The latest episode sees the music mogul whittle his Groups down to just six, but one decision left Nicole Scherzinger fuming.
The former Pussycat Dolls singer grabbed her coat and abandoned the judging panel as tensions mounted between the pair.
However, the table soon turned as Nicole took to the dreaded hot seat for her Six Chair Challenge while the Overs fought for a place at Judges’ Houses.
The upcoming X Factor instalment also saw Simon Cowell attempt to make a pact with Nicole after he admitted he’s disappointed with his category.
“Can I make a deal with you?” he begged. “Do you want to swap this category for the Overs?”
Simon’s Six Chair Challenge comes before he’s joined by Cheryl, 34, at Judges’ Houses.
A first look at the Girls Aloud singer back on X Factor two years since she served as a judge was released today and showed Simon take a swipe at her son’s name, Bear.
This year sees Simon mentor the Groups, Nicole the Overs, Louis Walsh, 65, the Boys while Sharon Osbourne, also 65, has the Girls.
The X Factor continues tonight at 8.15pm on ITV.