WWE posted the following today, confirming that in addition to both the Men’s and Women’s Battle Royal matches, Buddy Murphy vs. Tony Nese will also be featured on the Kickoff show. They said,
WWE Cruiserweight Champion Buddy Murphy vs. Tony Nese (Kickoff Match) At WrestleMania Kickoff this Sunday, WWE Cruiserweight Champion Buddy Murphy will defend his coveted title against an opponent who quite possibly knows him better than anyone — his former friend and training partner Tony Nese.
Since winning the WWE Cruiserweight Championship in his hometown of Melbourne, Australia, at WWE Super Show-Down last year, Murphy has demanded only the best competition in the world. WWE 205 Live General Manager Drake Maverick has obliged, leading to memorable battles with the likes of Cedric Alexander, Humberto Carrillo, Mark Andrews and Akira Tozawa.
Nese earned the opportunity to challenge Murphy at The Showcase of The Immortals by defeating former champion Alexander in the finals of this year’s WWE Cruiserweight Championship Tournament. In addition to besting The Soul of WWE 205 Live, The Premier Athlete also claimed victories against Kalisto and Drew Gulak to advance in the tournament.
Ever since he began training with Murphy, Nese has shown a renewed focus and competitiveness and will have the chance to put his mettle to the ultimate test when he challenges The Unstoppable for the WWE Cruiserweight Championship in the shadow of New York City, just miles away from his home of Long Island, NY.
Though Murphy initially congratulated his WrestleMania challenger after Nese toppled Alexander in the tournament finals, The Juggernaut of 205 Live shocked the WWE Universe seconds later when he suddenly blasted Nese with a savage boot to the face, bringing their friendship to a sudden and nasty halt.
Don’t miss WrestleMania Kickoff, streaming live this Sunday beginning at 5 ET / 2 PT on the award-winning WWE Network, as well as on WWE.com, the WWE App, YouTube, Facebook and Twitter!
