NXT TakeOver Philadelphia: 6 HUGE Predictions You Need To Know
2. Gargano Falls
This is a well-earned opportunity for Johnny Gargano, who was NXT's most consistent in-ring performer throughout 2017, and may just be the best babyface on the planet at the moment. The former DIY man is the total package. A sublime underdog in the vein of Sami Zayn and Daniel Bryan, he's an expert seller who draws sympathy like none other, and his fiery, spirited character has made him the brand's biggest folk hero.
His opponent couldn't be more different. Andrade 'Cien' Almas is a slimy piece of s*** whose aloofness is matched only by his arrogance, and with Zelina Vega by his side, he holds a huge advantage heading into TakeOver. Their union is extremely profitable for the former La Sombra, who has been a tremendous NXT Champion thus far, and deserves a long, long run after the company fumbled his first year in developmental.
Gargano stands a great chance of winning, and his triumph would go over extremely well in Philadelphia, but he's so good as a chaser that this still feels premature. Sure, WWE don't want to wait too long, as they did with Bryan, but he'd benefit from a longer run as the underdog. Besides, he may have more than just Almas and Vega to contend with this weekend...
Winner: Andrade Almas.