With “WWE SmackDown” set to debut on USA Network on September 13 after a five-year run on FOX, the same month will also mark the end of “WWE NXT” on USA. Beginning October 1, “NXT” will make its move to The CW, marking the first time WWE programming has aired on that channel since 2008.
Though “NXT” is still considered WWE’s developmental brand, the company is determined to make the transition to The CW feel. According to Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, WWE is aiming to make a big splash with its debut, hoping to exceed one million viewers. To uplift the occasion, the show will take place at the Allstate Arena in Chicago, rather than its usual location at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando.
In terms of star power, CM Punk is set to be the primary attraction for the October 1 debut. The former WWE Champion is scheduled to appear on the September 17 episode of “NXT” to discuss his plans for the following month. Meltzer reported that Punk’s involvement could potentially tie into a storyline with WWE’s new signee Giulia, who is set to challenge Roxanne Perez for the NXT Women’s Championship.
Additional main roster stars, including The Miz, Bianca Belair, and Jade Cargill, are expected to appear, with Randy Orton making a special appearance on the October 8 “NXT” in his hometown of St. Louis. After these two arena shows, Meltzer predicts that “NXT” will likely return to Orlando for future events.