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For the first time since I began writing this series, there are more than five points to note from NXT, based on this week's action. Unlike most other episodes, I felt like a lot happened this week. Perhaps a little more than was really necessary, honestly. The whole charm of NXT is generally how concise it generally is.
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That said, it certainly wasn't a bad episode of NXT at all. It is clear that TakeOver in Brooklyn will be a fabulous event, based on the prelude that we're witnessing in the lead up to the show. SummerSlam had better watch out because the men and women of NXT seem ready to steal the show again!
This week, I will list five points from the events that unfolded with a special side note too. Let me know your thoughts about the show in the comments.
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#5 NXT TakeOver Main Event Announced
Johnny Gargano told Tommaso Ciampa recently that the only reason he was NXT Champion was that of Johnny Wrestling. Aleister Black did not take too kindly to this message and took out the man who cost him the Championship. The two men met in the main event in a match that was picking up steam. And then, Ciampa would ruin a great contest.
Of course, the three men unleashed a flurry of blows on each other than even spilt outside the ring. William Regal had to arrive from the back and get things in order once again. He stipulated that the three men will meet in a Triple Threat Match, at TakeOver.
With a real-life injury to Black since then, this match is up in the air for now. But on paper, this is certainly one of the most exciting main event matches in recent TakeOver memory.
#4 Taking out the challenger
It's always a treat to see Ricochet perform in the ring. In fact, I was looking forward to seeing him perform some death-defying feats of athleticism, the likes of which haven't been seen in NXT. Unfortunately, his match did not take place. The Undisputed ERA took him out before he could compete.
While Ciampa was unlucky with regard to taking his challengers out, it seems like The Undisputed ERA were far more fortunate. They sent a message to Ricochet, and in doing so, built up a lot of heel heat with the fans, most of whom were looking to see Ricochet compete. I'm sure Ricochet vs. Adam Cole will be a fantastic match.
Could we see a brand new North American Champion at TakeOver? I would not be surprised if Ricochet claims the title.
#3 Rising up the ranks again
Kassius Ohno should have been in the main event picture a long time ago. Unfortunately, whether it's because of his physique or a lack of opportunities, he remains in NXT. And every time he is allowed to perform, he just reminds us how good he is. He took Adrian Jaoude to school with a win!
I do hope that we are building up to something big for Ohno, in the weeks to follow.
#2 Two impressive debuts
You all know Keith Lee from his stints in PWG and Evolve. Looks like NXT will be his new home, starting this week. He took on yet another man who made his debut- Marcel Barthel from Hamburg, Germany.
It was a far more competitive match than I would have liked for Lee's debut outing. But it is clear that WWE is invested in Barthel too. Barthel could not surmount the 300-pound monster this week.
Lee invited the NXT Universe to bask in his glory. And yes, the fans sure did comply!
Special Mention: Cain Velasquez at ringside
Those who follow UFC probably know Cain Velasquez very well. He is best known for his victories against Brock Lesnar and Antonio Silva. The two-time UFC Heavyweight Champion was at ringside, lending credibility to the NXT brand, this week.
It's always great to see this kind of crossover take place considering how many common fans there are between MMA and sports entertainment. If only Brock Lesnar would oblige and show up at ringside, once in a while!
#1 Final spot in the Mae Young Classic determined
Both Vanessa Borne and Taynara Conti were part of the Mae Young Classic tournament in its first year. This year, the spot could have gone to one of the two women. A match took place to determine who would go through. Conti picked up the win and qualified for the tournament to follow.
Conti was rather emotional after winning the match. One could see how much the win meant to her. I wonder if this will spur her on to success in the Mae Young Classic.
She certainly has the look that WWE does like. Does the main roster have their eyes on her?
Join us next week for more NXT action!
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