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You know how WWE NXT leaves you spellbound and breathless when it's done? That wasn't the case this week, but the episode was still pretty strong. It was a good solid hour of wrestling. It was also an important show from a larger perspective.
It had to be, didn't it? There was a title match on the show as well as a match to determine the Number 1 contender for the NXT Women's Championship. At least two of the matches on the show were very good.
The third was little more than an exhibition match but went a long way in establishing a brand new NXT superstar. I will touch on all of these points in this article.
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#5 Forgotten no more
The Forgotten Sons should be one of the acts to watch out for in the New Year. Jaxson Ryker proved just what was in store for his opponents as he pulverized an enhancement talent known as Mitch Taverna, who did not stand a chance. Ryker destroyed the man, leaving him in a heap in the middle of the ring.
While The Forgotten Sons haven't really had a chance to showcase their wares in 2018, one can only see them climbing the ranks in the New Year. Especially after the next round of talent gets called up, it will be interesting to see what role the Forgotten Sons occupy. From the looks of it, they will certainly be heels, going forward.
One of the things I noticed about this match is that there was no commentary for its entire duration. What a botch to make on such a big show!
#4 Undisputed ERA stands tall
We recently heard how Heavy Machinery will be included in the next round of main roster call ups. They took on the Undisputed ERA with the NXT Tag Team Championships on the line. For what it was worth, it was a solid and entertaining match. The Undisputed ERA were clearly the better workers of the two teams, by a long shot.
It was interesting to see O'Reilly and Strong come out to the ring without Cole and Fish. It was also quite interesting to see them win the match clean, after a valiant effort from Heavy Machinery. 2019 should be the year of the Undisputed ERA for sure.
A part of me does not want to see the Undisputed ERA get called up to the main roster. There's always a chance that they succeed if they stick together as a pack, however.
#3 Ciampa wants #DIY to rule once again
Last week, in one of the most shocking events ever in NXT history, we saw Gargano and Ciampa reunite for a brief spell. There's no word on whether #DIY is back together or not, for the long haul. But Ciampa certainly believes that there is a future if the two unite again. He also wants Gargano to go after the NXT North American Championship.
Now, let's process that for a minute. Can you imagine how good a match between Ricochet and Gargano could be, if the two men were allowed to take each other on? I can absolutely imagine them tearing the house down and putting on a show to remember and cherish for good.
Whichever match had the unfortunate job of following it, would have a tough night indeed.
Ciampa and Gargano with gold around their waist would be a very interesting thought.
#2 Big match next week
We know how Kassius Ohno took issue with William Regal bringing in 'new toys' recently. The newest was the 'King of Bros', Matt Riddle. Riddle and Ohno squared off in an impromptu match at NXT TakeOver: WarGames which Riddle won in a mere 6 seconds.
The two men have a chance to settle their differences next week. Expect this match to go a little longer, which is only fair to the highly talented Kassius Ohno. Ohno is one of those superstars who's been overlooked by the arrival of newer, cooler superstars (just like he's been complaining) and next week should be his opportunity to prove he's one of the very best.
The NXT Year End awards will also take place on next week's show. Who's been your favourite male, female and tag team NXT superstar of the year? Leave a comment and let us know, dear reader.
#1 Bianca Belair to face Shayna Baszler in a title match
Bianca Belair has been the best thing about the NXT Women's Division for quite some time now. Unfortunately, she's not been in the title picture primarily occupied by Shayna Baszler and Kairi Sane. I'm happy to report that she's your new number 1 contender. On Royal Rumble weekend, she has a chance to prove she has what it takes to be the Champion.
Bringing Belair into the division will breathe new life into it. She has the support of the NXT Universe as well, considering how hot the crowd was for her. I can absolutely imagine her carrying the gold next year.
NXT has been great this year. Next year, the brand has an opportunity to do even bigger and better things.
Join us for the thrill ride that we all proudly call WWE NXT!
