10 Best NXT TakeOver Matches Of 2017
3. Velveteen Dream Vs Aleister Black (WarGames)
A rarity in 2017, Aleister Black's TakeOver: WarGames victory over The Velveteen Dream was a legitimate star-maker for both men. For Dream, it marked a coming out party for Patrick Clark's enigmatic Prince-like act in just about the perfect manner possible.
Beloved by the discerning Houston crowd, the persona had raised the ire of Black on television by forcing him to take the histrionics seriously. The match subsequently became a much bigger deal for the 'Dutch Destroyer'. It was the first angle of any significant emotional heft since debuting for NXT back in April, and afforded the much-touted star an opportunity to build a match around more than just a glittering independent reputation. And what a battle they crafted.
Built on a battle of wills over Black's refusal to merely say Dream's name in the build-up or match itself, fans latched on to the plot when the pair traded taunts in the early going. 'Say His Name' chants got louder, with Velveteen Dream forced to adapt some of his offence in order to not become a complete babyface and hijack the match. It was the act of a professional many years his senior.
His obsession became his undoing, refusing to say die until his opponent said his name. He was leathered with kicks and the Black Mass for the climactic fall. In an ultimate show of babyface respect, Black sat next to him and finally uttered 'Velveteen Dream'. It was wrestling catharsis unlike much else this year.