Mariah May electrified the WWE NXT audience with a dramatic debut, setting the stage for potential rivalries and raising questions about who should face her first. As the search for the Best WWE NXT debut opponents for Mariah May begins, excitement brews about which talents could give her an unforgettable start in WWE’s developmental brand.
Mariah May Sets the Stage for Her WWE NXT Journey
During Jacy Jayne’s first appearance as NXT Women’s Champion—fresh off her surprising victory over Stephanie Vacour—a group of determined competitors, including Lainey Reid, Lola Vice, Jordynne Grace, Jaida Parker, and Thea Hail, stormed the ring to demand a title opportunity. The brawl left Jayne, accompanied by Jazmyn Nyx and Fallon Henley, watching from the ramp as the division descended into chaos. Suddenly, all eyes turned as the arena lights dimmed and a spotlight caught Mariah May standing high above the ring, signaling that a new force had arrived in NXT.
While her name was not officially announced on-air, May’s presence spoke volumes; her confidence and style announced an intent to make waves in the division. As a former AEW Women’s World Champion who hasn’t appeared in AEW since losing her title to Toni Storm at Revolution, Mariah May enters WWE’s landscape with plenty to prove. The only question: who should welcome her first?
Top 5 Ideal Opponents for Mariah May’s NXT Debut
Mariah May’s debut presents an exciting opportunity to shake up the women’s division. Here are the five best choices for her first major rivalry:
1. Jacy Jayne: A Championship Clash Waiting to Happen
If Mariah May were to challenge Jacy Jayne straight away, it would be a daring move sure to make an immediate statement. Jayne shocked the NXT universe by capturing the women’s championship and has a well-earned reputation for her no-nonsense, aggressive approach in the ring. May, recognized for her polish, charisma, and international experience, would match up beautifully against Jayne’s edge. The contrast between Jayne’s blunt aggression and May’s Hollywood-inspired presentation could create intense, compelling television, and their budding rivalry would be enriched by Jayne’s time with Toxic Attraction, bringing extra tension to the mix.
2. Sol Ruca: High-Energy Athleticism Versus Glamorous Precision
Sol Ruca’s return from injury has been nothing short of remarkable, with her securing the NXT Women’s North American Championship and dazzling the crowd with her athletic feats. A meeting between May and Ruca would provide fans with a unique pairing of styles—May’s deliberate, theatrical technique against Ruca’s unbridled athletic energy. With a fresh title on the line and Ruca’s rising popularity, their encounter could create a buzz that lingers long after the match, potentially becoming an instant classic.
3. Zarya: Two Rising Stars on a Collision Course
Much like Mariah May, Zarya made her mark outside WWE, gaining fans in Japan and emerging as a formidable presence in NXT’s women’s division. A match between Zarya and May would have the feel of a showdown between two hungry competitors eager for the top spot. With both driven by ambition and known for their talent, a rivalry could unfold with gripping backstories and technical excellence, setting the stage for a series of electrifying encounters that would raise the bar for the division.
4. Jordynne Grace: The Powerhouse Rivalry
Jordynne Grace’s arrival in NXT, through WWE’s new partnership with TNA, has added unexpected firepower to the division. As a former TNA Knockouts Champion and a powerhouse in her own right, Grace could offer May a physical and psychological challenge unlike any other. Coming from AEW, May stepping into the ring with Grace would feel like a “clash of worlds,” where both champions from rival promotions square off, each determined to leave their mark in WWE. The size of this rivalry would make May’s opening chapter unforgettable and significant for the fans.
5. Kelani Jordan: Underdog Versus Superstar Showdown
Kelani Jordan’s journey from promising newcomer to inaugural NXT Women’s North American Champion has endeared her to fans. Her athleticism and perseverance stand in direct contrast to Mariah May’s poised confidence and superstar aura. A feud between Jordan and May could tap into that underdog-versus-superstar dynamic, with May possibly playing the dismissive celebrity and Jordan fighting to prove her place. This chemistry has the potential to result in both memorable matches and a gripping storyline that resonates with the audience.
The Anticipation Surrounds Mariah May’s Next Move
Mariah May’s presence in WWE NXT marks a new era for the women’s division. With her proven star power, international accolades, and energetic persona, May ignites possibilities for marquee rivalries. Whether she sets her sights on championship gold or chooses to build a personal rivalry first, the future looks bright and unpredictable for both Mariah May and WWE NXT. Fans and competitors alike will be watching closely to see which of these Best WWE NXT debut opponents for Mariah May steps up first to shape what promises to be a must-watch debut storyline.
