6 Ups & 2 Downs From Last Night's WWE NXT (July 27)
5. Up - Hideo Itami Returns!
WWE pulled off a stunning coup and a major surprise in 2014 when the company signed up Pro Wrestling NOAH loyalist KENTA to join the NXT brand. He soon debuted as Hideo Itami, and his hard-hitting, kick-based offense - which, when juxtaposed with his small frame, made him a unique competitor - soon won him many fans.
Itami formed a team with Finn Balor, but in the early days of Balor's NXT career, it looked like he was starting to overtake his friend in terms of success. Still, Itami beat Balor in the finals of a tournament to earn a spot in WrestleMania 31's battle royal.
The friendly rivalry stopped there, though, as in April of 2015, Itami suffered a severe shoulder injury. He was expected to return to action around January, but complications from surgery delayed his comeback.
Finally, on June 30 - 14 months after his last match - Itami returned to action at NXT house shows and now, he's finally ready to come back to television. Next week, the former GHC Heavyweight Champion will be competing, and while his opponent hasn't been announced, that's secondary. What's important is that a world-class athlete is back in action, and NXT is stronger for it.