6 Ups And 3 Downs From WWE NXT 2.0 (Oct 5)

2. Tony Is In The Money

It's fair to confess that NXT's recent deluge of debuting stars have been a mixed bag in terms of their initial presentation on the developmental show. For every Bron Breakker there's also been a Joe Gacy. But in terms of instant hits, it's hard to look past Tony D'Angelo as one of the brand's biggest recent successes - even at this early stage.

Now, it'd be foolish to get carried away after just one in-ring showing, but the former amateur wrestler definitely strutted his stuff last night and the crowd lapped it up. From smack talking Malik Blade senseless in rest holds, to absolutely bulldozing his rival with a wicked suplex/neckbreaker combo for the win, Tony definitely proved he could walk the walk as well as talk the talk last night.

It's difficult to say exactly how NXT are looking to use him going forward, though. The crowd were clearly into him, cheering on his name and luxuriating in his highly animated gangster schtick. But his mannerisms also appear to be that of a slimeball heel. It could prove a difficult balancing act, but your writer suggests leaning into the crowd's response every time. If they like it, then give the people what they want, I say!