Asuka vs Mickie James (NXT Women’s Championship):
Grade: 8/10
Although having to follow-up the incredible tag team title match was a tough task, Asuka and a returning Mickie James were up for it. Mickie James was greeted with a big ovation from the Toronto crowd, and once the match started it was clear that she was still in great shape.
Matching Asuka’s in-ring ability and often outdoing the ‘Empress of Tomorrow’, James showed that she, indeed, has ‘still got it’. Even though an upset win by James was close, fans knew Asuka would retain, which took some of the charm away from this bout.
Still, James and Asuka put on a stellar women’s match, and for the first time in NXT, Asuka appeared beatable, which will serve well for her next challenger. Unfortunately, the finish was weak. James tapped out almost immediately from the Asuka lock, and the crowd weren’t expecting it, as it was extremely abrupt.
However, despite the weak ending, the post-match disrespect from Asuka to James by raising her championship rather than shaking James’ hand was a nice touch, and could be hinting at a heel turn in the near future.
Overall, a solid women’s match that gave James another chance to shine in WWE, while keeping Asuka as the champion moving forward.
