Oney Lorcan vs. Danny Birch
Two physical fighters did battle on NXT. Birch and Lorcan went back and forth, trying to outsmart the other in the early stages of the match. Both men exchanged uppercuts until Lorcan drove him into the turnbuckle. Lorcna hit an exploder and then chops to Birch’s chest. Lorcan reversed a neckrbeaker and then Birch connected with a German Suplex and then a massive clothesline. He hit a hanging neckbreaker from the top rope for a two count. Lorcan was able to finally battle back and hit some stiff kicks. Birch rolled through and picked up the win.
Physicality. That is what this match was about. They both took shots and laid them on each other, creating a strong and tough confrontation throughout. Neither are great “personalities” but they are two competitive and tough wrestlers. A decent outing and it seemed as if the crowd really appreciated this kind of match on NXT. It is painful to watch, but in a good way.
No Way Jose vs. Andrade Cien Almas
A match that barely lasted 5 minutes showed Andrade Cien Almas look more intense and fierce than ever, thanks to listening from his new manager Zelina Vega. She gets on the mic and says he deserves that spotlight and nobody else. She calls out Johnny Gargano and says she has his opponent at NXT Takeover in Andrade Cien Almas.
Somewhat random, but both guys are going through a massive change. Andrade has all the talent in the world and has had Takeover matches against the “new” flavor of the month. He also puts on great matches and finally has a strong mouthpiece that can carry him to a new level. Johnny Gargano is “NXT’s Golden Boy” and I think that fits him perfectly. This could be a great opening match at NXT Takeover in less than two weeks and does not need a ton of build around it. I think this is a good call and really want to see how they book the match. Both men could use the win, but who is more important to NXT right now?