12/10 WWE NXT in Newcastle, U.K. – Live Perspective on fan reactions, more

WWE NXT Live Report
December 10, 2015
Newcastle, England
Report by Patrick Reay, PWTorch reader

I thought I’d give some feedback in regards to crowd reaction.

– The return or Sami Zayn garnered the biggest reaction from the crowd tonight. After NXT champion Finn Balor beat Zayn in the final match of the night with the ‘coup de grace,’ he welcomed the standing ovation for Zayn, even going so far as to grab a “Welcome Back Sami” sign from the crowd and left the ring all alone to Zayn. Sami seemed genuinely moved by the response and it was a definite high note to end on.

– However, it wasn’t the only strong emotional response of the night. Hometown hero Neville made a welcome return, and the positioning of him vs. Baron Corbin was a smart choice as Corbin relished in the most heel heat received during the night.

– After the intermission, NXT GM William Regal made a surprise appearance to thank the crowd for supporting NXT. He mentioned that when it started they used to “draw crowds of about 50 people.” Seeing NXT touring on home soil for the first time must have been especially proud for him I’m sure.

– Some of the upper section of the arena were covered up. I’d say the crowd was about 5,000-7,000 in attendance.

– It was the first WWE event I’d seen in years and obviously the first NXT event I’ve seen in-person. I think the “this is our thing” mentality from the crowd was on display (particularly with Jordan & Gable) which made it a great show, though I feel the crowd got a bit too chant-heavy at times. The one that stuck out was in Bayley’s match when she was trying to sell Emma’s submissions. The crowd seemed more determined to sing the “Hey, we want some Bayley,” which undercut the great in-ring action from both wrestlers.

– Overall a great kick-off to the first-ever U.K. tour. I can’t wait for the London Takeover special.

Crowd Faves

– Sami Zayn
– Finn Balor
– Bayley

– Samoa Joe (Joe vs. Apollo Crews harmed the rising babyface reaction Crews received.)

– Jordan & Gable (The crowd had a great time singing football chants with Jordan’s name replacing the original lyrics. The announcer said if the chants were on iTunes he’d download them.)

– Asuka (Lots of “Asuka’s gonna kill you” chants. Instead Alexa Bliss beat down on Asuka and worked arm holds for the majority of the match. I thought the best selling of the night came from Asuka.)

Most Heat

– Roman Reigns (During intermission, they  played the video game-inspired TLC advert featuring Reigns, which was met to loud boos.)

– Baron Corbin

– Dash & Dawson

– Dana Brooks, who got hilariously got ejected for interference.