Category: NXT

  • Wes Lee Returns From Injury At 4/30 WWE NXT Spring Breakin, Cleared to Wrestle

    Wes Lee Returns From Injury At 4/30 WWE NXT Spring Breakin, Cleared to Wrestle

    Former North American Champion Wes Lee made his long-awaited return to programming during the April 30, edition of WWE NXT. 

    During Night Two of WWE NXT Spring Breakin’, Oba Femi defended the North American Championship against Ivar. After the match, Lee appeared to a thunderous ovation from the audience at the Performance Center. Lee emerged from the crowd and to prove he is healed, leapt from the crowd to the ringsteps. Lee then came face-to-face with Femi who held up the NXT North American Championship. 

    Lee had been out of action since December after suffering a severe back injury. His return to TV has come far earlier than thought, as it was originally believed that he’d be out of commission for anywhere from eight months to a year. The injury nixed plans for Lee to challenge for the North American title, held by ‘Dirty’ Dominik Mysterio at the time. 

    Lee is officially cleared to wrestle, Fightful Select has confirmed and it won’t be long before fans see him wrestle again. At WWE NXT Spring Breakin’ it was announced that Lee will face Josh Briggs on the May 7 episode. This will be his first match since November 2023. 

    Having Lee back is a huge win for NXT head Shawn Michaels who has been a loud advocate for the former North American Champion. With WWE NXT losing top talent like Lyra Valkyria and Ilja Dragunov in the recent draft, Lee is in a prime position to be elevated up the card now he’s cleared to wrestle once more. 

    More On Wes Lee

    Here are some articles regarding Wes Lee as the former North American Champion looks to regain the momentum he once had in WWE NXT: 

  • WWE NXT’s Roxanne Perez Can’t Retire Until She Has Her Dream Match with AJ Lee

    WWE NXT’s Roxanne Perez Can’t Retire Until She Has Her Dream Match with AJ Lee

    WWE NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez is focused on getting her dream match with AJ Lee before the gold-brand Superstar hangs up her boots. 

    Sitting down with Ring The Belle, Perez discussed her immense respect for Lee, a three-time WWE Divas Champion. The NXT star made clear that she’ll keep wrestling as long as she can in order to get a match with Mrs. CM Punk.

    “Hopefully, one day, she’ll come back and maybe we can all do something together. That would be, that would be like my dream. I can’t retire until I have a match against AJ Lee.”

    AJ Lee hasn’t wrestled since 2015 but the former Superstar hasn’t left the world of professional wrestling entirely. Lee joined WOW – Women of Wrestling in 2021 as an executive producer and commentator. In August 2023, Lee said she would be parting ways with WOW at the end of her contract.

    Perez is hardly the only woman in wrestling to hold AJ Lee in high regard. Fellow NXT Superstar Cora Jade has called Lee an inspiration, especially her feud with Paige (now AEW’s Saraya.) Julia Hart told the Busted Open Radio podcast earlier this year that she looked up to Lee and Alexa Bliss before stepping into the ring herself. 

    Unsurprisingly, CM Punk has a high estimation of his wife and has said that he’d love to see Lee back in the world of wrestling and has brought her up on WWE TV since returning in November 2023. Lee is said to be well-liked and respected by those in WWE today, but a return was not something actively being discussed as of March 2024

    More on AJ Lee

    Here are some recent articles on AJ Lee as fans await a possible return from the former Divas Champion:

  • Trick Williams Says NXT Title Win Is For Everybody After Victory At Spring Breakin’

    Trick Williams Says NXT Title Win Is For Everybody After Victory At Spring Breakin’

    Trick Williams’ emotional victory at NXT Spring Breakin’ Night One was the culmination of years of fighting, the new NXT Champion has said. 

    Williams captured the gold at NXT Spring Breakin (Night One) with a main event victory over Ilja Dragunov. This match was a rematch from their previous showdown at NXT Vengeance Day. The stakes were high for the match, as Trick had vowed to leave NXT if he came up short against the Mad Dragon.

    When WWE’s camera crew caught up to Trick, the new NXT Champion was understandably excited about the win.

    “It means the world to me man, I have been fighting a long time for this, this is a testament of hardwork. I have been fighting for this and I come from fighters. I have been fighting my whole life.

    Williams also gave a shout-out to his mother who’s currently fighting her own battle in hospital and mentioned his brother who’s been fighting for a long time as well. 

    “My mamma’s fighting right now, she is in the hospital, my brother has been fighting for a long time it’s all good, so I just did this, it’s not just for me, it’s for everybody, people who love me, the people for having my back for a long time, they taught me how to fight and I am gonna keep fighting, I am never gonna stop fighting, believe that.”

    Williams’ win is a feel-good moment, especially as he’s the most popular star in WWE NXT and one of the most popular stars in the entire company. The question now though is what will his reign on top look like. With Dragunov expected to be moved to the main roster in the upcoming draft, Trick will now have to cement his reign as NXT Champion without one of the best in the world by his side. 

  • NXT Spring Breakin’ Night 1 Preview: Title Matches, Updated Card (4/23)

    NXT Spring Breakin’ Night 1 Preview: Title Matches, Updated Card (4/23)

    WWE NXT Spring Breakin’ Night 1 is mere days away and the first night of the gold brand’s annual event is set to have massive ramifications. 

    This will be the first major event for WWE NXT of the promotion’s ‘new era’ which launched with WrestleMania 40 in Philadelphia, PA. Here is what the fans can look forward to on Night 1 of WWE NXT Spring Breakin’.

    No Quarter Catch Crew Vs. The D’Angelo Family

    It’ll be faction warfare at NXT Spring Breakin’ Night 1 when the serious trio of Myles Borne, Damon Kemp, and Charlie Dempsey face the ever-resourceful ‘family’ of Tony D’Angelo. The two sides got physical on the April 16, episode of WWE NXT as tensions are boiling to the surface. 

    Roxanne Perez (c) Vs. Lyra Valkyria Vs. Tatum Paxley (WWE NXT Women’s Championship)

    Tatum Paxley has made clear she’s only interested in the NXT Women’s Championship and will do whatever it takes to possess it. With former champion Lyra Valkyria in the mix, the odds do not look good for two-time/current champion Roxanne Perez mere weeks after she won the title at Stand & Deliver.

    Sol Ruca Vs. Blair Davenport (Beach Brawl Match)

    It’ll be no peaceful day at the beach for Blair Davenport who as the NXT parking lot attacker cost Sol Ruca months of action. Now, Ruca is back and is ready for revenge on the 2023 Women’s Iron Survivor Challenge winner.

    Natalya & Lola Vice Sign Their NXT Underground Contract

    Lola Vice’s targeting of Karmen Petrovic has incurred the wrath of Natalya and the WWE veteran is looking to make Vice pay in the hellacious NXT Underground. Seven days before the Hart Dungeon graduate and the 2023 NXT Women’s Breakout Tournament winner collide, they’ll sign the contract for their match. 

    Ilja Dragunov (c) Vs. Trick Williams (WWE NXT Championship)

    In a rematch from NXT Vengeance Day, Trick Williams hopes to realize his dream and become the new NXT Champion at Spring Breakin’ While the fans are on the side of Trick, reigning champion Ilja Dragunov won’t make this easy. 

    SEScoops is your destination for everything pro wrestling and will have plenty of news coverage in the coming days for WWE NXT Spring Breakin’ Night 1.

  • Latest On Giulia: WWE In-Ring Debut, Championship Opportunities, Marigold Plans

    Latest On Giulia: WWE In-Ring Debut, Championship Opportunities, Marigold Plans

    Giulia could not only be a WWE Superstar, but could also be a champion with the promotion within a matter of months, a new report has revealed. 

    Giulia appeared at WWE NXT Stand & Deliver over WrestleMania 40 weekend and earned a thunderous response from the fans in attendance, her appearance comes after months of reports that she is set to join WWE’s women’s division. 

    WWE is hoping to see Giulia report to the Performance Center in Orlando, Florida in late June or early July, per Fightful. She was supposedly set to have a personal tryout in late 2023 though that ultimately didn’t transpire. She did however appear at the Performance Center during her recent sting in the United States. 

    Giulia is expected to keep her current name (which was used at Stand & Deliver) but there are no plans at this time for WWE to obtain the rights to her theme song. As for when fans can expect Giulia in the ring, the belief in NXT is that she’ll make her debut at NXT Heatwave on July 7. 

    Giulia is expected to compete for a women’s championship at the event which will be either the NXT Women’s Title held by Lyra Valkyria or the recently-announced NXT Women’s North American Championship. The new title was announced during WrestleMania 40 weekend.

    A Brief Detour

    Before Giulia is officially a WWE Superstar, she is expected to make a “handful” of appearances for Marigold, the new promotion founded by Rossy Ogawa. Giulia has already been announced for the promotion’s debut event this June that will include NXT alum Sareee. 

    Acquiring Giulia is a huge win for WWE whose women’s roster is considered one of the best in the world today. Expectations are high for the former NJPW Strong Women’s Champion as her star power is expected to grow once she joins wrestling’s biggest promotion. 

  • Drew Gulak Removal From TV Explained On 4/16  WWE NXT After Ronda Rousey Allegations

    Drew Gulak Removal From TV Explained On 4/16 WWE NXT After Ronda Rousey Allegations

    The situation surrounding Drew Gulak was given a unique explanation during WWE NXT as his future with the company remains uncertain. 

     Gulak was pulled from programming following allegations made by Ronda Rousey. The former Women’s Champion alleged that Gulak pulled on the drawstring of her sweatpants and made her feel uncomfortable. Gulak has said it was an accident and apologized at the time. 

    Drew Gulak’s Absence Explained

    On the WWE NXT after Rousey’s claim came to light, Gulak didn’t appear alongside the No Quarter Catch Crew and his name had been removed from the group’s titantron. This understandably raised questions as to his future as part of the group and in WWE.

    On this week’s NXT, the No Quarter Catch Crew (again sans Gulak) had an in-ring segment with Tony D’Angelo’s family. During the segment, D’Angelo noted that Charlie Dempsey had The Family “take care” of a member of the group, seemingly Gulak. Dempsey responded by saying it was for the good of the business and that the “trash” had to be taken care of. 

    This is another worrying sign for Gulak and demonstrates the seriousness of the situation regarding what transpired between himself and Rousey in 2022. Gulak has reportedly been pulled from all plans and there are no creative plans for him. He was also not backstage as of last week’s episode of WWE NXT and it’s unlikely he was at this week’s event. 

    Gulak has been with WWE since 2016 and in addition to eight 24/7 Championship reigns is a one-time Cruiserweight Champion. For all his past accomplishments though, Gulak’s WWE future remains hanging in the balance

  • Watch Carmelo Hayes Decline ‘Thank You’ Chants After NXT Went Off Air

    Wrestling fans who were live in Orlando for this week’s NXT tried to give Carmelo Hayes a proper send-off after the show went off the air, but the former champion was having none of it.

    Hayes competed in a Steel Cage Match against his former best friend Trick Williams in the main event, a rematch from Stand and Deliver (which saw Williams get the W). Carmello’s security detail getting involved was the beginning of the end. They started climbing the cage but Williams meet them up at the top and sent everyone crashing. 

    Another guard, however, entered the cage with a chair, and when Trick was busy taking the guard out, Hayes picked up the weapon. Though Trick Williams showed some quick thinking and delivered the Trick Shot to Hayes through the chair for the win. 

    After This Week’s NXT

    The 4/16 NXT went off air with Ilja Dragunov making an appearance at the ringside with his NXT title and staring Williams down. Once both Williams and Dragunov had returned to the back, the crowd began a “Thank you, Melo.” He was interested and left after doing a bras d’honneur.

    What’s Next For Carmelo Hayes

    WWE has announced that the Drafts will be returning on April 26 and April 29 on SmackDown and Raw respectively. NXT’s involvement has been confirmed and Carmelo Hayes is one of the two stars believed to be main roster-bound. 

    Hayes with Ilja Dragunov are expected to be assigned a brand during the upcoming event. More names could be added to the list and there is even a real possibility of some main roster names leaving Raw or SmackDown to join WWE’s third brand.

    The A-Champion has had a successful run with NXT which includes multiple impressive title reigns. There is little doubt that he will fair well in the main roster under the creative supervision of Triple H.

  • Main Roster Talent Eligible for NXT Move In 2024 WWE Draft, Two NXT Stars a “Lock” for Call-Up

    Main Roster Talent Eligible for NXT Move In 2024 WWE Draft, Two NXT Stars a “Lock” for Call-Up

    The 2024 WWE Draft will see the Superstars of the main roster be eligible to move to NXT in a break from how the draft usually affects the gold brand. 

    Sources close to NXT’s creative process told Fightful Select that talent from Raw and SmackDown could be moved to NXT as part of the draft. The WWE Universe recently saw The Final Testament and Viking Raider appear on NXT where they ambushed new tag-team champions Nathan Frazer & Axiom, Viking Raider Ivar also appeared to confront North American Champion Oba Femi. 

    This is all part of WWE’s efforts to make NXT the third brand of WWE once again. In 2019, WWE attempted to put NXT on the same level as Raw and SmackDown when the gold brand was moved to the USA Network. The next two weeks of NXT programming will focus on the draft in the lead-up to Spring Breakin.

    Being Called Up

    While some main roster Superstars could soon call NXT home, fans can expect some call-ups as part of the WWE Draft. , Carmelo Hayes and Ilja Dragunov are said to be “a lock” for RAW or SmackDown. Roxanne Perez’s fate remains uncertain despite her call-up being teased on TV. 

    Tony D’Angelo’s Family and Baron Corbin have been discussed as possible additions to RAW or SmackDown. Corbin’s tag-team partner Bron Breakker was recently moved to SmackDown and it has been reported in the past that WWE was considering keeping them together.

    The Timing of The Draft

    The WWE 2024 Draft will kick-off on the April 26, SmackDown and conclude on the April 29, Raw. The timing is no mere coincidence as WWE planned for the week of the NFT draft to capitalize on ‘draft fever’ which they’ve done in the past. 

    It was noted that WWE will receive input from their media partners, especially the CW (the future home of NXT) and Netflix (the future home of Raw.) One source added that with the Raw-Netflix move being closer to next year’s draft as opposed to this year “that won’t be something we need to worry about for a while.”

    WWE will certainly have a different feel to it by the end of the WWE draft with all three brands set to be affected. Keep checking in with SE Scoops for all the latest WWE Draft news and to find out who goes where. 

  • Je’Von Evans Appreciates Support From Fans & Wrestlers After Comments from Racist Podcaster

    Je’Von Evans Appreciates Support From Fans & Wrestlers After Comments from Racist Podcaster

    WWE NXT Superstar Je’Von Evans has shared his appreciation for the support shown him following a racist comment by an infamous podcast. 

    During the April 9, episode of WWE NXT, Evans made his in-ring debut as part of the gold brand with a hard-earned victory over Scrypts. Between this and a promo package that aired during WWE NXT Stand & Deliver, the future looks very bright for the 19-year-old Superstar. 

    On his podcast, Kevin Scampoli made disgusting comments when watching a post-match interview with Evans. Scampoli said that Evans is a “slave” and was working under “some off-camera Jew.” This comment earned countless responses from fans as well as some in the wrestling industry as you can see below. 

    Responding to this wave of support, Je’Von tweeted his appreciation, but believes it’s now time to “get back to work.” The young Superstar also promoted an upcoming WWE Live appearance. 

    Following this support for Evans, Scampoli also responded, saying that Evans was no longer considered a “slave” but instead a “house n*****” and did not censor his use of the word. Because of the clearly unacceptable language, a clip will not be shared here. 

    Kevin Scampoli

    Scampoli’s comments represent his work attitude and the fact that he can only get attention for being controversial rather than providing constructive insight into the world of professional wrestling. Scampoli previously got attention for himself for mocking Kayla Braxton for being conceived when her mother was the victim of r*pe.

    Scampoli was also part of the infamous podcast episode with Sammy Guevara in which the pair discussed wanting to r*pe Mercedes Mone (Sasha Banks at the time.)  Guevara would be suspended from AEW, undergo a sensitivity course and would apologize for his comments. There have been no issues between himself and Mone as he, unlike Scampoli, clearly learned from his behavior. 

  • Bron Breakker Bids Farewell to NXT Ahead Of 2024 WWE Draft

    Bron Breakker Bids Farewell to NXT Ahead Of 2024 WWE Draft

    Bron Breakker has wrapped up his time as part of WWE NXT after he and Baron Corbin lost the brand’s Tag Team Championships to Nathan Frazer & Axiom. 

    In a WWE Digital Exclusive after the show, Corbin spoke about Breakker being an incredible competitor and “one hell of a friend.” Corbin was also confident that Bron is going to become a WWE World Champion on the main roster. 

    Amid chants of “Thank you Bron,” Breakker thanked the fans for their support and reflected on his time as part of WWE NXT. 

    “I got my start right here in this very building from day 1 back in NXT 2.0. Right here in the WWE Performance Center since day 1 all of you guys have been on this journey, on this ride with me the whole time, so I can not thank you enough.”

    Breakker thanked Shawn Michaels, the staff at WWE NXT, the roster he’s worked with, and Corbin for being both a friend and rival. Breakker concluded by saying this isn’t goodbye (as fans will soon see him on the main roster) before taking photos with fans and making his way to the back. 

    What’s to Come for Bron Breakker? 

    Breakker was signed to SmackDown in February of 2024 but was allowed to remain with NXT during his run as a Tag Team Champion. With his farewell to WWE developmental, he’s a sure thing for an imminent main roster call-up. 

    Expectations are high for Breakker, a former two-time NXT Champion, as the second-generation Superstar is set to take WWE by storm in the coming years.

    We’ll see if he goes back to SmackDown, or if he’s shifted to Raw, where he’d also have plenty of fresh competition. 

  • Joe Gacy Concussion Scare, Changes To NXT, Stand & Deliver

    Joe Gacy Concussion Scare, Changes To NXT, Stand & Deliver

    Joe Gacy got rocked during his match against Oba Femi on this week’s 4/2 episode of NXT. WWE officials checked him out for a concussion, a serious injury that would have put him out of action and affected plans for Saturday’s NXT Stand and Deliver premium live event.

    Femi dominated the match, which ended awkwardly after he delivered a slam that saw Gacy’s head bounce off the mat. The referee intervened and called off the match after determining Gacy was unable to continue.

    The official threw up the ‘X’ sign to request immediate medical attention for a potential injury. According to Fightful Select, there was legitimate concern that Gacy may have suffered a concussion. He was able to leave the ringside area on his feet and is still scheduled to compete this weekend.

    WWE has extensive concussion protocols and Gacy will likely be undergoing further medical evaluation int he days ahead.

    Gacy Injury Scare Leads to Changes

    WWE intended to announce Gacy vs. Shawn Spears for Stand and Deliver after the Gacy vs. Femi, but changed course due to the unexcited finish. Later in the show, Gacy approached NXT General Manager Ava and demanded a match with Spears, which was granted.

    This backstage segment was reportedly rushed and another planned segment involving Femi, Dijak and Josh Briggs was scrapped entirely. These three will battle for Femi’s NXT North American championship on Saturday.

    NXT Stand & Deliver 2024 takes place this Saturday, April 6 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, PA, mere hours before WrestleMania Saturday kicks off from Lincoln Financial Field.

  • Olympic Gold Medalist Tamyra Mensah-Stock Makes In-Ring Debut At WWE NXT Live Event

    Tamyra Mensah-Stock, who captured gold at the 2021 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, has officially made her in-ring debut for WWE. 

    Mensah-Stock first appeared for WWE at the SummerSlam 2021 Premium Live Event, where she was part of a segment with fellow Olympic champion Gable Steveson. In April 2022, months after Steveson had signed with WWE, it was reported that WWE had its eyes on adding Mensah-Stock to the roster. Sure enough, Mensah-Stock signed with the promotion in May of 2023.

    Mensah-Stock’s NXT Debut

    Mensah-Stock made her in-ring debut at the NXT live event on March 30. The Olympic Gold Medalist defeated Breanna Covington in singles action. The fact that WWE already trusts Mensah-Stock in singles matches certainly bodes well for her future in the ring. 

    WWE’s Olympic Superstars

    Mensah-Stock is the third Olympic Gold Medalist under contract. The first was Kurt Angle, who made his on-screen debut in 1999. It would be over two decades later that WWE would sign Gable Steveson following his victory in Tokyo.

    It’s not just Gold Medalists who WWE has signed over the years. Bad News Brown captured a Bronze medal for judo in the 1976 Summer Games in Montreal. Mark Henry competed in powerlifting during the 1996 Atlanta Games (the same in which Angle won his gold) but came nowhere close to winning a medal. 

    After competing in the 2004 Athens Games, Ronda Rousey won bronze in the 2008 Beijing Games, becoming the first American woman to win a medal in judo. Four years later, Chad Gable would represent Team USA in wrestling at London 2012. 

  • Dijak Reveals He’s Pledged His Brain To Science To Aid With CTE Research

    Dijak Reveals He’s Pledged His Brain To Science To Aid With CTE Research

    The brain of Dijak will be useful in the quest for knowledge about Chronic traumatic encephalopathy, the WWE NXT Superstar has revealed. 

    Taking to Twitter, Dijak shared that he pledged his brain to science years ago and encouraged other wrestlers to do the same. Dijak also shared a link to a research registry for others to donate their brains in the fight against CTE. 

    What is CTE? 

    CTE is a brain disorder believed to be caused by repeated head injuries. It can lead to the degeneration of nerve cells in the brain and progressively grows worse over time. Symptoms can include mood changes, short-term memory loss, confusion, problems with movement, and personality changes. 

    The Work of Chris Nowinski

    In his tweet, Dijak says those interested in learning more should contact Chris Nowinski, a finalist on Tough Enough’s first season who would later make it to WWE. During the 2003 Royal Rumble, a mistimed double missile dropkick would lead to Nowinski being concussed and he would later retire due to post-concussion symptoms. 

    Since his in-ring retirement, Nowinski has dedicated his life to research into CTE and fighting the condition. It was Nowinski who encouraged a coroner to examine the brain of Chris Benoit following the double-murder suicide of June 2007. In September of that year, the brain examination report showed extensive damage due to concussions that could have led to dementia.

    In June 2007, Nowinski and Robert Cantu founded the Concussion Legacy Foundation. CLF has sought to raise awareness of the effects of head trauma across sports and has been featured in the New York Times and CNN. 

    Donating One’s Brain

    Dijak isn’t the only wrestler to donate their brain to science in the battle against CTE. Mick Foley, whose body took countless injuries throughout his career, has pledged his brain to science after he passes away. Fellow WWE Hall of Famers Rob Van Dam, Chyna, and Kevin Nash also pledged to donate their brains. 

  • Axiom & Nathan Frazer Impressing WWE Officials, Concern Other Stars Can’t Keep Up

    Axiom & Nathan Frazer Impressing WWE Officials, Concern Other Stars Can’t Keep Up

    Two of the young, rising Superstars of WWE NXT are impressing all the right people backstage with their work in the ring. 

    Nathan Frazer and Axiom have been drawing praise behind the scenes, Fightful Select reports. The duo have been praised for their agility and speed in matches. Some NXT officials are said to be concerned about Frazer’s opponents being able to keep up. 

    Nathan Frazer

    Frazer joined WWE in December 2020 and would join the NXT UK brand the following month. In June of last year, he defeated Oro Mensash, who was wrestling on behalf of Noam Dar, to win the NXT Heritage Cup. His agility in the ring shouldn’t be too much of a surprise, given he was trained by Seth Rollins. 

    Axiom

    Axiom, as A-Kid, signed with WWE in October 2019 and like his future tag-team partner, was assigned to the NXT UK brand. In October 2021, he challenged then NXT UK Champion Ilja Dragunov in a losing effort. 

    It was in July 2022 that A-Kid was repacked as Axiom. He is the inaugural NXT Heritage Cup winner and made his SmackDown debut last November in a loss to Dragon Lee. 

    What’s to Come? 

    On this week’s WWE NXT, Frazer and Axiom defeated the No Quarter Catch Crew (as represented by Myles Borne & Charlie Dempsey.) The win means that Frazer & Axiom have advanced to the Number 1 Contender Triple Threat Match. 

    They will face the Latino World Order (Joaquin Wilde & Cruz Del Toro) as well as The O.C. on next week’s WWE NXT. The winners of that match will earn a title shot against NXT Tag Team Champions Baron Corbin & Bron Breakker. 

  • Who Was Carmelo Hayes’ Masked Man On 3/19 WWE NXT?

    Who Was Carmelo Hayes’ Masked Man On 3/19 WWE NXT?

    The identity of the masked man who aided Carmelo Hayes on the March 19, episode of WWE NXT isn’t a secret anymore. 

    During the show, Trick Williams was ready to fight Hayes but was confronted by Melo’s henchman. A figure then appeared on stage, pretending to be Hayes, which allowed the former NXT Champion the distraction to jump his former ally. 

    Masked Man Revealed

    The figure who appeared on the stage was none other than head WWE NXT referee Darryl Sharma, aka Adrian Butler, Fightful Select reports. Sharma and the masked man could be seen wearing identical shoes during the show. 

    Sources within WWE NXT also confirmed to Fightful that Sharma was the man in question. 

    Who is Darryl Sharma? 

    Before donning the stripes as a WWE NXT official, Sharma wrestled under the name ‘Hornet’ around the world. He is a student of the Battle Arts Academy, owned by WWE alum and current TNA name Santino Marella. At the academy, he trained in both wrestling and MMA. He ranked #437 in the PWI 500 ranking in 2016 but joined WWE in November that same year to be a referee. 

    Sneak Attacks

    Carmelo Hayes is hardly the first Superstar to use subterfuge to get the upper hand. As seen in the video below, several wrestlers have used disguises and other tactics to take out their opponents. 

    What’s Next? 

    Melo and Trick will face off at NXT Stand & Deliver on April 6, mere hours before WWE WrestleMania 40. The show will take place at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, PA, less than a mile away from the Lincoln Financial Field that’ll host WrestleMania. 

  • WWE NXT Stand & Deliver Grows With Addition Of Important Title Match

    WWE NXT Stand & Deliver Grows With Addition Of Important Title Match

    WWE is gearing up for the road to WrestleMania 40, and that will include Stand & Deliver on April 6th. This afternoon show will be a big one, and it grew by one important match this week.

    NXT Stand & Deliver will now feature an NXT Women’s Title match. Lyra Valkyria will put her title on the line against a freshly turned Roxanne Perez.

    The Set-Up

    Roxanne Perez explained her heel turn in detail last week during NXT. This brought on a new side of her character, and she was able to demonstrate even more of that mean streak as she took on Tatum Paxley, who she beat via submission. Then she had a lot to say about her quest to regain the NXT Women’s Title.

    Perez told Ava to come out and give her the NXT Women’s Title. She claimed to have taken out Lyra Valkyria already, so she wanted the belt.

    That is when Lyra made her return instead. Then, Paxley’s brief unintentional distraction opened the door for Perez, who capitalized by applying the Crossface on Valkyria. After securing the hold, Perez triumphantly displayed the NXT Women’s Title over her vanquished opponent. Later on, Ava confirmed that the two will battle for the NXT Women’s Title.

    Another Possible NXT Stand & Deliver Match

    Later on, Oba Femi came out for a promo, and Josh Briggs joined him. Briggs wants a shot at the NXT North American Title. Dijak entered the conversation next, and it looked like the three were going to throw down. That match was not booked, but NXT Stand & Deliver is taking shape.

    It certainly appeared that Oba Femi is going to defend his NXT North American Title against Josh Briggs and Dijak at Stand & Deliver on Saturday, April 6. Only time will tell what they book for the big show.

    WWE NXT Stand & Deliver Card (so far):

    • Ilja Dragunov (c) vs. Tony D’Angelo: Singles match for the NXT Championship
    • Baron Corbin and Bron Breakker (c) vs. Tournament Winners: Tag team match for the NXT Tag Team Championship
    • Trick Williams vs. Carmelo Hayes: Singles match
    • Lyra Valkyria vs Roxanne Perez – NXT Women’s Title
  • WWE NXT’s Next Big Thing: Oba Femi Gains Big Attention From Higher-Ups

    WWE NXT’s Next Big Thing: Oba Femi Gains Big Attention From Higher-Ups

    WWE has a ton of potential on their NXT roster. It seems that Oba Femi has attracted some big attention during his quick rise to the top of the roster.

    NXT’s Oba Femi is garnering praise for his performances as the NXT North American Champion, with officials tipping him as a future WWE champion. Despite his surging popularity, WWE plans to continue developing Femi’s potential in NXT before considering a move to the main roster.

    Oba Femi Set For Greatness in WWE NXT

    According to a new report from Fightful Select, sources within NXT have expressed admiration for Femi’s performances, anticipating significant success for him in WWE’s future, even tipping him as a potential WWE champion.

    Femi’s rapid development on television has caught the attention of NXT officials, who frequently refer to him as the “total package” backstage. Despite his rising popularity, WWE remains committed to nurturing Femi’s untapped potential, opting not to hasten his ascent to the main roster.

    Who is Oba Femi

    At a towering 6 feet tall and weighing in at 310 pounds, Oba Femi hails from Lagos, Nigeria. With his sights set on domination, Femi’s journey to wrestling began after a successful stint as a track and field athlete, where he previously showcased his athleticism on the SEC playing fields.

    Transitioning his talents from the track to the wrestling ring, Femi has proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with, securing victory after victory. Emerging triumphant as the winner of the 2024 NXT Men’s Breakout Tournament, Femi’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of remarkable.

    Fueled by a relentless drive to succeed, Femi made history by becoming the youngest NXT North American Champion, adding another accolade to his rapidly growing list of achievements. With each match, Femi demonstrates his determination and unwavering resolve, leaving no doubt that his potential knows no bounds within the realm of professional wrestling.

    SEScoops will have more on this story, and so much more from all over the pro wrestling world. You never know what will break next, so please keep checking back for more updates on the stories you need!

  • Booker T Comes Clean: Claim Of ‘Run In’ With CM Punk Was “Just Playing Around”

    Booker T Comes Clean: Claim Of ‘Run In’ With CM Punk Was “Just Playing Around”

    WWE NXT commentator Booker T was just playing around when he claimed he had a run-in with CM Punk during a recent episode of the gold brand. 

    Booker claimed during a recent edition of his Hall of Fame podcast that he and Punk “almost got into it” when the Chicago-Made star attended the March 12, taping. Booker did not share details of what transpired but said he’d speak more on the matter at a later time. 

    Suspicions Arise

    Immediately, suspicions arose regarding Booker’s claim of a backstage altercation with Punk. The ex-AEW star has been well-behaved since his return to WWE in November of last year and has been especially helpful with the WWE NXT roster.

     Nobody on said roster, or anyone at the taping, could recall any confrontation between the two. Booker would also waste no time in downplaying the seriousness of this alleged altercation. 

    Booker T Comes Clean

    On the most recent edition of his podcast, Booker T shared the truth about this so-called altercation with Punk. Booker admitted that he wasn’t exactly being honest when he claimed there was a ‘run in’ with the Raw Superstar. 

    “I’m trying to entertain my fans… Because that story, that 40-second story that people wrote, it was clickbait, guys.

    “Did I put it out there? Did I say it? As far as I had a beef, I was gonna run up? Yeah, I said [it] But I’m entertaining you guys. Entertaining. Just playing around.”

    Booker’s (Real) Run-In

    While two backstage altercations would ultimately doom CM Punk’s AEW run, Booker is hardly faultless when it comes to trouble backstage. In 2006, Booker and Batista had a legitimate fistfight at a SummerSlam commercial shoot. 

    The issues between them seemed to stem from Batista suggesting that he was superior to Booker (and others on the roster) because of his quick rise to the top of WWE. The fight left both men bloodied, according to sources at the time. 

    What’s Next? 

    When not making up stuff for his podcast, Booker can be found behind the desk as an NXT commentator and will continue to call the action at WWE NXT, including at the Stand & Deliver show that’ll take place on April 6. 

    CM Punk will be on the March 25, episode of WWE Raw that will take place in his hometown of Chicago, IL. Punk has also vowed that he’ll be at WrestleMania 40, even if he’s not invited.

  • Booker T Says Fans Are Making Far Too Much of ‘Run-In’ with CM Punk

    Booker T Says Fans Are Making Far Too Much of ‘Run-In’ with CM Punk

    Booker T isn’t quite sure why fans are making such a big deal after claiming he had a ‘run-in’ with CM Punk at the March 12, NXT.

    The episode saw the Superstars of the gold brand continue on the road to NXT Stand & Deliver. The upcoming event will take place on Saturday, April 6, mere hours before WWE WrestleMania 40: Saturday. 

    Booker T’ and CM Punk

    CM Punk was present at this week’s episode of WWE NXT but he was acknowledged during the broadcast. On a recent edition of his Hall of Fame podcast, Booker claimed that he had a ‘run-in’ with Punk and teased the pair had an altercation. Booker did not disclose details but said he would share more at a later time. 

    Booker T Responds

    The reported backstage altercation quickly went viral as fans compared the situation to Punk’s previous issues behind the scenes in AEW. On Twitter, Booker (seemingly unaware of Punk’s prior altercations) questioned why fans were making such a big deal of things. The WWE NXT commentator said their ‘run-in’ could have been over something as simple as a banana, but still stopped short of saying what exactly the issue was. 

    Is Booker T Lying? 

    There has been scepticism within WWE as to whether this altercation actually took place. No sources within WWE saw any sort of ‘run-in’ between the two. In fact, since Punk’s return to WWE, the former AEW World Champion has been on his best behavior and has been very helpful at past WWE NXT tapings. 

  • New Report Contradicts Booker T’s Claims of Clash with CM Punk at WWE NXT

    New Report Contradicts Booker T’s Claims of Clash with CM Punk at WWE NXT

    CM Punk is back in WWE, and he hasn’t been in any big controversial situations yet. Then again, he’s just getting started, and it seems that something happened with Booker T.

    The Harlem Heat member is now on the NXT commentary team. CM Punk was also around NXT this week, although he wasn’t seen on television. He did appear in front of the live crowd. It was reported that Punk and Booker T had a little tiff backstage, and now we have more details.

    What Happened with CM Punk and Booker T

    CM Punk made a backstage appearance at this week’s NXT, and he adopted a more subdued approach compared to his previous visits to the developmental brand. Earlier in the week, Booker T recounted a story on his Hall Of Fame podcast, alleging a backstage confrontation between himself and Punk during the taping.

    However, Sean Ross Sapp reported on Fightful Select that sources within NXT expressed skepticism regarding Booker’s remarks. These sources were unaware of any confrontation before Booker’s podcast episode. One insider highlighted that Punk has had no backstage issues since his WWE return last year and found it surprising that Booker would make such a claim without providing additional context.

    Additionally, security was not alerted to any altercation, nor was there any discussion of such an incident. One would think that security would be notified if there was an incident.

    CM Punk’s Backstage Attitude This Time Around

    Furthermore, it was reported that Punk has been cooperative and willing to assist whenever he’s backstage at NXT. He’s there to help and soak in the atmosphere, so Punk isn’t being a problem or confrontational.

    During the taping, Punk reportedly maintained a positive demeanor and mostly kept to himself, engaging in conversations with Shawn Michaels, Matt Bloom, and a few NXT roster members. One talent flatly refuted the alleged incident, citing Booker’s past claims of friction between him and Corey Graves, which were later proven false.

    We will have to see what happens with CM Punk next, but it seems that there was no issue with him and Booker T. It’s very possible that Booker was just creating content for himself, but there was no Jack Perry moment with the Second City Savior.

    SEScoops will have more on this story, and so much more in the pro wrestling world, as more information is made known. Keep checking back for more updates on the headlines you need.

  • CM Puk Kept A ‘Low Profile’ At 3/12 WWE NXT Taping

    CM Puk Kept A ‘Low Profile’ At 3/12 WWE NXT Taping

    CM Punk may have attended this week’s episode of WWE NXT, but the Best in the World didn’t make a big deal of being present at the gold brand. 

    This week’s WWE NXT saw the gold brand Superstars continue on the road to NXT Stand & Deliver. The show saw Roxanne Perez explain her recent heel turn while the show ended with Trick Williams locking lips with Meta Four’s Lash Legend. 

    CM Punk at WWE NXT

    Despite being one of the biggest names in professional wrestling today, Punk didn’t make a spectacle of himself at this week’s WWE NXT. Fightful reports that Punk kept a “much lower profile” compared to his previous visits to the Tuesday night show. In fact many within NXT were not aware of his presence at the show until photos began making the rounds online. 

    CM Punk’s Altercation

    While Punk kept a low profile at the show, he wasn’t covert enough to avoid a run-in with NXT commentator Booker T. The two-time WWE Hall of Famer has claimed that he and Punk “almost got into it” at this week’s taping but has not specified what their altercation was about. Booker has said that he intends to discuss the matter at a later time. 

    What’s Next? 

    CM Punk will appear on the March 25, episode of WWE Raw, which will take place in his hometown of Chicago, Illinois. The show will mark Punk’s first time in front of his own people since his stunning return to WWE at Survivor Series: WarGames in November 2023. 

  • Booker T Says He & CM Punk “Almost Got Into It” At 3/12 WWE NXT Taping

    Booker T Says He & CM Punk “Almost Got Into It” At 3/12 WWE NXT Taping

    WWE Hall of Famer Booker T and CM Punk came close to having some kind of altercation this week at WWE NXT according to the former WCW World Champion.

    This week’s WWE NXT saw the gold brand Superstars continue on the road to NXT Stand & Deliver. The show saw Roxanne Perez explain her recent heel turn and demand an opportunity at NXT Women’s Champion Lyra Valkyria. The show also saw Trick Williams demand a match with Carmelo Hayes, which has been made official for NXT’s next major event. Trick even shared a kiss with Meta Four’s Lash Legend in the closing segment of the show. 

    Booker T & CM Punk

    After recently returning from health issues, Booker T was on hand to call the action at this week’s WWE NXT, alongside Vic Joseph. CM Punk was also present at this week’s show in a rare outing for the injured Superstar, though he wasn’t featured as part of the broadcast. 

    Speaking on his Hall of Fame podcast, Booker T reflected on Punk’s time at the show, and disclosed an alleged altercation between the two. 

    “I almost had a little run-in with CM Punk. The internet might want to pick that up. Me and CM Punk almost got into it at ‘NXT’ this week… We’ll talk about it later, because they’re going to pick it up and run with it.”

    What’s Next? 

    Booker will continue to call the action at WWE NXT, including at the Stand & Deliver show that’ll take place on April 6, mere hours before WrestleMania 40: Saturday. CM Punk will make an appearance on the March 25, episode of WWE Raw that will take place in his hometown of Chicago, IL. 

  • Best in the World: Bron Breakker and Baron Corbin Make Bold Claim of Dominance

    WWE has plenty of options when it comes to their booking, but certain Superstars will always stand apart from the rest. Bron Breakker and Baron Corbin are quite a pair, and they’re not finished dominating yet.

    The conversation can be had for years about who is the greatest tag team. If you ask Baron Corbin, he believes his tandem with Breakker is the greatest pairing in the business right now.

    Baron Corbin’s Bold Claim

    Bron Breakker and Baron Corbin swiftly ascended in NXT’s tag team ranks. Their partnership began during the 2024 Men’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic, culminating in victory at NXT Vengeance Day. Following their triumph, they secured the NXT Tag Team Championship by defeating Tony D’Angelo and Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo on the February 13 episode of NXT.

    In a conversation on WWE’s The Bump, Bron Breakker and Baron Corbin reflected on their achievements. Breakker asserted their dominance, proclaiming themselves as the premier tag team globally.

    Bron Breakker expressed his firm belief that they stand as the foremost team globally. He emphasized the depth of their partnership, highlighting its uniqueness. Drawing attention to their shared NFL background, he underscored the rarity of their collaboration in WWE. According to Breakker, their current performance and entertainment level surpasses expectations, showcasing their seamless synergy and maximum effort.

    Baron Corbin Explains His Statement 

    Corbin echoed Breakker’s sentiments, emphasizing their ability to switch gears in competition—a quality few possess. He expressed confidence in their capability to challenge any opponent, including the reigning Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions, The Judgment Day.

    He mentioned a recent statement made on television. Corbin highlighted their seamless transition from backstage camaraderie to intense competition when the bell rings. According to him, this ability to switch gears sets them apart, enabling them to escalate the intensity of their performances. Their dynamic encourages friendly competition, pushing each other to excel in every aspect of their matches. Despite the allure of competing on Raw and SmackDown, they remain focused on their current position as NXT Tag Team Champions.

    We should get a shot at those. That should be something we can get. We can go and we can cut whoever in half that we need to Saturday morning at NXT, and then we can go on to WrestleMania, and I think we can take those titles off of Judgment Day.

    I think we can handle anybody in the ring. He says best in the world, and that includes all those teams in WWE that are thinking that they’re on our level. We got eight weeks in the bank together, and we’re already tag champs. That speaks volumes to what we can accomplish.”

    What’s Next For Bron Breakker & Baron Corbin

    Bron Breakker was officially called up to the WWE main roster during the 2024 Royal Rumble match. He was a last-minute replacement for Brock Lesnar, who was pulled from the match when his name was connected to Janel Grant’s bombshell of a lawsuit.

    Although Breakker’s call-up was official, and he later joined the SmackDown brand, he still had things to wrap up in NXT. Obviously, that called for an NXT Tag Team Title run, and he’s having a great time with Baron Corbin.

    Only time will tell if that team transcends to the main roster, but they’re having quite a time in NXT.

    SEScoops will have more on this story, and so much more, as more information is known. As always, keep checking back for the updates and headlines that you need.

  • Back in the Ring: Wes Lee Shares Recovery Video Amid NXT Absence

    Wes Lee has shared a positive update on his condition with a video of the WWE NXT Superstar getting back in the ring. 

    Lee went down with a back injury in late 2023, one that he said at the time would keep him out of action for eight to twelve months. This injury led to plans for Lee, which included a title match with then-NXT North American Champion Dominik Mysterio, being scrapped. 

    Wes Lee’s Back in the Ring

    This week, Wes took to Twitter to share a video of himself getting back in the ring. Seeing himself as the mythical phoenix that rises once more after being destroyed, Lee captioned his video “from the ashes…”

    What’s Next? 

    At this time, there’s no word on when fans can expect Wes Lee back in the ring on WWE NXT programming. A former North American Champion, many expect that Wes will be back in the hunt for the title, currently held by Oba Femi, when he is back. The Nigerian powerhouse has proven to be unstoppable since winning the title from Dragon Lee. 

    With that said, many also would argue that Lee did everything he could win the title. and that his next opportunity upon returning should be for the WWE NXT Championship. Ilja Dragunov currently holds the gold and will defend against Tony D’Angelo at Stand & Deliver. 

  • Public Display of Affection: Trick Williams & Lash Legend Seemingly Confirm Relationship During WWE NXT

    Public Display of Affection: Trick Williams & Lash Legend Seemingly Confirm Relationship During WWE NXT

    Trick Williams took the ring to close out the March 12 episode of WWE NXT. He got a lot of things accomplished in the process.

    Williams and Carmelo Hayes’ feud has come to a head. Things are physical now, and there will be a brutal match at Stand & Deliver. Before the big event, Williams also had to take care of a personal matter.

    WWE NXT’s Closing Segment This Week

    Noam Dar and the Meta Four came out and interrupted Trick in the middle of his promo, where he challenged Hayes to a match at Stand & Deliver. Dar said that he and Williams have something in common, because they both lost something close to them at Roadblock.

    While Dar lost his Heritage Cup, Williams lost Carmelo Hayes. Then things took a turn when the Meta Four got on the apron.

    Trick Williams made a comment about being the hottest talent in NXT, and then made a point to say that Lash Legend was giving him the eyes. Suddenly, the Meta Four took to the ring, and Williams got to work.

    After dispatching of Noam Dar and Oro Mensah, William grabbed Lash Legend, and then he held her in his arms. They locked eyes, and then they locked lips in a very sensual way.

    This action was likely confirming their real-life relationship. The two NXT Superstars have been spotted in public together for the past few months. Many fans were under the impression that they coupled up.

    It appears that Trick Williams was able to confirm this rumor about his personal life while booking a match against Carmelo Hayes for NXT Stand & Deliver.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/p:C1f79H3uY9W

    What’s Next For Trick Williams

    Trick Williams and Carmelo Hayes will do battle at NXT Stand & Deliver. It appears that Williams may face Noam Dar on NXT next week, but his eyes will still be set for WrestleMania weekend.

    SEScoops will have more on the stories you need on the road to WrestleMania. Keep checking back for more updates and headlines.

    WWE NXT 2024 Stand & Deliver Card (So Far):

    • Ilja Dragunov (c) vs. Tony D’Angelo – Singles match for the NXT Championship
    • Baron Corbin and Bron Breakker (c) vs. Tournament Winners – Tag team match for the NXT Tag Team Championship
    • Carmelo Hayes vs Trick Williams