High-profile name was discussed for WWE NXT but plans fell through - Reports
The final WWE NXT episode before the Deadline Premium Live Event is set to kick off in less than two hours. Officials continue to load the third brand up with major names, swerves, and surprises. WWE recently signed deals for some legendary stars to return, but sources have disclosed why one star did not work out, along with more big spoilers for tonight. This was speculated to be Kevin Nash.
Eric Bischoff appeared on last week's NXT and announced that he will be there live tonight. The Hall of Famer is set to meet with Trick Williams and Ridge Holland ahead of Deadline. WWE said the former nWo boss has been impressed with the NXT Champion and challenger, and now wants a first-hand look. Sean Waltman is also set to appear tonight. X-Pac tweeted longtime friend Shawn Michaels last week, and revealed to WWE's Senior Vice President of Talent Development Creative that he was coming to Orlando to watch NXT live. Waltman told his fellow two-time Hall of Famer that this week's episode looked too good to miss.
WWE officials reportedly had talks with another high-profile name to appear on this week's NXT, according to Fightful Select. The name was not confirmed, but sources noted that plans fell through for an unknown reason.
The mystery star was set to appear in addition to Bischoff and Waltman. The speculation is that this report referred to Kevin Nash, who recently stated he was set to go to NXT in early December. The two-time Hall of Famer recently confirmed that he is set to undergo biceps surgery, which will keep him out of the gym for around six weeks, at a time when he recently resumed training after making a major claim for 2025.
Gigi Dolin vs. Izzy Dame is the only unannounced match for tonight's NXT. Dolin's return was previously confirmed, but her opponent was not. Jaida Parker is scheduled for a promo, while a promo segment with Williams, Holland, and Bischoff is also booked for tonight.
The Iron Survivor Challenge Last Chance qualifier is scheduled to open tonight's NXT, featuring Parker, Cora Jade, Wren Sinclair, and Kelani Jordan. The show is set to close with a promo from Roxanne Perez. The NXT Women's Champion will be joined by all participants in the Women's Iron Survivor Challenge at the upcoming Deadline PLE.
WWE has also announced the following for tonight: Karmen Petrovic vs. Nikkita Lyons, a #1 contender's Tag Team Battle Royal to determine who challenges NXT Tag Team Champions Fraxiom at Deadline. The men's division will also have a Last Chance qualifier for the Iron Survivor Challenge tonight with Eddy Thorpe, Cedric Alexander, Lexis King, and Axiom.