crusifino and Channing Lorenzo, who were attacked by Oba Femi. The champion confirmed that his associates will not be at ringside for the match, as he plans to take care of business himself.

“I told them to take care of themselves right now, and I’ll handle the business. As their leader, as their boss, I need to prove to them and show them that I can handle stuff without them,” Tony continued. “A true leader practices what they preach. So, if I’m going to sit here and order them around, I need to put a hurting on people—especially the guy that did this. He needs to pay. He needs to be hurting just like they are right now. So, Oba’s got it coming to him.”

The upcoming Tables, Ladders, and Scares Match at NXT Halloween Havoc promises to be a brutal showdown. With D’Angelo’s vendetta driving his actions, it’s clear that this match is about much more than just a title—it’s personal vengeance for the D’Angelo Family.

As a reminder, Ringside News will have live play-by-play coverage of NXT Halloween Havoc. Check out our NXT Halloween Havoc section for all the latest breaking news, rumors spoilers and results leading up to the event.