-- 8/10 WWE NXT Reax

Matt "hezekiah" Marheine of Madison, Wis., college student (6.0): Best Match: John Morrison vs. The Miz. Worst Match: Rookies Six-Man Tag. A pretty average show with two decent matches and pretty good logic throughout the show, but way too many video packages. Michael Cole's getup in the open was quite bizarre, but it was a short pre-tape, at least. This was one of the more reasonable challenges, as well. Punching power is at least somewhat relevant (Wade Barrett and Big Show as two examples). In the tag match, it was clear that Percy needs more work on his moves. His kick to McGillicutty early on was clearly pulled, so I can't blame the production crew for the wide shot they used for his dropkick to Husky later on. Although, perhaps McGillicutty was partly to blame; the timing was way off with him and Lucky Cannon doing the clothesline over the top at the end of the match. Kaval did look strong in the match, no doubt. But, did anyone use the tag ropes?

Terrie Neilson of Las Vegas, Nev. (9.0): Best: Lucky's luck runs out. Worst: Six-man redux. This was actually a solid episode and infinitely better than the Kissing Contest episode last week. "The Power of The Punch," aside from being a Regal reference, was a decent challenge. Punches are thrown in WWE, so it fit, plus it enhanced the sales pitch for McGillicutty and Riley. Harris barely grazed the bag and Kaval kicked it, which makes me wonder if they won the challenge in practice. Riley deserves the right to be on Raw beyond that dark match I saw him in August of last year. As for the poll, the right one lost, finally. I'm having trouble seeing Riley in near-last place (Harris should have been), but there looks to be storyline reason for it. I'm pretty sure he's not a total lost cause on NXT.

Forrest of Des Moines, Iowa: NXT is the kayfabe version of Tough Enough. It's basically the same premise, just using already trained wrestlers with predictable outcomes. However, NXT, for all that it showcases of the FCW best, doesn't compare to the realism and fun of Tough Enough. I think if Tough Enough was still in operation and given the NXT timeslot, it would bring bigger ratings and be a more successful show. The pseudo reality show that NXT is trying to capture just doesn't work. Tough Enough, however, delivers that reality TV feel that's still popular today. It's a mix of Survivor, Big Brother, and the Ultimate Fighter thrown into a sports entertainment environment. If WWE and Syfy want better numbers, they should bring back the Tough Enough format. Wrestling fans would definitely tune in, casual fans would be interested, and, possibly equally as important, people that know nothing about pro wrestling will probably tune in for the drama. The wrestler that wins will have an instant following, plus some of the Pros that make cameos would get recognition. Today's world is still focused on "real" TV and going back to Tough Enough right now would be a win/win for WWE and Syfy.

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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