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”