Category: NXT

Networks React To Revised AEW & WWE Nielsen Numbers (After Change In Way Ratings Are Calculated)

The numbers are in, and they’ve got people talking across the wrestling world. With Nielsen officially rolling out its new “Big Data + Panel” system, both WWE and AEW have seen noticeable dips in their TV ratings this week — and that’s raising a few eyebrows inside the industry.

While streaming has become a major player for both promotions — “WWE Raw” now living on Netflix and AEW airing live through HBO Max — traditional Nielsen ratings still carry major weight for networks, advertisers, and executives. The new hybrid data method, designed to more accurately reflect viewing habits across devices, has reshuffled the deck, leaving wrestling shows looking weaker on paper than before.

AEW Keeps Calm Amid The Shift

According to Fightful Select, AEW is keeping a close eye on the situation. Sources say Tony Khan understands the new methodology inside and out thanks to his well-known love of numbers and analytics. While the updated system might make week-to-week trends look rough, AEW still benefits from its simulcasts on HBO Max — even if those exact streaming figures aren’t being publicly shared. Reports suggest about 500,000 viewers tune in weekly to stream “Dynamite” and “Collision.”

A contact within Warner Bros. Discovery (AEW’s media partner) downplayed any panic, noting it’s far too early to make judgments with such a small sample size. The source also pointed out that AEW and WWE both ran head-to-head with Major League Baseball this past week, a sport that — along with college football and the NFL — has actually benefited from Nielsen’s new approach.

When asked if this change could spark talk of cancellations, the WBD insider reportedly laughed off the idea, saying that topic always comes up but is “never actually on the table.”

Interestingly, the new data system has one upside for AEW — it’s expected to end the use of “fast national” ratings, those early estimates that often circulated within hours of broadcast. Because Nielsen’s new reporting adds another day’s delay, those quick-turn numbers will no longer offer an accurate read, potentially eliminating a common talking point in the ongoing WWE–AEW ratings rivalry.

WWE’s Network Partners Weigh In

Over in WWE’s corner, USA Network and The CW are also monitoring the changes. While Raw has made the jump to Netflix, “SmackDown” remains on USA and “NXT” airs weekly on The CW — both still reliant on traditional TV numbers.

A USA Network source told Fightful they’re discussing the new metrics internally, but they’re not alarmed. The feeling is that while the numbers might suggest wrestling isn’t as “hot” as it looked under the old system, the overall value of WWE programming remains undeniable. WWE content continues to deliver strong returns at relatively low costs — something USA has appreciated for decades.

The CW didn’t comment, but the network has reportedly been pleased with NXT’s performance since day one. The shift in ratings measurement isn’t expected to change that enthusiasm.

TNA’s Situation & Industry Impact

One WWE insider did note that the updated Nielsen process could make things tricky for TNA Wrestling, which is currently seeking a new television home. Even so, company president Carlos Silva told Fightful the issue hasn’t come up during negotiations, and discussions with potential partners are still moving forward.

Meanwhile, talent across the major promotions have reportedly felt little direct impact, aside from a few more tweaks to production and travel schedules than usual.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, Nielsen’s overhaul is shaking up how TV success is measured, but the wrestling industry has weathered plenty of changes before. Between the rise of streaming, shifting network priorities, and a fan base that consumes content in more ways than ever, the true picture of viewership might take months — if not years — to fully understand.

For now, one thing’s clear: both WWE and AEW are still drawing millions of passionate fans every week, no matter how the math gets crunched.

Why NXT/TNA “Invasion” Special Renamed To Showdown

WWE made a quick change this week to the name of its highly-anticipated NXT and TNA crossover special. What was originally announced as “NXT vs. TNA: Invasion” will now go forward under a new title — “Showdown.”

The event, set for October 7, was still being promoted with the “Invasion” branding earlier in the day, but by the time NXT aired Tuesday night, the name had been officially swapped out. The change sparked plenty of conversation, and it wasn’t just about WWE’s history with the “Invasion” label from the 2001 WCW/ECW storyline.

Why WWE Dropped the “Invasion” Title

The decision comes after backlash from Israeli fans and media outlets, who pointed out the sensitivity of branding the show “Invasion” on October 7. That date marks the second anniversary of the 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, which left over 1,200 people dead. Critics described WWE’s choice as “insensitive,” noting both the word itself and the accompanying logo — which featured a bold red “V” — unintentionally resembled imagery associated with Hamas.

One viral post on X (formerly Twitter) even highlighted the resemblance, questioning how WWE’s marketing team could miss the connection, even if it was unintentional.

WWE Responds Quickly

Once the controversy began to circulate, WWE and TNA quietly pulled advertising for the event before reintroducing it on Tuesday’s NXT broadcast with its new name. On-screen, the change was woven into the storyline by TNA’s Director of Authority, Santino Marella, who lightheartedly reframed the show as more of a “showcase” than an “invasion,” ultimately dubbing it a “Showdown.”

Behind the scenes, WWE wasted no time moving forward with the rebrand — filing a trademark for “Showdown” almost immediately after the new name was announced.

Looking Ahead

The rebranding doesn’t change the fact that this crossover is a landmark moment for both NXT and TNA, as two promotions come together for a rare interpromotional showcase. With “Showdown” now locked in, fans can expect the focus to return to what matters most: the matches, the surprises, and the potential for new dream encounters between NXT and TNA’s top stars.

WWE NXT Preview 9/30/2025

WWE NXT live tonight on The CW.

  • Lash Legend vs. Jaida Parker
  • Ava and Santino Marella choose their teams for InVasion
  • TNA Stars to appear
  • Newly crowned NXT Champion Ricky Saints
  • The fallout from NXT No Mercy

WWE’s Ridge Holland Sidelined with Serious Foot Injury After TNA Tapings

Bad news has hit Ridge Holland’s momentum. The NXT/EVOLVE standout, who has been a regular face in the ongoing WWE–TNA partnership, announced that he’s dealing with a significant injury that will put him on the shelf for the foreseeable future.

Holland was in action this past weekend at the TNA iMPACT tapings from the Edmonton Expo Centre in Alberta, Canada. On Friday, he wrestled at the Victory Road 2025 special, suffering a loss to Mike Santana. The next night, he stepped into the ring with Moose for matches taped to build toward TNA’s marquee event, Bound For Glory, scheduled for October 12 in Lowell, Massachusetts.

Unfortunately, things didn’t end well for Holland. On Monday, he took to Twitter to confirm the nature of his injury, writing:

“Lisfranc Injury. Surgery Friday. See ya in a bit.”

The Lisfranc injury — which affects the midfoot — is no small matter, often requiring surgery and months of recovery time. That means Holland will be missing a crucial stretch of TV, including Bound For Glory, at a time when WWE and TNA’s partnership has created some high-profile crossover opportunities.

It’s a tough setback for the powerhouse, who had been gaining traction by mixing it up with some of TNA’s biggest names. While no timetable has been given for his return, fans will no doubt be eager to see him bounce back once he’s cleared.

WWE NXT GM Ava Announces TNA Invasion TV Special For Same Night As AEW’s Title Tuesday “Homecoming”

The battle between NXT and AEW Dynamite on “Title Tuesday” is becoming a yearly tradition, and 2025 might be the most high-stakes showdown yet. During Saturday’s NXT No Mercy premium live event, General Manager Ava announced that the October 7 episode of NXT will be branded “Invasion”, with the black-and-gold brand facing off against stars from TNA Wrestling.

This means WWE’s developmental brand will once again go head-to-head with AEW’s annual Title Tuesday, which this year features a special “Homecoming” edition of Dynamite. And while AEW has yet to announce any matches for their card, NXT has already stacked the deck.

What’s on tap for NXT: Invasion?

  • Survival Matches: Both men’s and women’s teams will compete in elimination-style battles reminiscent of Survivor Series. Team lineups will be revealed on next week’s NXT.
  • Title-for-Title Matches:
    • NXT Tag Team Champions DarkState vs. The Hardy Boys, the reigning TNA World Tag Team Champions.
    • NXT Champion Oba Femi vs. TNA World Champion Trick Williams, with all outside interference banned following recent chaos on NXT.

The Oba vs. Trick matchup is especially noteworthy. While Williams currently represents TNA as world champion, his roots remain firmly in NXT. He captured the TNA World Title back in May at NXT Battleground, defeating Joe Hendry. The crossover has only deepened since then: the night before No Mercy, Kelani Jordan won the TNA Knockouts World Championship at Victory Road after Ash By Elegance vacated the title, while Je’Von Evans is scheduled to challenge for the X-Division Championship at Bound For Glory.

Why it matters

This Invasion special signals just how serious WWE is about counter-programming AEW. With championships from both promotions on the line and marquee names like the Hardy Boys involved, it feels less like a side attraction and more like a statement.

And while AEW hasn’t yet revealed what’s in store for Homecoming, WWE has made sure fans know the October 7 TV war will be must-see.

WWE NXT No Mercy 9/27/2025 (Results)

Quick Results

  • Je’Von Evans def. Josh Briggs
  • NXT Women’s Speed Championship: Sol Ruca (c) def. Jaida Parker
  • Weaponized Steel Cage Match: Jordynne Grace def. Blake Monroe
  • NXT North American Championship: Ethan Page (c) def. Tavion Heights
  • NXT Women’s Championship: Jacy Jayne (c) def. Lola Vice
  • NXT Championship: Ricky Saints def. Oba Femi (c)

Je’Von Evans vs. Josh Briggs

Je’Von Evans finally got his revenge on Josh Briggs, surviving a hard-hitting clash to open No Mercy. Briggs used his size to dominate early, but Evans battled back with a big dive to the outside and a Frog Splash that nearly sealed it. Briggs looked to finish things with an Avalanche Chokeslam, but Evans countered late—turning one Chokeslam attempt into a Cutter before hitting a Flying Cutter for the win.

Sol Ruca Retains the NXT Women’s Speed Championship

Sol Ruca overcame a surprise challenger in Jaida Parker after Lainey Reid was ruled out of action. Parker nearly stole the title after hitting her Hipnotic on the floor, but outside chaos played a role—Lash Legend and Zaria both got involved, throwing things off balance. With just seconds to spare, Ruca nailed the Sol Snatcher to keep the gold.

Jordynne Grace Tops Blake Monroe in a Weaponized Steel Cage

The rivalry between Jordynne Grace and Blake Monroe hit a violent peak inside a cage filled with weapons. Monroe fought dirty, using everything from kendo sticks to scissors, even cutting Grace’s hair mid-match. But Grace powered through, planting Monroe on a pile of diamonds before finishing things with a crushing Air Raid Crash through a table for the victory.

Ethan Page Keeps the North American Title

“All Ego” Ethan Page is still champion, but Tavion Heights pushed him to the limit. Heights nearly submitted the champ with an Ankle Lock and came close with a suplex attempt, but Page turned the tide in dramatic fashion, countering into his Twisted Grin to escape with the win.

Jacy Jayne Holds On To the Women’s Title

Jacy Jayne left No Mercy still NXT Women’s Champion, though controversy followed. Lola Vice had the match in hand after surviving Jayne’s technical assault, but outside interference changed the outcome. Fallon Henley first tried to disrupt the count, then a hooded figure blindsided Vice with a knee strike, allowing Jayne to hit Rolling Encore and score the three-count.

Ricky Saints Becomes NXT Champion

The main event saw Ricky Saints dethrone Oba Femi in a dramatic battle. Femi’s power was overwhelming early, including a devastating Chokeslam, but Saints dug deep and rallied with a big Spear. After surviving Femi’s Fall From Grace, Saints turned a second attempt into a Tornado DDT to score the biggest win of his career and capture the NXT Championship.

WWE NXT No Mercy 9/27/2025 (Card)

WWE NXT No Mercy – Saturday, September 27, 2025 – FTL War Memorial in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

CARD

  • NXT Championship: Oba Femi (c) vs. Ricky Saints
  • NXT Women’s Championship: Jacy Jayne (c) vs. Lola Vice
  • North American Championship: Ethan Page (c) vs. Tavion Heights
  • NXT Women’s Speed Championship: Sol Ruca (c) vs. Lainey Reid
  • Weaponized Steel Cage: Blake Monroe vs. Jordynne Grace
  • Josh Briggs vs. Je’Von Evans

Jazmyn Nyx Reportedly Finishing Up With WWE

Another NXT name looks to be wrapping up their time with WWE.

According to a new report from PWInsider, Jazmyn Nyx has decided not to renew her deal with the company. WWE did extend her a contract offer, but Nyx turned it down and will officially become a free agent once her current deal runs out.

The writing was already on the wall on this week’s episode of NXT. In a backstage segment, Nyx was shown laid out and unconscious. Her on-screen ally Jacy Jayne coldly declared it was time to move on from Nyx in Fatal Influence, delivering the line, “only the strong survive.” That moment now looks to be WWE’s storyline way of writing her out.

Nyx’s final in-ring appearance came during last week’s NXT Homecoming special, where she teamed with Jayne and Fallon Henley in a losing effort against Rhea Ripley, Lyra Valkyria, and CMLL’s Stephanie Vaquer.

For those unfamiliar, Nyx — real name Jade Gentile — signed with WWE in November 2022 and has been part of the developmental system for nearly two years.

With her WWE chapter coming to a close, Nyx will soon have the freedom to explore opportunities in other promotions. Given her young career and the visibility she’s gained through NXT, it’ll be interesting to see where she lands next.

WWE NXT Preview 9/23/2025

WWE NXT tonight on The CW. Last episode before No Mercy.

  • A TNA invasion is expected tonight
  • Title For Title: NXT Champion Oba Femi vs. TNA World champion Trick Williams
  • WWE Speed Women’s Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Candice LeRae vs. Lainey Reid
  • Lights Out Match: Lexis King vs. Myles Bourne
  • NASCAR’s Sam Mayer and Cole Custer make a special appearance

TNA Invasion Of WWE NXT Reportedly In The Works

The lines between WWE NXT and TNA Wrestling continue to blur, and things may be about to explode.

On this week’s special NXT: Homecoming episode, several TNA stars took to social media during the broadcast, voicing frustration over how the company was being portrayed. Their reactions didn’t go unnoticed — commentary duo Vic Joseph and Booker T even referenced the posts throughout the night, fanning the flames of what looks to be a brewing cross-promotional conflict.

That tension is expected to carry over into next week’s show in a big way. In what could be one of the most talked-about matches of the year, NXT Champion Oba Femi is set to clash with TNA Champion Trick Williams in a rare Title vs. Title encounter.

While details of how deep this “invasion” storyline will run are still under wraps, the fact that TNA talent are being worked into WWE programming at this level is already turning heads across the industry. Fans have been clamoring for interpromotional rivalries for years, and this could be the biggest crossover WWE has embraced since its collaborations with ECW in the late ‘90s.

If the momentum continues, we could be on the verge of a full-fledged TNA presence inside NXT — and that opens the door to dream matches, shocking run-ins, and a rivalry unlike anything we’ve seen in recent WWE history.

Santino Marella voiced his frustration, writing,

“This is getting to be too much, honestly, I’m very close to … whatever, I’m just saying it’s getting to be too much.”

Mike Santana posted an emotional response, saying,

“After the week I’ve just had. To be honest, I JUST DGAF! I don’t care who shows up to #TNABoundForGlory as champion…just make sure you’re ready. All my pain becomes purpose. I don’t plan on my daughter leaving the arena heartbroken again… You’re ALL fcked. Also.To keep it real with everyone… I’m pretty sick and tired of all the “WWE/NXT has control over TNA and can do what they want”, bullshit. Think it’s about time we put it to rest and do something about…Santana will challenge for the TNA Title at TNA Bound For Glory.”

Former WWE Superstar Cedric Alexander added, “I came to @ThisIsTNA for new opportunities and to reinvent myself. I refuse to sit around and have @WWENXT talent take those opportunities! It’s time for a change!!”

Mustafa Ali echoed the sentiment, warning, “NXT celebrates its past but disrespects TNA’s future. Many will talk about it. A few will do something about it. Consider this a warning @ShawnMichaels.”

The IInspiration (formerly The IIconics in WWE), Peyton Royce and Jessica McKay, chimed in as well:

“Sick to death of @NXT running roughshod over @TNA like there are no consequences. You’re playing with fire @ShawnMichaels.”

“Wowwww, @WWENXT really thinking they can do whatever they want with @ThisIsTNA… you gotta be joking me!! #NXTHomecoming”

TNA International Champion Steve Maclin (formerly Steve Cutler) issued a direct threat, writing,

“I’m not here for nostalgia. I’m fed up. NXT remembers me. I don’t FORGET. Lines keep getting crossed and now, you’ll answer to me. #HoldTheLine”

Even Moose, who has appeared on NXT before, questioned the legality of the upcoming match. He wrote,

“Title vs Title….. Winner takes all… is that even possible @milanmiracle??? Doesn’t @carlossilva have to approve this decision? This is very frustrating. Will be watching this match very closely. I have unfinished business with both Oba and Trick @WWENXT #NXTHomecoming”