3 Ups & 7 Downs From WWE NXT UK (3 June)

1. Torpedoing Supernova Sessions

Noam Dar vs. Ilja Dragunov is one of those matches that would have went down a treat with a live audience in attendance. It encompassed everything that made the NXT brand a favourite for all wrestling fans; hard-hitting action, a simple story to follow, and a banging closing sequence.

Focused around Dragunov’s vulnerability to his anger issues, his knee gave way early on as he attempted the Constantine Special; thus, Noam adopted a new style, focusing everything around the weakened knee. Mixing that with a series of stiff kicks to the Russian's chest, winding him, Noam did everything he needed to so he could get over as a legitimate threat.

The closing moments saw Ilja’s anger released, wailing away aimlessly on Dar. A Torpedo Moscow was blocked with a terrific Judas Effect from Noam – his elbow hit Ilja square in the nose beautifully – but a second attempt at the manoeuvre landed as Noam charged in for the Nova Rolla.

This was a riot. It went around the twenty-minute mark, which is rare for an opener on a regular TV episode, but it still hit the right spot. If NXT UK can stick to this combination of a hot opener and main event each week, they’ll be on to something special.