WWE First Annual Cruiserweight Classic NOTE: I can't seem to find where my spoilers messed up

[Face McShooty]

So I just got done watching Bracketology on the WWE Network for this amazing tournament, and decided I'd do bios and first round match ups and get you guys and gals predictions, hopes and thoughts on all involved and the possible match ups we could see in this tournament! Here's the bracket!

 

 

and now for the competitors!

[spoiler=Kenneth Johnson]

Height: 5’11”
Weight: 156 lbs.
Representing: United States of America
Style: High-flying
Signature Move: Done Deal

It’s safe to say that WWE is in Kenneth Johnson’s blood. Not only was sports-entertainment a pastime for the Detroit native, it was enough for his family to risk life and limb — an uncle once attempted to physically save The Ultimate Warrior from The Undertaker. So it’s not surprising that Johnson ended up putting his own body on the line in the ring, where he, as his website proclaims, “has demolished many who are much bigger.” Johnson’s skills have taken him as far as Ring of Honor, which was an early proving ground for several future WWE Superstars like Daniel Bryan, Seth Rollins and Cesaro. Now, he’s gotten one step closer to following their legacy by making the CWC. To reach the next one, he will have to demolish many, and become much bigger than he was

 

 

 

[spoiler=Akira Tozawa]

Height: 5’7”
Weight: 156 lbs.
Representing: Japan
Style: Technical, high-flying, striking, entertainer
Signature Move: Snap German Suplex

Inside the ring and out, Akira Tozawa is an audacious Superstar. As the third-ever graduate of Japan’s world-respected Dragon Gate dojo, Tozawa helped blaze a trail as an early staple of the Dragon Gate organization. Yet, Tozawa’s vicious strikes have been felt worldwide, courtesy of several tours around the globe.

Along the way, the trash-talking, fearless fighter has crossed paths with the likes of Kevin Owens, Dean Ambrose and Sami Zayn. Every step of the way, Tozawa has unleashed his unique brand of brutality, including a big boot that leaves its imprint via countless kick varieties. With agility and athleticism to spare, almost no opponent is safe from his far-reaching bicycle kick.

That’s to say nothing of his Brock Lesnar-appetite for dishing out German suplexes — even, on occasion, on the ring apron. Tozawa remains one of Japan’s most decorated warriors, but will he soon add WWE’s Cruiserweight Classic tournament winner to his long list of accolades?

 

 

 

[spoiler=Jack Gallagher]

Height: 5’8”
Weight: 167 lbs.
Representing: England
Style: Technical, submission, striking, mixed martial arts
Signature Move: Running dropkick

An “extraordinary gentleman” from the United Kingdom, Jack Gallagher is out to grapple his way to victory in the Cruiserweight Classic.

Though his slight frame and well-manicured moustache might cause his opponents to take him lightly, that changes once the bell rings. Gallagher is a master grappler, having trained at the infamous Snake Pit in Wigan and learned from catch wrestling icon Billy Robinson. The Manchester native can wriggle his way free from any hold and lock on a painful submission of his own in an instant.

And when he’s not competing in the squared circle, Gallagher takes part in amateur mixed martial arts fights. With an in-ring style that perfectly blends old school and new school, Jack Gallagher is one of the most dangerous competitors in the Cruiserweight Classic.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Fabian Aichner]

Height: 6’
Weight: 203 lbs.
Representing: Italy
Style: Technical, high-flying
Signature Move: Frog Splash

The most humble of beginnings often produce the toughest competitors imaginable. Add Fabian Aichner to the list of warriors forged from the fire of hardship. Having grown up poor in an Italian village of less than 2,000 people, Aichner nonetheless worked his way to becoming a grappling champion in Austria, South Tyrol, Bavaria and Switzerland. He found his way to the squared circle, where he became a mainstay of the New European Championship Wrestling promotion. A multi-time Heavyweight Champion in that promotion, Aichner established himself as a dominant force not just as a cruiserweight, but across all areas of competition. Active since 2011, the talented Italian has proven time and again that a champion can come from the most unlikely of beginnings.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Tajiri]

Height: 5'9"

Weight: 189 lbs.

Representing: Japan

Style: Striker, entertainer

Signature Move: Roundhouse Buzzsaw Kick

Whether as a gleefully sadistic martial arts maestro or a comedic sidekick, Yoshihiro Tajiri was one of WWE's most versatile Superstars.

Trained in lucha libre and Japanese styles of wrestling, Tajiri first made an impact on U.S. shores when debuted in Extreme Championship Wrestling in late 1998. Clad in traditional blue and white tights with an insignia of Japan's rising sun, he initially could have passed as an Asian Bob Backlund, circa 1970s and ‘80s, in his appearance. But there was nothing plain about Tajiri's repertoire. Fans immediately knew he was something special.

Tajiri reminded observers of The Great Muta with his vicious roundhouse kicks, moonsaults, corkscrew elbow drops, Tarantula Boston Crabs in the ropes and flying somersault elbows in the corner. Soon after his ECW debut, Tajiri grew a goatee, started wearing long ninja pants and spewing green mist. His transformation was complete -- he was no longer just Yoshiro Tajiri, he was "The Japanese Buzzsaw."

Tajiri was a force to be reckoned with in ECW. His high-flying rivalry with Mexico's Super Crazy (then referred to as "The Extreme Luchador") was legendary and thrilled fans in the United States and around the world. He also had memorable wars with Little Guido and Jerry Lynn and once challenged Tazz for the ECW World Championship. Despite never winning ECW's World Championship, Tajiri held the Philadelphia promotion's Tag Team and Television Championships.

After ECW closed in 2001, Tajiri signed with WWE. He debuted in May 2001 and provided fans with comedy relief as William Regal's assistant when the British Superstar was commissioner of WWE. But he also struck fear in the hearts of WWE competitors with his arsenal of weapons in the ring and penchant for spewing mysterious red, green or black mists into the eyes of his opponents. He battled both Billy Kidman and Rey Mysterio over the Cruiserweight Championship, winning the championship on three separate occasions. Tajiri also won the Light Heavyweight Championship and United States Championship from X-Pac and Chris Kanyon respectively and held the WWE Tag Team Championship and World Tag Team Championships with Eddie Guerrero and Regal.

"The Japanese Buzzsaw" left WWE in December 2005 to return home to Japan, returning to team with Super Crazy against the F.B.I. in ECW One Night Stand in June 2006. While Japanese fans still cringe while watching the sadistic strikes of the ageless Tajiri, the WWE Universe was left to wonder what the Japanese Superstar was up to over the past decade. They'll find out in the inaugural Cruiserweight Classic, as the Buzzsaw returns to show that he hasn't lost a step over the past decade.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Damian Slater]

Height: 5’11”
Weight: 193 lbs.
Representing: Australia
Style: Technical, striking, submission
Signature Move: Slatality

The Cruiserweight Classic is taking place at the perfect time for Damian Slater. The native of Australia is in the prime of his career and competing at a level most can only dream of. The smooth-as-silk wrestler is no stranger to accolades, having been included in the Pro Wrestling Illustrated 500 list on three separate occasions.

If you haven’t seen Slater compete, it won’t take long to realize why he is one of the more highly respected cruiserweights in the world. Slater’s innovative offense makes it nearly impossible for opponents to defend against him and often paves the way for his devastating inverted Michinoku Driver.

Slater calls himself “The World-Beater” and he will get a chance to live up to that billing when he competes against the greatest wrestlers from around the globe in the 32-man Cruiserweight Classic.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Alejandro Saez]

Height: 6’1”
Weight: 205 lbs.
Representing: Chile
Style: Japanese style, technical
Signature Move: Spiral Tap

If you’re going to enter the Cruiserweight Classic, it helps to have been taught by some of the greats. Alejandro Saez is not just a student of the game, but a student of some of its best practitioners: The Chilean native learned his craft at the feet of Neville and Super Crazy, and counts Shane McMahon among his personal heroes. Having amassed nine championships, including the X-LAW Junior Heavyweight Championship and the XNL World Championship, it’s safe to say that accumulated knowledge and inspiration went a long way. In the CWC, he’ll have the opportunity to both do his teachers and idol proud, and take his career to the next level. He may be a cruiserweight, but make no mistake: He looms extra-large in the ring.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Gran Metalik]

Height: 5’9”
Weight: 175 lbs.
Representing: Mexico
Style: Lucha libre, high-flying, technical
Signature Move: Fireman's carry fisherman driver

With over a decade of experience in the ring, Gran Metalik has competed and prevailed all over the globe, including New Japan Pro Wrestling and Mexico’s CMLL. Having competed against some of NXT’s elite, including Finn Bálor and Shinsuke Nakamura, Metalik is no stranger to the spotlight or a big fight feel.

Known for his thrilling maneuvers, including the Corkscrew Somersault Senton Bomb and the Springboard Dragonrana, as well as his mastery of springboard-based maneuvers, Metalik is not afraid to take chances and will unquestionably bring a high level of risk to the WWE Cruiserweight Classic.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Harv Sihra]

Height: 5’9”
Weight: 144 lbs.
Representing: India
Style: Technical, high-flying
Signature Move: Top rope elbow drop

The only bond stronger than tag team brotherhood is actual brotherhood, and to win the Cruiserweight Classic, Harv Sihra will have to defy both. A champion on the indie scene alongside his brother, Gurv, Sihra’s accomplishments have landed him — and his sibling — in the Cruiserweight Classic with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at his feet. The promise of victory is a tempting, if difficult, offer, but for this “Bollywood Don,” it’s one he likely can’t refuse.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Drew Gulak]

Height: 6’
Weight: 193 lbs.
Representing: United States of America
Style: Technical, submission
Signature Move: Dragon Sleeper

Drew Gulak is every bit as hard-nosed as the city he hails from, Philadelphia. A minimalist mutilator, what Gulak lacks in frills like kneepads or elbow pads he offsets with a completist’s arsenal of submission holds and suplexes, not to mention a lariat that can rip heads from shoulders.

Being raised in Philly did more than toughen up Gulak; it also exposed the self-described “student of the game” to one of the world’s top wrestling hotbeds at a young age. Now an 11-year veteran of the sport, the no-nonsense throwback has emerged as one of America’s top independent grapplers, having competed on both coasts as well as internationally.

A co-holder of the EVOLVE Tag Team Titles, not to mention winner of EVOLVE’s 2013 Style Battle Tournament and a former Combat Zone Wrestling Heavyweight Champion, Gulak qualified for the Cruiserweight Classic by defeating Tracy Williams at EVOLVE 61.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Zack Sabre Jr]

Height: 6’
Weight: 181 lbs.
Representing: England
Style: Technical, striking, submission
Signature Move: Omoplata/armbar combination

Zack Sabre Jr. has been described as a technical wizard and, perhaps, the best wrestler in the world. Fighting out of Kent, England, Sabre has earned a reputation as a fierce grappler, willing to twist whatever limbs he can get his hands on into painful submissions in search of victory.

Sabre’s mat wizardry has earned him success around the world in promotions like Pro Wrestling NOAH in Japan, Germany’s WXW and Pro Wrestling Guerrilla in the U.S. After earning his way into the tournament through a qualifying match at PROGRESS Wrestling, the England native will be looking to add victory in the WWE Cruiserweight Classic to his lengthy list of accolades.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Tyson Dux]

Height: 5’11”
Weight: 193 lbs.
Representing: Canada
Style: Technical, high-flying
Signature Move: Northern Lariat

With nearly 20 years of international experience, Tyson Dux isn’t just one of the Cruiserweight Classic’s best-rounded competitors — he’s also one of the most dangerous. Nicknamed “Textbook” for his masterful approach inside the ring, the gruff veteran has been a fixture of Ontario’s independent wrestling scene since he was a teenager.

Whether it’s innovative, high-impact slams like a Death Valley Driver into the turnbuckles, or subtle, but equally devastating, submission holds like the Texas Cloverleaf, chances are Dux knows how to apply it with maximum precision. Dux is no stranger to big platforms, either. He has competed in WWE before (dating back to the early 2000s), once represented his country in a wrestling world cup, and has fought in the fabled Super 8 Tournament presented by the East Coast Wrestling Alliance.

Will Dux’s diverse background pave the way to success in the Cruiserweight Classic?

 

 

 

[spoiler=Noam Dar]

Height: 5’9”
Weight: 178 lbs.
Representing: Scotland via Israel
Style: Technical, high-flying, entertainer
Signature Move: Kneebar

One of the youngest competitors in the Cruiserweight Classic, Noam Dar enters the tournament as one of its most highly-touted competitors.

Coming to the Classic from Scotland, by way of Israel, 22-year-old Dar has been making a name for himself in Europe since breaking into the industry as a teenager. A mat wrestling maven that has forced countless opponents to submit with a vicious kneebar, Dar has held his own against the likes of Finn Bálor and AJ Styles while solidifying himself as one of the U.K.’s brightest stars.

Now, Dar will look to catapult himself into superstardom on the global stage provided by the historic WWE Cruiserweight Classic.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Gurv Sihra]

Height: 5’10”
Weight: 159 lbs.
Representing: India
Style: Technical, high-flying
Signature Move: Bollywood Drop

Behold “The Golden Lion” Gurv Sihra, a British Columbia native whose world-traveled pedigree has earned him a spot in the Cruiserweight Classic. A burgeoning tag team specialist alongside his brother Harv, Sihra has also recorded reigns in the Junior Heavyweight and Tag divisions of multiple promotions en route to entering the CWC. With the ultimate opportunity laid before him, this lion may soon become king … provided he can get through his brother first.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Ariya Daivari]

Height: 5’10”
Weight: 180 lbs.
Representing: Iran
Style: High-flying, technical
Signature Move: Frog Splash

Everyone strives to carve their own distinct identity – Ariya Daivari will be trying to do just that when he enters the WWE Cruiserweight Classic.

Brother of WWE Alumni Shawn Daivari, Ariya will look to forge his own path and make some serious noise in the Classic. Very proficient in the ring, Daivari aims to finish his opponents off with a move he calls the Magic Carpet Ride … fitting, as it will be a whole new world for Daivari if he can win the Cruiserweight Classic.

 

 

 

[spoiler=HoHo Lun]

Height: 5’7”
Weight: 155 lbs.
Representing: Hong Kong, China
Style: High-flying, striking
Signature Move: German Suplex

For some, suffering a barrage of kicks and knees to every available extremity might seem like a nightmare. For HoHo Lun’s opponents, it’s simply a fact of life. This Cruiserweight Classic entrant is something of a living legend in the East, where he founded Hong Kong Pro Wrestling Federation, giving himself the perfect platform to leave trails of broken men across China and Japan. The motto on his Facebook page is simple: “Respect wrestling.” His opponents will likely respect him soon enough.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Raul Mendoza]

Height: 5’5”
Weight: 178 lbs.
Representing: Mexico
Style: Lucha libre, high-flying, technical
Signature Move: Suplex/backbreaker combination

Raul Mendoza has traveled the world to become the best wrestler he can be. The latest stop on his travels is WWE and the Cruiserweight Classic.

Born in Veracruz, Mexico, Mendoza began competing in his home country in 2005 after training under luchadors like El Gran Apache and Ricky Marvin. Taking on the name Jinzo, he adopted a high-flying, hard-hitting style, mixing breathtaking dives with devastating kicks.

Mendoza turned heads while competing for promotions like AAA, Perros Del Mal and Japan’s Pro Wrestling NOAH. He’ll look to do the same when he takes part in the first Cruiserweight Classic.

 

 

 

[spoiler=The Brian Kendrick]

Height: 5'8"

Weight: 157 lbs.

Representing: United States of America

Style: High-flying

Signature Move: Sliced Bread #2 (Shiranui)

The Brian Kendrick is one of the more eccentric Superstars in WWE history.

A gifted wrestler and high-flyer, Kendrick started working to make it in sports-entertainment since he enrolled in the Shawn Michaels Wrestling Academy in the summer of 1999.

The smallest trainee at HBK's school, Kendrick traveled the world, competing in Mexico and Japan, where size isn't necessarily as important as it is in the States. Despite Kendrick’s stature, The Showstopper — himself known for overcoming the odds — saw potential in Kendrick. With Michaels as a teacher (and unlimited amounts of fortitude and hard work), Kendrick gained momentum. After wrestling under a mask, coming up short against Kurt Angle and taking part in several demeaning stunts, like streaking through the arena delivering a singing telegram to The Undertaker, he joined WWE’s main roster in 2003 under the name Spanky after defeating Shannon Moore.

Feeling he needed a little more seasoning, he put his WWE dreams on hold to hone his skills. After spending a year and a half competing around the world, Kendrick returned to WWE in 2005 and teamed up with fellow HBK trainee Paul London. The duo dazzled the WWE Universe with their aerial acumen, quickly making their way into the WWE Tag Team Title picture. Kendrick & London defeated MNM for the titles at Judgment Day 2006 and held them for 331 days, a record that stands to this day.

The WWE Draft split the pair up in 2008, sending Kendrick to SmackDown and, perhaps, over the edge. Claiming to walk the fine line between genius and insanity, the Superstar demanded to be called The Brian Kendrick. Kendrick eventually forced himself into the WWE Championship scene, and though he didn’t capture the title, he remained a force to be reckoned with until departing WWE in 2009.

Kendrick has kept a close eye on WWE since departing, stepping inside the NXT ring to face Finn Bálor and playing a part in the in-ring training of Eva Marie. This summer, the off-kilter competitor will return to the ring to prove he's the best competitor under 205 lbs. in the world, as he enters the WWE Cruiserweight Classic.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Anthony Bennett]

Height: 5’6”
Weight: 147 lbs.
Representing: United States of America
Style: Technical, high-flying
Signature Move: Sliced Bread No. 2

The first thing you’ll notice about Anthony Bennett is the hair. A hightop fade that stops just short of the heavens themselves, it may be the single most majestic coiffure on display in the CWC. The second, and more pertinent thing, you’ll notice about him is that he’s really good. A product of “The World Famous Monster Factory” in South Jersey, Bennett boasts a growing resume to go with his look, including a defense of the promotion’s Supersonic Championship in its first Ladder Match earlier this year. In the CWC, he’ll have the chance to climb even higher, reaching rarified air that even his ’do can’t touch.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Tony Nese]

Height: 5’9”
Weight: 196 lbs.
Representing: United States of America
Style: Technical, high-flying, submission, striking
Signature Move: 450 Splash

Tony Nese refers to himself as “The Premier Athlete” – but is he the premier cruiserweight in the world?

A mainstay of the American independent circuit, Nese brings a certain confidence to the WWE Cruiserweight Classic. And, to be fair, that confidence is not unfounded. With one of the most impressive physiques in the Classic, a resume that includes contests against the likes of former Superstars Matt Hardy and Paul London, as well as a beyond impressive 450 Splash, Nese may just be one of the favorites to win it all … and we’re sure he agrees.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Kota Ibushi]

Height: 5’11”
Weight: 189 lbs.
Representing: Japan
Style: High-flying, technical, striking
Signature Move: Last Ride Powerbomb

Kota Ibushi, one of the biggest prospects in Japanese wrestling, is ready to make his mark on the world in the Cruiserweight Classic.

Nicknamed “The Golden Star,” Ibushi has dazzled crowds in his home country with an unbelievable array of high-flying moves and hard-hitting strikes. He moves around the ring with grace, likely to take flight and launch his body at his opponent or connect with a devastating kick.

Ibushi’s daredevil style has paid off well for him during his career. He captured New Japan Pro Wrestling’s IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship on three occasions, and even showed he could hang with the heavyweights overseas, competing against the likes of AJ Styles and Shinsuke Nakamura. That experience will help him as he looks to win the first WWE Cruiserweight Classic.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Sean Maluta]

Height: 5’8”
Weight: 191 lbs.
Representing: American Samoa
Style: Technical, high-flying, striking
Signature Move: Savate Kick

Sean Maluta is the latest in a long line of Samoan grapplers to step foot in a WWE ring.

The nephew of WWE Hall of Famer Afa, Maluta is a speedy grappler specializing in striking. One of his go-to maneuvers is a savate kick that can render any opponent unconscious. Strikes aren’t the only way he can win a match though. Maluta is not afraid to take flight and come crashing down on the opposition.

With impressive in-ring skills and the bloodline to go with it, Sean Maluta is sure to make an impact in the Cruiserweight Classic.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Cedric Alexander]

Height: 5’10”
Weight: 200 lbs.
Representing: United States of America
Style: High-flying, technical
Signature Move: Lumbar Check (Belly-to-back suplex lifted and dropped into a double knee backbreaker)

The hard-hitting Cedric Alexander has one singular focus upon entering the Cruiserweight Classic – kick to cause pain.

Alexander, best known for becoming a mainstay of the American independent scene over the past several years, has brushed elbows with some of WWE and NXT’s elite, including Kevin Owens and Tommaso Ciampa. Will that familiarity with the big time give Alexander a major leg up as the Classic begins?

 

 

 

[spoiler=Clement Petiot]

Height: 5’9”
Weight: 199 lbs.
Representing: France
Style: Technical
Signature Move: Coup d'etat

Brush up on your history, because the next French Revolution is coming in the form of Clement Petiot. Trained by Lance Storm and Joey Ryan, this Gallic grappler has amassed six years of in-ring experience all across Europe, battling the likes of Chris Hero and making the semi-finals of GBP’s Light Heavyweight Tournament in 2013. Now, he comes to the United States, looking to make his mark in the CWC. If it goes anything like the last French Revolution, expect to be singing his praises at the end.

 

 

 

[spoiler=T.J. Perkins]

Height: 5’10”
Weight: 167 lbs.
Representing: Philippines
Style: Technical, high-flying, striking, submission
Signature Move: Flying Kneebar

The flashy T.J. Perkins has trained and competed with some of WWE’s biggest Superstars. Now, he’s ready to make a splash on the worldwide stage in the Cruiserweight Classic.

Perkins broke into wrestling as a teenager, traveling throughout California and Mexico to sharpen his skills. He went on to hone his craft further at the Los Angeles dojo of New Japan Pro Wrestling, along with Daniel Bryan and Shinsuke Nakamura, among others. After becoming the youngest American to compete for NJPW, Perkins continued to travel around the world and establish himself as one of the preeminent grapplers on the planet.

His style may be showy and over the top, and he might be a little too cocky for some people’s liking, but T.J. Perkins can back up his swagger in the squared circle with top-notch technical wrestling. That makes him a competitor to watch in the historic Cruiserweight Classic.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Da Mack]

Height: 5’11”
Weight: 160 lbs.
Representing: Germany
Style: High-flying, technical
Signature Move: Mack Magic

Representing Deutschland is none other than Da Mack, a cruiserweight with charisma and championships to spare. Having trained under European greats like Cesaro and Axel Dieter Sr., Da Mack has put his knowledge to good use across the independent scene, amassing three tag team championships and the “Shotgun Championship” of the European promotion Westside Xtreme Wrestling. Not a bad start. Now, in the Cruiserweight Classic, it’s on Da Mack to take his biggest step yet and become, dare we say, da man.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Johnny Gargano]

Height: 5'10"

Weight: 170 lbs.

Representing: United States of America

Style: Technical

Signature Move: Gargano Escape (Chickenwing over the shoulder crossface,sometimes with a stepover toehold)

After becoming one of the top stars on the independent scene, Johnny Gargano is out to make a name for himself on the worldwide stage in NXT.

The Superstar known as Johnny Wrestling first arrived at NXT in September 2015, when he and Tommaso Ciampa were invited to take part in the inaugural Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic by NXT General Manager William Regal. The pair of free agents sent shockwaves through the NXT Universe when they defeated the team of Tyler Breeze & Bull Dempsey.

Since then, Gargano has taken on the best NXT has to offer, including Samoa Joe and Baron Corbin. He has shown no fear in battling the nastiest brawlers, showing that, in addition to his wrestling ability, he has a ton of heart.

As a team, Gargano & Ciampa have made a huge impact, defeating duos like The Vaudevillains and putting themselves firmly in the hunt for the NXT Tag Team Championship. Could the unlikely pairing make it happen? Johnny Gargano is determined to make all that, and more, become reality.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Tommaso Ciampa]

Height: 5'11"

Weight: 195 lbs.

Representing: United States of America

Style: Technical

Signature Move: Armbar

Since his surprise arrival, Tommaso Ciampa has established himself as one of the hardest-hitting Superstars in all of NXT.

Fans were shocked when Ciampa and Johnny Gargano entered the inaugural Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic, and even more so when the two free agents defeated Tyler Breeze & Bull Dempsey to advance in the tournament.

Since then, Ciampa has proven himself to be a wrecking ball in the squared circle, employing an arsenal of devastating knee and elbow strikes that have rocked anyone that has challenged the stoic Superstar. Ciampa & Gargano have established themselves as a top tandem in NXT, defeating teams like The Vaudevillains. Big victories like that have put them firmly in the hunt for the NXT Tag Team Championship.

Whether it’s in singles or tag team action, anyone who gets in the ring with Tommaso Ciampa is certain to walk out with more than a few bruises.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Mustafa Ali]

Height: 5’10”
Weight: 182 lbs.
Representing: Pakistan
Style: Technical, high-flying
Signature Move: Inverted 450 Splash

A veteran of the cruiserweight wars, Mustafa Ali will aim to bring his years of experience to Full Sail University in pursuit of the Cruiserweight Classic crown.

Ali is no stranger to stiff competition, having traveled all over the country for a decade-plus, squaring off with some of the toughest competition both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions have to offer. Will his multi-level experience help him float and sting to glory in the Cruiserweight Classic?

 

 

 

[spoiler=Lince Dorado]

Height: 5’7”
Weight: 168 lbs.
Representing: Puerto Rico
Style: High-flying, technical
Signature Move: Shooting Star Press

Lince Dorado, the golden lynx of lucha libre, is looking to claw through the competition in the WWE Cruiserweight Classic.

A nine-year veteran of the mat game, Dorado was trained in the squared circle by “Lightning” Mike Quackenbush, WWE Superstar Cesaro , former NXT Superstar Chris Hero and lucha legends El Pantera and Skayde. Their experience provided him with a well-rounded wrestling education and helped him become an athlete who could compete on the ground or in the air.

The luchador has plied his craft around the world, including stops in Mexico and Japan. His next stop is the Cruiserweight Classic, and he’s out to prove that he’s the top cat in the tournament.

 

 

 

[spoiler=Rich Swann]

Height: 5’8”
Weight: 168 lbs.
Representing: United States of America
Style: High-flying
Signature Move: Standing 450 Splash

An agile acrobat with a fondness for showboating, Rich Swann is one of the most exciting competitors in the Cruiserweight Classic.

The squared circle became an outlet for Swann to show his passion after a rough upbringing. He immediately took to the mat game and found inspiration in a generation of cruiserweight wrestlers like Eddie Guerrero, Rey Mysterio and Psicosis. Swann made a name for himself on the independent scene by adapting that high-flying style, dazzling audiences around the world with moves like his trademark standing 450 Splash. He also hooked crowds with his infectious charisma, often turning his entrances into karaoke parties.

Swann signed with WWE in fall 2015, and has made several appearances on NXT television, facing the likes of Baron Corbin and Finn Bálor. But the perfect opportunity for Swann to make a huge impact in WWE comes this summer in the Cruiserweight Classic

 

 

 

[spoiler=Jason Lee]

Height: 5’7”
Weight: 154 lbs.
Representing: Hong Kong, China
Style: High-flying, striking
Signature Move: Sunset flip powerbomb

Jason Lee enters the WWE Cruiserweight Classic as one of the youngest competitors in the tournament. Very similar to another historically famous Asian athlete with the same last name, do not be surprised to see Lee make major waves and be smooth “like water” as the Classic moves along.

Known for his explosive offensive maneuvers, the big question surrounding Lee will be whether his youth will be a hindrance or a help as the Classic gets underway. Surrounded by the greatest Cruiserweights in the world, Lee will look to prove that age, much like him taking flight, has no limits.

 

 

 

[Face McShooty]

Week 1 of the Cruiserweight Classic, First 4 matches!

Triple H narrated a video about cruiserweights opening the doors for unique competitors whose stature is overshadowed by their abilities. He said this is an opportunity to step out of the shadows and create a legacy that will never be forgotten. Tonight was hyped as the start of the opening round. “32 men, 16 countries, 1 prize… Welcome to the Cruiserweight Classic…”

 

The opening video played.

The camera panned the inside of the arena, which is the same Full Sail arena that NXT is shot in, but with seats in place of the stage, and the entrance set up more like an indie show with the entrance in the corner to where the left of the stage would normally be. Mauro Ranallo and Daniel Bryan checked in from the top back corner of the arena overlooking the ring, rather than where the NXT commentators are.

Corey Graves checked in from the bracket center and announced tonights matches: Ho Ho Lun vs. Arya Davari, Cedric Alexander vs. Clement Petoit, Kota Ibushi vs. Sean Maluta, and Gran Metallic vs. Alejandro Saez which will kick things off.

 

A brief introductory video aired on Gran Metalik, who wrestles for CMLL and NJPW as Mascara Dorada. He said his mask represents Mexico and he has come to represent his country with a win in the tournament. His opponent, Alejandro Saez, was profiled next. He said he’s there to show that Chileans are warriors… Back in the arena, Gran Metalik made his entrance. Alejandro Saez was out next, and Bryan noted that he had cut 30lbs to make weight. Referee Charles Robinson brought both guys to the center, made clear that he ran through the rules in the back, and then had the men shake hands before calling for the bell.

 

1. Gran Metalik vs. Alejandro Saez. 

Metalik looked for a lucha back roll, but Saez caught him with a low dropkick and went right to work. Metalik finally mounted his comeback around the two-minute mark and hit his signature rope twist dropkick from the second rope. Saez rolled to ringside, but Metalik was right there to follow up with an amazing dive springing off the middle rope inside the ring into a flip outside of the ring.

Back in the ring, Metalik hit a rope-walk splash for a near-fall, but Saez caught him with a head kick that sent him to ringside, and Saez followed up with a crazy running shooting star off the ring apron. Back in the ring, Saez look for a wild twisting press, but Metalik avoided it and then hit a sick fireman’s carry screwdriver for the win.

Gran Metalik pinned Alejandro Saez in about 4:10  to advance to the second round of the CWC.

 

The commentators put over Saez’s effort before Metalik’s hand was raised in victory mid-ring, with the referee holding both guy’s arms ala MMA. The bracket was shown updated… Ho Ho Lun vs. Arya Daivari was hyped up next… A video package introduced Daivari, who referenced his brother competing in WWE some time ago and then said he’s there to make his own mark. Lun was spotlighted next, saying that the Chinese people are expected to conform and get office jobs, but him making it to WWE proves that he’s made the right choice.

Back in the arena, Ho Ho Lun made his entrance, and the crowd liked him.. Arya Daivari was out next. Daivari refused to shake hands.

 

2. Ho Ho Lun vs. Arya Daivari. 

Ho Ho hit a couple of dropkicks in the opening minute before Daivari cut him off with a jumping neckbreaker. Daivari missed a stinger splash, but held momentum with a Harley Race jumping knee. Lun worked up from a headlock, but Daivari caught him with a jumping spinning roundhouse to put him right back down.

Daivari talked some trash and slapped Ho Ho around, but Ho Ho caught him with a kick and fired up with a missile dropkick. Lun looked for a German suplex, but Daivari bought out and hit a rolling elbow. He looked for a frog splash, but Ho Ho evaded and hit a knee strike and superkick for two, but then followed right up with a bridging German suplex for the win.

Ho Ho Lun beat Arya Daivari in about 5:00 to advance to the second round of the CWC.

 

The bracket was updated after Lun’s hand was raised… Kota Ibushi was hyped for the main event, and Cedric Alexander vs. Clement Petiot was hyped up next.

 

Petiot was profiled. He said he was trained by Lance Storm and he doesn’t do flips, but he’s stronger than most of the other guys there. Cedric Alexander said he’s ready to show the world Cedric Alexander… Clement Petiot was out to very little response. Cedric Alexander was out next to a big pop, relatively speaking. Bryan noted he cut 25lbs to make weight. The referee had them shake hands, which ended in an intense stare-down with both guys getting in each other’s face.

 

3. Cedric Alexander vs. Clement Petiot. 

Alexander got the better of Petiot out of the gate and feigned a dive to the outside with a springboard moonsault landing on his feet in the ring. Cedric hit a very impressive handstand ‘rana into a picture-perfect high dropkick for an early two-count. Petiot cut him off moments later and went to work with basic offense. he hit a suplex and a hard whip into the corner. Petiot used a gutwrench suplex for a quick pinball attempt of his own.

Ranallo interestingly noted that Petiot had in-ring experience against guys like Chris Hero. Petiot hit a hard running shoulder block and followed up with a hard running knee to a seated Alexander in the corner for a two-count. Alexander managed to slow his momentum when he hung Petiot up in the ropes before hitting a high springboard clothesline. Alexander fired up with running forearms in the corner, but after a series of counters, Petiot laid him out with a discus clothesline for a near-fall.

Petiot looked for another clothesline, but this time Alexander ducked it and hit the back suplex lift into a double-knee backbreaker, The Lumbar Check, for the win.

Cedric Alexander over Clement Petiot in about 6:00 to advance to the second round of the CWC.

 

Replays aired as the commentators put over Petiot’s power and Alexander’s victory. Alexander’s hand was raised and the bracket was updated… The commentators discussed Kota Ibushi vs. Sean Maluta and Bryan said that Ibushi is one of the best in the world regardless of his size, particularly emphasizing his kicks and flying ability. Malta was put over as a member of the Samoan wrestling dynasty.

Kota Ibushi was spotlighted saying that he expresses himself in the ring and after the success it brought him in Japan, he’s excited to show what he can do to the American audience. Maluta said it was an honor to join in his family and Samoa’s rich wrestling tradition… Back in the arena, Sean Maluta made his entrance. Ranallo said he’s cousins with The Usos and Roman Reigns, among many others. Kota Ibushi was out next to a good response from the crowd. Ranallo called him a Japanese superstar and acknowledged him as a 3x IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Champion. Both guys shook hands.

 

4. Kota Ibushi vs. Sean Maluta. 

Ibushi grounded Maluta with a single leg kick before the two battled over a waistlock and facelock. Maluta’s family was in the crowd and chanted his name, while the rest of the crowd chanted for Ibushi in response. Ibushi rocked Maluta with a roundhouse kick, but Maluta fired back with a hard forearm. He went up top, but missed a diving splash and Bryan pointed out that it’s early in the match to look for something like that.

Ibushi hit a high springboard dropkick and an exploder suplex. He charged at Maluta in the corner, but Maluta caught him with boots and then a diving Codebreaker. Ibushi managed to roll to ringside. Maluta tried a flip dive over the ropes, but he came up very short and hit the ropes, awkwardly tumbling onto Ibushi at ringside. Yikes.

Back in the ring, Ibushi fought out of a chin lock, but Maluta caught him with a boot and a neckbreaker for a near-fall. Bryan pointed out that Ibushi is only recently returned from neck surgery and questioned how he would hold up. Ibushi hit a high dropkick out of nowhere and then began to fire up with a hard series of kicks, following up with a standing moonsault for a two-count. The two battled on the top rope with Ibushi taking the plunge, but suddenly he popped back up and knocked Maluta off the top with a Pele-style kick. Ibushi hit his trademark triangle moonsault to ringside, which looked as good as ever.

Ibushi got another two-count in the ring, and then looked to follow up with a Dragon suplex, but Maluta fought out and dropped Ibushi with a superkick which Bryan and Ranallo put over as a wicked near-upset. Maluta lookd to follow up, but Ibushi avoided a kick and hit another roundhouse of his own. Ibushi hoisted Maluta up and then planted him with the sit-out Last Ride for the win.

Kota Ibushi defeated Sean Maluta in about 9:40 to advance to the second round of the CWC.

 

Replays aired before Ibushi’s hand was raised. The bracket was updated, revealing that Ibushi’s next round matchup will be against Cedric Alexander. Maluta raised Ibushi’s hand in the ring and the commentators thanked everyone for tuning in.

 

Corey Graves hyped Tajiri vs. Damian Slater, TJ Perkins vs. Da Mack, Mustafa Ali vs. Lince Dorado, and Akira Tozawa vs. Kenneth Johnson for next week’s show…