[CentOS] first boot after install - WD_BLACK SN850X 4TB - fails ?

Hi guys.

I'm trying to install Centos 9 Stream on a nvme - before I start tampering with other OSes - would anybody have an idea why... after a seemingly successful installation OS wont boot - hardware sees nvme drive, bios does - it does not see new/any EFI boot entry? To make it more bizarre - virtually identical hardware, only CPU is Ryzen Pro 3900 and not 3700 - and same Centos succeeded, it boots & starts fine. I'm going to try again with the latest available ISO as of today, but in the meanwhile - I'm hoping you can share some thoughts/ideas.

many thanks, L.