NXT TakeOver Philadelphia: 6 HUGE Predictions You Need To Know

by Andy H Murray

1. Ciampa's Return

Ciampa, Gargano
WWE.com

Tommaso Ciampa's return has been rumoured from the moment TakeOver: Philly's main event was announced. Though initially ruled out until March, it's believed that he has made a Lazarus-like recovery from his ruptured ACL, with Dave Meltzer hinting at an imminent comeback. The stars are now perfectly aligned, and with his former partner set to wrestle the biggest match of his career, it'd be a huge disappointment if Ciampa didn't show up.

While some believe 'The Sicilian Psychopath' might lay Gargano out after the title match, we disagree. Tommaso wants to ruin Johnny's life. He's out to deprive his former partner of every single drop of joy, so why would he wait until after the bell, when Gargano could be standing tall with the NXT Championship?

That's too much of a risk. Instead, expect Ciampa to interfere during the match itself, costing Gargano the gold, and pouring another gas tank's worth of heat on this already molten storyline. It's the most logical way to push this fantastic long-term rivalry forward, and while Gargano vs. Ciampa would make a great title program, it doesn't need the belt to be NXT's most important rivalry.

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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.