Wrestling loves its drama, and on November 18, 2017, that drama was taken to a legendary level at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas, during NXT TakeOver: WarGames. This event was a revival of a classic match type and featured the talents unique to WWE's NXT brand. The highlight of the night was the return of the brutal WarGames match—a concept that hadn’t seen daylight since its dusty WCW days in 2000. This event not only marked a pinnacle in wrestling for that year but also showcased an unforgettable clash of new and seasoned talent, harmonizing chaos with creativity.
NXT, known as WWE's developmental promotion, frequently serves as a launchpad for up-and-coming wrestling stars. Think of it as a wrestling Hogwarts—a place where raw potential is honed into something extraordinary on the grand stage. At this particular TakeOver, the anticipation was palpable, as it promised not just excitement but innovation, blending nostalgia with the present day.
The main event featured a barbarous contest between three factions: The Undisputed Era, comprising Adam Cole, Bobby Fish, and Kyle O’Reilly; Sanity with Eric Young, Alexander Wolfe, and Killian Dain; and the towering trio of The Authors of Pain with Roderick Strong as their temporary ally. The match was held within two adjoining rings, encapsulated by a monstrous steel cage, designed to test the resilience and will of its competitors.
Wrestling has always thrived on its characters and rivalries. WarGames put this on full display. Each faction brought something distinct to the table. The Undisputed Era was the cool, calculating villains of the day, oozing swagger and cunning. Sanity brought their element of anarchic chaos—unpredictable and delightfully mad. Meanwhile, The Authors of Pain, with their sheer brute force, rounded out the explosive dynamic perfectly.
Before we get too deep into the main event, it's important to highlight the opening acts that set the stage for the evening's crescendo. The brutal battle between Kassius Ohno and Lars Sullivan opened the show. It became an unexpected shockwave of power as their feud climaxed in the sort of slugfest that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. Aleister Black’s match against Velveteen Dream was a fusion of gothic mystique and flamboyant theatrics that was both entertaining and unique. Additionally, Ember Moon seized the NXT Women’s Championship in a four-way bout that had fans cheering for female empowerment with an electric fervor.
However, all eyes were ultimately on the WarGames match. As the crowds waited with bated breath, the warriors entered the daunting structure. The chaos that unfolded was breathtaking and nearly poetic. Fans bear witness to alliances and betrayals, trust and distrust, all in the space of forty minutes. The buzzing adrenaline was contagious.
The Undisputed Era emerged victorious in the end, solidifying their status as top villains in NXT. Their triumph wasn’t just a win, but a declaration. They showed what it means to be opportunistic and cohesive. Their victory was met with applause and boos, as wrestling often invites strong emotional investment on both sides.
Wrestling is often more than what it seems. For some, it’s a source of entertainment, a display of athletic prowess, and classic storytelling. For others, especially hardcore fans, it’s a cultural touchstone. The differences are prominent and noticeable but can coexist peacefully. Wrestling has long grappled with both its fans and detractors. Critics often view it as exaggerated athletics with predictable outcomes. Meanwhile, fans embrace it for its drama, character, and the unique ability to weave stories that resonate deeply.
What makes a wrestling event like WarGames so important is its ability to unite fans. It evokes reactions and creates memories lasting far beyond the match itself. Events like these remind us that even scripted sports entertainment can tell genuine stories, stories of defiance, redemption, and triumph.
The success of NXT and events such as WarGames plays a vital role in shaping the future of wrestling. As Gen Z challenges traditional forms and seeks representation and authenticity, wrestling adapts. It’s a testament to the power of evolution driven by its audience. This reflects societal changes where entertainment goes beyond just watching—it demands interaction and impact. This opens discussions and paves the way for inclusivity, diversity, and acceptance within the wrestling sphere.
NXT TakeOver: WarGames (2017) was not merely a wrestling event. It was a symbol—a living, breathing testament to where the future of wrestling can lead. It brought back a classic format, re-energizing it with a modern twist. Most importantly, it showcased the incredible talent of NXT's roster, propelling them forward into new storylines and opportunities. This combination of nostalgia, innovation, and raw potential made for a historic night in wrestling.