5 YRS AGO NXT ON USA POST-SHOW: Takeover Stand and Deliver night 1 with Io vs. Raquel, Walter (Gunther) vs. Ciampa, new tag team champs

This episode of the Wade Keller Pro Wrestling Post Show revisits the 2021 NXT TakeOver: Stand & Deliver Night One, featuring a deep analysis of the event's key matches and booking decisions. Hosts Kelly Wells, Nate Lindbergh, and Bruce Hazelwood dissect the main event between Io Shirai and Raquel Gonzalez, where Raquel's victory marks a pivotal moment in her rise as the new women's champion. The panel debates whether Raquel has the charisma and presence to carry a top title, drawing comparisons to Rhea Ripley’s early career. The Walter vs. Tommaso Ciampa match is hailed as the standout of the night—a brutal, psychologically rich contest that showcases Walter’s dominance and Ciampa’s resilience. The triple threat tag team match is criticized for its flawed booking, with the panel arguing that Grizzled Young Veterans deserved the win over MSK, who were pushed too quickly. The pre-show match between Zoe Stark and Toni Storm is seen as a necessary step for Stark’s development, though the finish is questioned. The gauntlet eliminator for the North American title is praised for its storytelling and for elevating Isaiah Swerve, while concerns are raised about the pacing and structure of two-night TakeOver events. Overall, the hosts reflect on the challenges of rapid booking cycles and the need for more breathing room in NXT’s storytelling. Key takeaways include: Raquel Gonzalez’s title win is a strategic move that could define her future; Walter’s match with Ciampa sets a new standard for in-ring storytelling; the triple threat tag match was a booking misstep favoring a quick push over a more earned victory; Zoe Stark’s win over Toni Storm is a smart long-term build; and the gauntlet match effectively sets up tomorrow’s main event. The hosts express cautious optimism about NXT’s direction, emphasizing the importance of proper pacing and character development over speed. The sentiment is largely positive, with appreciation for the high-quality matches and storytelling, despite some frustrations with booking decisions and event structure.