So, the title of the show is actually "The End of the Beginning" with the opening showcasing lots of footage of the early era of NXT. So, the idea is that they are starting a new chapter tonight. I popped for them using the old "THE END IS HERE" sample from the WWE Armageddon PPVs from years past.
We opened up with the official debut of Andrade "Cien" Almas as he faced Tye Dillinger. Dillinger had new ring gear and the crowd was really behind him since they see him as the hard working guy. Almas pulled out some really nice athletic moves including a cool backflip. He went for a handstand in the corner but was superkicked while upside down for a two count. Nice spot. Almas did a nice backflip into a double knee strike, sort of like the old Razzle Dazzle in CZW. Alamas handily gets the win. Nice first appearance for Almas and Dillinger's work here was impeccable. A short but nice way to kick things off.
They pushed that Triple H would be doing a live interview on Facebook after the show. That sounds to me like there will be some sort of big angle or announcement that has to be made.
Next up is The Revival vs. American Alpha. Unless something unforeseen happens, they should easily match their great bout from Dallas. New outfits for all. I always appreciate the Wrestlemania Sunday/Christmas morning feel of guys breaking out the fresh new gear for a big show. Some really nice back and forth wrestling early. Really good athletic, frenzied babyface tag team spots from American Alpha. These guys are just so perfect together. Revival is looking good, especially Scott Dawson. I cracked up at the "Alpha" chant being sung to the tune of Kurt Angle's old theme. Just like Dallas, it's very much a throwback to the old school style of 1980s NWA tag team bouts. Dawson and Wilder cut off Gable with a double team Hot Shot and now Gable was the babyface in peril. Jordan finally got the hot tag and hit a perfect looking exploder. The Revival almost stole the win with a nice sunset flip/clothesline combo. Dawson tackled Gable off the apron. I respect his lack of caution for his own well being. Lots of really good near falls. The Revival steal the win. New champs! I didn't see that coming. Nice twist. I think I may have enjoyed Texas more since I was there live, but this was a hell of a fun tag match where they were fighting for the win.
Scott Dawson was all fired up after the win. I can't blame him.
Really nice ovation for American Alpha until two monsters showed up and destroyed them. For those who have never seen them, they are The Authors of Pain making their TV debut. While they were not identified, they are Sunny Dhinsa and Gzim Selmani. Out came PRECIOUS PAUL ELLERING! The idea was he was leading these new monsters. I like it.
They showed Asuka working out and warming up with knee strikes to prepare for Nia Jax tonight.
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