NXT TakeOver: Toronto Review

3. NXT Women's Champion Asuka Def. Mickie James

samoa joe shinsuke nakamura
WWE.com

I don't think there was any doubt that Mickie James could still go. If there was, it has been quelled.

James and Asuka pulled of a technical classic early on, going counter for counter, whilst slipping in some mind games, something both women are known for. The story through the second act, however, seemed to show Asuka's vulnerability, something that we rarely get to see. She was selling Mickie's offense like crazy, to the point where I was genuinely concerned that she would lose her title. The Empress of Tomorrow, in the end, pulled out a desperation victory.

What transpired after the match does have me intrigued. Asuka, a face, refused to shake the veteran James' hand, even though James dominated her for most of the match, instead flaunting her title in the challenger's face. Is this overconfidence the beginning of a heel turn for Asuka? The plan will likely be to have Asuka vs Ember Moon for WrestleMania weekend. Perhaps Asuka becomes tyrannical, forcing an overthrow from the impressive upstart?

Rating: 9.0/10

Contributor
Contributor

Residing in Peterborough, Ontario, Canada, Josh Butcher began watching wrestling in the most Canadian way possible: While looking for something to fill the void of the 2004-2005 NHL Lockout. Ever since, he has been a diligent fan of professional wrestling, even training to become a wrestler.