The **NXT brand** has always been known for its high-energy matches and incredible storytelling, and on **May 18, 2016**, fans witnessed an unforgettable tag team clash. The team of **Austin Aries & Shinsuke Nakamura** took on the former NXT Tag Team Champions, **Blake & Murphy**, in what turned out to be a spectacular showdown filled with technical prowess, hard-hitting strikes, and pure athleticism.
## **The Build-Up: A Clash of Styles 🔥**
At the time, **Shinsuke Nakamura** was fresh off his **NXT debut at TakeOver: Dallas**, where he stole the show in an instant classic against Sami Zayn. Known as “The King of Strong Style,” Nakamura had already made a name for himself in Japan, and his arrival in NXT was one of the most anticipated moments in the brand’s history.
Meanwhile, **Austin Aries** was another major acquisition for NXT. A world-renowned veteran, Aries had built a reputation for his technical ability, in-ring intelligence, and explosive offense. However, despite his credentials, he was still looking to establish himself in NXT.
On the other side, **Blake & Murphy**, once dominant as NXT Tag Team Champions, had seen their momentum decline after their split from Alexa Bliss. Looking to regain their footing, they saw this match as an opportunity to prove that they still belonged in the NXT tag team division.
With both teams eager to prove themselves, this match promised fireworks from the very start.
## **Match Breakdown: A Battle of Skill & Strength ⚡**
The match began with **Austin Aries and Buddy Murphy** locking up in the center of the ring. Aries used his technical expertise to outmaneuver Murphy, applying quick holds and keeping him grounded. Murphy, however, used his power advantage to break free and deliver a strong shoulder tackle, showing that he would not be outclassed.
As the match progressed, **Shinsuke Nakamura was tagged in**, and the energy in the arena reached a fever pitch. Nakamura immediately took control with his trademark **stiff knee strikes and unorthodox offense**, forcing Blake and Murphy to rethink their strategy.
Blake & Murphy soon turned the tide by isolating Aries in their corner, using **quick tags and double-team maneuvers** to wear him down. Their experience as a tag team was evident as they cut the ring in half, preventing Aries from reaching Nakamura.
However, Aries eventually fought back, reversing a double suplex attempt into a **double DDT** that allowed him to crawl to his corner and tag in Nakamura. **The King of Strong Style exploded into the ring**, delivering **brutal kicks, knee strikes, and a running corner knee** that had the crowd roaring.
With Murphy staggered in the middle of the ring, Nakamura delivered his devastating **Kinshasa** knee strike, while Aries took down Blake with a **450 Splash** from the top rope. The **1-2-3 count** was just a formality as Aries and Nakamura picked up the emphatic victory.
## **Aftermath: The Impact on NXT 🚀**
The win solidified **Shinsuke Nakamura’s dominance** in NXT, further establishing him as a future main event star. His charisma, intensity, and in-ring ability made it clear that he was destined for bigger things in WWE.
For **Austin Aries**, this victory was a statement. It proved that he was a force to be reckoned with, and while he later pursued singles gold, his chemistry with Nakamura in this match was undeniable.
As for **Blake & Murphy**, this loss was another setback. Without Alexa Bliss, they struggled to regain their former championship glory, and shortly after, they went their separate ways.
## **Final Thoughts: An NXT Classic 💥**
The **May 18, 2016, tag team match** between **Austin Aries & Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Blake & Murphy** was a showcase of everything that made NXT special—fast-paced action, hard-hitting strikes, and incredible storytelling. While Aries and Nakamura stole the show, Blake & Murphy reminded everyone of their talent and ability to compete at the highest level.
This match remains a hidden gem in NXT history, marking a crucial moment in the careers of all four superstars. Fans still look back at this showdown as a prime example of what made NXT the hottest brand in professional wrestling at the time. **🔥🏆⚡**