Ranking the top 10 NXT Women’s Championship reigns

#4 Bayley

Bayley becomes NXT Women's Champion

During her time at Full Sail, Bayley made a name for herself as the plucky underdog and was a favourite of the younger fans in the audience. Bayley came to the forefront in NXT as a part of the Four Horsewomen, always remaining the face.

In an amazing match between her and Banks at NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn, Bayley managed to triumph and gain the NXT Women’s Championship by pinning The Boss. The Four Horsewomen celebrated together in the ring post-match.

Following on from Bayley’s win, she and Banks were set for a rematch at NXT TakeOver: Respect. The match was the first Iron Woman match for NXT, and still remains the only one ever. The pair treated fans to yet another classic, with Bayley retaining her title.

Bayley’s reign was a fairly long one, clocking in at 223 days. In that period she had some great defences against some of the most popular names in NXT, including Alexa Bliss, Nia Jax, and Carmella. Bayley proved throughout her time on top that she was a highly skilled in-ring competitor.

During this reign, Bayley and Asuka teamed up to win a tag match against Eva Marie and Nia Jax. This win led general manager William Regal to establish a championship match between the pair at NXT TakeOver: Dallas. Leading up to the clash between the pair, Asuka proved her dominance, beginning her undefeated streak and cementing herself as a powerful contender for the championship.

As expected, Bayley and Asuka's encounter at NXT TakeOver: Dallas was an outstanding one, with both women displaying their unique in-ring skills. During the match, they both used submissions and technical moves against one another, quickly countering one another time and time again. The Asuka lock was the winning move in the end, with Asuka holding Bayley in the submission for an incredible amount of time in the centre of the ring. However, Bayley refused to tap and eventually passed out, handing the win to Asuka.

Bayley’s NXT Women’s Championship reign was one full of great moments, and even a first in the form of the NXT TakeOver: Respect Iron Man match between her and Sasha Banks. Throughout Bayley’s reign, she was praised by fans and her peers for her consistent hard work and showmanship.