Viewers of this week’s WWE NXT received a blast from the past as Bayley’s old ‘Hugger’ persona was featured on the show, but not by the former Women’s Champion.
As Bayley ascended the ropes to deliver her signature flying elbow against Cora Jade, the ‘Turn It Up’ theme song played and out came Roxanne Perez. This unexpected appearance momentarily distracted Bayley, allowing Cora Jade to capitalize. Jade executed two Double-Arm DDTs, one on the ringside floor, securing a notable victory over the former champion.
Bayley’s Hugger persona proved immensely popular with fans both in NXT and after her move to the main roster in 2016. In 2019, Bayley turned heel and ‘murdered’ the Bayley Buddies, ending her time as the Hugger so that she could become the ‘Role Model. This isn’t Perez’s first time dressing as Bayley’s lighter side, as she performed as Bayley during a WWE NXT live event near Halloween in 2022.
Bayley and Perez will challenge for the NXT Women’s Championship held by Giulia during this weekend’s WWE NXT Vengeance Day event. After costing Bayley her match this week with these mind-games, it remains to be seen if Roxanne Perez becomes a record-breaking three-time NXT Women’s Champion at the event.
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