-- 2/23 NXT TV Reax

Sean Christopher of Princeton, N.J., graphic designer (4.0): Best: Punk-Young interaction (or lack there of) and camera angles. Worst: Matt Striker (who I usually really like). I was excited about NXT. 10:00 p.m. on a relatively obscure network was the perfect opportunity for WWE Creative to throw a bone to the diehards. The concept sounded great, especially since I have become a pretty avid FCW fan, but I thought it fell flat. I was looking forward to more "realistic" approach - not crazily breaking kayfabe - but giving us a better idea of what it really takes to become a star in WWE. I was hoping for more of a "confessional" type deal that included possibly how grueling the schedule is and why they do what they do. Or perhaps actual character development? I REALLY like The Miz, but in the opening segment, I found him unbearably annoying. Heath Slater's dancing (and that tongue thing) made me want to scoop my eye out with a hot spoon. Umm, and Carlito, who I don't think I've ever seen win a match, is mentoring someone? While the Young/Punk/SES deal was great to watch, the match was ridiculous. Otunga equals mainstream publicity (thanks JHud!), so he'll get pushed. The new camera angles were neat, but they were almost too close at times. Matt Striker came off like a WWE elitist and I found that very unappealing. I was excited for Jericho-Bryan. From what I heard, Danielson can tear up a mat, so I was anxious to see him work. I thought it was good, however I wish they would have let them wrestle a longer match. And did it seem as if Danielson mildly no-sold the Codebreaker? If they want these kids to get over, they're going to have to make people like them (or hate them). WWE is making me feel like a snotty wrestling fan that complains about the product and how everything was so much better 'back in the day.' Ugh.

Joe B. of Hoboken, N.Y. (8.5): Best: Bryan Dan - er, Daniel Bryan vs. Jericho. Worst: Otunga vs. Cheetos Man. I liked this debut show because it was different! Not sure if it has legs, though. Obviously, the star was Daniel Bryan and kudos to Jericho for the match. I fear he may not get a continued push due to his height and Vince's preferences, but hopefully it'll be a Hardy situation where his skill and the fans taking to him will get him over. We need an update on his ribs after he hit the announcing table - ouch! A big negative was Michael Cole doing commentary, particularly his comment about Bryan's personality being akin to watching paint dry. Striker was good in his role and again, it added to making this show different from the others. Despite some of the wrestlers having similar physiques, the distinct looks and characters are intriguing. Slater has heat written all over him and Otunga has the attitude - not very unique, but he's convincing. Tarver seemed a step off, either nerves or being green. The Cheetos-skinned guy is a riot with that whole look, but why the squash? If Punk shaves his head, that'll really hurt this guy's gimmick. I hope Barrett has some skills because he certainly has presence - the cape with the Oscar Wilde flower, the accent, and his size all scream money if he can back it up. Rather than the stale reality show format of someone getting voted off each week, I would prefer NXT to be like the debut with each week featuring most of the rookies and pros and no send-offs. It'd be more interesting to see them all in the mix until the "end." We know they're all under contract, so perhaps make the goal a huge signing bonus for the one winner.

Jare'l Barnes of Virginia, student: Best: Miz-Daniel Bryan segment. Worst: Darren Young wackness. I am more than relieved to finally see Daniel Bryan get his shot in WWE. His debut coming on the WWE NXT program I believe is an ingenious concept to get new wrestlers noticed by the casual WWE fans who don't necessarily know about their backgrounds. The only thing that I have an issue with is his marketability. WWE should have shown various highlight packages of the wrestlers on the NXT roster ahead of time so fans could have an idea who they are dealing with. This would have worked favorably for Bryan because of his in-ring ability that is second to none on the WWE roster. Also, I prefer the shaggy version of Bryan because it gives him a more serious look then a clean face and conservative haircut. It presents him more as a submission machine than just a regular babyface. The Miz once again was awesome and it made sense that he was nitpicky about charisma because his whole persona is based off charisma. Daniel is the perfect match to draw heat for a storyline and I hope this continues to get better with Miz's performances. By the end of the year, these two could have a lengthy feud over a title. Darren Young has an impressive look. He reminds me of a young Billy Gunn, however, I believe his current gimmick will not get over because it's corny. David Otunga's swagger was impressive, far better than the "Dawson Alexander" gimmick from FCW. They brought his real-life celebrity status into a WWE storyline, but it would be nice if the NXT show were on an MTV or USA Network where people will see him. Also, the other characters that stood out were Heath Slater and Michael Tarver. Heath has good charisma and should be fun to watch, while Tarver presents a realistic MMA wrestler approach. Down theline, it would be awesome to see Wade Barrett in a heel stable with William Regal and Paul Burchill. Barrett has good mic skills and a personality that would mesh with those guys. Overall, good concept. I just hope the next seasons are better marketed ahead of time and superstars will be made from this new WWE project.

We welcome your 0-10 score and comments on this show for an "NXT TV Reax" feature in the Torch Feedback section of PWTorch.com. Just to add a twist to this feature, include not just your hometown, but also your occupation (mechanic, lawyer, stay-at-home-dad, college student, etc.) so readers get a flavor for what everyone does as "day jobs." To contribute your thoughts on NXT, click here.

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