WWE NXT Homecoming was filled with names from the past to celebrate the evolution of the developmental brand over the years.
The September 16 special aired live from its spiritual home at Full Sail, Orlando and already had the likes of Rhea Ripley, Finn Balor and former General Manager William Regal all advertised ahead of time to be a part of the celebrations. Along with the names advertised, there were also some surprises…
Following a backstage argument between tag partners Sol Ruca and Zaria, which also saw Candice LeRae make a surprise appearance, Shayna Baszler appeared and stated that she made history as the longest reigning NXT Women’s Champion. Baszler then told Ruca and Zaria to get on the same page. The Baszler appearance was particularly notable as she was part of the WWE releases back in May.
Later in the night, former NXT Champion Carmelo Hayes reunited with TNA Champion Trick Williams to take on Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa. Additionally, former NXT stars Alexa Bliss, Charlotte Flair and Grayson Waller all made appearances.
WWE NXT Homecoming Becomes Glorious
Later in the show, former NXT Champion Bobby Roode was seen backstage interacting with TNA star Joe Hendry. The 2 former champions interrupted Charlie Dempey and Wren Sinclair, with Roode also acknowledging his own reign as TNA Champion and telling Hendry to go after the NXT Title. Other notable appearances also included Damian Priest and Sami Zayn, who gave pep talks to Tavion Heights and Je’Von Evans respectively, while Montez Ford met with Darkstate and stated that he was a fan of the NXT Tag Team Champions.
After Lexis King cut a promo on Myles Borne, the lights went out and Finn Balor made his entrance to his old music. Balor and Borne went on to attack King to stand tall.
In the main event of the show, Rhea Ripley, Lyra Valkyria and Stephanie Vaquer defeated Fatal Influence, with Ripley picking up the winning pin. Tiffany Stratton was originally set to be a part of the match, but was not cleared to compete. Valkyria was named as the replacement.
Featured image: WWE
