By Jason Powell, ProWrestling.net Editor (@prowrestlingnet)
NXT Takeover: XXV Pre-Show
Aired on WWE Network and social media
Bridgeport, Connecticut at Webster Bank Arena
-Charly Caruso hosted the pre-show and was joined at a small “WWE” desk on the main floor by Sam Roberts and Pat McAfee. Roberts spoke about how expectations are always high for Takeover and they find a way to top previous shows.
-The hosts ran through the main show lineup and set up a video package on the NXT Women’s Championship match between Shayna Baszler and Io Shirai.
-Roberts spoke about how Undisputed Era has a chance to shine by being in three matches. However, he predicted a Street Profits win in the ladder match for the vacant NXT Tag Titles. McAfee predicted a Forgotten Sons win.
-A video package aired on the Velveteen Dream vs. Tyler Breeze match for the NXT North American Championship.
-A flashback video showed footage from NXT Takeover: London.
-Caruso mentioned something about a special announcement taking place during Takeover: XXV. Poor Caruso had to deliver the line about how WWE Super ShowDown (in Saudi Arabia) might exceed WrestleMania.
-A video package aired on the NXT Championship match between Johnny Gargano and Adam Cole.
-Footage aired from earlier in the day of the Undisputed Era foursome arriving in a jeep. Another clip aired of Johnny Gargano showing up and finding keys near the jeep.
-Tommaso Ciampa joined the pre-show panel and received a big ovation. He climbed on the desk and said he is on the road to returning. Ciampa spoke about how Johnny Gargano rises to the occasion in big match settings. Roberts asked why Ciampa wants Gargano to retain the title. Ciampa said no matter who holds the title he will be the champion once he returns.
-Follow my live review of NXT Takeover: XXV in a separate report on the main page.
Check below for the latest Pro Wrestling Boom Podcast with Jason Powell and guest Alexander Hammerstone, who discusses his background, how the underdog story has been overplayed in pro wrestling, the Dynasty faction, and more.
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