10 Most Unthinkable WWE Changes In The Last 5 Years

6. Developmental Is No Longer Developmental

NXT has grown to the point where calling it a mere “developmental territory” doesn’t do it justice. Featuring a multi-talented crew of WWE Performance Center products and well-travelled veterans, NXT has become a legitimate brand of its own.

Building and developing new signings en route to a main roster call-up remains the main purpose, but NXT has established a reputation as one of WWE’s most entertaining weekly shows. WWE’s trainees are not just expected to learn their craft in NXT, but contribute towards an entertaining product and continue the brand’s reputation for excellence.

It started with FCW. WWE’s old developmental system started broadcasting its own television show in 2008, but while not without its merits, FCW TV never really took off. FCW occasionally produced the odd “must see” match every now and then, but NXT has become a juggernaut, and the TakeOver live specials are regularly among the year’s most exciting shows.

NXT is a full blown wrestling brand now, and not just a training school. The presence of veterans like Bobby Roode and Shinsuke Nakamura proves it’s just as much about putting on a good show as it is building the next generation of superstars, and WWE is stronger for it.