WWE’s NXT to Main Roster Pipeline: Why Out The Mud’s Main Event Appearances Matter
The WWE Performance Center’s March 2022 class is proving to be a remarkably fertile ground for future main roster talent. With stars like Roxanne Perez and Kiana James already making waves on Raw and SmackDown, the spotlight is increasingly turning to those still honing their craft in NXT. Now, a consistent pattern of bookings suggests that NXT tag team Out The Mud (OTM) – Bronco Nima and Lucien Price – could be next in line, and their recent activity signals a potential shift in how WWE evaluates developmental talent.
The Changing Landscape of NXT Call-Ups
For years, appearances on WWE Main Event were often seen as a testing ground for NXT performers, a way to get reps without the pressure of prime-time television. However, that practice has significantly diminished. OTM’s back-to-back matches against the War Raiders (September 29th) and Alpha Academy (October 27th) are particularly noteworthy because they represent the first NXT team to compete on the show in nearly five months. This isn’t simply about getting ring time; it’s about a focused evaluation.
Beyond Ring Time: What WWE is Looking For
The shift in Main Event bookings suggests WWE is now using the show more strategically – as a direct audition for potential main roster stars. It’s a far cry from the days of casual NXT appearances. The company is likely assessing OTM’s ability to adapt to a different pace, work with established veterans, and connect with a broader audience. Their recent backstage interaction with Trick Williams on NXT further fuels speculation that WWE is actively building momentum around the team, potentially crafting a narrative for their eventual debut.
OTM’s Journey: From Injury Setbacks to Main Roster Potential
Out The Mud’s path hasn’t been without obstacles. Injuries have hampered their progress, but their resilience and consistent improvement within NXT have clearly caught the attention of WWE officials. Their powerhouse style and unique presentation offer something different in a tag team division that’s constantly evolving. This is particularly important as WWE seeks to diversify its roster and appeal to a wider demographic.
The 2022 Class Effect: A Rising Tide
OTM isn’t operating in a vacuum. The success of their 2022 classmates – many of whom have already ascended to the main roster or captured championships in NXT – creates a sense of urgency and expectation. WWE has invested in this group, and they’re clearly eager to see a return on that investment. This creates a natural timeline for OTM’s potential call-up, as the company seeks to capitalize on the momentum of the entire class. WWE’s NXT roster page provides a comprehensive overview of current talent and their trajectories.
Implications for the Future of NXT and WWE’s Talent Development
OTM’s potential move to the main roster highlights a broader trend: a more streamlined and focused approach to talent development. WWE is increasingly willing to fast-track promising performers, leveraging platforms like Main Event to assess their readiness. This suggests a shift away from prolonged developmental periods and towards a more agile system that can quickly adapt to changing market demands. The emphasis on evaluating talent in a main roster-adjacent environment – like Main Event – could become the new standard for identifying future stars.
What does this mean for the future of NXT? It suggests the brand will continue to serve as a proving ground, but with a greater emphasis on preparing talent for immediate impact on Raw and SmackDown. The pressure to produce main roster-ready stars will likely intensify, leading to a more competitive and dynamic environment within NXT itself.
What are your predictions for Out The Mud? Do you think they’re ready for the main roster, or do they need more time to develop? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
