NXT’s Impact on WWE’s Rising Stars

The Money in the Bank card is packed with major matches and WWE superstars, both rising and established. Among the dozens of wrestlers involved, the NXT brand stands out.

NXT, WWE’s developmental brand, provides hands-on training for those new to professional wrestling and those unfamiliar with television production. The goal is to prepare athletes to advance to Raw or SmackDown.

Almost all wrestlers on the card have passed through NXT before joining the main roster, with exceptions like Roman Reigns and CM Punk. Reigns started his career in Florida Championship Wrestling, which predates NXT. CM Punk gained fame outside WWE before joining WWE’s Ohio Valley Wrestling. Penta also bypassed NXT, establishing his reputation in Mexico before entering American programming.

NXT takes place at the WWE Performance Center, a facility dedicated to training future superstars.

“The Performance Center is very special,” said women’s U.S. champion Jacy Jayne. “They have the best coaches in the world. You learn your craft, confidence, how to talk, and camera work. They set you up for success. Although progress may not be immediate, it pays off if you listen and apply their teachings.”

NXT attracts hundreds of thousands of viewers on Tuesday nights and is followed daily on social media.

Kevin Owens celebrates a win during SmackDown at Ball Arena on Oct. 2, 2026, in Denver, Colorado, highlighting the success of NXT graduates.

The Performance Center’s training program, with its experienced staff, offers numerous classes and opportunities for development. It consistently produces new superstars. Jayne features in the Money in the Bank ladder match alongside Lola Vice, Tiffany Stratton, Sol Ruca, Lash Legend, and Roxanne Perez.

Joe Hendry, a former NXT champion who previously worked with Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), recently released an album titled “Beyond Belief.” Although he isn’t involved in Money in the Bank, he shared his appreciation for NXT in an interview.

“NXT was a fantastic resource. It helped me understand WWE quickly. As NXT champion, I used the opportunity to engage fully with the company. I attended all classes, gym sessions, and live events. This contributed greatly to my personal and professional growth,” he said.

The success of emerging superstars indicates the effectiveness of the NXT system. Hendry’s commitment and achievements exemplify the opportunities provided.

Saturday’s Money in the Bank match demonstrates the possibilities for those who devote their energy to professional wrestling.

The role of NXT in the WWE ecosystem is important. Although some view it as a third brand, it is a pathway to higher levels, leading to numerous possibilities.