10 Reasons Why NXT TakeOver: The End Was Sadly Underwhelming
3. Austin Aries Accepting Defeat
Not all matches need something after the bell to make them memorable. As mentioned, Austin Aries and Shinsuke Nakamura put on an enjoyable display in their match without being phenomenal. However, the true interest in this match was what would happen after the bell.
As the story goes, Aries has been overshadowed by a more charismatic wrestler since debuting and was out to prove that he is simply greater than his Japanese foe. Sure he controlled the majority of the contest, but Nakamura eventually coming up victorious had to act as a swift kick to Aries' pride.
We're just expected to believe that Aries took the loss without issue? Come on, NXT.
A-Double's character is all about ego; it was essentially his high view of himself that allowed this match to even happen. His absence - and that of Dirty Heels partner Bobby Roode, who was pictured backstage - when Nakamura celebrated in the ring and amongst ringside fans was glaring.
It poses an interesting question: if neither competitors truly developed their characters, why did this match happen?