WWE NXT Review - January 31, 2018

By Graham "GSM" Matthews

Nikki Cross def. Lacey Evans

To be completely honest, this was the part of the show where I went to the merchandise stand, therefore missing most of the match because it didn't last long. In my defense, it was my only opportunity to snag a shirt because I didn't want to miss anything else! Upon watching it back in its entirety, though, I realize I didn't miss much and this was exactly what it needed to be: a quick showcase for Cross. Evans isn't all that experienced yet, but she looked good in defeat here.

TM61 def. The Ealy Brothers

I got my hopes up for an appearance from Tino Sabbatelli and Riddick Moss, so I was disappointed we got The Ealy Brothers instead. In retrospect, I'm glad it was The Ealy Brothers who were squashed by TM61 because at least Sabbatelli and Moss get to build a bit of momentum before being inevitably beaten. They have been off TV for just over a year, so this was a great return for them and the crowd was behind the duo from start to finish. They are an excellent addition to what is already a stacked tag team division in NXT.

Roderick Strong def. Tyler Bate in a WWE United Kingdom Championship No. 1 Contender's Match

I was thrilled to hear this was going to be taped prior to TakeOver: Philadelphia because it meant I'd get to see this match in person! Sure enough, it met my high expectations. Both guys are outstanding athletes and, unsurprisingly, this was a very fun main event that the crowd was hot for. It could have used a few more minutes to be even better than it was, but I still enjoyed the hell out of it and the fantastic finishing sequence. Strong vs. Pete Dunne for the U.K. title is bound to be a blast.

Overall Show

I was in attendance for this edition of NXT TV ahead of TakeOver: Philadelphia immediately afterward, and I loved the atmosphere that the crowd provided because it kicked off the night on a high note. I also appreciated how this was more memorable and more newsworthy than most post-TakeOver shows by featuring a short and sweet women's match, the return of TM61, and an extremely entertaining No. 1 Contender's main event. Next week's show will feature Adam Cole vs. Killian Dain and Undisputed Era vs. SAnitY for the NXT Tag Team Championship.