NXT's Rising Stars: Who's Next for the Main Roster? (2026)

In the ever-evolving landscape of professional wrestling, the WWE's developmental brand, NXT, stands as a crucible for emerging talent, nurturing the stars of tomorrow. With the recent Stand & Deliver event now in the rearview mirror, the spotlight shifts to the next batch of potential call-ups to the main roster. This article delves into the prospects, analyzing their potential impact and the roles they could fill on Raw or Smackdown. It's important to note that the WWE landscape is ever-shifting, and the opinions expressed here are based on current trends and observations. Now, let's dive into the NXT stars who could be on the cusp of a main roster call-up.

Joe Hendry: The Rising Star

Joe Hendry has been a rising star in NXT, capturing the attention of WWE audiences with his in-ring prowess. His journey began with a shot at the NXT Championship, and he has since held the title for 60 days, a testament to his skill and determination. Hendry's viral moment at WrestleMania, where he answered Randy Orton's open challenge, further solidified his status as a rising star. The question now is, will he be called up to the main roster? My personal opinion is that Hendry has the potential to become a mainstay in the US or Intercontinental Title picture. He could fill a similar role to Elias, the guitar-playing vagabond, but with a more prominent spot. The key question is, can he maintain his momentum and make the leap to the main roster?

Jacy Jayne: The Rockstar

Jacy Jayne, affectionately referred to as the Rockstar by Booker T, has accomplished everything there is to accomplish in NXT. Her journey began with Mandy Rose's Toxic Attraction stable, and she has since become a de facto leader of the Fatal Influence. Jayne's singles success and her reign as the NXT Women's Champion make her a strong candidate for a main roster call-up. My perspective is that she could fill a role similar to Carmella, a serviceable veteran who can provide depth and experience. While she may not rack up many World Title runs, her potential to become a champ via Money in the Bank is a compelling prospect.

Ricky Saints: The Charismatic Veteran

Ricky Saints is a 14-year veteran of the squared circle, and his charisma and in-ring skills have made him a standout in NXT. He has already achieved the NXT North American Championship and NXT Championship, and his main event appearance at Stand & Deliver further cements his status as a potential call-up. My analysis is that Saints has a similar type of charisma to John Morrison, but with a more grounded approach. While he may not reach the main event level on Raw or Smackdown, he could fill a mid-card role with a similar level of success.

Sol Ruca: The Acrobatic Surfer Girl

Sol Ruca has captivated WWE audiences with her unbelievable athleticism and awe-inspiring finishing moves. Her partnership with Zaria has been a highlight of NXT, and her singles resume is impressive. The question is, will she be called up to the main roster? My opinion is that she has the potential to become a star on the main roster, similar to Charlotte Flair. While she may not have the benefit of the Flair name, her quick rise in the business and her growth curve are reminiscent of Flair's journey. The key question is, can she maintain her momentum and make the leap to the main roster?

Ethan Page: The Versatile Star

Ethan Page has consistently found himself in high-profile spots on NXT programming. His versatility, both in the ring and on the mic, makes him a strong candidate for a main roster call-up. My perspective is that he could fill a role similar to The Miz, a consistent and versatile performer who can adapt to various roles. The key question is, can he maintain his momentum and make the leap to the main roster?

Other Candidates: The Next Wave

There are other NXT stars who could be on the cusp of a main roster call-up. Hank & Tank, the former NXT Tag Team Champions, could bring a similar energy to the tag divisions on Raw or Smackdown. Josh Briggs, a 6'8" Arizonan, has the tools to be a role player on the main roster, while Blake Monroe, the Glamour, has a lot of potential. The key question is, can they maintain their momentum and make the leap to the main roster?

In conclusion, the WWE's developmental brand, NXT, continues to nurture the stars of tomorrow. The next batch of potential call-ups to the main roster is a diverse group of talented individuals who have the potential to make a significant impact. While the future is uncertain, the possibilities are exciting, and the WWE landscape is ever-shifting. The key question is, can they maintain their momentum and make the leap to the main roster?

NXT's Rising Stars: Who's Next for the Main Roster? (2026)
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