Sami Zayn vs. Cesaro just sounds like an awesome match. Anyone familiar with the work of the two tremendously talented individuals understands why. Both performers had built reputations for themselves across the independent circuit and, again, in WWE thanks to their outstanding in-ring work. When they met in NXT for the first few times, their contests were hailed by critics as some of the best of 2013. The advent of the WWE Network brought with it the first opportunity for the company to build its NXT brand into a nationally recognized one. It started with the first live event special to ever air on the network, NXT ArRival. What better way to introduce fans to the action and quality wrestling they could expect from the stars of tomorrow than with the fourth battle between Zayn and the Swiss Superman? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTqHH0NFKu4 The match kicked off the show and captivated the audience from the opening bell. It was clear both men felt a great deal of pressure to deliver in the high profile spot, yet they managed to turn in a performance that gave the brand its first Match of the Year candidate for 2014. Zayn dove through the turnbuckles and delivered a tornado DDT to Cesaro in an outstanding spot. The nearfalls were incredibly dramatic, with fans sure that Zayn would somehow manage to overcome his larger and stronger opponent. In the end, though, it was the former United States champion who scored the win and began what was an eventful march to WrestleMania XXX.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
