Former IWGP Heavyweight Champion EVIL Debuts On WWE NXT, Confronts Tony D’Angelo

WWE NXT gained another notable addition this week as former IWGP Heavyweight Champion EVIL officially made his debut appearance on Tuesday night’s episode of the brand.

With several NXT stars recently moving to WWE’s main roster, the developmental show is beginning to introduce a fresh wave of talent, and EVIL may be one of the most intriguing names yet.

During the show, NXT Champion Tony D’Angelo addressed the crowd and declared himself the centerpiece of the brand. D’Angelo confidently stated that nobody in NXT was capable of knocking him off the top spot.

That confidence was quickly interrupted.

A cloud of fog and dramatic lighting filled the arena before EVIL made his entrance wearing a dark black robe. The former NJPW star slowly approached the ring and came face-to-face with D’Angelo in a tense staredown.

Rather than speaking, EVIL handed the champion a shirt featuring Japanese text before turning and leaving the ring. The mysterious presentation left both fans and commentators speculating about his intentions.

Commentator Vic Joseph acknowledged EVIL’s accomplishments in Japan during the segment, referring to him as a former IWGP Heavyweight Champion. However, WWE stopped short of officially identifying him by the EVIL ring name, leaving some uncertainty surrounding what name he will ultimately use going forward in NXT.

Reports surfaced earlier this year that EVIL had signed with WWE following the expiration of his New Japan Pro-Wrestling contract. His final NJPW appearance took place on January 20 during the Road To The New Beginning tour, where he competed in an eight-man tag team match.

The segment also teased additional challengers for D’Angelo. Shortly after EVIL’s appearance, former No Quarter Catch Crew member Tavion Heights attacked the NXT Champion from behind. English wrestler Will Kroos then added to the chaos by landing a moonsault onto D’Angelo.

With several new threats emerging at once, Tony D’Angelo’s reign could soon become far more difficult — and EVIL’s arrival may end up being the biggest game changer of them all.