NXT: Io Shirai must defeat Toni Storm and Mercedes Martinez

Io Shirai must walk out of NXT TakeOver: Vengeance Day with the women’s title around her waist. 

Io Shirai is the NXT Women’s Champion, and she faces against Toni Storm and Mercedes Martinez in a triple threat match for the title at NXT TakeOver: Vengence Day. Storm is a former NXT UK Women’s Champion and had a strong run with the title while on that brand. While Storm has remained near the top of the women’s division, it’s hard to count out Martinez. The WXW Hall of Famer has years of experience under her belt, but she hasn’t won any champions during her brief time in the WWE.

Martinez has not had her luck with wins in the Mae Young Classic. Storm has the upper hand over the current champion as she defeated Shirai during the 2018 Mae Young Classic finals. That history is why Storm and Shirai should have a singles battle for the belt, but this triple threat is an awesome addition to the WWE Network special.

Shirai has wins over Rhea Ripley and Charlotte Flair but doesn’t have a big win as of late. Her resume includes defeating the likes of Tegan Nox, Dakota Kai, and even Candice LeRae. Shirai’s time at the top of the division is a prime example of dominance in wrestling.

While these accolades do substantiate her win as the champion and put her in a better state, one cannot take away that her current opponents are way too different in style and approach to her previous opponents. It may be a tough road for Shirai this time around, as they have more experience than her previous opponents. The two foes have worked their way through the ranks and have finally reached a state to challenge the current NXT Women’s Champion.

We would have to see if the Flapjack will sustain the Storm Zero and Bull Run or will it be enough. There’s going to be a time when a new women’s champion is needed in NXT, but that should not come at NXT TakeOver, as Io Shirai’s victory on Sunday means much more for the future of the division.