10 Best NXT TakeOver Matches Of 2017

10. Andrade 'Cien' Almas Vs Johnny Gargano (Brooklyn 3)

Crafted exquisitely to reflect Andrade Almas' major career upswing after associate Zelina Vega reversed his losing streak, the Brooklyn 3 opener between 'Cien' and Johnny Gargano was a glorious assault on the senses.

Hugely over and garnering massively sympathy following Tommaso Ciampa's turn on him at the climax of the last TakeOver: Special, Gargano was the perfect foil for the rejuvenated Almas, affording him the best match he'd had on NXT to that point as well as briefly welcoming him into the fringes of the #DIY split.

Gargano's acting performance bell-to-bell made the match. As he entered, commentator Nigel McGuinness noted how he just couldn't get over the split, and the obsession revealed itself in his desperation as the match progressed.

Entering a scintillating final stretch, Almas powered out of a Gargano Escape with vicious buckle bomb/running knee combo. Where lesser opponents would have failed, 'Johnny Wrestling' fought back, chasing misplaced redemption against the Mexican star.

Just as Gargano set himself to finally finish Andrade, Vega lobbed a #DIY t-shirt at him. Frozen in regret, rejection and remorse, he was subsequently defeated after a wicked dropkick to the face and a hammerlock DDT. A powerful closing shot of the crumpled t-shirt next Gargano spotlighted the profound turmoil at play.