WWE NXT Champion Set for Match at Bloodsport XII

Charlie Dempsey, the reigning NXT Heritage Cup Champion, is stepping back into the no-holds-barred world of Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport.

Announced on Friday, Dempsey is slated to face Akira at Bloodsport XII on November 24. The event will unfold at the iconic White Eagle Hall in Jersey City, New Jersey, and promises an electrifying lineup with talent from AEW, TNA, and GCW.

Dempsey, known for his technical prowess, has become a familiar face at Bloodsport, a series hosted by GCW that combines the gritty intensity of MMA with pro wrestling’s dramatic flair. His debut in April saw him triumph over Matt Makowski during WrestleMania weekend. However, his momentum hit a bump in July when he fell to Royce Isaacs in a nine-minute showdown.

This time, Dempsey is matched against Akira, who is still hunting for his first Bloodsport win after losses to Victor Benjamin and Mike Bailey earlier this year. Both competitors come into this match hungry for victory, and only one will walk out with their hand raised.

Josh Barnett himself hyped the matchup, tweeting, “Two wrestlers returning to Josh Barnett’s: Bloodsport. Both men coming back from a loss in Bloodsport XI. Both hungry for the taste of victory. Only one may have their hand raised on this sacred mat.”

Updated Bloodsport XII Card:

• MVP vs. Josh Barnett
• Charlie Dempsey vs. Akira
• Lei Ying Lee vs. Masha Slamovich
• Dominic Garrini vs. Kevin Ku

Dempsey’s return to Bloodsport marks another chapter in his globe-trotting journey, which has also included appearances in TNA and AJPW. As WWE continues to expand its reach, Dempsey’s involvement in cross-promotional events underscores the company’s commitment to showcasing its talent on a global stage.

What are your predictions for Charlie Dempsey’s clash with Akira? Will Dempsey rebound with a victory, or will Akira finally notch his first Bloodsport win? Share your thoughts and comments below!