The 5 greatest NXT betrayals of all time

#2 Kevin Owens turns on Sami Zayn (NXT TakeOver: R-Evolution)

From the first few seconds of his #WWENXT debut, @FightOwensFight gave us a taste of things to come... #NXTTakeOver: R-Evolution, 12/11/14 ▶️ https://t.co/1Z5r7iOpVQ pic.twitter.com/gvRxrQ7ek9

— WWE Network (@WWENetwork) December 11, 2020

At NXT TakeOver: R-Evolution, the brand had three crucial moments that would set the stage for a brand new era. Kevin Owens made his WWE debut, defeating CJ Parker in the opening match after weeks of vignettes hyping his arrival. On the other end of the event, a 18-month journey was finally completed.

Sami Zayn was the biggest underdog babyface in NXT history. He went through many obstacles and adversity during his ride to the mountaintop of the brand. His series of matches against Cesaro helped to create a deep connection between Zayn and the NXT fans. After failed opportunities at the top prize, Sami got one last shot at Neville's NXT Championship with his career on the line.

On this day in 2014, NXT Takeover: R-Evolution took place and was a notable event for a few reasons.- Kevin Owens made his much anticipated NXT debut - Sami Zayn captured the NXT Championship.- Owens would turn on his friend by powerbombing Zayn onto the ring apron. pic.twitter.com/qo6bbRH2kn

— The Signature Spot (@SignatureSpot) December 11, 2020

This was an outstanding main event that told a compelling story of Sami Zayn choosing his principles and still overcoming this last hurdle. Zayn defeated Neville to finally win the NXT Championship. After the match, it became a celebration for the Underdog from the Underground. His best friend Kevin Owens came down and hugged him. One had finally made it to the big time and the other had finally won the big one.

However, this happy ending wasn't meant to be. With the two best friends arm and arm with each other, Kevin Owens turned his back on Zayn and shoved him down on the ramp. He then followed up with a powerbomb on the apron. This set up Owens to become the top heel for the brand and eventually led to him becoming NXT Champion at the very next TakeOver.

Kevin Owens betraying Sami Zayn would set the tone for his entire WWE career. He would become known as a superstar who can't be trusted and never meant a friend that he didn't turn his back on. This has also led to Zayn vs. Owens being a rivalry that the company has consistently come back to for the years to follow.