Wrestling Nostalgia: A Retrospective on WWE NXT Takeover Vengeance Day
Welcome to a trip down memory lane as we revisit WWE NXT Takeover Vengeance Day, a wrestling event that divided opinions. Let's explore the highs and lows of this unique showcase, offering a fresh perspective on what made it memorable.
The Event's Unique Setting
Vengeance Day, held on Valentine's Day 2021, was a bold move by WWE NXT. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the event lacked the usual crowd energy, but it still managed to capture attention. The absence of a live audience, a challenge for any wrestling promotion, forced performers to adapt and showcase their skills in a different light.
Tag Team Classics: A Double Dose of Action
The Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic was a highlight, offering a double-barreled dose of tag team action. The women's tournament final, featuring Ember Moon, Shotzi Blackheart, Dakota Kai, and Raquel Gonzalez, was a showcase of chemistry and athleticism. The men's side saw Grizzled Young Veterans clash with MSK, a debut team with impressive high-flying skills. These matches were a testament to the art of tag team wrestling, providing a refreshing change of pace.
Johnny Gargano: A Tale of Two Styles
Johnny Gargano's match against Kushida was a fascinating study in contrast. Gargano, known for his lengthy, high-impact matches, adapted his style to match Kushida's technical prowess. This shift made the match engaging, as Gargano couldn't rely on his usual tactics. It was a refreshing change, proving that Gargano could excel in different wrestling styles.
European Showdown: Balor vs. Dunne
The European showdown between Finn Balor and Pete Dunne was a technical masterpiece. Both wrestlers, with their unique styles, created a gripping contest. Balor, rejuvenating his image, and Dunne, a rising star, delivered a match that thrived in the intimate setting. This match, reminiscent of Ilja Dragunov vs. WALTER, proved that a lack of crowd didn't diminish the intensity.
The Women's Triple Threat: A Missed Opportunity
The women's triple threat match, while solid, fell short of expectations. Io Shirai, Toni Storm, and Mercedes Martinez, all talented wrestlers, were placed in the 'death spot' on the card. The match, despite the wrestlers' abilities, lacked the energy of the preceding bouts. A singles match between Storm and Shirai, given their history, would have been a better choice, allowing them to showcase their full potential.
Audio Woes: The Piped-In Crowd Noise
One of the event's biggest drawbacks was the piped-in crowd noise. The audio track, layered over the live audience, created a jarring experience. The cheers and boos sounded unnatural, and the 'This is awesome' chants were out of sync. This artificial atmosphere detracted from the wrestling, making it a noticeable flaw in an otherwise solid production.
The Pandemic's Impact
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly influenced the event's atmosphere. While the wrestlers delivered exceptional performances, the absence of a live crowd was felt. Matches like Kushida vs. Gargano and the Dusty Rhodes Classic finals would have been even more memorable with a capacity crowd. The pandemic's impact on NXT's brand, forcing it behind closed doors, was a contributing factor to its eventual decline.
In conclusion, WWE NXT Takeover Vengeance Day was a mixed bag. It offered exceptional wrestling, with the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic and the European showdown standing out. However, the event's unique setting and audio issues left room for improvement. This retrospective highlights the importance of crowd engagement and the adaptability of wrestlers in the face of adversity.
