5 HUGE NXT TakeOver: XXV Predictions You Need To Know

1. NXT Title: Johnny Gargano (c) vs. Adam Cole

Johnny Gargano Adam Cole
WWE.com

File this alongside the pre-injury Gargano vs. Ciampa feud decider as one of the most hotly anticipated matches in NXT history.

It's only May, but Cole vs. Gargano I will feature on many a Match of the Year ballot paper. The consensus is that it was one of the best TakeOver main events ever, and that opinion is shared in the WhatCulture offices, where the sentence "one of my favourite matches of all time" has been thrown around by more than one scribe.

This puts boatloads of pressure on the performers' shoulders. How on Earth are they supposed to top - or even match - a bout that many consider an all-timer? It sounds like an impossible task, but this is a TakeOver main event, and Cole and Gargano are elite workers. They won't disappoint.

The story here is that Cole reckons that because he beat Johnny in the first fall of their previous bout, he is the uncrowned NXT Champion. Gargano granted the rematch, and they've been warring ever since... but who's winning this bloody thing?

While a credible argument could be put forth for either man, Cole might be the smarter move. Gargano had his big moment in New York City. It was as emotional as it was cathartic, but he's a plucky babyfaces, and plucky babyfaces don't need long reigns. Cole, meanwhile, has more than done his time.

Winner: Adam Cole.

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Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. 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.