WWE NXT continues to build towards NXT Takeover: New Orleans this week, as Aleister Black takes on Killian Dane, and the third annual Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic gets underway
The March 7th edition of WWE NXT continued to focus on NXT Takeover: New Orleans, as Aleister Black squared off with Killian Dane in the night’s main event, and The Authors of Pain took on TM61 in the opening match of this year’s Dusty Tag Team Classic. There was also continued build for the Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa feud, while seeds were planted for a blockbuster match on next week’s show. Let’s check in with this week’s NXT, and grade each of the night’s matches.
Source: WWE.Com
Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic: Authors of Pain VS TM61
Result: Authors of Pain Win With the Final Chapter
Grade: B
This year’s Dusty Rhodes Classic tournament started with a re-run of last year’s final between TM61 and The Authors of Pain, and it was a great way to kick things off. The match was a hard-hitting affair, with some really smooth tag team action. It’s a shame that TM61 had to be eliminated from the tournament so early, but having a rematch from last year’s final was a nice piece of symmetry to get things started.
There was plenty of nice back and forth action, and TM61 still looked strong in defeat here. One spot, which saw Thorne get power bombed over the top rope onto the apron was excellent, and one hell of a dangerous spot to attempt on a weekly episode.
The Authors of Pain picked up the win with their Final Chapter finisher and will advance to the next round. Last year’s champions stand a fair chance of repeating their victory again this year, though, a main roster call-up seems imminent for the young duo.
Source: WWE.Com
Bianca Beliar Vs Miss Drew Renee
Result: Bianca Beliar Squash
Bianca Belair is out next for a squash match. The match goes for less than a minute but it serves its purpose, which is to make Belair look great. Belair was one of the most impressive talents in the Mae Young Classic last year, so here’s hoping that she gets a push for the women’s title once Ember Moon and Shayna Baszler are finished with each other. She has a great look and some unique in-ring work, if booked right, she could be a real star on the brand.