10 Best NXT TakeOver Matches Of 2017
9. DIY Vs The Authors Of Pain (San Antonio)
The dust had barely settled from #DIY's November Tag Team title celebrations when The Authors Of Pain sent them a very physical message on NXT television. The hefty beatdown was a signal of intent ahead of their San Antonio tussle, but few predicted their dominance would continue so comprehensively.
Paul Ellering's stocky pair weren't the polished duo Full Sail followers had become used to after several stellar years of doubles action post-Ascension. After still looking substantially behind the quality curve at November's TakeOver: Toronto Dusty Rhodes Tag Classic finale, their title victory just two months later was a breakout display.
Credit must be given to opponents Tommaso Ciampa and Johnny Gargano for the beatings they were willing to absorb, drawing the duo into their own superbly scripted style as the match progressed. Subduing Akam and Rezar with dives and strikes, Gargano in particular sustained an ungodly sh*tkicking before finally Ciampa's hot tag finally gave the pair hope.
When The Authors powered out of the dual #DIY submission that famously dethroned The Revival though, the Champions were beaten. Gargano was slammed forcefully onto his own partner's chest, leaving them both prone for a Super Collider and title-winning Last Chapter. Thankfully, this story was far from over.