NXT TakeOver: Stand & Deliver Night Two - 5 Surprising moments

#3 Johnny Gargano retains at NXT TakeOver Stand & Deliver 2021

Bronson Reed uses his power against Johnny Gargano.

Johnny Takeover delivered yet again at NXT TakeOver Stand & Deliver. It was a surprising choice to see Bronson Reed win the Gauntlet Eliminator match on Night One.

They hadn’t really built up their feud up over the recent months. It also created a unique situation where the size difference between Gargano and Reed was enormous. However, they made it work on Thursday night.

The thrill of victory / the agony of defeat. Although things didn't go my way last night, I hope I have made you all proud over the last two nights. I put my heart into everything I do in that ring.I hope I could of inspired those that don't have the cookie cutter look ...

— Bronson Reed (@bronsonreedwwe) April 9, 2021

Johnny Gargano did a really good job of working on Reed’s ribs throughout the fast-paced 16-minute match for the NXT North American Championship.

The Colossal One tried to put Gargano away with his power moves while the champ tried to take advantage of the challenger's injured ribs.

When you add in some interference by Austin Theory, The Way was able to successfully anger Reed through the match at NXT TakeOver Stand & Deliver. This allowed the bout to end with Johnny TakeOver hitting two One Final Beat DDTs to clearly and decisively retain his North American title.

Just like it always is.. pic.twitter.com/hG0fAMDKPf

— Johnny Gargano (@JohnnyGargano) April 9, 2021

It is surprising to see Johnny Gargano booked so strongly in recent months. He hadn’t successfully defended a title at TakeOver until 2021. You have to wonder if it is Dexter Lumis who will finally take down the Champion soon.