A Retrospective on WWE NXT TakeOver: Vengeance Day
Welcome to a special edition of our wrestling review series, where we delve into the past to analyze and appreciate the iconic moments of WWE NXT. Today, we shine a spotlight on the inaugural Vengeance Day Premium Live Event, a unique showcase that bridged the gap between the old and new NXT.
The Event's Unique Timing
Vengeance Day, held on Valentine's Day 2021, was a significant event in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The wrestling world, like many other industries, had to adapt to the challenges of the time, with Florida being one of the few places where wrestling continued, albeit without the usual energy of a full crowd. This event, despite its timing, showcased some incredible talent and memorable matches.
The Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classics
The Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic tournaments were a highlight, featuring both men's and women's divisions. The women's final, between Ember Moon & Shotzi Blackheart and Dakota Kai & Raquel Gonzalez, was a thrilling showcase of chemistry and skill. The men's final, between Grizzled Young Veterans and MSK, was a clash of styles that delivered an exceptional match, leaving fans wanting more.
A Balanced Gargano Match
Johnny Gargano's match against Kushida for the NXT North American Championship was a standout. Gargano, known for his lengthy and sometimes over-the-top matches, delivered a well-paced and engaging performance. The story of Gargano's new lease on life with The Way and Kushida's determination to become the first Japanese-born NXT North American Champion added depth to the in-ring action.
European Technical Mastery
The European clash between Finn Balor and Pete Dunne was a technical masterpiece. Both wrestlers showcased their unique styles, with Dunne's aggressive ground game and Balor's resilience creating an intense atmosphere. The lack of a crowd added to the match's intensity, allowing the wrestlers' skills to take center stage.
The Triple Threat Letdown
The NXT Women's Championship match, a triple threat between Io Shirai, Toni Storm, and Mercedes Martinez, was a bit of a letdown. While the talent was undeniable, the match suffered from being in the 'death spot' on the card. A singles match between Shirai and Storm, given their history, could have been a better showcase for their abilities.
Audio Disappointments
The audio experience of the event was a significant issue. The piped-in crowd noise, a necessity during the pandemic, was poorly executed, creating a jarring and distracting atmosphere. The mismatch between the audio and the actual crowd response detracted from the overall experience, making it a memorable low point.
The Impact of the Pandemic
Finally, the COVID-19 pandemic itself was the biggest 'hate' of the event. NXT, known for its passionate and vocal audience, suffered without its usual energy. The lack of a full crowd diminished the impact of key moments, such as MSK's Dusty Rhodes Classic win and Adam Cole's heel turn. The pandemic's impact on NXT's decline is undeniable, and this event serves as a reminder of what could have been.
