Hideo Itami Set For WWE 205 Live Debut

The NXT veteran is coming to the main roster.

by Andy H Murray

After three years in the WWE developmental system, Japanese star Hideo Itami is finally coming to the main roster.

WWE announced his imminent 205 Live arrival during last night's show. Announcer Nigel McGuinness hyped the former NXT Title contender up, before a short video package aired, introducing Itami as the latest member of the Cruiserweight division.

Advertisement

The call-up is a long time coming for Hideo, who has been with NXT since June 2014. Derailed by an unfortunate series of lengthy injuries, he has long struggled to make a breakthrough in the brand's main event scene, despite his lofty reputation. Itami's last two TakeOver matches ended in defeated (to Bobby Roode in Chicago, and Aleister Black in Brooklyn), and he has been treading water ever since.

This move has been anticipated since PWInsider first suggested it a few weeks ago. The 36-year-old should be a smart addition to 205 Live, as his stiff, hard-hitting style is unlike anyone else in the division, though the language barrier may be an issue on the increasingly character-driven show.

Advertisement

Having spent the past few months booked like a complete non-factor, here's hoping Itami can finally fulfil his potential on the main roster.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.