5 reasons why NXT could become WWE's most popular brand
When NXT was first conceived, it wasn't the WWE's third brand, or even a training camp for new wrestling hopefuls. Rather, it was a hackneyed pseudo-reality competition show that focused more on silly stunts than the in-ring product.
Fast forward to 2018, and the whole world is talking about NXT. From a reality show, NXT morphed into a sort of 'minor league' for the WWE where they could develop new talent and groom veteran performers for the WWE's style of television-friendly wrestling.
Slowly, the top-notch performances of NXT and its ability to attract major stars from other promotions like Nakamura and Samoa Joe led to its growth as a fully-fledged third brand for the WWE.
Still, NXT is thought of by fans -- and the WWE, despite Triple H's assurances to the contrary -- as the number three show put out by the company. But that could change, and here are five reasons why.
#5 The best international talent ends up in NXT
Traditionally, international wrestling stars have had little incentive to join the WWE. After all, the WWE is fond of pushing 'homegrown' superstars rather than using an existing wrestler's credentials.
Indeed, many times the WWE has tried to pretend a long-running, famous veteran was someone else (Chainsaw Charlie and the Executioner, anyone?)
There is also concern on the foreign talent's part that they will be forced to change or tone down their wrestling style to better fit in with what the WWE considers good in-ring product.
Many of those fears were put to rest when wrestlers like Shinsuke Nakamura, Samoa Joe, and Kevin Owens were allowed great creative freedom during their runs with NXT. With new signings like Kairi Sane and Aleister Black, NXT has proven they will continue to seek out the best talent the international community has to offer.