While only 3 weeks old, the competitors of NXT season 2 were already facing the first round of voting. Fans have had limited access to these performers, so any slip up, botched move, slip of the tongue, or faux pas could cost the performer in the eyes of the fan, who have say in this go round of NXT. What the fans and performers didn't know before the show began was that this fan voting, along with the pros evaluation would create a list, and the person in 8th place would be eliminated on this night. This made for a much more interesting night, as we now knew that at the end, someone was going home. I was of course hoping for that man to be Percy Watson (hey, I'm not asked to be unbiased!)
Before us fans could let this information sink in, we were informed that immunity would be granted to the performer who was able to record the fastest time in the ever popular keg race. I said it was stupid last season, but at least there is motivation added this time around. Immunity is huge is a competition like this, so I actually cared who won. Going in, I figured Titus O'Neill was the favorite, given his large frame and football background. However, Titus joined at least 2 other performers who dropped the keg and thus were eliminated right away. A few gave it a good run, but in the end it was Lucky Cannon who gained immunity with a time of 12.7 seconds. I was happy with this result, as I think Lucky is a great story and a great face, but I am probably higher on him than some others. The other 7 now had to sweat it out for the rest of the show.
Video package airs for Percy Watson. You know a man is a loser when he has no interest in being competitive. His whole schtick is being entertaining, but he comes off as a more ridiculous version of Charlie Murphy. People aren't possibly buying this are they?
Perhaps young Percy could learn something from his pro MVP, who took on Husky Harris in the first match. This is one of the more solid affairs I've seen including NXT rookies, and credit must go to the son of IRS. The kid may be a little chunky, but he can go in the ring. Maybe that look actually sets him apart. Either way, the kid has something to offer and combining solid ring efforts with his bullying tactics outside the ring are making for a quality sports entertainer. Of course, Harris was unable to pick up the victory, but that's to be expected when taking on a pro. Solid effort either way and this kid is certainly close to the top of my list.
The next match featured the rest of the NXT rookies, with Cannon, McGillicutty, and Kaval facing Titus O'Neill, Alex Riley, and Eli Cottonwood. The face team picks up the win after Kaval get the hot tag and hits the Warrior's Way on Alex Riley after some mayhem in the ring. That move looks a lot better on a fallen opponent and he should stick to hitting it that way. I was much more impressed with Kaval on this night, and I'm actually glad that he's an internet darling and will be sticking around.
It was at this time that I decided to cast my vote, and to my dismay, you were voting for your favorite NXT rookie, not voting for who you want off the show. Disappointed, I cast my vote for Lucky Cannon and hoped that the WWE Universe voted wisely.
When the polls were announced, I was surprised to say the least. In my mind, it should have looked like this:
1. Michael McGillicutty
2. Alex Riley
3. Kaval
4. Lucky Cannon
5. Husky Harris
6. Eli Cottonwood
7. Titus O'Neill
8. Percy Watson
Of course, the actual poll had Kaval on top, which I had no problem with, but Percy Watson second. SECOND??? I have lost a lot of hope for the WWE universe. McGillicutty checked in at 3, Riley and 4, Cannon at 5, Cottonwood 6, Harris at 7, and O'Neill is eliminated at #8. I'm not at all shocked that big Titus was eliminated first, but it's a shame since today was his best all around performance. His speech was actually inspiring and I'm sad to see a fellow Gator, and a quality human being go.
With one member already being shown the door, the pressure is on the remaining 7 to impress in what little time they have. I'm still holding out hope that Watson falls out of favor quickly, but I tried that with Otunga and he finished #2. I think I need to get a job within WWE so my opinion will matter more. Until then, vote Lucky!
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