A few years back, WWE teased a global expansion of its NXT developmental brand. Initially shared by Triple H, WWE planned to put NXT training facilities and television in regions worldwide to cultivate global talent. The plan, like so many others in WWE, was put on ice. But now that HHH is at the helm, we are getting a revival of the dormant plan. WWE has announced that they will expand to continental Europe next year for a new NXT Europe brand.
WWE announced today that the #WWENXT brand will grow internationally with the creation of an all-new NXT Europe, with the launch planned for 2023. https://t.co/W9TBJy3ur3
— WWE (@WWE) August 18, 2022
NXT Europe
Currently, WWE’s only overseas “territory” is NXT UK, which despite its name, features European talent and talent from the United Kingdom. Shawn Michaels, who now has the title “VP Of Talent Development Creative.” said:
“Following the success of our live events and talent identification efforts throughout all of Europe, we believe this is the perfect time to expand NXT beyond the UK.”
From the press release, it appears that NXT UK will simply be repackaged as NXT Europe. This makes a lot of sense NXT UK has heavily featured European wrestlers.
The idea appears to be the brainchild of Triple H and Shawn Michaels, both men newly empowered to book the wrestling side of the business.
EXCL: #WWE legend Shawn Michaels talks to me extensively about NXT Europe launch in 2023, #NXTUK future, Worlds Collide, roster plans and how Triple H’s increased power made this happen#NXTEurope @WWEUK @WWEPRhttps://t.co/qmvT5fTcLI
— Alistair McGeorge (@AlistairMcG) August 18, 2022
Yes, after World’s Collide on September 4. Then NXT UK will become NXT Europe in the New Year, is my understanding. https://t.co/YEiPZt7HLF
— Alex McCarthy (@AlexMcCarthy88) August 18, 2022
The new brand will have a soft launch during the NXT UK vs. NXT “Worlds Collide” Event on September 4th.
Who Will Star in NXT Europe?
WWE has a bevy of European stars, both established and emerging. Who could star in NXT Europe?
Ilja Dragunov is a German-born Russian wrestler who is known for his intensity.
.@UNBESIEGBAR_ZAR vows to come back even stronger! #NXTUK pic.twitter.com/ECAXyCky6d
— NXT UK (@NXTUK) August 4, 2022
Amale Dib is a french wrestler with the trappings to be a top female star.
C’était une dinguerie hier soir. #WWEParis en TT toute la nuit. Un Bercy complet. Certainement le meilleur public de la tournée. Une apparition surprise… Tellement fière de vous représenter. Merci à tous, on remet ça très vite ❤️ pic.twitter.com/wCZwbkiNRQ
— Amale Dib (@AmaleFrenchHope) May 1, 2022
A-Kid (who now goes by Axiom) is a Portuguese star known for his technical abilities.
.@Axiom_WWE and @sixftfiiiiive’s backstage brawl spills into the ring, resulting in the two Superstars locking horns in singles competition. #WWENXT pic.twitter.com/refnxb8qtM
— WWE NXT (@WWENXT) August 4, 2022
Fans React To The News.
The early buzz on NXT Europe is positive, though some people are concerned about the loss of the UK brand.
WWE is set to launch NXT Europe in 2023. Big W by Triple H
— Roman Reigns SZN (@reigns_era) August 18, 2022
Will we get the return of the European Title?
NXT Europe has just been announced.
Time to bring back this underrated and beautiful looking championship that will now get the recognition it deserves. pic.twitter.com/qvh76czbTC
— Alastair McKenzie (@mckenzieas93V2) August 18, 2022
How do you feel about NXT UK? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
