Major Update On WWE's Plans For NXT, Main Roster

Latest on WWE's NXT plans following a developmental-studded SmackDown..

by Andy H Murray
Tiffany Stratton
WWE

WWE is once again focused on changing NXT's perception to that of a "third brand" comparable to Raw and SmackDown.

This is according to insider Twitter account WRKD Wrestling, who reported prior to Friday's SmackDown that this summer, WWE CEO Nick Khan returned to the "third brand" focus.

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Per WRKD Wrestling:-

There will be #WWENXT appearances on #SmackDown tonight, including a WWE legend, due to the event taking place in Orlando, FL near the Performance Center It was stated earlier this summer that Nick Khan hopes to have NXT seen as more of a third brand as opposed to developmental

Amongst the developmental talents to appear on SmackDown were Women's Champion Tiffany Stratton, NXT Champion Carmelo Hayes, and Trick Williams.

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Recent months have seen increased crossovers between NXT and the main roster. In June, World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins hit Tuesday nights for a title defence against Bron Breakker, whilst the likes of Mustafa Ali and Baron Corbin have become developmental regulars.

Dominik Mysterio, meanwhile, captured Wes Lee's North American Championship on last week's NXT, helping the show to an impressive 0.21 P18-49 television rating. The Judgment Day and Dominik are expected to keep making NXT appearances in the wake of their recent ratings spikes.

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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.