La Sombra's WWE NXT Debut Generates Positive Response

The former CMLL star made his debut under the name of Manny Andrade.

By Jack G King /

Manny Andrade, better known as former CMLL star 'La Sombra' made his NXT debut earlier this month, competing at a live event in Tampa, Florida. The newcomer defeated Riddick Moss under his real name, and (as expected) did not wear the mask he regularly donned back in Mexico. A report from Wrestling Observer Newsletter (by way of Marc Middleton) suggests that the response to Andrade has been incredibly positive, particularly from his old CMLL co-workers. Several wrestlers have reportedly sent Manny messages of good luck, and there is a general hope that - should his time in WWE be regarded as successful - it will open the door for many other Mexican workers. This response has been contrasted with that which accompanied the debut of Mistico - the man who originally portrayed Sin Cara before his release in 2014. Whereas Mistico's move to WWE was largely met with apathy, Andrade seems to have been a far more liked figure backstage at CMLL. He could also prove more popular with those in WWE, particularly as he looks to have already demonstrated his dedication and adaptability. He is apparently working very hard and taking English lessons, something it's understood that Mistico was never too concerned with.

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