Who We Missed at WWE NXT Homecoming

The grand slam champion is unfortunately out of in-ring action due to needing a neck fusion. We hope nothing but the best for Kevin Owens and his recovery. Even though he couldn’t compete, it would’ve been nice to see some sort of homage to The Prizefighter, whether it be a quick appearance or a video package.

If he couldn’t attend in person, the fans would’ve appreciated some sort of acknowledgement of what he had accomplished for NXT.

Seth Rollins

A true homecoming would’ve been the return of the first-ever NXT Champion back to where his WWE career began. Rollins may be a little preoccupied with his feud on the main roster against CM Punk and AJ Lee, but a one-night match in NXT could’ve done wonders for the brand.

Not only would the appearance of Rollins draw that much more attention ot the show, but he could allow an up-and-coming star to show their potential. It is impressive seeing someone new in the company being able to hold their own against a veteran. That was an opportunity that the company missed.

Paige

Now, not only was the first-ever NXT Champion missed on the show, but the first-ever NXT Women’s Champion was missed on the show. Not only on the show, but she has been missed in the company dearly. Especially now, with the return of AJ Lee, everyone is awaiting the return of Paige. 

In an interview for Busted Open Radio, Saraya (Paige) said that she is open to returning one day to the WWE. She thinks WWE is doing great things right now and would love to see AJ Lee back in the ring. Saraya wants Lee to have her moment, though, and will look towards the future.

It would’ve been cool to see Paige return to NXT first and not only surprise everyone, but get involved with the up-and-coming talent. Her return is one that everyone will eagerly await.

https://x.com/Saraya/status/1968207746765033565

Bayley

Bayley was another woman who was pivotal to NXT and women’s wrestling. She put on incredible matches and won the NXT Women’s Championship in a match that will go down in history at NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn against Sasha Banks. The two women were also the first two to headline a major WWE event, being an NXT TakeOver, and the first Women’s 30-minute Iron Woman match. 

She was a hugger at the time, and she was (and is) a great role model for children. Everyone loved Bayley and her inflatable tube men who accompanied her to the ring. Even though she no longer has that gimmick, it doesn’t change the fact that NXT wouldn’t be the same without her.

Nia Jax

Back in 2015, Nia Jax made her long-awaited debut in the black and gold brand. Her debut was built up through numerous vignettes to create anticipation among the audience. It worked, as she truly is not like most girls. Her power made it hard for her to be overlooked.

Nia Jax never held the NXT Women’s Championship, which could be since she was in NXT for under a year. Jax would make her main roster debut in July 2016. A return to NXT would bring new opportunities for the newer generation of wrestlers and a chance for Jax, as she could go for the NXT Women’s Championship.

Nia Jax is truly an irresistible force, and despite not being at NXT Homecoming, her time in the promotion is not forgotten.