IN THE ZONE Image
IN THE ZONE: 12
November 5, 2025 | The WrestleZone - Universal Studios Orlando


Opening Recap

IN THE ZONE returned home to The WrestleZone for another evening of unforgettable UTA action. With The East Coast Invasion tour on pause, the Orlando crowd was treated to a special showcase of rivalries, redemption, and rising stars looking to make a statement under the bright lights of Universal Studios.

Troy Lindz vs. Nancy Rhodes

The opening bout featured Troy Lindz squaring off against the fiery Nancy Rhodes. Rhodes used her speed and ring savvy to stay a step ahead early, connecting with a sharp dropkick and a rolling senton for a near fall. Lindz weathered the storm, relying on his size and technical grounding to slow the pace.

In the closing moments, Rhodes went for a flying crossbody, only for Lindz to catch her midair and counter with a spinebuster. One Final Chapter DDT later, and the three-count was academic.

Brick Bronson vs. Gunnar Van Patton

In one of the most physical encounters of the night, former UTA Champion Brick Bronson squared off against the relentless Gunnar Van Patton in a rematch from their last IN THE ZONE encounter. From the opening bell, the two heavyweights collided like freight trains — every strike echoed through The WrestleZone.

Bronson’s experience gave him the early edge, landing a thunderous clothesline and a running powerslam, but Gunnar’s endurance and controlled aggression shifted the momentum. After countering The Brickbreaker attempt, Van Patton launched Bronson into the corner and crushed him with a brutal running big boot. Moments later, he hoisted the former champion up and delivered FUKSZ for the decisive three-count.

Winner: Gunnar Van Patton

After the match, Van Patton stood over Bronson, shouting that he “just broke the former champ,” solidifying his rising status among UTA’s most dangerous big men.

Tyger II vs. Aaron Shaffer

The crowd was buzzing for the debut of Tyger II, the enigmatic warrior representing a new generation of fierce competitors. Facing former WrestleZone Champion Aaron Shaffer, Tyger showed a blend of precision, composure, and intensity that had fans immediately hooked.

Shaffer tried to slow the pace and test the newcomer’s patience, but Tyger’s calculated offense told the story. He dodged a running lariat, countered into a spinning kick, and connected with a rope-assisted knee strike before sealing the victory with The Yokai Driver.

Winner: Tyger II

Emily Hightower vs. Valentina Blaze

The main event saw reigning Women’s U.S. Champion Emily Hightower defend her title against Valentina Blaze in what proved to be one of the hardest-fought matches of the evening. Blaze came in confident, building on her recent success, and took control early with aggressive offense and relentless corner pressure.

Emily weathered the storm, showing why she’s the standard-bearer of the division. A dramatic series of reversals highlighted the final stretch — Blaze hit the Inferno Driver but couldn’t keep the champion down. Emily rebounded, locking in The High Tower Lock before transitioning into a running knee strike to retain her championship.

Winner and Still Women’s United States Champion: Emily Hightower

Closing Notes

IN THE ZONE closed with Emily Hightower standing tall once again, her dominance continuing to define the Women’s United States Championship division. Gunnar Van Patton’s brutal win over Brick Bronson sent shockwaves through the roster, while Tyger II’s debut added fresh energy to The WrestleZone. The East Coast Invasion may be paused — but the fire inside the UTA roster is only growing hotter.

Show Credits

  • Segment: “Opening Recap” – Written by Ben.
  • Match: “Troy Lindz vs. Nancy Rhodes” – Written by Ben.
  • Match: “Brick Bronson vs. Gunnar Van Patton” – Written by Ben.
  • Match: “Tyger II vs. Aaron Shaffer” – Written by Ben.
  • Match: “Emily Hightower vs. Valentina Blaze” – Written by Ben.
  • Segment: “Closing Notes” – Written by Ben.

Results Compiled by the eFed Management Suite