10 Most Disappointing WWE Matches Of 2016 (So Far)

4. Tye Dillinger Vs. Andrade 'Cien' Almas - NXT TakeOver: The End

Brock Lesnar Dean Ambrose WrestleMania 32
WWE.com

Again, the content here was more than passable. What disappointed most was both the presentation of the inexplicably repackaged Almas character, and the odd decision to pair him with sentimental crowd favourite Tye Dillinger in the first place. The Full Sail crowd, who were meant to greet Cien rapturously, weren't sure how to react.

The NXT TakeOver debut match is a joy of the modern era. Usually hyped via typically-awesome WWE vignettes, this in conjunction with the salivating prospect of an international superstar appearing in a WWE ring in the first place is cause enough for optimism. On this night, sadly, the formula failed.

Everything about the character is just...off. I understand the desire (though not the need) to unmask him. Kalisto is already filling the special attraction luchador spot left behind by Rey Mysterio. Still, that is no excuse for the woeful apparel he was decked out in on the night. He looked like a feathered circa mid-90's Jeff Jarrett.

The match itself was pretty good, but the joy of the NXT debut is in the novelty - of seeing a star showcase what brought him to the dance. Even the new name is unwieldy.

Contributor
Contributor

Michael Sidgwick is an editor, writer and podcaster for WhatCulture Wrestling. With over seven years of experience in wrestling analysis, Michael was published in the influential institution that was Power Slam magazine, and specialises in providing insights into All Elite Wrestling - so much so that he wrote a book about the subject. You can order Becoming All Elite: The Rise Of AEW on Amazon. Possessing a deep knowledge also of WWE, WCW, ECW and New Japan Pro Wrestling, Michael’s work has been publicly praised by former AEW World Champions Kenny Omega and MJF, and current Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. When he isn’t putting your finger on why things are the way they are in the endlessly fascinating world of professional wrestling, Michael wraps his own around a hand grinder to explore the world of specialty coffee. Follow Michael on X (formerly known as Twitter) @MSidgwick for more!