8 Secrets We Learned From WWE's Leaked NXT TakeOver Script

6. A Little Promo Freedom

Shawn Michaels NXT Script
WWE.com

Speaking of Matt Riddle, NXT's new 'Bro' had his promo scripted out at point seven, but it looks like the writers afforded the newcomer a slice of creative freedom on the microphone.

Oozing personality throughout, Riddle stuck to the script's basic shape and format. He noted that he "wasn't supposed to be there," but that those who watched the Kickoff Show would've seen Kassius Ohno "come at him," before mentioning they were set to wrestle on the following week's NXT. Then came a line about War Games' two-ring setup and knocking Kassius out in both that wasn't on the runsheet at all, and his opponent's own diatribe came with variations as well.

Though these aren't major deviations, they're still surprising in a promotion that scripts main roster promos down to the very last words. It makes it seem like NXT's microphone spots, much like the matches themselves, offer a lot more creative freedom to the performers, allowing them to stamp their personality on everything they do. That was certainly true of Riddle. He lacks polish, but that opening challenge felt 100% him.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. 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.