As we knew they would, Finn Balor and Kyle O'Reilly put on a clinic in the main event of NXT TakeOver 31, delivering one of the most hard-hitting encounters we've seen in quite some time.
The Undisputed ERA member used his striking and technical prowess to keep Balor on the mat for most of the match, but The Prince is no slouch when it comes to the ground 'n pound game, either, and it soon became of war of attrition to see who could absorb the most punishment and keep on going.
In the end, a well placed kick to O'Reilly's midsection early in the match proved to be his undoing, as Finn honed in on the injury and was ultimately able to land his Coup de Gras to pick up the win and retain his title.
Both men shook hands after the bout, but were quickly distracted by none other than Ridge Holland, who carried a lifeless Adam Cole through the "crowd" and dumped him at the ringside area. The rest of the ERA then attended their fallen leader.
This was a slightly bizarre way to conclude what had been a very good show and an excellent main event. At any rate, it looks like they plan to push Holland as a top guy in the black and gold brand, possibly at the expense of Adam Cole.
What did you guys make of this and TakeOver 31 overall? Drop us a comment in the usual place.