4 Ups & 3 Downs From Last Night's WWE NXT (Jan 24)

2. A Sloppy Start

No Way Jose Cezar Bononi
WWE.com

Returning to NXT TV for the first time since August 2017, No Way Jose worked Cezar Bononi (who looks increasingly like a WWE 2K18 CAW every time we see him) in the show's opening bout, and much like the other squash, it was a stunted affair that didn't hit the mark.

This wasn't Jose's fault. He's a fun mid-tier act who usually has the crowd on his side. His ring work has evolved well beyond his green early days, and he looked sharp last night. Bononi, on the other hand, didn't. The big Brazilian has demonstrated scant improvement throughout his NXT run, and struggled again last night, showing little fluidity during his offensive periods. The Center Stage crowd didn't appreciate him turning it into Resthold City, and most were likely glad when Jose brought his night to an end.

Kicking things off with two cumbersome squash matches was an odd choice. We understand the need to get these performers on TV, but sometimes, their inexperience really shines through. Here's hoping Bononi's able to put forth a more compelling showing the next time we see him.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.