8. Samoa Joe vs. Baron Corbin (NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn)
Baron Corbin is one of the most divisive performers in NXT. He got over quickly as a squash match worker with great intensity and a brutal finisher in the End of Days. Since, though, fans have soured on him for his awkward movements and limited moveset. NXT capitalised by turning him heel and Corbin has since worked hard to improve in the ring, whilst fuelling the fans' hatred of him in his heel persona. His best match yet as a singles performer came when he squared off with Samoa Joe at NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn. Joe was Corbin's toughest test and the two men put on a stiff, hard-hitting war in front of the biggest NXT crowd to date. Every strike felt like it hurt and the highspots were brutal. Corbin more than held his own against his considerably more experienced opponent and looked every bit like he belonged in the upper echelons of the NXT roster. He was also protected in the finish, passing out in the Coquina Clutch rather than tapping out. Corbin has since progressed into a feud with Apollo Crews, with the NXT Championship looming on his horizon. This match remains the pinnacle of his in-ring career.
Tom Beasley
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Freelance film journalist and fan of professional wrestling. Usually found in a darkened screening room looking for an aisle seat and telling people to put away their mobile phones. Also known to do a bit of stand-up comedy, so I'm used to the occasional heckle.
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