WWE Cruiserweight Classic Review - August 24, 2016

Johnny Gargano stretches out TJ Perkins.

By Graham "GSM" Matthews

Rich Swann def. Lince Dorado in a Second Round Match

I had completely forgotten about Dorado from the first round. Not because he was bad, but rather because we have had so many notable names and exceptional performers in this tremendous tournament that it's difficult to keep track of them all. Swann has been one to watch and his crazy charisma should make him a fan favorite in NXT in no time. I liked how it was not only a great wrestling match, but their antics were entertaining as well with both guys dancing and whatnot. This was perfectly placed in the opening slot and I'm glad Swann advanced.


Zack Sabre Jr. def. Drew Gulak in a Second Round Match

Sabre's style of wrestling is different than everyone else's in this tourney, which is what I like about him because he's unique in that respect. His methodical pace can be boring for some and genius for others. In fact, I truly though this was a better match than what we saw from him in the first round, and that shouldn't be surprising simply because Gulak is great, too. It had an old school feel to it and the constant counters were a blast. I look forward to seeing Sabre go far into the finals, hopefully.

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Lince Dorado lands a hard kick on Rich Swann.

TJ Perkins def. Johnny Gargano in a Second Round Match

I had a tough time booing either guy because I wanted both of them to advance. Gargano has evolved (no pun intended) into a legitimate star in NXT over the last year whereas Perkins' excellence is already established. They had a hell of a match where the energy was at an all-time high and both competitors put forth an incredible effort. Their styles meshed perfectly, and above all else, Gargano sold his leg injury from TakeOver: Brooklyn....despite this being taped weeks in advance! How amazing was that and how it ultimately cost him the win? Stellar storytelling right there, and a remarkable main event on the whole.


​Overall Show

Sorry to sound like a broken record, but the Cruiserweight Classic continues to blow me away. The wrestling is top-notch, the atmosphere more often than not at Full Sail University is electric and it just gets better and better with each round. The third round officially kicks off next week, and I am absolutely amped for what we will be in store for in the final few weeks of the show.

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