Hideo Itami Wins NXT Tournament, Going to WrestleMania

Last Friday, it was noted NXT would be holding a tournament at WrestleMania Axxess in Santa Clara, California. The tournament, which would involve Adrian Neville, Hideo Itami, Finn Balor and Tyler Breeze, would determine which one of the men would go on to WrestleMania and participate in the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal.

It was said Neville would be the rumored favorite for the tournament, given he is expected to be called up soon. However, it appears plans changed, and a new man gained the crown.

Instead, Itami took home the honor of heading to WrestleMania, as he knocked off both Neville and Balor en route to the title. Balor had defeated Breeze earlier in the day.

Following the win, Itami was greeted by new WWE Hall of Famer and Japanese icon Tatsumi Fujinami.

httpss://twitter.com/shofufu824/status/581308505992224769

Unfortunately for Itami, the battle royal has since been moved to the WrestleMania pre-show. However, he will still get to play on the big stage. WWE’s Joey Styles also noted Itami is the fastest to ever appear at WrestleMania since debuting in NXT.

Editor’s Note

Happy for him. Has the natural skill set. Hopefully he can connect with the audience.

Follow @JonAlbaSFC