What we learned from the WWE this week: 8th May, 2017

#6 NXT Takeover Chicago looks stacked

Next weekend is looking eventful

It looks like WWE fans could well be in for a treat in just over a week’s time. Sunday 21^st May will see Backlash, the Smackdown Live PPV, try to outdo its RAW equivalent, Payback. Also, in that weekend, NXT will join Smackdown with its own PPV, Takeover Chicago.

While there are several reasons to be excited about Backlash - the debut of Nakamura and a couple of intriguing championship bouts - Takeover Chicago is looking like it will more than hold its own. This week we learned that Hideo Itami will be challenging Bobby Roode for the NXT Championship.

Itami has been earmarked for championship glory ever since debuting at WWE. Unfortunately, injury concerns have prevented that from happening, but next Saturday’s showdown still feels like a huge deal.

We will also be seeing a triple threat match for the NXT Women’s Championship between Asuka, Nikki Cross and Ruby Riot. Ember Moon’s absence is a real shame, of course, and that probably means that Asuka will be retaining, but Cross and Riot have shown in recent weeks that they know how to put on a show.

The UK Championship will also be defended – and for anyone who missed the UK Championship Tournament a few months ago, they are in for a thoroughly enjoyable experience, watching Pete Dunne take on Tyler Bate.

Also announced this week is a ladder match for the NXT Tag Championships between the Authors of Pain and DIY. These four men, along with the Revival, were involved in the match of the year for 2016, so we really ought to be looking forward to seeing a repeat of that sensational display.

Backlash really does have its work cut out if the Smackdown stars want to prove they are worthy of being on the main roster ahead of the developmental talent.