Every Asuka NXT TakeOver Match - Ranked From Worst To Best

Narrowly outstripping their engaging TakeOver: Brooklyn 2 battle, the first supercard showdown between Bayley and Asuka was an emotionally draining war that exquisitely encapsulated what the women's division had become under the stewardship of the last remaining Four Horsewoman.

The simple sells are always the best, and the drama within came from Asuka's peerless status. Having grafted her way to the top, Bayley had every right to be confident, but the gradual realisation of her opponent's overwhelming ability that emerged throughout the match was fascinating to observe.

Dodging kicks early, Bayley eventually succumbed after the challenger grew progressively frustrated with her evasive and technically proficient foe. Showing herself to be well scouted, 'The Hugger' caught and ducked numerous kicks and even reversed Asuka's hip attack into a german suplex, but was persistently caught by the 'Empress Of Tomorrow's speed and precision.

Nursing arm, leg and rib injuries thanks to relentless submission attempts, Bayley fought through visible pain, but nothing seemed strong enough to put Asuka away, even when she locked in the same hold that scored her the winning fall in her dramatic Iron Man victory over Sasha Banks on the night Asuka debuted.

Surviving that and blocking the Bayley-To-Belly, the challenger caught the champion with the Asuka Lock. Passing out rather than quitting, Bayley's body gave up before she did, but the match and her title reign was over. The collective gasp from the Dallas crowd highlighted what a spectacle the bout and its conclusion had been.