NXT Highlights 3-18-20

Gargano & Ciampa 

A look back at how it all began from the cruiserweight classic match to tag team victory to their tag team defeat. They speak on having championship hangover and the injuries that plagued Ciampa during their run. Takeover Chicago where it all changed for both men, the last portion of that match was played in it’s entirety. Ciampa talks about living(wrestling)in Johnny’s shadow while Johnny Gargano slowly turning to the dark side, believing that Ciampa is still the one that is the bad guy.

Excellent mix of shooting, kayfabe, storytelling and really just letting real life play itself out into a brilliant rivalry. The music that played during the final part was great, the reason Gargano turned is brilliant and easy to see. I watched this entire thing and was glued to my seat just like every match they have, this is what the matches have been saying the whole time and it’s why it’s the best thing going in the business.

Balor

HHH’s commentary on Finn Balor was spot on. There was something about Balor that was just stuck in 1st gear 90% of the time. When he returned to NXT so did the Prince. Balor put on display the greatness that formed Bullet Club

Balor spoke of uncertain times and facing Walter. I really enjoyed this piece, it was well done as always. I’m glad WWE and Balor addressed the fact that Balor wasn’t the same on the main roster, that NXT was where he did his best work, showing why a return to the black and gold brand was what’s best for business.

Rhea Ripley

I like the twist of Rhea playing into the match being held in the performance center. Rhea has done the bulk of the build for this match which is good for her but she isn’t as known as Charlotte so the hype just isn’t quite there with the match. I can’t wait to see it, I think it’ll be great. Rhea Ripley is jagged yet there is a soft elegance to her that comes out in her smile and her swagger, sometimes it comes through a bit too much I believe, it may make it hard for some to take as seriously as they should. It’s kinda like Finn Balor and the “outrage” over him smiling so much. Charlotte has to do her part in the final build to this match or I don’t think it will be received well.

Final take

HHH and Tom Philips are on commentary was used well. The show didn’t have to be much, just fill some time with some meaningful content. As the world continues to change around us the wrestling world will change as well, this was a great use of the resources available by WWE.

#JohnnyGargano #FinnBalor #NXT #RheaRipley #Wrestlemania #TomassoCiampa