Who are the “pillars” of WWE NXT on CW

Who are the "pillars" of WWE NXT on CW

As a seasoned gamer of professional wrestling spanning over two decades, I’ve seen it all – from the Attitude Era to the Ruthless Aggression, and now, the new era of WWE NXT on the CW. The switch from black and gold to silver and black is like trading my old SNES for a shiny new PlayStation 5!

As a passionate gamer, I’ve got to say, the WWE NXT has stepped into a fresh chapter, moving from USA Network to The CW. Not just a new channel, but also a complete makeover of its iconic black and gold image, now sporting a sleek silver and black brand look. Frankly, with the change in channels and the evolving direction of the show, it felt like the perfect time for a total rebranding of the NXT universe.

For a considerable time, WWE NXT was synonymous with its raw and intense “black-and-gold” phase. However, the contemporary era of NXT has shifted its focus towards nurturing talent and devotes an expansive share of attention to the women’s division. While opinions may differ, it is widely acknowledged that WWE NXT stands out as the premier weekly wrestling show across professional wrestling, a position it has held for quite some time now. The blend of character development, technical prowess, storytelling, and cultural diversity on display in NXT is unparalleled.

At NXT’s inaugural event in Chicago aired on the CW, it was evident that these key figures would shape the new chapter of NXT on this network. Here are my top three picks to embody the brand in its upcoming era.

Giulia

In her initial bout with Roxanne Perez, Giulia didn’t take home the NXT Women’s Championship title straight away, but it’s evident that she’s destined for greatness in the WWE NXT brand and women’s division.

If Giulia had immediately won the title, it might have seemed as though she wouldn’t stay in NXT for long. Instead, Shawn Michaels seems to be nurturing Giulia’s career and positioning her as a prominent figure in the women’s division. The current title reign of Perez has created significant anticipation, making it a major event when she eventually loses the title. It could still be Giulia who ultimately unseats Perez from her title reign.

She’s a globally recognized celebrity, and when she entered the show, she immediately became the most popular good guy in the women’s division of NXT. Currently, she’s partnering with Stephanie Vaquer, who seems to be a key figure for the future, but it’s been fun watching these two women work together. They, along with Zaria (previously known as Delta), are introducing a fresh international vibe to NXT, adding something new and exciting.

Kelani Jordan

Regarding the women’s division, let’s pause for a moment to acknowledge Kelani Jordan’s remarkable achievements as the inaugural NXT Women’s North American Champion. In a short span of time, she has significantly elevated the title and made it significant. If the WWE audience wasn’t already supporting her before her victorious title defense against Sol Ruca, they undoubtedly became fans after that match.

At the first appearance of CW in Chicago, Jordan was accompanied by her friends to challenge Fatal Influence. There were hints that she might collaborate with WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Jade Cargill and Bianca Belair, who overcame Fatal Influence the following week in St. Louis during a 6-woman tag team match. Her current reign has been delightful, and it promises to become even more satisfying when she eventually competes for the NXT Women’s Championship.

Oba Femi

The only reason I didn’t name Oba Femi first was because, to be honest, I’m not sure he will be called up the main roster in the next WWE Draft — he’s that good. After becoming the longest reigning NXT North American Champion in history, Femi has become the most dominating and intimidating force on the roster. He has a rematch against Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc this weekend, but win or lose this clip tells me that NXT is cooking something else up. Maybe a new faction?

As a dedicated gamer, if his prolonged presence suggests anything, it means Femi is destined to claim the NXT Championship and become the heart and soul of the show. Despite being portrayed as a villain (heel), the audience’s adoration for him is so intense that his heel persona doesn’t resonate. Femi has the potential to be an exceptional superstar, leading the men’s division in the evolving era of NXT on the CW.

Je’Von Evans

20-year-old Je’Von Evans has emerged as one of the electrifying stars to behold in NXT. With his promising talent, it’s clear that his future shines brightly and he’ll claim the championship title. Whether he secures the NXT North American or NXT title first, a championship victory is imminent for him next year.

He’s already had shots at the NXT title alongside Trick Williams, Ethan Page, and Wes Lee, but so far it has just been a way to include him with the brand’s best so he can learn. A good indicator of how much Michaels believes in Evans was putting him against Randy Orton in St. Louis for the second week on the CW. Other than that minor mishap at the end, Evans held his own with one of the all-time greats. Being so young, he has plenty of time to fine-tune some things develop his “bouncy” gimmick, and turn into championship gold.

Cora Jade

In the upcoming new phase of NXT on CW, Cora Jade stands as one of its key supports. It’s essential to remember where she was prior to her ACL, MCL, and meniscus injury in January. Before that, Jade was moving towards a championship run, but unfortunately, saw her former tag team partner Perez rise to become one of the most illustrious NXT Women’s Champions. Although they’re currently allies, their partnership will eventually lead to Jade betraying Perez, either causing Perez’s defeat or dethroning Perez to end her title reign. Regardless of how long this storyline unfolds, Jade is undeniably a pillar for NXT’s new era on the CW.

2024-10-25 15:15