Noam Dar is out with another injury, and the NXT Heritage Cup is officially up for grabs. Dar had just returned from an 11-month leg injury and was supposed to defend the Cup against Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo. But with Dar out again, NXT General Manager Ava announced that Stacks will now face a new opponent for the title. With the Cup on the line, here are four men who should be considered to be the next Heritage Cup champ.
Andre Chase
With Chase U reborn, they could use something to rally behind. They once had the tag titles. But having the Heritage Cup and it being a learning tool and goal to help his “students” grow, it could offer some intriguing storytelling options in the months ahead.
Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo
The first and most obvious choice for the Heritage Cup is Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo. Stacks was already set to challenge for the Cup, and now he gets the shot at the vacant title. WWE sees potential in him and has built him up as Dar’s next challenger.
He’s been on a roll lately and continues to grow as part of the D’Angelo Family. With the door open, this could be his moment to step up and win his first singles title.
Tony D’Angelo
Opposite him is Tony D’Angelo. Stacks won’t have it easy; he’s now set to face his own mentor, D’Angelo, for the Cup on June 25th.
That adds a personal twist to the match. Tony’s no stranger to the Heritage Cup either; he held it for 91 days in 2023. He knows how to win under the Cup’s round-based rules, which gives him an edge going into this match.
Charlie Dempsey
Another name to not overlook is Charlie Dempsey. He’s not in the match yet, but he’s always a threat. As the leader of the Catch Crew and a two-time Heritage Cup winner, he’s tied to the title. His technical style makes him a perfect fit for the format. Even if he’s not booked, he wouldn’t be surprised to see him get involved somehow.