At the WWE Performance Center in Winter Park, Florida, on February 10, 2026, Joe Hendry defied the odds by winning the WWE NXT Championship in a thrilling ladder match. Hendry’s victory, marked by intense moments and high stakes, came after overcoming a brutal attack and prevailing over then-champion Ricky Saints. This surprising outcome has set the stage for significant developments within NXT, emphasizing Hendry’s ascent and the intense rivalries surrounding the title.
Hendry’s Journey to NXT Glory and Confrontation With The Vanity Project
Following his victory, Joe Hendry addressed the WWE Universe with a passionate speech reflecting on his path to the championship. Hendry acknowledged the doubt he felt during the ladder match as he watched Ricky Saints near a successful title defense, stating that the fans’ belief energized him to rise and ultimately seize the championship. He credited milestones such as his two-time national amateur wrestling championships in the UK, his tenure as TNA World Champion, his success as a musician, and his WrestleMania match against Randy Orton as important steps toward this moment.
Hendry declared that his climb to the top is far from over and vowed to elevate NXT to new heights, embracing the mantra “we believe” as a lifestyle rather than a mere slogan. His speech was abruptly interrupted by Jackson Drake, the WWE EVOLVE Champion and member of The Vanity Project, who challenged Hendry’s legitimacy as champion. Drake boasted about his own in-ring skills and mocked Hendry’s approach, criticizing him for achieving fame through viral moments rather than wrestling prowess.
Jackson Drake accused Hendry of disrespecting The Vanity Project by targeting their faction during the ladder match, specifically mentioning the disappearance of Ricky Saints’ partner, and claimed the faction’s efforts to remove Hendry were justified. Hendry responded confidently, asserting his readiness to defend the title and calling out Drake’s attention to fashion rather than ring ability.
The confrontation escalated into a physical altercation as Hendry and The Vanity Project engaged in a fierce brawl. Hendry attempted his signature move, The Standing Ovation, but Drake countered with a devastating chop block, allowing The Vanity Project to overwhelm Hendry. The segment ended with Drake striking Hendry with a running knee and taunting him with the NXT Championship belt, reinforcing the threat he poses as a challenger.
Ongoing Tensions in the Women’s Division Leading Up to Title Opportunity
Backstage in the women’s locker room, tensions simmered between tag team partners Sol Ruca and Zaria following recent aggressive exchanges. Sol expressed concern that excessive conflict is hindering their performance and warned that if they don’t find common ground, rising stars Kendal Grey or Wren Sinclair may earn a title shot against reigning Women’s Champion Jacy Jayne. Despite Sol’s attempts to reassure her partner, Zaria’s suspicion and paranoia caused friction, with her insisting Sol prioritize her own ambitions rather than the team’s success.
Sol reminded Zaria that their upcoming tag team match held greater significance, as the woman securing the pinfall would receive a shot at the WWE NXT Women’s Championship. However, Zaria’s distrust only intensified, leading to a tense warning for Sol to avoid interfering in her plans. This dynamic underlines an uncertain and volatile path in the women’s division as championship aspirations heighten competition.
Jaida Parker Issues Threat to Blake Monroe Before Their Match
Before the first match, Jaida Parker delivered a pointed promo directly addressing Blake Monroe. She warned that anyone who crosses her inevitably faces defeat and described her upcoming confrontation with Blake as a necessary punishment. Parker’s remarks made it clear she intends to dominate the match and underscored the intensity fueling rivalries in the women’s roster.
Upcoming Matches and Continuing Storylines in WWE NXT
The event’s upcoming matches include a WWE Men’s Speed Championship Tournament bout between Josh Briggs and Eli Knight, along with tag team action featuring Hank & Tank against Swipe Right. Additionally, the tag team match involving Sol Ruca and Zaria versus Wren and QCC carries significant stakes, with title opportunities on the line depending on the outcome.
Significance and Future Implications of Hendry’s Championship Win
Joe Hendry’s unprecedented victory in the high-stakes ladder match is a pivotal moment for WWE NXT, signaling a shift in narrative and elevating a performer who blends wrestling skill with compelling personality. Hendry’s ability to overcome adversity, both physically and mentally, exemplifies the resilience and determination that define the brand. His tense rivalry with Jackson Drake and The Vanity Project promises further confrontations that will test his resolve as champion.
Meanwhile, unrest in the women’s division and match outcomes with championship implications indicate an increasingly competitive environment. NXT’s focus on elevating emerging talent through intense storylines and hard-fought matches will likely persist, captivating fans and shaping future title scenes.
As Joe Hendry begins his reign as NXT Champion, his declaration that this climb is only the beginning sets a tone of ambition and challenge. The WWE Universe can anticipate a period of fierce competition, unpredictable alliances, and dramatic twists as the brand moves toward greater heights.
