At the NXT: Homecoming event, Alexa Bliss made a notable appearance where she praised several wrestlers with ties to the brand’s history, prominently mentioning a popular AEW name. This moment sparked significant buzz as Bliss highlighted the evolution of NXT while acknowledging talents connected to both WWE and AEW. Her mention of the AEW star added unexpected intrigue to the show’s retrospective focus.
Earlier in the broadcast, both Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair paid tribute to women who have shaped NXT over the years. Flair recognized iconic figures such as the Four Horsewomen, Paige, Asuka, and Carmella before complimenting her tag team partner. Bliss then extended the recognition by applauding Flair and name-dropping other important female wrestlers including IYO SKY, Rhea Ripley, Ember Moon (now known as Athena), Nia Jax, and Shayna Baszler, bridging NXT’s past and present with a nod towards evolving competition in professional wrestling.
Shayna Baszler’s Unexpected Return After More Than a Year
A surprise appearance punctuated the night when Shayna Baszler, previously released in WWE’s May roster cuts, returned backstage after an absence of 464 days. Baszler arrived in the middle of a tense backstage discussion involving Sol Ruca, Zaria, Lainey Reid, and Candice LeRae. Acting as a mediator, she advised Sol and Zaria to settle their differences to ensure smoother cooperation moving forward.
This marked Baszler’s first on-screen appearance since competing on NXT earlier in 2024, leaving fans curious about her future status with the company. Whether her involvement is a one-time cameo or signals a longer-term return remains uncertain, but her presence underscored the brand’s willingness to reconnect with influential figures from its recent past during a night full of nods to its legacy.
Honoring NXT’s History While Looking Ahead
The NXT: Homecoming event served as a tribute to the performers who contributed to the growth and success of the brand, including those no longer signed with WWE. Through callbacks and appearances by wrestlers like Athena, Bliss, Baszler, and Flair, the show celebrated NXT’s journey from its beginnings to its current form as a key player in professional wrestling.
Alexa Bliss’s mention of an AEW name during her segment reflected a broader acknowledgment of the wrestling landscape beyond WWE. This indicates a recognition of rival promotions and the talents within them, potentially signaling a more open awareness of the competition and shared history among performers.
As NXT continues to develop its identity and storylines, moments like these remind fans of the brand’s depth and the intertwining careers of its wrestlers across different organizations. With respected veterans and rising stars actively involved, NXT remains poised to engage viewers by honoring tradition while building fresh narratives in the wrestling world.
Building Connections Between Wrestling Fans and Their Champions
Enzo Curabo, a pro wrestling journalist, emphasizes the importance of delivering authentic content that resonates with wrestling enthusiasts. By highlighting figures like Alexa Bliss and drawing on the histories of champions including AJ Styles, Bryan Danielson, and Randy Orton, the coverage reflects the passionate fanbase eager for rich storytelling and memorable moments.
This event and its references serve not just as nostalgia but as a platform fostering excitement and anticipation for future developments in NXT and beyond. Wrestling fans can hope for continued appearances by key personalities and for WWE to nurture promising talents while respecting the legacy that has shaped the brand’s unique identity.
CARMELLA, EMBER MOON, AND PAIGE NAME DROP OH STAND UP#WWENXT pic.twitter.com/zMPC1i6tY7
— 𝓙𝓸𝓱𝓷 (@TwistedJohnX) September 17, 2025
